the box says 'made in japan,' but i don't believe it, not the way stuff is copied and sold here.
probably soft, untreated metal in the links and pins. (you should see what they put in the food!)
it was awfully easy to push out one pin when shortening the chain. maybe too easy.

i either have to carry a couple spares (9-speed available in burma?), or switch brands.

so far i've been able to find:

KMC: X9, Z99, Z9000
SRAM: PC-951
YBN: S9CR

suggestions? 4000km tour, lotsa hills, bike plus 20kg panniers plus my 85kg. monsoon season.
many mud.