Monday, August 19, 2019

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


China Condemns Myanmar’s Ethnic Rebels for Shan State Fighting

Posted: 19 Aug 2019 07:20 AM PDT

At a Beijing press conference, China's foreign ministry condemned the recent attacks, which occurred in parts of Myanmar that border China and are home to BRI projects.

Myanmar Military Chief Inspects Airliner Assembly in Russia

Posted: 19 Aug 2019 07:14 AM PDT

Army releases few details of senior general's visit; experts say transport plane is too expensive for military.

In Myanmar’s Shan State, Villagers Wounded, Trapped, and Living in Fear

Posted: 19 Aug 2019 06:42 AM PDT

With ongoing fighting between the Myanmar military, or Tatmadaw, and armed ethnic rebel groups in their own backyards, villagers in northern Shan State's Kutkai Township fear for their own safety and wellbeing, as neighbors wounded in the crossfire find themselves cutoff from access to medical care. At least two civilians are now wounded and in […]

Myanmar’s Cross-Border Trade with China Halted by Clashes

Posted: 19 Aug 2019 05:31 AM PDT

Destruction of bridges, road closures cause trade in Shan State border town of Muse—normally worth $3 million a day—to dry up.

Myanmar Ruling Party Suspends Chief Research Officer for ‘Overstepping Authority’

Posted: 19 Aug 2019 03:42 AM PDT

At its Executive Committee Meeting on Sunday, the NLD suspended U Myo Yan Naung Thein from office, but refused to explain what exactly the official had done wrong. 

Rebel Fighters Attack 2 Towns in Myanmar’s Shan State

Posted: 19 Aug 2019 12:42 AM PDT

Army repels 200 ethnic troops who attacked Lashio, Kutkai towns on Sunday; Tatmadaw says EAOs are trying to cut off communication, trade routes.

Myanmar’s First Postwar Political Mass Meeting

Posted: 19 Aug 2019 12:00 AM PDT

Seventy-four years ago today, at the Nay Thurein Meeting, the Anti-Fascist People's Freedom League objected to Churchill's proposal for only partial Burmese independence.

India Turns Tables on Traffickers with Child-Friendly Courts

Posted: 18 Aug 2019 09:22 PM PDT

Child trafficking victims in India have long faced a traumatizing court system, but a new, "child-friendly" system—with couches and chocolates—aims to change all of that.

Hong Kong Readies for More Mass Protests After Huge, Peaceful Rally

Posted: 18 Aug 2019 09:04 PM PDT

On Sunday, an estimated 1.7 protested peacefully in Hong Kong, despite a chaotic previous week. Still, more strikes are planned through the city for the coming week.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


One Killed, 4 Hurt as Rescue Team Hit by RPG, Sniper in Myanmar’s Shan State

Posted: 17 Aug 2019 01:49 AM PDT

Two more bridges destroyed, army base attacked as rebel alliance continues offensive in NE Myanmar.

‘Myanmar Is Not Cursed, or a Failed State’

Posted: 16 Aug 2019 08:30 PM PDT

This week, The Irrawaddy sits down with NLD lawmaker U Aung Kyi Nyunt to discuss the long road to democracy, and the merits of Myanmar's 'obligation-based' society.

Friday, August 16, 2019

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


Fresh, Hard-Hitting Attacks on Military Hinder Myanmar Peace Process

Posted: 16 Aug 2019 07:43 AM PDT

Deadly attacks in townships in Mandalay Region and Shan State on Thursday morning portend ill for the future of peace negotiations in Myanmar.

Myanmar Govt Condemns Joint Rebel Attacks as ‘Terrorism’

Posted: 16 Aug 2019 07:31 AM PDT

While warning that Thursday's strikes could derail the peace process, President's Office says door is still open to ceasefire talks with Northern Alliance.

Young Myanmar Artists Explore a Range of Themes in Group Show

Posted: 16 Aug 2019 07:15 AM PDT

'08:06:06' exhibition comprises 28 pieces by six of the country's brightest young talents.

Myanmar Ready to Receive Returning Rohingya, Ministry Says

Posted: 16 Aug 2019 05:37 AM PDT

Govt says repatriation of nearly 3,500 people to begin in line with bilateral deal on Aug. 22, but Bangladesh officials, Rohingya refugee groups unaware of plan.

Bridge Destroyed by Myanmar Rebels to be Rebuilt in 5 Days

Posted: 16 Aug 2019 03:53 AM PDT

Myanmar's Ministry of Construction said the Goke Twin Bridge—central to domestic travel and international trade networks—is being replaced by a double-lane Baily bridge.

Myanmar Appoints Ex-World Bank Economist Deputy Minister

Posted: 16 Aug 2019 03:05 AM PDT

Dr. Min Ye Paing Hein, 41, brings some youth to the NLD's 'gray cabinet' as deputy industry minister; economic adviser to State Counselor applauds choice as 'first rate'.

50-Plus Foreign Tourists Stranded by Rebel Attacks in Myanmar Tourist Town Hsipaw

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 11:18 PM PDT

With the Union Highway closed following deadly rebel attacks on Myanmar military and police targets on Thursday, returning to Yangon has become difficult.

The End of Shikoing Before the British

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 09:45 PM PDT

After critical press reports of British officials demanding Burmese citizens shiko before them, the colonial government ordered an end to the practice 96 years ago today.

Amazon Faces Online Backlash in China for T-shirts with Hong Kong Democracy Slogans

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 09:31 PM PDT

Legions of Chinese internet users accused the site of being insensitive towards the Chinese people, with one commenter writing, "We need to teach this company a lesson."

N. Korea Fires Projectiles, Rejects S. Korea’s ‘Senseless’ Dialogue Pledge

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 09:09 PM PDT

The launches have complicated attempts to restart talks between US and North Korean negotiators over the future of Pyongyang's nuclear weapons programs.

Thursday, August 15, 2019

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


More Joint Rebel Attacks to Come, TNLA Warns Myanmar Military

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 06:39 AM PDT

After strikes by joint TNLA, AA, MNDAA force in Shan and Mandalay, rebel group says the 'counteroffensive' will continue, warns civilians to stay out of conflict zones.

Myanmar Set to Ink Pact with China on Border Cooperation Zones

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 06:31 AM PDT

Signing of framework agreement will kick implementation of Beijing's Belt and Road Initiative in Myanmar into high gear.

8 Missing Amid Clashes in Western Myanmar’s Chin State

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 06:20 AM PDT

The Chin Human Rights Organization said eight civilians from four villages in Paletwa Township have been missing since Oct. 12, 2018, amid intense fighting there.

15 Myanmar Soldiers, Police and Civilians Dead in Coordinated Attacks

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 05:50 AM PDT

A deadly day of coordinated rebel attacks began at the Myanmar military training academy in Pyin Oo Lwin before spreading to nearby townships on Thursday.

In Myanmar’s Western Rakhine, New Border Affairs and Security Minister Sworn In

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 04:44 AM PDT

Col. Min Than, a former Lower House military lawmaker, is set to become the new border affairs and security minister in Rakhine State on Friday.

Toddler Rape Victim Identifies Two Teenage Culprits

Posted: 15 Aug 2019 04:21 AM PDT

In the much-watched trial of a toddler rape victim in Myanmar's capital, new evidence shows the victim identifying two brothers not currently charged with the rape.

Organized Rebel Attacks on Myanmar Military Academy and Nearby Sites Kill Two

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:28 PM PDT

It is the first attack on the military's Defense Service Technological Academy in decades. Fighting there is still ongoing.

Japan’s WWII Surrender Ushered in a New Era for Myanmar

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:26 PM PDT

On this day in 1945, Emperor Hirohito announced Japan's surrender in WWII, setting in motion the withdrawal of Japanese forces from Myanmar after a period of harsh rule.

Refugees Despair at Slow Pace of Malaysia’s Reforms

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 11:22 PM PDT

Govt yet to fulfill election promise to allow the refugees—more than half of whom are Rohingya—to work.

China Asks for UN Security Council to Discuss Kashmir this Week: Diplomats

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 10:59 PM PDT

China backed Pakistan's request for a formal, private discussion, but France proposed a more casual approach. The final decision is up to council president Poland.

HK Readies for More Protests as World Leaders Urge Restraint

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 10:47 PM PDT

Trump ties Hong Kong protests to U.S.-China trade deal; Beijing reiterates that protests are approaching 'terrorism'

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


Myanmar Military Restricts Movement in Northern Rakhine’s Minbya

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 07:02 AM PDT

Many IDPs trapped as army puts besieged villages in township's rural areas under lockdown due to heavy fighting with AA, lawmakers and residents say.

African Swine Fever Confirmed in Myanmar Pig Deaths

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 06:44 AM PDT

Serum samples taken from recently deceased pigs in Shan State tested positive for African swine fever, marking the virus' first confirmed appearance in Myanmar.

Headmaster Injured in Clash Between Myanmar Army, TNLA in Northern Shan

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 04:36 AM PDT

The educator was struck by artillery shrapnel while attempting to wait out the clash on a roadside in Kutkai Township; he was later treated at a hospital and released.

Myanmar to Host Forum to Lure Foreign Investment in Deep South

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 03:20 AM PDT

Tanintharyi Region in Myanmar looking to boost FDI in new and existing tourism, mining and agriculture projects, among others, DICA says.

Flow of Water Disrupted at Popular Myanmar Waterfall

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 02:28 AM PDT

Scientists investigate Dat Taw Gyaint Waterfall in Mandalay Region after mysterious hole in rock face causes water to drain away.

Five Civilians Charged Under Anti-Terrorism Act in Western Myanmar

Posted: 14 Aug 2019 12:12 AM PDT

A teacher, an administrator and others are in military custody in Rakhine State, facing anti-terrorism charges for alleged Arakan Army ties—charges their relatives deny.

Pakistan Asks UN Security Council to Meet Over India Moves in Kashmir

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 09:40 PM PDT

"If India chooses to resort again to the use of force, Pakistan will be obliged to respond … with all its capabilities," Pakistani's foreign minister said.

Chinese State Media Urge Action, Voice Support for Hong Kong Police After Overnight Clashes

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 09:23 PM PDT

"Using the sword of the law to stop violence and restore order is overwhelmingly the most important and urgent task for Hong Kong!" the People's Daily declared.

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


Belgian Firm’s Withdrawal from Mytel Operator Sees Minimal Impact

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 07:20 AM PDT

Newtec cut ties with Myanmar-military backed telecom operator in response to UN report; local partner Com & Com says number of subscribers affected won't be large.

As Some Temporary Shelters Close, Others Open

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 04:45 AM PDT

Some 80,000 have people returned home as floods recede in parts of Myanmar, but in southern Myanmar's Mon State—the country's worst hit area—more shelters are opening.

‘Use Your Liberty to Promote Ours’

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 04:20 AM PDT

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's plea, made when Myanmar was under dictatorship, should be recalled amid Hongkongers' current fight to preserve their political and legal rights.

‘No One Wants to Be a Village Administrator in Shan State’

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 04:05 AM PDT

The army arrests local officials who are contacted by EAOs demanding money, but does not protect them, brother of detained village head in Myanmar's Shan State says.

On the Ground with Rescue Workers and Flood Victims in Myanmar’s Mon State

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 03:59 AM PDT

The Irrawaddy photojournalist Myo Min Soe captures survivors and rescue workers in the aftermath of a deadly landslide and southern Myanmar's worst flooding in decades.

Authentic Myanmar Food: Ngapichat Focuses on Key Burmese Ingredient

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 02:18 AM PDT

New curry spot Ngapichat offers authentic, home-cooked Myanmar dishes without all the oil, served in a clean, air-conditioned space to local and foreigner alike.

Cash-Strapped Govt Desperate for Education Improvement: DASSK

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 01:19 AM PDT

State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi told International Youth Day observers that, while the government is desperate to improve education in Myanmar, funding is limited.

Philippines to Protest Chinese Ships Presence Amid Troubled Ties

Posted: 13 Aug 2019 12:27 AM PDT

Amid a souring of relations, the island nation plans to push back against the unannounced presence of two Chinese research vessels in its exclusive economic zone.

Indian Authorities Lock Down Kashmir’s Major City on Eid Holiday

Posted: 12 Aug 2019 10:48 PM PDT

Protestors chanting anti-India and pro-Pakistan slogans grew louder, as did the rising din of Indian security helicopters circling above.

Hong Kong Leader Urges Calm as Protest Tensions Rise; Airport Reopens

Posted: 12 Aug 2019 10:20 PM PDT

Hong Kong's Hang Seng index fell by more than a percent, to the year's lowest levels, as the city's leader described "a state of panic and chaos" to reporters.

Monday, August 12, 2019

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


Second VP Observes Ongoing Rescue in S. Myanmar

Posted: 12 Aug 2019 05:37 AM PDT

Bodies are still being found at a deadly landslide in southern Myanmar, where Second Vice President Van Thio ordered testing to identify further potential danger zones.

U Shwe Mann’s Presidential Dreams

Posted: 11 Aug 2019 07:30 PM PDT

The ex-general—already ensconced in a significant place in Myanmar politics—has long dreamed of becoming president. At best, he may become parliamentary speaker again.

Marking the Death of a Karen Revolutionary Leader

Posted: 11 Aug 2019 07:00 PM PDT

On this day in 1950, Saw Ba U Gyi, who was instrumental in founding the KNU, died under disputed circumstances during a clash with the Myanmar military.

Sunday, August 11, 2019

The Irrawaddy Magazine

The Irrawaddy Magazine


52 Dead in Mon State Landslide; Southern Myanmar Still Flooding

Posted: 11 Aug 2019 01:59 AM PDT

Rescuer workers are still recovering bodies at the site of a Friday landslide in southern Myanmar, where ongoing rain and floods have displaced hundreds of thousands.