GSM network SIM cards available in TPP for first time

Min Thu Tha — Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) held a lottery for SIM cards that access the GSM network. The new cards are available for the first time at 1,500 Kyat apiece on Aug. 1 in Three Pagodas Pass (TPP) town.

There were only 30 SIM cards available for each ward so names were drawn to decide who would be able to purchase the cards. Three cards were saved for municipal officials and the monastery in each of the 4 wards involved, according to an administrator

One-hundred and twenty residents received the cards. Eighty were given to government officials. The lucky ones were required to provide 3 photos of themselves, a copy of their national identity card and sign a contract.

Residents reported there being some extra fees involved. An extra fifty Baht (1,500 Kyat) fee was being taken by card lottery organizers for their transportation costs, said one person that didn’t want their name used. “I had to pay 100 Baht for one card. But, actually it should be fifty Baht.”

The SIM cards came with a credit of 300 Kyat. After 15 days owners are required to reload them of at least 5,000 Kyat. If not, the card will expire and an application is required to reactivate them according to MPT guidelines. This involves mailing a request form with a copy of their identification.

Currently there is only one tower in TPP. Existing communication is already strained by the present amount of GSM devices.