Sagaing division north western Burma, people are using their own paper which is self stamped instead of currency as Kyat 100, 200 currency notes

PEOPLE USE SELF STAMP AS CURRENCY

April 9, 2009: In Kalemyo, Sagaing division north western Burma, people are using their own paper which is self stamped instead of currency as Kyat 100, 200 currency notes have no value like Kyat 500 and 1000 do. People are facing problems while making purchases in the market.

There are no coins to return while making purchases in the market as the Burmese government has stopped minting coins for almost a year. People are therefore, using their own stamp paper as coins or small money as of March 2009.

“Shop owners make their own stamp on the paper when they have no coins to return which buyers use to purchase items later,” said a local in Kalemyo.

“The sellers of tea, snacks, beetle nuts and vegetables are facing severe problem regarding coins as the smallest amount circulating is Kyat 500 and 1000 only. People buying train tickets also faced lots of problems. They lose some of their money as no change (coins) can be given back. On the other hand, ticket sellers get additional money to the tune of a thousand a day,” said another local in Kalemyo.

Similarly, the people Burma have many problems regarding this matter as the government has discontinued producing currency notes and coins. It is especially difficult while paying bus and other fares. Some shop owners are using cigarettes, sweets and other small items as small notes or coins. – Khonumthung News