MRC HOLDS NINTH CONFERENCE
(MRC, January 3, 2003)

Koa Wao News Group 34

Fortwayne, IN, -- The ninth annual conference of Monland Restoration Council
(MRC) was successfully held on December 25 and 26 in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

According to an MRC source, activities and financial reports of year 2002
were evaluated and the MRC awarded certificates of honor to members who had
contributed financial support. On the second day of conference, the
strengths and the weaknesses of MRC were reviewed and future activities were
widely discussed.

The conference decided to launch a campaign to call for the release of Mon
leaders and expand its branch offices to members in other countries. The
conference also elected Nai Mon Jit, formerly joint-secretary, to serve as
Secretary General, because of the resignation of the previous Secretary
General, Nai Ong Htaw Mon.

The MRC has become the strongest Mon community in overseas since many
student refugees have migrated to USA from the safe camp in Thailand. A Mon
Buddhist temple was built by the Mons in Fort Wayne two years ago.