Freedom of the Press - Myanmar continues to make quick reforms

Freedom of the Press - Myanmar continues to make quick reforms

Myanmar’s Union Parliament is poised to vote on at least two major press freedom bills before the end of this summer. Some components of the draft laws are welcomed, but the drafting process is raising concerns. Parliament should take the opportunity and their time review these bills, and perhaps allow reform process to slow down a bit.
The first major piece of legislation to be introduced in Parliament in the coming weeks is the Printing and Publishing Enterprise Law. Several strict rules of self-censorship still remain. The Ministry of Information (MOI) has come under internatioanl and domestic criticsm for its continued arcane policies. This original version of the bill was introduced last March. The criticism lead the MOI to revise the bill in consultation with the Myanmar Press Council, a 28-member body of journalists and 10 government-appointed representatives.
Parliament will also vote this month on a draft Public Service Media (PSM) bill. This bill would have 70 percent of PSM funding come from public funds and the remainder from commercial activities. It also calls for the creation of a 15-member administrative team appointed by the president and Parliament to oversee the transformation process.
A third bill, the Press Law Bill, which the Myanmar Press Council introduced in February to outline industry standards and safeguard journalistic freedom, still waits in the wings. While the legislation does roll back some troublesome regulations, it still bans criticism of state institutions and does not meet the highest international standards.

Best Western Hotels arrives in Yangon

Best Western International has announced plans to launch its famous hotel brand in the world's most exciting emerging market, Myanmar.
The 'World's Largest Hotel Chain' has sealed an agreement to take over the management of the Green Hill Hotel, a modern new property located in the heart of Myanmar's largest city, Yangon.
In doing so, Best Western International becomes the first US hotel company to establish a presence in Myanmar, following the exciting recent developments that have allowed the country to welcome new foreign investment.
The newly built Green Hill Hotel, which has 189 rooms will now be managed and operated by Best Western International under its midscale BEST WESTERN brand.
"Best Western International wants to form long and lasting partnerships in Myanmar; we want to be here for the long-term, to help grow the country's tourism industry. Our partnership with the Green Hill Hotel is just the start of our plans for Myanmar," said Mr. Glen de Souza, Vice President of International Operations for Asia and the Middle East.