Than Shwe’s Grandson Attends Car Show

Attractive models in low-cut blouses and short shorts acted as presenters at the recent Auto Show in Rangoon, but for many the real entertainment was watching an influential car fan, Nay Shwe Thway Aung, 18, the beloved grandson of the junta's No 1, Snr-Gen Than Shwe.

Known as an avid car buff, Nay Shwe Thway Aung’s presence at the car show dispelled recent rumors posted on Internet blog sites that he had been stabbed or attacked by a gunman near the Ramada Hotel on Oct. 27

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Gossip this year also said he gave a diamond ring and a car to Wut Hmon Shwe Yee, a super model.

The auto show, whose main sponsor was Nivea comestics, was billed as the "First Ever Sport Compact Automotive Event” in Burma.

Twenty-three cars were on display. The cars were not imported from foreign countries, but modified versions of locally existing models such as the MR 2, Supra, Sky Line, RX 2 and Mark 2.

"Some cars are modified with interior decorations and seating, while others have modified exteriors resembling race cars. The show had some extraordinary car decorations," said an event coordinator.

Myo Aung Khine, an auto fan who owns race cars, organized the event. Elite families of members of the military junta and other wealthy car fans browsed the show.

Many of the sons of Burma’s leading businessmen are known for their interest in expensive cars. Gossip swirled around one of the sons of Teza, a businessman close to junta members, when pictures of him and an expensive race car appeared on the Internet two years ago.

New cars are not commonplace in Burma, but in recent months more new foreign models have been imported for sale.