Myanmore Magazine - No.33/ July 2019 by MYANMORE

No. 33 /July 2019 It’s free!

FAITH, GENDER AND HOPE

A SIT-DOWN WITH MYANMAR’S SECOND LADY

MYANMAR WOMEN

LEADERS PROGRAM 2019

TRAVEL TO SAMKAR LAKE Q&A WITH BART WAS NOT HERE MYANMORE magazine #33 July 2019

MYANMORE magazine #33 July 2019

No. 33 /July 2019

magazine Managing Director Andreas Sigurdsson

Junior Editor Min Ye Kyaw

Editorial Assistant Min Pyae Sone

Cover Photo

Zwe Wint Htet

Photography

Khiri Travel Pyae Nono Thaw Thae Hsu Wai

Contributors

Christian Gilberti Monica Hernandez Tom Sanders

Illustration

Ben Hopkins

Art & Production Aye Myo Htay Phyo Thu Kyaw

Publisher

Cinema 8

MYANMORE Magazine Pyit Thiri Thaw Lychee Ventures (Myanmar) Limited Permit No. 01588

The Teashop 10

Printer

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On 6

For All Printing House Permit No. 01267

Cover Story

A sit-down with Myanmarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second lady 12

Feature

Myanmar Women Leaders Program 2019 14

Travel

Samkar Lake 22

Do You Know?

Ernest Hemingway in Rangoon 24

22 Q&A

Bart Was Not Here 26

Eat & Drink The Newsroom 28 New openings 30

Sales & Advertising

sales@myanmore.com 0977 900 3701 / 3702

Disclaimer Rangoon Rhythm 32 Tech Talk 33

About Myanmore Myanmore is a registered brand under Lychee Ventures (Myanmar) Limited providing digital and print publishing as well as creative services. Myanmore is managing the leading online city guide www.myanmore.com and printed publications Weekly Guide, EnjoyIt, KnowIt. We also work closely with the team of DRIVE, the first and only premium car magazine in Myanmar. Recently, we have launched application Sarmal (for finding restaurant & bars in Myanmar). The mission is to provide great content and experiences for residents in Myanmar.

No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from Myanmore. All details are deemed correct at the time of print. The editor, employees and contributors cannot be held responsible for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may occur.

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MYANMORE magazine #33 July 2019

What's on Fisherman Night Buffet Dinner Every Wednesday

YouthSpeak Forum: Building Healthy Community through Leadership 16th July

YouthSpeak Forum is a trademark event of AIESEC that aims to create an environment where people from diverse backgrounds can cross-pollinate ideas, share insights and gain new perspectives to create actionable outcomes to push the world forward. For more information and registration, please contact Min Myint Maw (0943025333) and Ei Nyein Zaw (09794909762).

Smooth Jazz Nights 27th July

Entertain your Saturday nights with smooth jazzy vibes here at Captain’s Bar. They will have remarkable jazz night on every last Saturday of the month. Come and join their smooth jazz nights where Yangon’s famous Bamboo Trio is performing live jazz songs with musical instruments and of course with our Grand piano throughout the night. Chill your rainy days with Jazzy vibe and a glass of wine.

Catch your favorite seafood and fish at The Market and enjoy freshness at its best, all with a free flow of beer and soft drinks. Special promotion: $29 net per person. For bookings or more information, please contact 01 9345000. Melia Yangon - No.192, Kabaraye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Township, Yangon | 6 pm - 10 pm

Savoy Hotel Yangon - No.129, Dhammazedi Rd, Kamayut Township, Yangon | 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Diamond Jubilee Hall (Yangon University) - Adipadi Rd, Kamaryut Township, Yangon | 9 am - 5 pm

World Food Market Every Wednesday

Popular dishes of different countries will be served according to each week’s specialties. You’ll never get bored with World Food Market. Enjoy buffet dinner with 29$ including soft drinks, coffee, tea and chill drinks free flow. Book now @ 09444088881 or via Facebook Messenger.

The Burma Cartel Vol.14 27th July

A call from their informant stated that on 27th July, at LEVEL 2, loaded with the finest House and Techno tunes, the capos W-A.I. LEONIUM and DCTR are expected to be going deeper and darker. News in development and stay tuned for further reports on this big shipment in Yangon’s House/Techno history. Entry - 10,000 MMK (Enjoy 1 Free Beer!) LEVEL 2 - Yangon International compound, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Township, Yangon | From 10 pm

Sunday Brunch at Le Planteur Every Sunday

For those who love good food, good wine and cocktails without restriction. For those who had a busy week or a crazy Saturday night. For those who want to experience a generous and tailor-made brunch. They are launching their ‘Sunday Brunch’ by JeanMarc Lemmery on July 7th from 11.30 am to 2.30pm. Come and taste, every Sunday, their new brunch set menu with free-flow drinks (selected cocktails, wines and soft drinks) at $45 per person. Children brunch (6-12yo): $20. Free for children under 6 years old. More information and email reservation: info@ leplanteur.net or by phone 01 514 230. Le Planteur Restaurant & Bar - No.80, University Avenue, Bahan Township, Yangon | 11:30 am - 2:30 pm

Novotel Yangon Max - No.459, Pyay Rd, Kamayut Township, Yangon | 6 pm - 10:30 pm

Wlc: King of Nine Limbs 2nd August

The world’s best strikers will descend on Mandalay, Myanmar for the biggest night in lethwei history. Two title belts will be on the line. Dave Leduc makes his WLC Debut. UFC Veteran Seth Baczynski challenges him. Artur Saladiak defends his Light Middleweight title for the first time. Plus the first women’s division bout. Mandalar Thiri Stadium - Between 68th and 73rd, between NguShwewar Rd and Thazin Rd, Mandalay | 5:30 pm - 10 pm

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Promotions For more promotions, please check www.myanmore.com/promotions

Grand Yangon Sales 3rd July to 4th August

SALES season has just arrived next to your residence. Holding this event in 4 JUNCTION Centres: Junction City, Junction Square, Junction Mawtin and Junction 8 with Items discounted from 30% to 90 % for specific uses as an essential part of your daily life will be available here at Grand Yangon Sale. Don’t miss this chance and bring along anyone who’s up for this MEGA event - starts on July 3rd till Aug 4th. All 4 JUNCTION Center

Monsoon Promotion Until 30th September 2019

MONSOON BLUES? Grand Mercure will cheer you up with this awesome monsoon season offer. Don’t let the rain stop you from having fun. For more information and reservation please call 01 233 0288. Grand Mercure Yangon Golden Empire - Corner of Myittar & Tha Khin Phoe Hla Gyi Rd, South Okkalapa Township, Yangon

Monsoon Staycation Package at Pan Pacific Hotel Until 30th September 2019

Want to stay in the middle of the city like Yangon? Here comes the monsoon package from Package. Book Now at 01 925 3811. Package 1: Room with breakfast Single – USD 125 net, Double – USD 140 net Package 2: Room with breakfast and dinner Single – USD 152 net, Double – USD 194 net Pan Pacific Hotel - Corner of Shwedagon Pagoda Rd and Bo Gyoke Rd, Pabedan Township, Yangon

Marché Brunch at La Seine Restaurant, LOTTE Yangon Until 31st July 2019

La Seine Restaurant offers Marche` Brunch with free flow wine, beer and soft drink at US$ 39++ per person from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. No. 82, Sin Phyu Shin Avenue Pyay Road, 6½ Mile, Ward 11 MM, Yangon

Handcrafted burgers at Babett Yangon Until 31st July 2019

Happening from June 1st to July 31st, Babett Yangon introduces six 6 handcrafted melt-inyour-mouth burgers for only MMK 17,000 (including fries). All those must-try burgers can be paired with typical Babett delicious side dishes at 6,000MMK. To perfectly match with burgers, Babett has selected Dagon, Hoegaarden & Corona buckets along with Magners Cider buckets starting at 14,000MMK. Babett Yangon - 5 Alan Pya Pagoda St, Yangon

Value Deals at Prime Rib Until 31st July 2019

Prime Rib offers hormone/chemical free beef from their Greenland based farm and also they have high-quality beef from Australia, USA, and Japan. From a wide variety of juicy steaks cooked on a wood fire grill to gourmet sandwiches all available on their menu with reasonable prices. They also offer a selection of wines from all around the world. During the week (Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday), they have “All you can eat” promotions with free flow beer, while on Wednesday’s and Sundays you can enjoy steak promotion with a bottle of wine for as low as 49000ks. So go and have a meat feast at Prime Rib! Prime Rib - Urban Asia Center, 47th Street, Maharbandoola Road, Yangon.

Celebrations! at Sedona Hotel Yangon Until 28th July 2019

Sedona Hotel Yangon rolls out romance and elegance as it unveils its 5th Weddings and Events Fair on 27 & 28 July 2019. Entitled, “Celebrations!” it will highlight the most inspiring bridal shows, event promotions, door gifts and lucky draws to lucky couples and guests!. No. 1 Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Yangon

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Cinema

Now Showing Spider-Man: Far From Home Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi

Just when spiderman is on his excursion to Europe- away from home, a battle strikes down the city. “No second thoughts spiderman, need a hand for Mysterio” – Nick Fury. The journey starts tomorrow. Cast: Tom Holland, Jake Gyllenhaal, Zendaya and more

Coming The Lion King

Adventure, Authentic-like Animation

The Lion King, the movie and its name are rooted in the children of the late 1990s. As we may all have watched this movie before,

the plot is about a little cub called Simba who was challenged by his uncle Scar to learn life and take back his throne with the help of his friends, Timon and Pumbaa. Cast: Donald “Childish Gambino” Glover, Seth Rogen, Beyoncé and more.

MidSommar Horror

Dani and Christian with their friends plan for a trip to the midsummer festival that is soon to take place in a small Swedish village. Hoping for new wonderful things but turn out mysterious spine-chilling visions coming into existence. How will Dani make a way out of Halsingland? Cast: Florence Pugh, Jack Reynor, William Jackson Harper, Will Poulter and more.

YESTERDAY Drama

Directed by Danny Boyle, Yesterday is about a man called Jack, who has this passion for becoming a famous singer. “Everyone in the world has forgotten The Beatles, except Jack”- this quote will lead you to ‘Search for The Beatles’ in Google. There’s no time to track back, so let’s watch how Jack continues pursuing his dream Cast: Himesh Patel, Lily James, Ed Sheeran and more.

Stuber

Action, Comedy

Have you ever experienced a day with a mild Uber driver? Here, the driver just met with a quicktempered man who has just undergone surgery during the

case of catching the brutal killer, on a ride. Stay-tuned for the hot dates with the solutions these two would come up with Cast: Kumail Nanjiani, Dave Bautista, Iko Uwais and more.

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Drama, Thriller

Tarantino went big - although arguably, he usually does. Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt are two aspiring TV stars hoping to succeed in the film industry in 1969 Los Angeles. The film is set in the context of an America rocked by the Manson Family murders - the killings perpetrated by a cult formed in California and led by Charles Manson. Apology of violence and cult of deranged leaders: it is not hard to see how it all makes well for a classic Tarantino. Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie and more. MYANMORE magazine #33 July 2019

Crawl

Parasite

When a massive hurricane hits her Florida town, young Haley ignores the evacuation orders to search for her missing father, Dave. After finding him gravely injured in their family home, the two of them become trapped by the rapidly encroaching floodwaters. With the storm strengthening, Haley and Dave discover an even greater threat than the rising water level -- a relentless attack from a pack of gigantic alligators.

Meet the Park Family: the picture of aspirational wealth. And the Kim Family, rich in street smarts but not much else. Be it chance or fate, these two houses are brought together and the Kims sense a golden opportunity.

Action, Adventure, Horror

Cast: Kaya Scodelario, Barry Pepper, Ross Anderson and more.

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Dark-Comedy, Korean

Cast: Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-Kyun, Yeo-Jeong Cho and many more.

Tea Shop

THE TEA SHOP Illustration by Ben Hopkins

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A Doctor in Bikinis

Martyr’s day

You may have seen on Facebook or heard an actual tea shop conversation. Myanmar’s newest controversially conflicting question: “Should your personal life affect your professional life?” It seems like Myanmar’s Medical Council decided for us by revoking the license of Nang Mwe San, 28, in light of her risque photos on social media. Although not an active doctor, who is currently pursuing a career in modeling, Nan Mwe San got pretty upset by the Medical Council’s decision. When she struck back on her Facebook, with her 5000 friends, while this may not concern the serious readers out there, it is sure one hell of a debate to talk about in the city.

Commemorating Bogyoke Aung San and seven other leaders of the pre-independence interim government, plus one bodyguard—Thakin Mya—the Burmese Martyr’s day is to commence on the 19th of July. Prepare yourself to hear alarms early in the morning, as this is to mark the moment of silence for the Martyrs. Martyr’s Day, also known as Arzarni Day in Myanmar, is a national holiday so there is no work or school on this day. Some people treat General Aung San’s favorite breakfast “Pae Pyote” (boiled garden pea) and “Nan Pyar” (Indian flatbread) in the streets or you can buy this in almost any tea shops that are located in many corners of Yangon.

H1N1 Guess who’s back? Our old pal, the Swine Flu. Last week, the Ministry of Health confirmed three people have died from this virus and four others have been diagnosed in Yangon. So you better prepare since you know “Prevention Is Better Than Cure”. While it may originate from pigs, you will only get it by having someone cough in your face. Precautions are: wearing a face mask to prevent getting it—or spreading it if you got it, avoiding crowded areas because a mask can do ever so little, and keeping your immune system high by staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet. One last thing, don’t get bitten by mosquitoes.

The Rise in Chinese Tourism Rates On the 18th of June, China Eastern Airlines launched a direct flight to and from Shanghai at Yangon International, scheduled three times a week. It’s the airline’s ninth route connecting China and Myanmar. China began to attract more and more Myanmar travelers after the country relaxed visa requirements for Japanese, South Korean and Chinese tourists last September. This significant establishment in cooperation with Myanmar’s immigration sector demonstrated a 38% increase in tourist arrivals, followed by the interest in further investments in the country, as related to China.

More Booze, More Problems? The Myanmar government is set to relax its current strict alcoholic beverage import ban. Whether this would resolve the smuggling rates, or increase the rate of drunk people on the streets is something we’d have to wait and see. Nevertheless, the government isn’t likely to throw its policies away and welcome every kind of booze import there is; but expect more affordable rates on alcohol. As always, drink responsibly. EuroCham deputy director Marc de la Fouchardiere and U Aung Khant both commented on responsible practices of alcohol consumption that should be applied in concern of both local businesses and customers whereas ensuring sustainable capacity development within particular organization sectors.

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Cover Story

FAITH, GENDER AND HOPE

Dr Anna Sui Hluan A sit-down with Myanmarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second lady Words by Tom Sanders. Photos by Zwe Wint Htet.

MYANMORE magazine #33 July 2019

ressed in traditional Chin textiles, a cup of tea in one hand, Anna Sui Hluan cuts a demure and impressive figure. In the refined interior of Le Planteur Restaurant & Lounge, we sat down to discuss her life, faith, and her many projects, all with the same fundamental goal - improving the lives of disadvantaged people in modern-day Myanmar.

Being the wife of Myanmar Vice President Henry Van Thio is perhaps the least interesting thing about Dr Anna. She is a linguist, researcher, Christian preacher, and social activist, writing extensively about language, rights, female emancipation and the difficulty of scriptural interpretation in the modern world. “I’m better at preaching than interviews”, says Dr Anna Sui Hluan, taking a sip of tea to calm her nerves. She has given few interviews over the years, preferring to dedicate her time and energy to social causes. Although she was born in Chin state, she grew up in Yangon, Myanmar as her first language. She grew up in a family of Christian pastors, and her father was a preacher. After the strike broke out in 1988, many schools were closed, so she chose to attend a nearby bible college, where her interest in social activism fermented. Although she has lived abroad for many years, she makes it clear that her burning desire has always been to spend her life in Myanmar, “serving the people”, as she puts it. Dr Anna has just returned from her most recent project, the Myanmar Women’s Leaders program, of which she is the patron and joined to support the effort put in by its young female founder, Pyit Thiri Thaw of Myanmar Financial Center. Over the course of the trip, a delegation of Myanmar women visited Munich, Zurich, and Milan to attend training courses, meet other leaders, experiencing the different cultures and bond through a shared vision of female empowerment. Dr Anna talks warmly about the diversity she encountered on the trip, which featured women from many backgrounds - business,

MYANMORE magazine #33 July 2019

teaching, NGOs, and even commercial jewelry. Not only were the Myanmar women impressive, but so were the European women occupying positions of influence and power in Europe progressive societies. “I accepted because this seems like a priority right now,” explains Dr Anna. As a young girl, she explains, Myanmar culture confronted her with many limitations. “I always questioned Why. I remember watching a boy climb a tree, while I was forbidden. Why?” Ironically, this lack of female freedom is in some ways a new phenomenon. In the 18th and 19th centuries, European and American missionaries were astounded by the liberty afforded to women in Myanmar culture. During the dark days of the 20th century, this equality was eroded and diminished through political, religious and authoritarian methods - until now, when a new wave of global gender activism has washed over contemporary Burma, buoyed through social media and new forms of technology. “Despite the challenges, progress is being made” states Dr Anna confidently. “Women are determined to do more, and there is hope again.” I ask her why she chose this as her primary social cause. “I was blessed with a father who believed in educating sons as well as daughters. And my husband, he also believes in empowering women. Because of him, I was able to study until my Ph.D. My supervisors and teachers see me as a person - a person with a brain, with capabilities and qualities. So they decided to invest in me.” She continues, warming to her point. “If you educate a woman you can educate a whole generation - if you invest in a woman you are investing in generations. Men should see their daughter as valuable as sons.” If women’s rights are one of her areas of expertise, another is her faith. I ask Dr Anna if she feels that modern-day religions are positive forces for female emancipation, and she pauses for a second before she answers.

“In my dissertation, I highlighted the fact that scriptural interpretation is key. That raises questions- in the 21st century how can we understand these ancient scriptures? Religion is just an object. It’s the people that uses the religion that are the problem. Religion itself teaches many good things.” Dr Anna is also optimistic about the potential for better integration of Myanmar’s diverse faiths. “I am very positive that Myanmar is going to move forward. Myanmar was ironically much more inclusive in my school days than now. We have already done it, we can do it again!” Dr Anna sees the need for intervention across Myanmar society. For example, the Wash Project in public schools - building toilets and wash stations. “We are also doing workshops where we talk about hygienic and clean toilets. We want to raise awareness, and change the mentality people have about these things” she says. “To me, the behavior of a person lies in how they use a toilet. If you are considerate of other people you will wipe the toilet seat before you leave. It raises issues of kindness. This stuff challenges

a lot of our natural selfishness. It might seem small but you can draw larger conclusions from these small actions.” We pause to adjust the microphones. I ask her if she is tired. She laughs “I am a preacher - I preach one or two hours. This is just a warm up!” Beyond just women and religion, Dr Anna is also involved in a number of other projects. One is a school for the disabled, and another is “Water Mothers”, a group of women seeking to provide better access to fresh and clean drinking water across Myanmar. “These are the areas where I feel not a lot of people are interested and they are neglected,” she explains. “Anywhere where I see people who are voiceless - that’s the right place to focus.” “Anything else you would like to say?” I asked her. She smiles one final time. “One misunderstanding is that we are against men. We are not against men. We are saying let’s have harmony by recognizing each other as human beings, as valuable. A society that is kind, inclusive and considerate of others. That’s the kind of society I want to live in.”

Feature

THE MYANMAR WOMEN LEADERS PROGRAM 2019

n June 2019, 12 beautifully dressed Myanmar women took Europe by storm. In a show of energy and commitment to make a difference and inspire other women, they went on a 10 day program to Europe under the first Myanmar Women Leaders Program, visiting Germany, Switzerland and Italy. Founded by Pyit Thiri Thaw of Myanmar Financial Center, and supported by Dr Anna Sui Hluan as patron, the program aimed to empower the women’s leadership effectiveness through exposing them to different cultures and a unique combination of talks, workshops and networking. An important part of the trip was also to bring

Myanmar women leaders together for networking, personal growth and bonding through social and cultural activities. “Only by working together can we have a real impact and achieve great things”, Thiri shared. The Myanmar Women Leaders program was a success in several ways. Not only did a total of 12 women join to learn and be inspired, but the group also portrayed a picture of Myanmar that is not often visible in western media. A picture of Myanmar women coming together to train themselves to make a difference in their companies and communities, working together to create an impact for Myanmar.

Throughout the Myanmar Women Leaders 2019 Program the women not only learned and gained exposure from Europe and its corporate cultures but also managed to bond and as a group commit to apply the learnings for future women empowerment of Myanmar. Thiri summarised, “This is the very first step we take together to improve women’s role in economic development and moving forward. I believe we, as fellows, can make true impact and change for the next generation as a whole”.

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GERMANY Once in Germany, it was straight to business meeting with Regine Sixt from the Sixt Group, one of Germany’s most successful family businesses. Regine Sixt, a globally recognised business women, shared her personal story together with an insight into her vision for the future of the company and the industry. Following the meeting, they attended a seminar at TUM (Technische Universität München) with the two senior vice presidents, both women, who shared their research and work. After which, a lunch meeting with Prof Roland Berger ensued. The women also experienced a day test driving with Audi’s 2019 models of A5, A6 and A8L; and a visit to the Hugo Boss flagship store in Stuttgart arranged by The Avenue.

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Feature

SWITZERLAND After Germany, the program hovered to Zurich, Switzerland, meeting CEOs from three different industries - Daniel Schmutz, the CEO of Helsana Insurance, Rochus Mommartz, CEO of responsAbility Investments and Reto Ringger, CEO of Globalance Bank. Discussions were held around leadership, gender equality and the role and responsibility businesses have to also make a social impact. All the CEOs showed a remarkable humbleness, were down to earth and very passionate in making a difference for the organisation, industry and people. A visit to the head office of Blick, a Swiss German-language daily newspaper provided insights into its digital media developments. Blick shared the same message as the CEOs on the importance no matter the industry, to invest in the future and an organisations commitment and responsibility to also do good for its employees and society at large. At St. Gallen University, a full day training on the topic of â&#x20AC;&#x153;New Corporate Governance and the Female Board Poolâ&#x20AC;? was held by Dr. Martin Hilb, a globally recognised expert in the area. Special takeaways included the importance of succession management and the benefits of ensuring good governance of their companies.

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ITALY In Italy, the 12 women were invited to visit the Bvlgari factory, offering an insight into the luxury brand and its operations. This was especially inspiring for the young jeweler Zin The Naing of Art & J Collection. At The Polytechnic University of Milan, a gender equality workshop was held with Sandra Mori, President of VALORE D and Ms Donatella Sciuto, Executive Vice Rector of The Polytechnic University of Milan.

Thanks to the embassies of Germany and Italy for all their support; to Audi and The Avenue for hosting the group; and to AYA Bank for sponsoring this initiative.

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THE MYANMAR WOMEN LEADERS PROGRAM 2019 FELLOWS: DAW PYIT THIRI THAW Founder Returning to Myanmar in 2014, Pyit Thiri Thaw brought her passion and commitment to make an impact on capacity building in Myanmar. Through her two professional training centers, Myanmar Financial Center (MFC) and Myanmar Project Management Center (MPC), she has focused on achieving tangible results for both the students and the industries. This has resulted in Thiri founding the only professional training center in Myanmar that attracts students from overseas, and since 2015 trained over 3,000 professionals, ranging from graduate students to government officials; all within the mission to deliver professional credentialing programs to support Myanmar’s economic growth and close the workforce skills gap.

DR ANNA SUI HLUAN Patron

An inspiring speaker, Dr Anna Sui Hluan, the wife of Myanmar vice president Henry Van Thio, is an active contributor to social affairs, especially on women empowerment and Christianity but also areas such as water management, sanitation issues, and disability rights. Through her work she is committed to raise up other leaders. Apart from her projects and duties as vice president’s wife, Dr Anna Sui Hluan is a senior faculty member and New Testament Department head at MEGST (Myanmar Evangelical Graduate School of Theology).

DAW YIN YIN MYAT Going for an early run is the daily routine of Yin Yin Myat, who apart from ruling in the gym is also one of the leading figures in Myanmar’s construction sector. Yin Yin Myat entered the real estate industry in 1998 and sits on the central committee of the Myanmar Developer Association. Her company Sustain Co., Ltd. is one of the foremost property development and construction companies in Myanmar with a portfolio that includes single-family homes, luxury residences, affordable apartments, and high-end condominiums. In 2015, they launched the first international standard food courts in Myanmar with cashless payment systems. Her company provides construction services and has built many of the leading condos in Myanmar. In her free time, this busy mom of two, loves to paint, travel and keep her body fit by trekking and working out.

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DAW HNIN CHWE Working at the front and centre of Myanmar’s agriculture business, Hnin Chwe and her company is credited for the improvement of not only the lives of farmers but also the farming methods and quality of produce. Hnin Chwe has since 1998, through her company Asia Hline Kyaw Family Co., Ltd, worked with export and import of agricultural and fishery products. Since 2017 her company is also supporting the nation’s next generation of farm experts though scholarship to agricultural students.

DAW SAN SAN AYE As a travel enthusiast in heart, Daw San San Aye is pushing for a safer experience for women on a journey. Being one of the founders of Mandalar Minn Express together with her sister Daw Lai Lai Aye, she has a unique position to affect women in traveling experience.

DAW LAI LAI AYE Starting with six used buses in 2007, Daw Lai Lai Aye created the very first express transportation service in Myanmar and today, a top Myanmar enterprise with over 200 buses supporting Myanmar Transportation sector. Not only does she put her all in the business, she is also fond of giving back to society. She is the Secretary (Treasury) of the Myanmar Women’s Affairs Federation, the Secretary of Myanmar Women’s Sports Federation, and she participates in many more associations as a member.

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Feature

DAW KAY KHAING HTUN Founder of the plastic recycling business ATK Co., Ltd., Daw Kay Khaing Htun has been recycling waste in Mandalay and Yangon for almost 15 years. With a passion for food, she ventured into the restaurant industry in 2017 and through the Mandalay Tea Room in Yangon she spreads the traditional foods of her native Mandalay. She also operates the Four Seasons Steamboat Restaurant which has one of the best authentic Sichuan Hot Pot in Myanmar.

DAW MYAT THINZAR KYAW (ONEE) Known as Onee, Myat Thinzar Kyaw is married to Myanmarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well-known rockstar R Zarni, and as a supporting wife, you can see her at every concert of her husband, much like Victoria supported David Beckham at his matches. As a true inspiration for a good housewife and mother, Onee is also the founder The Lace, a leading fabric boutique shop that inspires and allows women to wear fashionable and quality fabric, which are both internationally and locally sourced, without spending an extra cost.

DAW KAY ZIN MYO NYUNT An experienced and passionate MD, Daw Kay Zin Myo Nyunt has established many different businesses in Myanmar. She was recently recruited in the role of Executive Director at Forever Thanlwin which operates in the oil and gas sector. Its main purpose is to serve the Central and Southern basin offshore fields to provide professional supplements for the future of Myanmar Oil & Gas industry. She has also founded Southern Island Travels & Tours where she implements her skills in the tourism industry both inbound and outbound. She believes in a strong relationship between the provider and client which is evident in the hospitality that Southern Island shows towards its customers.

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DAW MAY MYAT THU As the Myanmar Bank industry has developed, May Myat Thu has been in the centre of it. Returned from Singapore in May 2012, she joined AYA Bank first as General Manager in Corporate Affairs, initiating and supporting the Banks’s set up of corporate governance, BOD and Board committees, as well as the membership to UNGC. As Head of HR, she grew the number of employees from 2,500 to 7,000 in 3 years, and becoming Chief Credit Officer in late 2017, she is now responsible for the overall management of the Bank’s Credit Administration Department and all functions providing lending support, direction, credit information, and loan policies, procedures and processes to ensure the overall quality of the Bank’s lending portfolio.

DAW THIN THIN HAN With a medical degree background and passion for entrepreneurship, Dr Thin Thin Han has joined her family business; V-Pile Holdings which has been part of extending the original business of Piling Infrastructure that started in 1996 into Real Estate Development and Affordable housing projects. As the Vice President of Yangon Region Young Entrepreneurs Association (YRYEA), she is also actively involved in work to improve circumstances for entrepreneurs in the region.

DAW ZIN THE NAING An artist at heart and an entrepreneur in mind, Zin The Naing started her own jewelry business which runs an aesthetic line of gems and jewelry. The fine pieces of Julia’s Collections, named after her daughter, have been shining on Myanmar celebrities and socialites for seven years. Her latest collection, Art & J Myanmar, is aimed to introduce the country’s precious gems and cultural richness to people around the world. Besides being a successful businesswoman, she is a proud mother of three and the wife of a lovable husband. Balancing the life between business and family, she is one of Myanmar’s most influential working moms.

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Travel

Samkar Ruins.

SAMKAR LAKE: A PEACEFUL GETAWAY L

ooking for an escape from Yangon’s hefty rain? What about staying by a lake with no other hotels around and no motorboat sounds in the distance. Wake up with the herons and sleep with the fireflies. Observe, first-hand, a fishing village in the transition to farming, the Samkar Lake. Get to Inle Lake the way you prefer, by a comfortable overnight bus or catch a flight to Heho or Loikaw, and from there—the journey begins. Traveling by car

and motorboat, crossing between lakes and as you leave the Inle Area, the channels narrow, and you will find yourself in a meandering network of vegetation with hills in the distance on both banks, bamboo forests, buffaloes plowing the fields, a few wooden houses on stilts, villagers drying their noodles out in the sun for the upcoming seasons, some women taking a shower with a sarong while they do the laundry and the children enjoy the bath. A countryside where time seems to have paused not letting the speed

of individuality enter. There are plenty of pagoda complexes on the way to wander, where treetops appear to be competing with the pagoda’s crowns for light and whispers of bell rings in the distance accompany the rays of lights in between them. Samkar ruins are one of the many but each one has its own story. If you are not a boat person you can also do this route by car from Nyaung Shwe which will take 2 hours and stop at the pagoda of your interest.

After the pleasant boat ride, you arrive in Phayartaung village: a few houses by the lake, a small hill with a monastery on the top, and a wooden bridge decorated with flowers luring you to stay at the Inle Sanctuary. Take a breath at your private balcony overlooking the lake and the Shan Hills of your cozy solar-ran stilt lodge. This 6 bungalow boutique hideaway is attended to by the owners, a very charismatic couple who believes in supporting the local communities and sharing the benefits of tourism. All their

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On the war from Inle Lake.

supplies come from the village and they donate a part of their income to the monastery, known in the region for sponsoring the education of over one thousand children from the neighboring villages. After catching your breath, there are many activities to keep you busy on the Shan Western Hills and your hosts will help set them up for you: trekking, cycling, horse riding, learning how to row with one leg, fishing, or even a trip to a close-by hot spring. Don’t worry about the rain because the clouds keep on moving; a drizzle will only last a short while, and it won’t hinder your activities. Also, you can get closer to the community and the many tribes that live close by, predominantly the Pa-O, in their dark dresses and contrasting bright turbans, and also smaller minorities like the Lisu Tribe who sport multi-colored outfits. Walk around the sandy paths of the village and see the diverse fishing methods previously used as fishing has decreased due to the low water level in the area as a consequence of the construction of the damp. Now, the villagers in their house with pigs are also

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getting into farming ways. The Samkar Lake hosts the famous 5-day rotating market coming from Inle Lake, a colorful and lively meeting point. Unlike the Inle Lake markets, Samkar sees no tourists and touts asking for your kyat – visit as a guest rather than a potential consumer. If luck is on your side and you stay over a market day, the bustle is just a stone’s throw from the resort, along the edges of the lake. If you are looking for a longer stay you can even volunteer at the monastery or simply drop in for a visit and they will be happy to practice their English with you. And when it comes to food, the meals will be home-cooked finger-licking recipes taken in their open restaurant. Don’t forget to finish your stay with a cup of Shan green tea and laughter with the owner. No need to look any further to have a peaceful retreat. Monica Hernandez is the Sales & Communications Manager of Khiri Travel Myanmar and has shared her experience travelling within Myanmar in a monthly column. Khiri Travel 01 375 577 monica@khiri.com khiri.com

Pa-O man in the village.

Do You Know? Newlyweds Ernest Hemingway and Martha Gellhorn with Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek (1941).

ERNEST HEMINGWAY IN RANGOON Words & photos by Christian Gilberti

rnest Hemingway is a name that conjures up images of Paris, Spain, Kenya or the Caribbean, but rarely Myanmar.

The famous American author and pioneer of literary modernism did, however, travel to Burma for two weeks in the spring of 1941. Alongside his wife - the journalist and war correspondent Martha Gellhorn - Hemingway honeymooned in Hong Kong, China, and Burma, while both were covering the East Asian theatre in WW2 for different magazines. It was to be a busman’s holiday Hemingway and Gellhorn came to Burma in particular to cover the Burma Road. In 1941, the Allied powers built this amazing expanse of tarmac from China to India through the mountain

passes of Northern Burma in order to provide Chiang Kaishek’s Chinese nationalist army (the Kuomintang) with guns and supplies to fight the Japanese (who had invaded China in 1931). While in Asia, the celebrity couple were wined and dined, and in hotels and bars, they met many dignitaries and world leaders, including Chiang Kaishek, Madame Chiang (née Soong Mei-ling), and Zhou En Lai (Communist leader Mao Zedong’s second-in-command). But, unbeknownst to his editors, Hemingway was actually working as a spy for the U.S. Treasury during the trip, reporting back to Treasury Secretary Henry Morgenthau Jr. on the Chinese government’s use of American war materiel. In general, Morgenthau wanted to know that American dollars were being

spent in the right places and for the right reasons. In particular, he wanted to know about the Burma Road. The road was incredibly important to keeping the besieged Chinese nationalist government in Chungking (Chongqing) afloat and fighting the Japanese. The only problem was that Chiang’s government was not democratic enough for the Americans - Chiang’s enemies were brutally disposed of and freedom of speech was almost nonexistent. Later on, Hemingway relayed his experience at a tea party given in his honor at a Chinese university where the professors “who wished to tell you anything remotely critical of the Kuomintang would be careful to walk away into a clear open space before speaking.”

Nevertheless, Hemingway defended Chiang, writing to Morgenthau, “it is very easy to criticize the lack of true democracy in the area governed by the Kuomintang but we have to remember that they have been at war against Japan for five years now and it is a great credit to China that...any vestiges of democracy should remain at all.” Gellhorn arrived at a similar conclusion, ultimately lavishing praise on Madame Chiang and what historians have rightly called a “fascist” regime (later on in the 1950s, Chiang’s army, routed and on the run from the Communists, would invade Burma with disastrous results for the fledgling democracy). But in praising the Kuomintang in 1941, Hemingway and Gellhorn knowingly betrayed their Leftist credentials in an effort to bring America into the War.

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Asian Travels - Clive Owen and Nicole Kidman play the writerly couple in the biopic Hemingway and Gellhorn (2012).

Once in Burma, Hemingway did not actually ride on the Burma Road, but instead surveyed it from the air and interviewed a number of local officials with a complex knowledge of this lifeline to China. Arriving in Yangon (then Rangoon), Hemingway stayed at the well-known and luxurious Strand Hotel in downtown. The hotel had by this point already hosted such British literary lights as Somerset Maugham and George Orwell, but now it would play temporary home to perhaps the most famous living American author. By all accounts, however, Hemingway had a miserable time in Rangoon. For one thing, he had been drunk nearly the entire trip, and by the point he made it to Burma he was on the verge of collapse. The heat didn’t help, either. Gellhorn said he “laid about like a beached whale, barely able to breathe.” Something of his annoyance is captured in the opening lines of one of his articles: “One thing is as plain in the current Far East situation as the rusty corrugated iron roof that bakes under the heavy metallic Burmese sun as I write this…”

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His wife, an accomplished writer and war-correspondent in her own right, had a more measured opinion of the city, though she also withered in the heat, writing “Rangoon may be the pearl of the Orient for all I know. The heat was indescribable.” Hemingway, forever the narcissist, spent most of his time in Rangoon going around looking to see if the bookshops carried his new book (they didn’t) and writing letters to his editor at Scribner’s asking about how sales were doing (not well, according to Hemingway). The couple’s impressions of Burma were no doubt colored by the steady disintegration of their marriage. Throughout the entire trip they bickered and fought, taking jabs at one another in public. It seems that Hemingway resented Gellhorn’s independence, and that Gellhorn resented Hemingway’s notorious ego and bullying temper. Hemingway could be abusive. He made fun of her idealism, saying “Martha loves humanity but hates people.” Gellhorn bit back saying, “I have to get out and dig for my stuff. Ernest just sits around... and gets most of his ideas out of whore houses.”

Letter from Hemingway to a fan on Strand Hotel stationery Someone pinched that book I promised you and I have tried all over town to get one with no success. Source - the Raab Collection In Chungking, Gellhorn had contracted what she called ‘China rot’. The skin between her fingers was oozing puss, and she had to apply a foul-smelling cream and wear large gloves over her hands.

Despite the laughter, Hemingway and Gellhorn would separate a few years later, the seeds of their divorce having been sown on their trip through China and Burma.

Lying on the marble floor of their hotel room, it was their last night together before Hemingway went back to America and Gellhorn continued on to Singapore. The heat, the bickering and the exhaustion of the trip had got the better of them. Gellhorn said that she reached over to touch Hemingway’s shoulder, in a futile attempt to reconcile herself with her husband before they parted.

Hemingway’s Asian adventure was not really a success. ‘An unshakeable hangover,’ he called it after the fact. It did, however, foster a life-long interest in China, and his analysis of the political situation was largely intelligent, mostly accurate, and, ultimately, rather prescient.

“Take your filthy dirty hands off me,” he barked. Hemingway biographer Paul Moreira writes that they “looked at each other in silent shock...then they burst out laughing rolling in their individual pools of sweat on the stone floor.”

He concluded that the Burma Road was not the most efficient way to supply nationalist China - airplanes were. When Burma eventually fell to the advancing Japanese in 1942, the Allies would do exactly that, inaugurating the famous ‘Hump’ air route over the Himalayas from India to China. Hemingway was proved right, which was a small triumph for a man who never really liked being wrong.

Q&A

BART WAS NOT HERE A kindred spirit, and a great guy to talk to; Kyaw Moe Khine or Bart Was Not Here is a Myanmar-born graffiti artist/painter based in a small studio in Mingalar Taung Nyunt. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a familiar face via the God Complex exhibit that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve featured. In this Q&A, Bart talks about clout chasers and the art industry.

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Who are you and what do you do? I am Kyaw Moe Khine, also known as Bart Was Not Here and I paint wherever I can—either walls, canvas, wood panels… whatever I can get I my hands on.

based on the fact that we get to do what we want to do. Culture is more important than artists, in society and in general. For a country/society, you should have a culture. That’s how the U.S dominates the world— Globalization.

What’s your background?

Should art be funded?

As a kid, I went to public school, BEHS No.1 Dagon and weekend classes at ILBC, Horizon and even summer classes. Honestly, I felt like I didn’t learn anything. Like, I had to go to tuition after school, and weekend English classes; and in the summer, I had like 3 months of school. It was basically school, school, and school. At first, I kept a drawing book to ‘escape’ while the teacher was teaching. Then slowly, one book became two, and even three. In the end, I had more drawing books than school books. My bag was always packed with Pokemon cards and sketchbooks and that’s how I learned drawing by trying to sketch the Pokemons.

Some art, Yes. Maybe all art. I don’t really care about government funding art, because they’re still a trainwreck. I don’t really have hope in the planned institutions that are to come. What I expect is things from younger people, people who can change the country.

What role does the artist have in society? I think an artist has no role in society. We can do pretty much whatever we want and people don’t really care about it. So it’s pretty much okay, it’s more

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What makes you angry? Clout chasers. Pretty much social media attention seekers. These days, people can do whatever they want and get attention. People who just live for the clout, they just piss me off. Another thing that pisses me off is when you’re a fan of something—like a comic or artwork and you’re a fan of the artist or the author. The higher-ups, the execs; they have different plans for the product. It’s the same with music, movies and pretty much all of the entertainment we get these days. We love the artists, but the industry changes it and all we

get is the diluted, watered-down version. What do you dislike about your work? It’s the fact that it ends. Usually, when you start a painting and it’s finished, you feel like, “Okay, I just finished a painting.” I don’t want to end a painting because there is no ending to a piece of art. You can do whatever. If it were up to me, I’d be painting one painting for the rest of my life. Describe a real-life situation that inspired you? I don’t think I can recall anything like that, but I remember going to the train tracks. After school, I’d start walking all the way to Thuwanna, or Bayintnaung. Really far places, just looking around and painting. It’s great because there’s no one there and it gives you this state of mind. It’s like the most Buddhist kind of thing -- you do something and you’re detached from. What art do you most identify with? All kinds of art; comic books, films, and music—especially 90s hip-hop. It’s strange, Frank Stella is super different from your

typical expectation of an artist. He’s his own beast, he inspires me the most. Also Jordan Nickel or his other alias POSE, he’s like a big inspiration for me. Mostly these two guys. Name three artists that you’re inspired by? Neil Gaiman, you read his stories and they’re like the epitome of what art is—I don’t know why. It just gelled well with me, it reflects everything inside of me. Frank Stella, like I said. Finally, Hieronymous Bosch, I think he’s like the first comic book artist. The story-telling in his panel work, a three-part story: The Garden of Earthly Delights, The Haywain Triptych, and The Last Judgment, is just surreal and it’s very detailed. What’s your favorite artwork? My favorite would be this painting (in the cover) that I haven’t featured in the God Complex exhibit. It says “Show You How To Move in a Room Full of Vultures.” It’s a line from Jay-Z. It’s like the best painting I’ve ever done. Even though the sketch wasn’t that pleasing, the tiger, the shark, and all the other elements; as they came together—full fledged.

Review

THE NEWSROOM: YANGON’S LITTLE ENGLAND PAIRS REGIONAL CUISINES WITH EUROPEAN

couldn’t finish it all—I had it all to myself; evil, I know. Just in case you were wondering, the CLUB in club sandwich doesn’t stand for Chicken Lettuce Under Bread; at least not for me: I thought it was wonderful—it had to be for the hit it served to my poor wallet. Nevertheless, the bread was good, not too soggy; the meat and veggies were in good proportions.

he Newsroom Café and Deli, is the resident cafe, and delicatessen of The Yangon Excelsior. It wasn’t apparent that a five-star hotel was hidden in the narrow Bo Soon Pat Street, but given the prime of the location, it was understandable. Exploring “a symbol of Burmese syncretic architecture,” according to the Excelsior’s website, wasn’t in our schedule but “Why not?” we thought. Getting brunch with your significant other may sound good on its own but the experience is amplified by the British Colonial decor from the big hanging clock to the waiting staff’s uniforms. While we could have chosen the plush shiny cushion surrounding the vicinity, we opted for chairs instead. On a quiet Thursday afternoon, the clientele at The Newsroom was mostly working expats out and about on their lunch break. So, the mood was set and we were ready to order— that was until my date decided to get up and browse the Excelsior’s vast hotel lobby/library. Bold move, I thought. Pictures were taken, and the lobby has browsed; we were ready to order. First to our table was the small but adequate basket of fresh breadsticks and a few slices of french bread. It was a bittersweet moment due to the extraordinary taste of the bread despite the absence of a pâté of some sort. Soon after stuffing our faces with bread, almost everything we ordered came in a uniform order; the meals were prepped and

ready to make a debut into our hungry bellies. Tummies growling, we dug in—right after a few snaps for the gram, something we never forget. First impressions of dishes were great: they were presented amazingly, the servings may look small but it was enough for the two of us. San See Shan Khao Swe ($4), Shan noodle wasn’t the same with what I have on a day-to-day basis, it was somehow drizzled with some pickle sauce (you know, the sauce you get in your shan pickle) but it was good in its own weird way. However, despite my pickiness, my date enjoyed it.

The biggest flop to us was The French Pork Rillettes ($3), which to be fair, had a decent price tag—if you’re a miser like me, you wouldn’t be saying that. The meat was minced nicely, not too grainy and still had a few strings of pork which was good to pair with the single piece of bread they provided with the big slab of wood—also known as a serving board. What made up for my bad experience with the tapa was The Famous Club Sandwich ($11), which had bacon, chicken, lettuce and some form of egg. It was great because my partner

Address: Building No. 19/43, Bo Sun Pat Street, Pabedan Township, Yangon. Tel: 01 925 3861 Opening Hours: 6:30 am – 11:30 pm

The cold Creamy Gazpacho with Crab Meat ($7) ranks around the same level with the rillettes. It may be because of our inexperience with high-end cuisine, but it was too tangy and the tomato flavor was too overpowering; leaving a bad aftertaste on your tongue— something I’ll not forget. Another disappointment was the amount of croutons served. It frustrates me that something that tastes so good was so limited. We did not finish the gazpacho as it kept getting stronger and more dominating with more and more we had. As something we ordered after we finished our meal, the Pineapple Mint ($4) was one of its kinds and no doubt, the single best drink I’ve had in years. The balance of flavors were perfect; with the refreshing factor of the mint and the sweetness of the pineapple. Note that I only had a sip while my partner finished it with no remorse. Final thoughts: the meals at The Newsroom doesn’t flatter the Burmese tongue, but if you are trying to woo someone with your taste in expensive places to get lunch, this is the place for you. But a coffee date would be excellent!

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New Openings

What’s new this month?

Mountaineer Coffee Myanmar A coffee shop that serves a great cup of coffee along with a smile. Roasting and brewing fresh coffee beans from the mountains of Shan State, it’s the newest location to sit down, sheltered from the heavy rain outside, and read a book or two. Check them out if you’re a fan of local coffee. Address: No. 42(C), Yaw Min Gyi Street, Dagon Township, Yangon Tel: 09 953521336 Hours: 8:30 am - 7:30 pm

Indian Tadka @ Kantharyar With its new branch in Kantharyar shopping mall, Indian Tadka offers more than palatable Indian classics in a well-curated environment with betterthan-average service—you wouldn’t expect a restaurant in this price range to change your plates between courses. Its curry-house feel and shareable dishes make it the perfect place to amass a group of pals for a night of Indian fare. Address: Kantharyar Center, Corner of Kan Yiek Tar Road and U Aung Myat Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon Tel: 09 768 768290 Opening Hour: 10 am - 10 pm

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The Ritz Great location and even better furniture, The Ritz offer high-end fusion cuisine with select local ingredients at reasonable prices. Fantastic bar with international grade liquors and alcohol. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a top choice destination for a first date or a business meeting. Address: 61, University Avenue Road, Bahan Township, Yangon Tel: 09 44665 6925 Hour: 5 pm - 10:30 pm

Ember Ember is more of a restaurant than a bar. It offers a rich selection of don, Japanese rice bowl dishes, with various appetisers and salads. The drinks menu spans from fruit juices, sodas, and cocktails while the dinner menu will be focused on quality Kushiyaki (Grilled) items. If you prefer something strong after a long day at work, ask for a decent list of sake and whiskeys. You can have them by a glass or the whole bottle. Address: Corner of Kabar Aye Pagoda Road and Kan Bae Road, Yankin Township, Yangon Tel: 09 777 178630 Hours: 12 pm - 2:30 pm, 6 pm - 11:30 pm

RedDot BrewHouse @ Kantharyar Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best dining and bar establishment, Reddot Brewhouse, opened its latest branch in Kantharyar; this means you can enjoy its signature mojitos and beers together with savory and tasty treats to keep your taste buds happy. A place you can truly call home. Address: K-108, 1st Floor, Kantharyar Shopping Center, Corner of Kan Yiek Tar Road and U Aung Myat Road, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon Tel: 09 676201408 Hours: 12 pm - 12 am Facebook MYANMORE magazine #33 July 2019

Music

RANGOON RHYTHM:

THE BAMBOO TRIO Many rap artists, rock musicians, and pop singers have been reached out by us; but never before a Jazz band. The Bamboo Trio, a collective of professional music teachers and musicians, all with a passion for Jazz, from prestigious academies throughout Southeast Asia—and the world, has made the debut in Myanmore now. Min Pyae Sone grabs an espresso with Zwe, the person tickling the ivory.

What is Jazz and how does it differ from classical music? Jazz originated in the AfricanAmerican communities of New Orleans, United States in the late 19th century and developed from roots in other genres like blues and ragtime. Well, whereas classical music generally emphasizes the first beat of each measure, jazz music is about the off-beat of the triplet mode, creating what is known as a “swing” effect. Almost a decade ago, Moe Naing (Piano), Soe Soe (Drums), Pan Thang (Double Bass) started a makeshift band at Gitameit. They weren’t calling themselves The Bamboo Trio just yet, most of their gigs were at the Inya Lake hotel and The International Jazz

festival with support from the French Embassy of Myanmar and UNESCO. Then they met their guitarist, Aaron—who was actually my Music Theory professor—on his tenure as a teacher in Legacy, another music academy. Officially, in 2014, The Bamboo Trio Jazz Band was formed with a goal set in mind, to be the one true Jazz band in Myanmar. Slowly by slowly, they started playing more gigs, finally at late night spots like 50th Street and Atlas. They’ve also tried to establish a Jazz bar “Jazz in Time,” but with the disinterest of Myanmar audience slowly made it hard for them to keep up with rising rent rates and staff. Zwe may be playing Jazz now,

but his roots in the Classics suggest there is a deeper connection to him and music. Despite studying pre-med prior to his breakthrough in the Jazz community, he has adapted from the strict textbook techniques of classical music to the odd and specifically deliberate Jazz. Playing the piano commercially at joints like The Piano Bar has indeed given him experience but, according to him, not pleasure. “I just play commercially because I need to earn some cash before I graduated… I don’t really like commercial piano gigs,” he told me. Before Zwe was recruited, he spent many weeks supporting The Bamboo Trio. Then he was asked to play the piano for the band. Aaron, the guitarist, soon left—due to visa difficulties.

Zwe is a person of many merits, and as an international awardwinning pianist in classical music, he actively writes about the evolution of music on his Facebook page Dr. Zwe The Pianist who also has access The Bamboo Trio page. The Bamboo Trio has gigs at Mahlzeit every Wednesday night, and every Thursday night at Le Planteur. They are focused on playing mostly standard jazz but they’re working on modern and contemporary as well. They are also planning to release an album in the coming year. So if you’re a fan, we cover most of their events at many of these venues so, go check them out on The Bamboo Trio Jazz Band on Facebook.

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Apps

TECH TALK

Our roundup of some of the best tech to enhance your daily life in Myanmar. Pocket

Don’t you just hate those pesky ads that keep ruining your daily reads? With Pocket—which is free—you’ll have the ability to save all your favorite articles from your favorite websites; maybe even ours! A simple UI and an even simpler browser plugin, Pocket will help you concentrate more and start reading more, hassle-free. Prey Anti Theft

Prey is a mobile security, anti-theft, and management solution app with geographical location, device & data locking, and data recovery options. Moreover, Prey is opensource, so it embraces a transparent security environment that not only protects your assets but also your privacy. Price-wise, it offers you a free plan as well as many paid plans; from Personal to Business and Education. Get your phone or PC/Laptop protected today. Houseparty

Houseparty is a social networking app that allows you and your friends to get in touch with each other via video calls. Unlike Skype or Facetime, this app splits the screen between you and the person you are video chatting in your ‘room’. You can then ‘lock’ your room so no other users can join the party. It is a very good alternative to companies getting tired of lame conference calls, and willing to try new things.

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