Showing 1 - 10 of 16
Myanmar looks east again in search of legitimacy
Oped, Larry Jagan, Published on 17/04/2026
» Myanmar understands it needs to reach out to the world if it is to end its isolation and roll back the sanctions much of the West has levied against it. To this end, the men in green, now in civilian clothes, are seeking the support of traditional allies -- China and Asean, especially Thailand -- as well as Bangladesh and Pakistan, in an effort to reset foreign policy and regain international acceptance.
Military wages war on own people
News, Larry Jagan, Published on 16/02/2021
» Myanmar's military has declared war on the country's citizens. In the last few days the army has stepped up its campaign of intimidation and harassment. But despite the army's escalation of threats, coercion and arrests, the protesters and their civil disobedience movement -- formed to fight the military coup -- remain defiant and uncowed by the authorities' aggressive bullying. Neither side is showing signs of backing down, increasing fears that the continuing confrontation between the protestors and the security forces will only end badly.
Civil disobedience, opposition to coup is growing
Oped, Larry Jagan, Published on 06/02/2021
» Opposition in Myanmar to the coup is escalating daily, as the new military-led regime tries to pacify the business community and quickly return the country to normal. The civil disobedience campaign initiated by the country's health workers is also growing in numbers, affecting hospitals, schools and other government offices. So far, the authorities have been powerless to stem the movement. But as the momentum grows there are increasing fears of a major confrontation between the peaceful protesters and the security forces.
Suu Kyi readies to win 'Covid election'
Oped, Larry Jagan, Published on 23/07/2020
» Myanmar's ruling party -- the National League for Democracy (NLD) -- is in the final stages of preparing for parliamentary polls scheduled for Nov 8. These elections have taken an unexpected turn, largely as a result of the pandemic sweeping the world. Now, the country's civilian leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, appears destined to be returned to power, albeit with a reduced majority.
Myanmar is 'ready' for the return of Rohingya
News, Larry Jagan, Published on 24/10/2019
» Myanmar wants the Rohingya refugees to return, and preparations have been made to receive them, according to the minister in charge of the process. "We will accept them back anytime," said Dr Win Myat Aye, Myanmar's Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement.
Planned Rohingya repatriation stalled
News, Larry Jagan, Published on 22/08/2019
» The repatriation of some 3,000 Muslim refugees back to Myanmar, who have been in camps in Bangladesh for nearly two years, is due to start today. But widespread fear and confusion in the camps, according to sources in Cox's Bazar -- currently home to nearly a million Rohingyas who have fled excessive violence at the hands of the Tatmadaw, or Myanmar army -- have left the repatriation plans in limbo.
Myanmar powers up
Asia focus, Larry Jagan, Published on 10/06/2019
» Desperate for increased power supplies, Myanmar is speeding up efforts to call international bids to get more electricity flowing into the national grid within 12 months. Authorities are also considering importing power from China and Laos.
Cautious neighbours
Asia focus, Larry Jagan, Published on 01/04/2019
» "Good relations with China are essential," Thaung Tun, Myanmar's economic tsar, told Asia Focus recently. That relationship is the key to Myanmar's development and security, he added. "But that relationship won't supersede or override Myanmar's own national interests, though Beijing's position will always be of utmost importance."
Harbouring ambition
Asia focus, Larry Jagan, Published on 03/12/2018
» Ports planned in Myanmar will provide the final link in a transport network connecting China with Southeast and South Asia and onward to the Middle East. The ports are to be linked by rail and road to China in the north and Thailand to the west.
Minister on a mission
Asia focus, Larry Jagan, Published on 09/07/2018
» Soe Win has been in his post for less than two months, but already there are significant signs that Myanmar's new finance minister is ready to deliver on the government's commitment to boost economic growth.