I was at MBMC in January - and have some information about retreats there, though can't say if it's still current. Contact person was Linda Toh lindatoh2001@yahoo.com; also mbmcpg@yahoo.com.sg the phone number: (60 country code) 428 22534 - you can just call them.
I spent only 7 days at MBMC but really liked it, found it very valuable, and totally complementary to the many Goenka courses I've sat, which I have also highly valued and liked. When I was there Sayadaw Thuzana left for Burma, as he was asked by Pandita to be the sayadaw somewhere in California. My experience was not nearly as strong once he left, as I was very moved by him. The current sayadaw is much younger, he did impress me with his presence, but don't know anything else about him.
Here's a video of chanting there - the monk had an awesome voice: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q81wgv1DvLg
I've never been to Pa Auk - but sayadaw u tejaniyas center in Burma was recommended by a someone from DhO (Hala). She said it was much more relaxed approach than Panditarama.
here's some basic questions Linda at MBMC answered for me:
I am Linda, the secretary of MBMC. Thank you for wishing to come for a retreat at MBMC. To answer your questions:
1 - who is the present teacher?
Sayadaw Thuzana is our meditation master. Sayadaw is from Panditarama Meditation Centre, Yangon
2 - can I just arrive and do a retreat on my own schedule, or do I need to join a scheduled retreat?
Yes, Sayadaw accepts individual retreats. There is no scheduled retreat (if you mean an organized one). Vipassana meditation (Mahasi tradition) is taught here. A yogi must follow the instructions here, failing which you may be asked to end your retreat. Basically one need to have mindfulness the whole day. Sitting meditation (45 min - 1 hour) followed by walking meditation (45 min - 1 hour). Follow the meal times and Dhamma talks.
3 - what is the cost to do a retreat there?
We first register a new yogi for 1-10 days. We collect RM20 per day.
Extending your stay will be upon the advice of the Meditation Master. No fee after that but any contribution is welcome.
4 - my thai friend may want to come as well. is there a thai person there available to translate?
Should be fine. Currently, there is a female thai yogi. She may help to translate.
Kindly provide us some info about yourself and your friend.
1. your profile (age, nationality, gender, occupation, marital status)
2. meditation experience
3. purpose of learning meditation
4. how you knew about MBMC
Check some conditions to fulfil:
a) you are not a muslim
b) you do not have a history of mental illness
c) you have a valid passport and visa and enough money to return home after your retreat.
d) no solid food after 12 noon; only glucose, honey and fruit juice allowed. Breakfast and lunch are served.
e) we discourage reading, talking, discussion during the retreat.
f) serious to practise and not because of the cheap accommodation and food
Kindly reply soon as I would be off to Bangkok from 24 - 31.1.11. You may contact Mr. Tan Ah Huat when I am away. Thank you.
With metta,
Linda
