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Myanmar Announces Direct Border Trade Currency Settlement with Thailand; Plans Similar Non-Dollar Convertibility with India in Near Future

NAY PYI TAW, MM, Mar 15, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The Myanmar Government has agreed to accept the Thai baht as an official currency for settling border trade starting this month. Thailand is the second country after China to permit its national currency to be exchangeable with the Myanmar kyat for border trade activities.Myanmar's Minister of Information (MOI) Mr Maung Maung Ohn and Minister of Investments and Foreign Economic Relations (MIFER) Mr Aung Naing Oo said in a joint statement today that the kyat-baht initiative is a significant development as Thailand is Myanmar's second largest trading partner after China. The Myanmar Government intends to initiate similar currency convertibility for the Indian rupee for trade along the border it shares with India.Myanmar and China commenced kyat-renminbi settlement for border trades in January 2022. The increasing use of non-US dollar direct currency settlement for border trade underscores the strong bilateral relations that Myanmar enjoys with its neighbours.The kyat-baht settlement arrangement was endorsed by an official notification and guidelines issued by the Central Bank earlier this month. All settlements will be conducted online as opposed to cash transactions previously.In Fiscal Year (FY) 2020-2021 (November-to-October) border trade along five checkpoints of the Myanmar-Thai border - Tachileik, Myawady, Kawthoung, Myeik and Hteekhee, - amounted to USD4.3 billion equivalent, up from USD3.9 billion in FY 2019-2020. Starting this month merchants along the Myanmar-Thai border who are registered with the Myanmar Economic Bank can conduct trade based on the kyat-baht exchange rate announced daily by the Central Bank of Myanmar. In FY 2020-2021 Thailand accounted for 17.61% of Myanmar's total trade which rose to USD5.3 billion from USD5.2 billion in FY2019-2020. Myanmar's main exports to Thailand include natural gas, base metals, electronic goods, pulses, and garments. In turn, Myanmar imports from Thailand machinery, appliances transport equipment and manufactured goods."Myanmar's immediate neighbours account for up to 70% of the country's total trade volume. Direct non-dollar currency settlements will help to broaden and facilitate bilateral trade, flow of goods and other forms of payment and settlement with the respective countries."As Myanmar gradually adopts full bilateral currency swap arrangements with various countries, regional economic cooperation will also be strengthened. By reducing dependence on the US dollar, we will mitigate the risk of sudden exchange rate swings due to external geopolitical factors. Myanmar can also reduce physical money in circulation as more trade transactions migrate online. If we can succeed with such arrangements with our immediate neighbours, Myanmar can gradually reduce the dependence on the US dollar for up to 70% of Myanmar's national trade volume," the two Ministers added.The currency arrangements will also help Myanmar reduce inflation caused by the rise of the U.S. dollar, while alleviating concerns of currency shortage within the country. The arrangements will also contribute to the economic recovery of the country which - despite rising energy prices - expects to record modest GDP growth in the current fiscal year ending October 2022.The currency shortage and weaker kyat last year was stoked by economic sabotage by the opponents including so-called People's Defensive Force (PDF) which tried to sow distrust in the local banking and financial system. Supported by foreign elements, the outlawed PDF also launched a terror campaign which caused the lives of many Government servants, security forces, and damage to public infrastructure. The disturbances commenced after the 1 February 2021 Proclamation to declare a state of Emergency in Myanmar. Since the second half of 2021, the country has achieved national stability under the State Administration Council (SAC) which intends to call for a multi-party general election to be held by August 2023.ASEAN Economic Ministers' MeetingMyanmar's Minister of Foreign Investments and Economic Relations will represent the country at the March 16-17 ASEAN Economic Ministers' Retreat. "The Ministry will update other ASEAN members on the economic impact on Myanmar caused by two recent crisis situations - the COVID-19 pandemic and civil disobedience," said MIFER Minister Aung Naing Oo.The Ministry will also update the significant efforts Myanmar is taking to develop the small and medium enterprises especially in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors through provision of credit and measures to facilitate the business environment despite the two major challenges."While the pressure on the financial system has eased and the kyat has stabilized due to policies implemented by the SAC, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has caused domestic energy prices to spike.Due to the level of development of the country and recent crisis situations, Myanmar has probably faced more challenges than most other ASEAN members in the past year or so," they said.Minister Aung Naing Oo also said:"Myanmar has made every effort to fulfill its obligations under the four pillars of the ASEAN Economic Community.Myanmar is one of the earliest signatory states to deposit its instrument of ratification of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in accordance with the RCEP Agreement. However, Myanmar's instrument of ratification has been politicised by some RCEP participating countries. Likewise, Myanmar's ratification letter for Protocol to Implement the Tenth Package of Commitments under the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Services has also faced the same problem.ASEAN's approaches to creating a much stronger Southeast Asia, narrowing the development gap within ASEAN, and strengthening economic resilience cannot be fulfilled if Myanmar is excluded. This is not consistent with the ASEAN Charter. Myanmar believes that such actions can affect ASEAN's centrality.For all member countries to benefit from economic integration, an all-inclusive manner is needed in ASEAN. No country should lag in regional economic integration. Sadly, some of ASEAN's directions and actions appear mismatched on the ground.Whatever the challenges, Myanmar will actively continue to fulfill the commitments and obligations as an ASEAN member and as a responsible global citizen."Issued by Ministry of Information and Ministry of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations, Union Government of Myanmar.For more information, please contact mediacontact@e-information.gov.mm or myintkyawmoi@gmail.com Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Myanmar Government Looks to Early Resumption of Development & Infrastructure Projects with China, Its Close Neighbour and Main Trading Partner

NAY PYI TAW, MM, Dec 22, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The Myanmar Government looks forward to re-start development projects and accelerate bilateral economic and technical cooperation with the People's Republic China (PRC), its largest trading following disruptions caused by the pandemic and recent social unrest.The Ministry of Information (MOI) and Ministry of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations (MIFER) said in a joint statement that Myanmar enjoys a special 'paukphaw' or kinship with its close neighbour and has received substantial economic and technical support from the PRC over 71 years of bilateral ties.Having achieved national stability in recent months, and with the health situation stabilizing after receiving substantial vaccines from the PRC, a major priority for Myanmar is to implement projects involving PRC development assistance, amounting to 3.8 billion renminbi (RMB).Myanmar's State Administration Council (SAC) has reviewed an original list of 97 projects that were proposed by the previous government in late 2020 in response to the PRC's offer of 4.0 billion RMB in development assistance to Myanmar. The offer was announced during President Xi Jinping's visit on 17-18 January 2020.Following the review, the SAC has consulted with various Ministries to revise the list so as to prioritise projects that can be effectively implemented and which are better suited to the current needs of Myanmar. The SAC also reviewed and revised 15 projects under a separate 200 million RMB PRC grant specifically dedicated for Rakhine State.The latter grant involves projects related to the environment and improving medical access and rural transport. Myanmar Government appreciates these corporate social responsibility initiatives by the PRC which will contribute to the success of the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC).The CMEC includes road and rail infrastructure stretching 1,700 km from Kunming in China's Yunnan Province through several regions in Myanmar to Kyaukpyu along the Bay of Bengal. The site of a proposed Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Deep Sea Project, Kyaukpyu is of special significance for infrastructure-related and economic cooperation between the 2 countries.The Kyaukpyu SEZ is a priority project revised and shortlisted by SAC from a list of 33 bilateral agreements signed during President Xi's visit. Prior to 2020, China had agreed to provide grants totaling 4.9 billion RMB to Myanmar between 2014 to 2019. Over this period, 1 project has been completed, 12 are ongoing and 18 are at proposal stage, with a combined value of 6.01 billion RMB.Implementation of the revised list of PRC-funded development programmes and related projects in the coming months will enhance bilateral cooperation after nearly 2 years of disruption caused by the pandemic and domestic issues, the 2 Ministers said.They said the SAC is confident that bilateral cooperation to improve infrastructure, especially in less developed parts of the country, and to create jobs will be enhance economic recovery as Myanmar prepares for multi-party national elections which are scheduled to be held by August 2023.To further improve bilateral cooperation, the Central Bank of Myanmar (CBM) has agreed to a pilot project starting next year to accept the RMB as an official settlement currency for border trade.This settlement, which will substantially improve border trade especially for perishable goods such as fresh agriculture products, will be facilitated by 3 banks - Myanmar's state-owned Myanmar Economic Bank and the PRC's Bank of China (BOC) and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC). This decision follows the recent relaxation of travel restrictions at 2 Myanmar-PRC border checkpoints after COVID-19 infection rates were reduced nationwide.Myanmar's pandemic control has been greatly supported by vaccines donated by or procured from PRC pharmaceutical giants Sinovac and Sino Pharm. The Government remains on target to vaccinate at least 50% of Myanmar's population above the age of 18 by the end of this month. The majority of all vaccines used in Myanmar originate from the PRC.The 2 Ministers, on behalf of the Myanmar Government, also announced that:i) With the improved vaccination rates and national stability, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in fiscal 2020-2021 (November-October) is expected to decline by a single-digit - much less severe than forecasts of some international economists. Myanmar Government expects GDP to record modest growth in 2021-2022.ii) The Health Ministry is assessing carefully new COVID-19 variants such as Omicron before relaxing travel protocols. Apart from helping to implement development and economic projects, the easing of travel lanes will also facilitate visitor arrivals from the PRC as Myanmar prepares to revive its tourism sector.iii) The Government has improved security and provided assistance to Chinese factories that suffered attacks by the People's Defensive Force which had waged a terror campaign against civilians. As such disturbances have declined sharply, the Government is confident that PRC investments to Myanmar will improve soon.Since the 1 February 2021 Proclamation to declare a state of, civil disobedience and terrorism activities carried out by the outlawed People's Defensive Force (PDF) have led to deaths of 198 administrative officials and at least 12 Buddhist monks and many injuries. The PDF has also destroyed roads and bridges, schools, government offices and telecommunication towers as well as branches or offices of state-owned and private banks."Myanmar has achieved national stability due to efficient handling by the security forces and the clear wish of the general population to resume normal economic and social activities. We are confident that the normalized situation will provide assurance to investors and lead to the improvement of bilateral cooperation with the PRC, a country that enjoys a long and trusted relationship with Myanmar," said Minister of Information, Mr Maung Ohn."Myanmar Government has recently reviewed development and economic projects involving the PRC. This review is to ensure effective implementation of development assistance that can address the current needs of the country. Myanmar Government will do its best to protect all foreign direct investments, including those from the PRC. We also look forward to increased border trade through RMB-kyat settlement," said Minister of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations, Mr Aung Naing Oo.- Issued by Ministry of Information and Ministry of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations, Union Government of Myanmar.- For more information, please contact mediacontact@e-information.gov.mm or myintkyawmoi@gmail.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Myanmar Government Prioritizes Economic Recovery as Pandemic Infections Decline Amid Return of National Stability Ahead of Preparations for Multi-Party National Elections

Nay Pyi Taw, Dec 7, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The Myanmar Government said today that it has largely restored national stability after recent civil unrest and is now focused on increasing vaccination rates to reduce COVID-19 infections and attracting local and foreign investments to jump-start economic growth and job creation.The Ministry of Information (MOI) and Ministry of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations (MIFER) said in a joint statement that with the restoration of stability, economic recovery was now a top priority as the Government prepares for multi-party elections to be held by August 2023.The Union Election Commission has reviewed weaknesses, fraud and malpractices in the 8 November 2020 elections. It has held 3 consultations with political parties between February and November 2021. A fourth consultation will be held this month to discuss the Proportional Representation System. To update data and to prevent voter fraud, joint inspection teams led by the Commission have started audit of membership, funding, premises, business dealings and election expenses of all political parties. Preparations for elections are taking place amid a significant rise in domestic applications for investments. Upon approval, domestic investments are expected to increase by over 50% in 2021-2022 (November to October) compared to 2020-2021. The Government is aware of concerns among foreign investors and is addressing issues of business travel, health and safety of staff, and apparent pressure from some quarters of the international community. The two Ministers, on behalf of the Myanmar Government, announced that:i) Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2020-2021 is likely to contract by single digit - less dire than forecasts of some international economists. The single-digit contraction is due to the combined impact of the pandemic and civil unrest. Myanmar Government expects recovery to positive GDP growth in 2021-2022.The economic recovery is due to the combination of lower rates of pandemic infection amid increased vaccination rates, return to national stability, and increasing investment commitments, especially domestic investments. ii) The Health Ministry is assessing new COVID-19 variants such as Omicron before announcing business travel protocols including vaccinated travel lanes.iii) MIFER expects domestic investments (Myanmar Citizens Investments, or MCI) to increase by over 50% in 2021-2022 compared to 2020-2021. MCI will rise further in 2022-2023, based on applications received. To increase Foreign Direct Investments (FDI), MIFER is actively engaging the international business community. It is also addressing issues related to investments in certain sectors such as port development and telecommunications.iv) The so-called 'National Unity Government (NUG) Bond' is deemed illegal as it has not been registered with relevant authorities. Myanmar nationals involved in funds transfer to transact it will be considered to have broken the law. Based on monitoring by Myanmar financial authorities, there is little local interest in this so-called bond, which appears to be a possible channel for terrorist financing from external sources.National Security SituationCivil disturbances earlier this year appear to be related to the 1 February 2021 Proclamation to declare a State of Emergency. The Proclamation followed failure to settle the issue of voter fraud list related to the 2020 elections, and subsequent postponement of Parliament sessions. On 2 February 2021 the State Administration Council (SAC) was formed.Providing an update of civil unrest, MOI said that since the 1 February 2021, civil disobedience and terrorism activities carried out by the outlawed People's Defensive Force (PDF) had led to:- 198 administrative officials from various Government and State agencies being killed and 148 other injured; the deaths of at least 12 Buddhist monks;- damage or destruction of 397 roads and bridges, 565 Government offices, 409 telecommunications towers and 444 schools or colleges; and- Damage to branches or offices of 26 state-owned banks and 41 private banks, amongst others. However, civil unrest has declined significantly since early November 2021 as indicated by the resumption of most schools and normal commercial activity. Nonetheless, security forces remain on the alert.International Collaboration on Enforcement Against Crime and TerrorismTo prevent rising cross-border cybercrime and terrorism, Myanmar Government has increased collaboration with police and public security officials from the international community. A Myanmar delegation led by Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Lt-General Than Hlaing participated in the INTERPOL General Assembly held in Istanbul, Turkey, from 23 to 25 November 2021. The delegation held discussions with Mr Kim Jong Yang, President of INTERPOL's Executive Committee, and Mr Jurgen Stock, INTERPOL's Secretary General, as well as senior police or public security officials from China, Russia, India, Vietnam, and the United Arab Emirates."Despite earlier civil disturbances, the situation in Myanmar has clearly stabilized recently. This is due to efficient law enforcement and the collective wish of most Myanmar citizens to return to normal social and economic life. They are tired of the destruction of lives and property, and of other disruptions. Myanmar Government is committed to holding multi-party elections by August 2023. National stability is a pre-requisite for this important political event," said Minister of Information Mr Maung Maung Ohn.Update on Economic and Investment MattersThe Myanmar Government estimates that in the last 23 months (coinciding with the COVID-19 outbreak in the country), 222 factories (many of them from the garment sector) were temporarily closed, 63 were permanently shuttered, and 181 had to reduce their workforce - all largely due to the pandemic. In total about 185,324 garment workers are estimated to have lost their jobs, mostly in Yangon, Bago and Ayeyawady where most of factories involved in making, garments, shoes and bags are located. To overcome the challenges of the pandemic, economic uncertainty and domestic issues, and to promote job creation, Myanmar Government has in recent months announced multiple economic stimulus programmes, stabilization of the kyat and assistance to the agriculture sector and small and medium enterprises. The Government will also announce in the coming weeks the Myanmar Economic Recovery Plan (MERP). Covering the 2021-2022 to 2023-2024 period as a medium-term plan, the MERP will facilitate post-COVID-19 economic recovery ahead of the next election. It will contain 30 goals, 165 outcomes and 430 action plans to accelerate job growth and value-added economic activities. It will include reform of rules, regulations and procedures covering tax, banking, finance, trade, development of digital economy, transport and supply chains, tourism development, and agriculture, livestock and fisheries as well as energy sector and protection of the environment.MIFER has to date received MCI applications totaling 1,795.36 billion kyat (USD 1.0 billion) for 2021-2022, a 51% increase compared to 1,171.8 billion kyat (USD 660 million) in 2020-2021, the period most affected by the pandemic and civil disturbances. MCI applications received thus far for 2022-2023 stood at 2,107.7 billion kyat (USD 1.18 billion). If approved, MCI investments for the latter period would have increased by nearly 80% compared to 2020-2021.MIFER believes that the higher MCI, a substantial portion of which is for manufacturing, is due to: i) stabilization of the kyat; ii) increasing national stability; iii) tax incentives; iv) introduction of the Government's one-stop service for speedy business approvals; and v) relaxation of a requirement that at least 1 director must reside at least 6 months of a year in the country.Since 2 February 2021, MIFER has approved 18 FDI projects valued at USD 3.3 billion. Approved FDI in 2020-2021 from 49 business enterprises amounted to USD 3.89 billion. The sectors that attracted most FDI were energy/power, followed by manufacturing, transport, telecommunications and real estate."Declining pandemic infection rates and the return of national stability have contributed to the increase in domestic investments. We have also received substantial interest in recent months from Russia and Asian countries for various economic activities. Business confidence has improved significantly. Our priority is to facilitate safe travel with appropriate health protocols and security within the country so as to generate investments, trade and jobs rapidly to expedite economic recovery," said Minister of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations Mr Aung Naing Oo.- Ends -Issued by Ministry of Information and Ministry of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations, Union Government of Myanmar. For more information, please contact mediacontact@e-information.gov.mm or myintkyawmoi@gmail.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Myanmar Government to Re-Open Land Borders, Resume International Travel in Early 2022 After Achieving Vaccination Targets Amid Clear Signs of Economic Recovery

Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, Nov 16, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – The Myanmar Government announced today it will reopen land border crossings with China and Thailand next month ahead of a planned resumption of international air travel by the end of the first quarter of 2022, as vaccination rates have improved significantly amid clear signs of economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Minister of Information Mr Maung Maung Ohn said travel restrictions will be eased by January 2022 at Muse which borders Ruili city in China’s Yunnan Province and at the three Myanmar towns of Tachileik, Kawthaung and Htee Kee which border Thailand. Travel at border crossings with Laos, India and Bangladesh are currently permitted due to lower incidences of infection. Status of COVID-19 Infection Rates, Deaths & Vaccinations Between the first case of pandemic infection in the country on 23 March 2020 to 12 November 2021 (20 months) Myanmar’s Ministry of Health has recorded a total of 511,717 cases of infection and 18,899 deaths due to COVID-19. In the week (to 12 November) a daily average of 919 new confirmed cases were detected with a positivity rate of 4.2% while 20 deaths were recorded – a fatality rate of 2.3%. These compare with 3,901 new confirmed cases (positivity rate of 30.8%) and 172 deaths (fatality rate of 8.1%) in the first week of August 2021. The numbers of new confirmed cases and deaths have fallen to 76.4 percent and 88.5 percent, respectively, over the comparative periods. The Government continues to receive vaccines through donations and national procurement programmes. Most of the vaccines are from China. As at 12 November 2021, the Health Ministry had administered at least one dose of vaccine each to 14.4 million citizens above the age of 18, or 42.5% of the population. This will increase to 50% of the population by end of 2021. To date more than 21 million doses of various vaccines have been administered. By April 2022 Myanmar would have sufficient vaccines to inoculate the entire population. “Our priority is the health and well-being of each citizen. The vaccinations are being carried out without any discrimination, including of prisoners and members of ethnic armed organisations. However, some individuals who had been involved in civil disturbance activities are reluctant to register for vaccination, especially in major cities,” said Minister Mr Maung Maung Ohn. Procedures To Prepare for Resumption of Air Travel in Q1 2022 With the fall in infection and fatality rates and the acceleration of the vaccination programme, the State Administration Council is accelerating resumption of social and economic activity to restore national stability following the challenges of the pandemic and the internal social unrest. To prepare to resume international air travel, six Government ministries are coordinating efforts to standardise testing and safety procedures such as social distancing, contact tracing and quarantine as well as vaccination status certification, the Minister said. “Air travel is important to facilitate the return of Myanmar citizens, expatriates, aid and development workers, and international business travel. We must ensure that hotels, transportation, health facilities, airports and airline operators are ready to meet the standard operating procedures. We will keep various embassies informed of progress,” he said. “We are cautiously assessing infection rates abroad ahead of the European winter. Once our vaccination programme reaches targets and if global infection rates drop, we intend to resume international air travel in the first quarter of 2022,” he said. “This will benefit not just tourism but also commercial activity and bilateral social, cultural and development activities and exchanges. In recent months we have received substantial foreign interest in investments and business opportunities. These parties are eager to travel to Myanmar to conclude transactions,” he added. Re-Opening of Schools & Universities With most students above 18 already vaccinated, the Ministry of Education has started to reopen schools. In the first phase that began 1 November 2021, all schools from Grade 1 to 11 (except those in 46 townships) – involving over 473,000 students – were reopened. About a quarter million tertiary students will resume studies next month when universities and colleges reopen. Since the re-opening of schools there has not been any incident of pandemic infection or fatality. This is due to the vaccination programme and health procedures. As some teachers have not returned to work due to social disturbances and fear of their safety, nearly 7,000 new teachers and over new 3,700 tertiary educators have been appointed in recent months to make up for the shortfall. Economic Recovery and Resumption of Social Activity Despite clear evidence of economic sabotage and the effects of the pandemic, economic activity has largely restarted across most parts of the country with the onset of the dry season last month, the Minister said. The Myanmar Government has introduced emergency economic relief in the form of grants to farmers, and to the fisheries and livestock sectors. It has also extended credit to rice exporters and offered assistance to small and medium enterprises. The Minister noted that the Myanmar currency has strengthened from as low as 2,500 kyat last month to about 1,800 kyat currently. This underscores the economic recovery and success of efforts to counter rumours about the currency. The Central Bank of Myanmar recently strengthened online transactions, introduced incentives and other measures to reduce regulatory red tape, and conducted regular dialogue with local banks to maintain trust. “Myanmar is recovering from challenges of a health pandemic, an economic downturn and social and political disturbances. The vaccination programme and the economic recovery efforts are gaining momentum. However, the police and security forces must abide by the law and carry out the duties. “Business confidence is returning especially in major cities where religious activities recently have all been well attended. The resumption of air travel will be an important catalyst for tourism, the return of foreign investments and international business activities,” Minister Maung Maung Ohn added. – Ends – Issued by Ministry of Information, Union Government of Myanmar For more information, please contact mediacontact@e-information.gov.mm or myintkyawmoi@gmail.com

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Myanmar Government to Re-Open Schools, Revive Economy and Support Currency to Overcome ‘Triple Crisis Situations’ of Pandemic, Economic Slowdown and Issues of National Stability

Nay Pyi Taw, Oct 19, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The Myanmar Government announced today it would reopen schools from next month and take urgent measures to support its currency and accelerate economic recovery so as to restore national stability quickly amid an unprecedented 'triple crisis' situation in the country.Myanmar is facing crises of pandemic infection, economic slowdown and national stability at the same time, a situation not shared by any other country in ASEAN or even Asia. Hence, even as the country pursues recovery, it looks forward to support from the international community, the Government said in a statement.COVID-19 UpdateBased on latest data from the Ministry of Health, as of 16 October 2021 Myanmar had recorded 486,851 COVID-19 cases and 18,329 fatalities deaths (most of whom were aged 45 to 75) since the first confirmed case of infection on 23 March 2020. Currently, the daily average COVID-19 positivity rate in Myanmar is 7.7%, which is lower than that of some ASEAN countries.The first wave of the pandemic started in March 2020 and the second in August 2020. In the third wave that started in May 2021, a high incidence of the Delta variant has been behind the 343,533 confirmed cases and 15,113 deaths to date. The Ministry of Health is still responding to the third wave even though cases have declined since July 2021.Currently, 113 townships - about a third of Myanmar's total - are regarded as 'high burden' and are under the Stay-At-Home (SAH) programme. The Ministry of Health intends to ease restrictions gradually, after ascertaining there is no community transmission after lifting of SAH.Update on Vaccination Status and VaccinesAs of 16 October 2021, 4.57 million people were fully vaccinated, while 6.65 million people have received one dose each. The cumulative vaccinated population is 11.22 million and cumulative vaccinations administered stood at 15.8 million doses. Myanmar has received 31.3 million doses of vaccines as of 17 October 2021. These include:Ministry/Organization | Type | Country of Origin | Amount (doses)Ministry of Health | Covishield | India | 4,500,000Ministry of Health | Sinopharm | China | 21,300,000Ministry of Health | Sinovac | China | 4,000,000Ministry of Defense | Sinopharm, Covaxin, Spunik V | China, India, Russia | 802,800Private sector | Sinopharm | China | 700,000Grand total (National Figure) | 31,302,800Over October and November 2021, 8.0 million doses of Sinopharm are scheduled to arrive through Myanmar Government procurement channels. The Ministry of Health is collaborating with GAVI COVAX Facility ("COVAX") to receive 4.05 million doses of COVAX vaccines, and separately 2.2 million doses of SINOVAC vaccine. Ongoing discussions to receive Pfizer vaccine from the facility are also in progress.Reopening of Schools and Colleges by November 2021To accelerate recovery of social and economic activity, Myanmar Government has directed the Education Ministry to prioritise the re-opening of schools which had shut on 9 July 2021 due to the spread of COVID-19. While schools were reopened on 21 July, the Ministry again closed them on 27 August due to the third wave of the pandemic.The Education Ministry will re-open schools from November 2021 by working with the Ministry of Health to vaccinate all remaining unvaccinated students (mostly between the ages of 12 and 17, by the end of this month). Over 2.2 million students have been vaccinated nationwide so far. All teachers have already been vaccinated. These vaccinations involved mostly the use of the SINOVAC vaccine, with two doses administered over an interval of 28 days.To facilitate the reopening, schools will be ranked according to health and safety readiness in matters such as availability of disinfectants, sanitisers, personal protection equipment, thermometers, face masks and shields, and of hygiene facilities such as toilets, wash basins, wells and water purifiers.In view of some reports of civil disobedience, security measures will also be introduced in schools to prevent disruption and ensure the safety of teachers and students."The reopening of schools is an urgent priority of our country. Vaccination and health protocols are a pre-requisite. Hence, teachers and students, including those between 12 and 18 years of age should get vaccinated. Myanmar Government encourages students to complete at least lower secondary education and endeavours to nurture more educated resources for the future development of Myanmar," said Education Minister Dr. Nyunt Phay.Reviving Business Confidence Within Myanmar and With International CommunityThe Myanmar Government has identified the main economic and financial challenges as confidence in banking and financial institutions, reviving employment and business activity, attracting and supporting foreign investors and economic partners, and ensuring stability of the kyat currency.MIFER notes with concern the ongoing four-prong economic sabotage by opponents of the Government who continue to try to stir panic in the financial sector while openly declaring 'war' within Myanmar. These opponents appear to be supported by foreign elements.It involves attempts at disrupting international economic and financial relations in order to halt existing development projects and delay disbursement of grants, aid and concessionary loans; deterring inflows of Foreign Direct Investment by projecting a negative image; boycotting payment of electricity bills and of Government lotteries to disrupt revenue collection; and spreading rumours to trigger a local banking and financial crisis.Despite the sabotage, the Government will do its utmost to support the economy as well as all Myanmar people.MIFER has stepped up dialogue with leaders of foreign chambers of commerce and accelerated international economic exchanges. A notable development has been the highly successful virtual Myanmar-Russia business matching seminar held last month."Myanmar Government has already implemented measures to ensure continuity in the agriculture sector, including farmers and those involved in livestock and fisheries sector. We have also extended soft loans/financial aid to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)," said Minister Aung Naing Oo."We detect a great sense of urgency among local businesses to return to normalcy. Our priority is to restore confidence, create jobs and revive commercial activity. Despite the challenges, investor confidence is clearly increasing. We are also greatly encouraged by the positive response of Russian business groups who are very keen to forge bilateral economic activities," he said.Supporting The Myanmar KyatCentral Bank notes with collective concern the recent weakness of the kyat. To restore confidence in the currency, the following actions have been or will be implemented:- Encouraging and strengthening online banking payments- Tax reduction and incentives (waiver or deferral of the payment of rental fees)- Regulatory and other measures to streamline online transactions, reduce barriersto business and regulatory red-tape, and improving commercial transparency- Issuing Central Bank's notifications to have trust in the domestic banking system- Regulating drawing limit from the banks.National Security Matters"Despite the efforts of Myanmar Government to restore political, social and economic stability amid the pandemic, those opposed to recovery have stepped up violence and disruption of the economy. The Government has a duty to ensure political and social stability and will exercise this duty with firmness and restraint at the same time even as it seeks to win investor confidence, and revive economic and social activity such as re-opening of schools and cinemas," the Minister said.Issued by Ministry of Information, Union Government of MyanmarFor more information, please contact: mediacontact@e-information.gov.mm Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Travellers from Myanmar barred from entering Singapore from July 15

SINGAPORE - Travellers from Myanmar will not be allowed to enter Singapore from Thursday (July 15) given a rise in Covid-19 cases there, said the Ministry of Health on Wednesday (July 14). From 11.59pm on Thursday, all long-term pass holders and short-term visitors with a travel history to Myanmar - including transit - in the past 21 days will not be allowed to enter or transit through Singapore. "This will also apply to all those who had obtained prior approval for entry into Singapore," added MOH. All travellers with recent travel history to Myanmar will also have to take an antigen rapid test (ART) upon arrival. Travellers with recent travel history to Myanmar who have yet to complete their 14-day stay-home notice (SHN) by 11.59pm on Thursday will continue to serve their SHN at dedicated facilities and take a polymerase chain reaction test (PCR) upon arrival, said MOH. A self-administered ART test has to be taken on day 3, 7 and 11 of arrival in Singapore. A second PCR test also has to be taken on day 14 of arrival. MOH said the multi-ministry task force regularly reviews Singapore's border measures to manage the risk of importation from travellers and onward local transmission. It added that "as the global situation evolves, we will continue to adjust our border measures". Any changes to border measures will be updated on the SafeTravel website here.

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30 years’ jail for woman who starved and tortured Myanmar maid to death

SINGAPORE - A 41-year-old housewife who starved, tortured and ultimately killed her domestic worker from Myanmar stared blankly into space as she was sentenced to 30 years' jail on Tuesday (June 22). In sentencing Gaiyathiri Murugayan, High Court judge See Kee Oon said: "Words cannot describe the abject cruelty of the accused's appalling conduct." He described the case as "among the worst type of culpable homicide", noting that the victim was made to suffer agonising harm for a long time before she died. The judge said that while the sentence should "signal societal outrage and abhorrence", the fact that Gaiyathiri was suffering from a psychiatric condition that affected her judgment cannot be ignored. He noted that Gaiyathiri had four previous domestic helpers who did not lodge any reports against her and did not appear to be a pathologically violent person. Gaiyathiri had pleaded guilty in February to 28 charges. The most serious was culpable homicide, for which prosecutors had sought the maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The other charges were mostly hurt-related offences involving varying degrees of physical abuse she inflicted on 24-year-old Piang Ngaih Don, who weighed a mere 24kg when she died on July 26, 2016, from the final assault. Another 87 charges were taken into consideration. In sentencing arguments on Tuesday, defence counsel Joseph Chen, who took over the case from Gaiyathiri's previous lawyers in March, sought a jail term of eight to nine years. Mr Chen painted his client as a mentally disordered mother who had just given birth and was struggling to cope with her children's illnesses, which she believed were caused by the maid's poor hygiene. Gaiyathiri, whose two children are now aged nine and six, was assessed to have developed major depressive disorder while she was pregnant with her second child. She also had obsessive compulsive personality disorder. "It was a combination of stressors that led to her evolving from a non-maid abuser to a maid abuser," Mr Chen said. "She has gone back to her previous self as a non-maid abuser," he added. He asked the court to place more weight on rehabilitation so that there would be a "healing effect" for her and other mothers suffering from postnatal depression. Mr Chen said his client was remorseful for what she had done and that she regretted that Ms Piang had been unable to reach out for help. He also sought a gag order on the publication of her name to protect her children from stigmatisation. More on this topic   Related Story Cop's wife who tortured Myanmar maid to death makes legal moves to avoid life in jail   Related Story Fatal abuse of Myanmar maid: Full force of law needed to keep evil in check, says Shanmugam However, Deputy Public Prosecutor Mohamed Faizal Mohamed Abdul Kadir countered: "A mental disorder is not a free pass." He noted that Gaiyathiri's condition was the reason the charge for killing Ms Piang was reduced from murder. "This is a shocking case without parallel," said the DPP, who described Gaiyathiri's conduct as "cruel and heinous". He took issue with Gaiyathiri trying to blame Ms Piang's hygiene, when many of her offences had nothing to do with cleanliness. "The violence is a function of the accused viewing the victim as a lesser human being," said the prosecutor. He sought at least 27 years' jail, if a life term was not imposed. Ms Piang, who started working for the family on May 28, 2015, was assaulted almost daily for months. The incidents in the last month of her life were captured on surveillance cameras that Gaiyathiri and her then husband, Kevin Chelvam, a policeman, had installed in their Bishan flat. The couple finalised their divorce on Jan 13 last year. Police officers escorting Gaiyathiri Murugayan (left, in red) and her mother Prema Naraynasamy (right, in red) to their home at Block 145 Bishan Street 11 for investigations into the case on Aug 3, 2016. PHOTO: ST FILE More on this topic   Related Story Case of Myanmar maid who was abused and killed 'appalling': Josephine Teo   Related Story Same old, same old, maid abuse cases are a blight on Singapore Surveillance footage showed Gaiyathiri pouring cold water on her domestic helper, slapping, pushing, punching, kicking and stomping on her. She was also seen hitting the maid with objects, pulling her by the hair and shaking her violently, burning her with a heated iron and choking her. The maid's meals often comprised sliced bread soaked in water, cold food straight from the refrigerator or some rice at night. She was also made to shower with the toilet door open. In the last 12 days of her life, she was tied to the window grille at night while she slept on the floor. Chelvam, 42, who was suspended from service on Aug 8, 2016, faces multiple charges in connection with the abuse of Ms Piang. Gaiyathiri's mother, Prema S. Naraynasamy, 62, who often stayed with the couple in the flat, was also charged in 2016. Their cases are pending in court. More on this topic   Related Story Some employers in Singapore holding on to maids' passports illegally   Related Story Fatal abuse of Myanmar maid: Govt to review 3 areas to ensure it doesn't happen again On the night of July 25, 2016, the maid was assaulted by Gaiyathiri and Prema for being too slow in doing laundry. Gaiyathiri continued assaulting the maid the next morning and choked her. A few hours later, a doctor pronounced her dead in the flat. In the wake of the case, the Government reviewed three key areas to ensure better protection for domestic workers. The Manpower Ministry started a house visit scheme on April 5 to ensure maids' welfare.

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Cop’s wife who starved, tortured Myanmar maid to her death makes legal moves to avoid life imprisonment

SINGAPORE - In a turn of events, a 41-year-old housewife who starved, tortured and ultimately killed her domestic worker from Myanmar has changed lawyers and is making further moves in a bid to avoid life in prison. Gaiyathiri Murugayan, the wife of a policeman, had pleaded guilty in February this year to 28 charges, the most serious being culpable homicide for which prosecutors had sought the maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The other charges were mostly hurt-related offences for physical abuse she inflicted on 24-year-old Piang Ngaih Don, who weighed a mere 24kg when she died on July 26, 2016, from the final assault. Gaiyathiri was due to be sentenced on Thursday (April 29) by High Court judge See Kee Oon. However, it emerged during the hearing that she had changed lawyers last month. Justice See noted that Gaiyathiri "appeared to have changed her position about maintaining her plea of guilt" and asked her new lawyer, Mr Joseph Chen, to clarify whether she wanted to retract her plea of guilt. Mr Chen said she wanted to submit a further plea for leniency and that he would be asking the prosecution to consider further reducing the culpable homicide charge. Gaiyathiri's charge had been reduced from murder as she was assessed to have developed major depressive disorder while she was pregnant with her son, which reduced her responsibility for her actions. After a short stand-down, Mr Chen confirmed to the court that she was not retracting her plea. However, Mr Chen asked for time to file a further mitigation plea to support her case that her culpability was reduced. He said the mitigation will focus on "stressors in her feeling an increase in tension due to her worry about the children's health". He added that he had been given instructions to apply for a gag order on the case. Deputy Public Prosecutor Mohamed Faizal Mohamed Abdul Kadir said the prosecution will respond on the basis for such an order when it is made. More on this topic   Related Story Cop's wife admits torturing maid to death; Myanmar victim was 24kg in her final days   Related Story Fatal abuse of Myanmar maid: Full force of law needed to keep evil in check, says Shanmugam The case was adjourned for Mr Chen to file a further mitigation plea by May 28. The case is tentatively fixed to be mentioned in court again on June 22. Speaking to reporters after the hearing, Mr Chen said he will be making representations to the prosecution for the culpable homicide charge to be reduced from Section 304(a) to Section 304(b), which carries a maximum jail term of 20 years. Camera captured ordeal The ordeal that Ms Piang suffered in the last month of her life was captured on surveillance cameras that Gaiyathiri and her husband, Kevin Chelvam, had installed in their Bishan flat to monitor the maid and their two children. Ms Piang was physically assaulted almost daily, often several times a day. Surveillance footage showed Gaiyathiri pouring cold water on Ms Piang, slapping, pushing, punching, kicking her and stomping on her while she was on the floor. She was also seen hitting Ms Piang with objects like a plastic bottle or metal ladle, pulling her from the floor by the hair and shaking her violently, burning her with a heated iron and choking her. The maid was deprived of food and rest; her meals often comprised sliced bread soaked in water, cold food straight from the refrigerator or some rice at night. She was allowed to sleep for only about five hours a night and did her chores wearing multiple layers of face masks as Gaiyathiri found her unhygienic. She was also made to shower and relieve herself with the toilet door open. In the last 12 days of her life, she was tied to the window grille at night while she slept on the floor. Ms Piang had begged her employer not to do so, but Gaiyathiri told the maid that she "deserved" to be tied up as she had sneaked out at night to take food. Chelvam, 42, a police staff sergeant who was suspended from service on Aug 8, 2016, faces multiple charges in connection with the abuse and death of Ms Piang. These include a charge for removing the cameras in an attempt to shield his wife and mother-in-law from legal punishment. Gaiyathiri's mother, Prema S. Naraynasamy, 62, who often stayed with the couple in the flat, was also charged in 2016. Their cases are pending in court. In a photo taken on Aug 3, 2016, police officers take Gaiyathiri Murugayan (left, in red) and her mother Prema Naraynasamy (right, in red) to their home at Block 145 in Bishan Street 11 for investigations. PHOTO: ST FILE No day off The court heard that Ms Piang, who had a three-year-old son, began working for the family on May 28, 2015. She was not allowed to have a mobile phone or any day off. Gaiyathiri was unhappy with her and felt she was slow, had poor hygiene practices and ate too much. She established a set of rules and would shout when she felt Ms Piang was being disobedient. This escalated to physical abuse in October 2015. Ms Piang last went for a medical check-up on May 23, 2016 at the Bishan Grace Clinic. The doctor saw bruises around the maid's eye sockets and cheeks and mild swelling on both feet, but Gaiyathiri claimed this was because Ms Piang fell down frequently. More on this topic   Related Story Case of Myanmar maid who was abused and killed 'appalling': Josephine Teo On July 25, 2016, between 11.40pm and 11.55pm, the maid, already weak from starvation and prolonged abuse, was assaulted by Gaiyathiri and Prema for being too slow in doing laundry. They poured water on her, dragged her to the bedroom where they kicked and punched her, and left her tied to the window grille without any dinner. The next day, at about 5am, Gaiyathiri kicked and stomped on Ms Piang's head and neck area, grabbed her by the hair and pulled her head back such that her neck extended backwards twice, and choked her. At 7.30am, Ms Piang was found motionless and Chelvam left for work. After failing to revive her, Prema suggested they call for a doctor. Gaiyathiri called the clinic between 9.30am and 9.45am and asked for a house call, lying to the nurse that she found the victim on the kitchen floor. Gaiyathiri rejected a suggestion to call for an ambulance and insisted on waiting for Dr Grace Kwan. While waiting, Gaiyathiri and Prema changed Ms Piang out of her wet clothes. When Dr Kwan arrived at about 10.50am, she told both women the maid was dead. They expressed shock and lied that she had moved just minutes earlier. Dr Kwan eventually called for an ambulance. Paramedics arrived at about 11.30am and pronounced Ms Piang dead. An autopsy found 31 recent scars and 47 external injuries all over the maid's body. It found that the repeated choking of the victim had led to oxygen deprivation to the brain, which resulted in death. Better protection for maids In the wake of the case, the Government reviewed three key areas to ensure better protection for domestic workers. These include safeguards against abusive employers, the reporting system for doctors who examine domestic helpers and a look at how the community can play a role in flagging possible abuse. Under a new initiative, which started on April 5, officers appointed by the Manpower Ministry will meet maids and employers at their homes. These officers will highlight safe working conditions and the channels where maids can get help, and will also check on the maid's living and working conditions. More on this topic   Related Story Manpower Ministry starts new house visits scheme to check on welfare of maids   Related Story Fatal abuse of Myanmar maid: Govt to review 3 areas to ensure it doesn't happen again

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Worried for safety of their family and friends in Myanmar

SINGAPORE - Student Susan Pyi, 21, spends every waking hour here worried for the safety of her family in Myanmar. The Singaporean, who was born and raised there, has a seven-year-old brother who lives with their mother and grandmother in Yangon. Ms Pyi lives in Singapore with her father. She said her mother often hears gunshots near their apartment. Ms Pyi is most concerned about her brother, who likes to go onto the balcony, where stray bullets could pose a risk. "I've seen a lot of pictures of kids getting hurt, so I'm really worried about him," she said. To make matters worse, she loses contact with her family on days when the authorities in Myanmar cut off access to the Internet. "I don't know what's happening and I just feel so helpless," she said. Protests, largely led by young people, broke out in several cities in Myanmar after military officials staged a coup on Feb 1 and detained the country's de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi, along with many other leaders of the National League for Democracy - Myanmar's elected ruling party. The military crackdown which followed left many dead and injured, and more than 1,000 people were arrested. Amid the ensuing chaos, word spread that criminals were looting and terrorising residents. Nanyang Polytechnic student Aung Myint Myat, 21, said his aunt in Yangon had a close shave on Feb 13 when her house in Yangon was almost burgled. He said his 45-year-old aunt, who lives with her brother, told him the front door was forcefully unhinged while she was asleep, but nothing else was damaged. "If they had got through, she would have been in a lot of trouble," he added. Mr Aung, who lives here with his mother and brother, said if he could return to Myanmar, he would join the protesters. "If people younger than me are there fighting for their lives, why shouldn't I? It pains me that I can't do much about it," said the Myanmar national. Nanyang Polytechnic student Aung Myint Myat said his aunt in Yangon had a close shave when her house in Yangon was almost burgled. PHOTO: COURTESY OF AUNG MYINT MYAT More on this topic   Related Story Some Singaporeans staying on in Myanmar despite violence in the streets   Related Story Myanmar's influencers: How key stakeholders could shape its future Project executive Phoo Ngon Lin, 24, said her friends in Myanmar join the protests every day, knowing they could die. Ms Phoo, a permanent resident here, said: "I feel a lot of guilt because I'm here in Singapore living a privileged life, while these young protesters are being robbed of their futures. I'll never have the courage to be on the front line." Her mother and grandmother are with her in Singapore but her father remains in Myanmar. Ms Phoo decided to start a website to give information on the death toll in Myanmar. She said independent groups in Myanmar have said the death toll is higher than the 50-plus that was officially reported. She added: "What angers me the most is that the military is using lethal weapons on unarmed protesters." Ms Pyi and several others have been tapping social media to raise awareness about the extent of the violence in Myanmar. She is part of a group with Nanyang Polytechnic's Mr Aung which translates videos about the situation in Myanmar into English. They then post them on social media, hoping this will get the word out to the rest of the world. Mr Nicholas Naing, 47, chief executive of engineering firm Trust Synergy International, which is headquartered here, showed his support by suspending all business engagements with the junta. He also allowed his staff in Myanmar to stop work and join the protests. Mr Naing, who is from Myanmar and is now a Singaporean citizen, said: "It's a sacrifice that businesses have to make to cut off (the junta's) supply chains. The impact goes both ways." He, along with some friends, have donated money and safety equipment to the protesters. Several of them said they appreciated Singapore's position on the military coup. In a BBC interview on March 2, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong described the coup as an enormous, tragic step back for the country. He also said the use of lethal force against civilians and unarmed demonstrators is not acceptable. PM Lee called for the military regime to release State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, to negotiate with her National League for Democracy party and to work out a peaceful way forward for Myanmar. Reacting to the news, Ms Phoo said: "I'm happy that my second home is taking a step towards helping Myanmar." More on this topic   Related Story Myanmar forces fire tear gas as UN envoy calls for action   Related Story 'How much more can we allow the Myanmar military to get away with?' asks UN envoy

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Woman convicted of abusing Myanmar maid, who was left with bruises and hearing loss

SINGAPORE - A 51-year-old woman was on Friday (Feb 26) convicted of two counts of abusing her maid, in attacks which left the Myanmar national with bruises and the loss of hearing in her left ear. Both incidents occurred in 2017 at Gayathri Iyer's home at the Pebble Bay condominium in Tanjong Rhu Road. District Judge Tan Jen Tse convicted the Singaporean of two maid abuse charges after a trial. She was, however, acquitted of two other counts of maid abuse as the judge found that the maid's evidence in these instances had not been "unusually convincing". Gayathri is represented by lawyer Amarjit Singh Sidhu and her bail was set at $15,000. She will be sentenced on March 17. For each count of assaulting a maid, an offender can be jailed for up to three years and fined up to $7,500. More on this topic   Related Story Fatal abuse of Myanmar maid: Govt to review 3 areas to ensure it doesn't happen again   Related Story Courts & Crime: Read more stories Correction note: An earlier version of this story had the wrong picture of the offender. This has been removed. We are sorry for the error. 

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Three men investigated by police for allegedly protesting outside Myanmar Embassy in S’pore

SINGAPORE - Three men are being investigated for purportedly participating in a public assembly without a permit outside the Embassy of Myanmar in Singapore, the police said on Sunday (Feb 14). Two of the men are Japanese nationals, aged 48 and 61, and the third is a 49-year-old Indonesian. The police were alerted at 3.45pm on Feb 10 to three men allegedly protesting outside the embassy to demonstrate "their support for the people of Myanmar". Two placards, three mobile phones and a letter were seized. The police reminded the public that "organising or participating in a public assembly without a police permit in Singapore is illegal and constitutes an offence under the Public Order Act". Organisers of illegal assemblies face fines of up to $5,000 and participants can be fined up to $3,000. "The police will not grant any permit for assemblies that advocate political causes of other countries," it said. "Foreigners visiting or living in Singapore should abide by our laws." On Feb 5, the police had warned against holding protests in Singapore related to the ongoing political events in Myanmar, saying: "The police are aware of online posts by Myanmar nationals working or residing in Singapore, planning protests in Singapore in relation to recent developments in Myanmar and encouraging people to participate." The civil disobedience movement in Myanmar was sparked by a Feb 1 coup that ousted the civilian government, including Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi. Meanwhile, the military government there escalated efforts to control anti-coup protests on Monday (Feb 15) by cutting Internet service and deploying troops around the country. This comes after security forces opened fire to disperse protesters at a power plant in the north of Myanmar and armoured vehicles rolled into major cities on Sunday (Feb 14). More on this topic   Related Story No longer life as usual for Singaporeans in Myanmar as escalating protests put some on edge   Related Story Three people arrested for protesting outside Ministry of Education headquarters

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Singapore expresses ‘grave concern’ over Myanmar’s political crisis

SINGAPORE - Singapore on Monday (Feb 1) expressed "grave concern" over the political crisis in Myanmar. "We are monitoring the situation closely and hope all parties involved will exercise restraint, maintain dialogue, and work towards a positive and peaceful outcome," said a spokesman for Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). "Myanmar is a close friend of Singapore and key member of Asean (Association of South-east Asian Nations). We hope that the situation will return to normal as soon as possible." A state of emergency has been declared in Myanmar after the country's military detained civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi and other top leaders on Monday. A statement signed by the new acting president Myint Swe, a former general who had been vice-president, said the move was needed to preserve the "stability" of the state, accusing the country's election commission of failing to address "huge irregularities" in the November election. In view of the fluid situation, MFA said Singaporeans in Myanmar are advised to remain vigilant, monitor local news closely and follow the advice of the local authorities. Singaporeans in Myanmar are also strongly encouraged to e-register with MFA. Those who are in need of consular assistance while in Myanmar should contact the Singapore Embassy in Yangon on +95-1-9-559-001 or 09-250-863-840. They can also contact the MFA Duty office (24-hours) on +65-6379 8800/8855. Aung San Suu Kyi, others detained by army - Indochina bureau chief has latest in Myanmar | ST LIVE More on this topic   Related Story Myanmar emergency: 5 things you need to know about the political crisis   Related Story Myanmar coup: Military gives up 'cohabitation' with civilian government

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