» Where
and when were you born?
I was born in Yangon in 1920.
» Where
were you educated?
I graduated from Yangon University in 1946 with a bachelor of
science degree in chemistry. Then, I became an associate of the
Royal Technical College in London, and got a PhD from Glasgow
University in 1950. I also got a diploma in mechanical engineering
from the Institute of Mechanical Engineering.
» When
did you become involved in the Myanmar Industries Association
(MIA)?
I was appointed vice president of the association when it was
formed in 1993. Since 1998 I have been an advisor with the Union
of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and
I have also been an advisor with the Myanmar Engineering Society
since 2002.
» Why
was the MIA formed?
The association is aimed at developing the private industrial
sector. It helps industrialists throughout Myanmar by offering
advice, holding seminars and encouraging discussion to boost industrial
development and promote the manufacture of quality products with
the use of modern technology. The association also provides consultancy
services on project formulation and implementation, helps members
participate in trade fairs and exhibitions, and arranges business
matching between local and foreign industrialists. The association
has more than 3000 members in all industrial zones throughout
Myanmar.
» What
are the main challenges to improving Myanmar’s industrial
sector?
We find it a little difficult to persuade local industrialists
to become members of the MIA. Most of them don’t understand
why the association was formed. They need to attend the courses,
seminars, discussions and workshops that we organise.
» How
much does the industrial sector contribute to Myanmar’s
gross domestic product?
The industrial sector accounted for 15 per cent of Myanmar’s
GDP in the 2004-2005 fiscal year. I hope it will contribute more
this year.
» What
are the future prospects of Myanmar’s industrial sector?
Myanmar industries are not only growing in number but are also
producing a greater variety of high-quality products. Today there
are more than 80,000 private industries in the country, and the
future looks promising. We have seen more industrial zones develop
in Yangon and in other states and divisions, but we need more
assistance and encouragement from the government. It is important
that private small and medium-sized enterprises are further developed
because they make up the majority of the nation’s industrial
sector.
»
You have translated a lot of books on entrepreneurship and industry
into the Myanmar language. How did you get involved in this work?
I translate articles on industrial and management issues –
such as human resource management, business communication, marketing
planning, total quality control and strategic planning –
for MIA members at workshops and seminars conducted by the association.
» What
other work are you involved in?
I am also a part-time professor with Yangon University’s
industrial chemistry department. I give guidance to masters and
PhD students who are doing research papers on industrial development.
» How
do you like to relax?
I take a walk and meditate.
» Who
do you most admire?
I admire anyone, young or old, who is educated and who is trying
hard to contribute to the betterment of society.
