Hello everyone, Tharli Swa Par (a greeting in Arakanese). This week, clashes broke out in Kyauk Phyu Township, where Chinese investment projects are based. The residents are currently more concerned about how to escape the deadly harms than focusing on these projects. The military junta’s regime has not developed these projects transparently, similar to previous regimes. As a result, the majority of residents along the Rakhine coastal areas are unaware of the pros and cons of these projects.
“We are aware that we have natural resources, but we lack precise knowledge of what types of resources they are. This lack of knowledge could be due to the absence of discussions about these topics on social media. If such topics were more frequently shared on the social media pages, we would likely be better informed. However, since these subjects are not actively posted on social media and do not pique our interest, our understanding remains limited.”
“In our Rakhine State, Kyauk Phyu is known for providing petroleum oil, which China reportedly purchases. This is the extent of my knowledge. We are aware that Kyauk Phyu produces the natural resources, and both the Myanmar and Chinese governments are involved in the development of projects. However, I lack precise information on the scale and specifics of these projects.”
“Yes, Kyauk Phyu is renowned for Chinese projects. I am aware that Chinese entities are involved in resource extraction there. Specifically, they are constructing the Kyauk Phyu deep seaport and extracting petroleum oil. Additionally, power generation facilities operate in Kyauk Phyu, contributing to the national grid. Other projects, such as a hotel zone, are also being developed in Kyauk Phyu.”
The people in Rakhine State lack proper information about the natural resources available in their region and the ongoing development projects. Consequently, they place their hopes on the Arakan Army (AA), a Rakhine ethnic armed group that respects the natural resources of the people, human rights, and the other rights of indigenous residents. Lu Zaw, a reporter from Lay Waddy FM, interviewed Ko Htun Kyi, the director of the Peace and Development group, regarding the infrastructure projects in Kyauk Phyu.
Q: Kyauk Phyu is located at a crucial point, so what are the residents’ concerns regarding Kyauk Phyu?
A: Currently, residents are paying less attention to these projects. Instead, they are more focused on the ongoing conflict situation, and their concerns primarily revolve around that. I don’t see any other significant concerns related to other issues.
Q: How important is Kyauk Phyu for the economy and development of Rakhine State?
A: Kyauk Phyu is crucial not only for the investment and economy of Rakhine State but also for Myanmar as a whole. This area serves as the exit point into the Indian Ocean for the Silk Road project being implemented by China. Consequently, Kyauk Phyu holds strategic significance not only in terms of trade and economy but also for military affairs, which are vital for global dominance in the future. Our neighboring country, China, aims to utilize this location effectively, making it a critical point for both Rakhine State and the entire Myanmar.
Q: How transparent is the implementation of this project currently, and what impact does it have on the local population?
A: Since its inception during the junta’s military regime led by U Than Shwe, the residents of Rakhine State have not benefited significantly from this project. Additionally, the regime failed to conduct a proper Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project; instead, they implemented it without due process. At that time, there were no laws requiring comprehensive EIA/SIA processes before project development. Furthermore, the project did not adequately prepare for job opportunities for local residents. As a result, while the project extracts natural resources owned by the people of Rakhine State, it has not provided any substantial benefits or advantages to the entire Rakhine population.
Q: Are there any recent developments regarding the currently implemented deep seaport project?
A: The junta’s regime initiated an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process for the deep seaport project in 2023. However, to the best of my knowledge, this EIA process remains unfinished due to the escalating conflict situation and the military’s closure of routes connecting to Rakhine State. Consequently, the process has been halted, and the EIA remains incomplete.
Q: Have Chinese diplomats recently visited Kyauk Phyu? Do you have any information about their visit?
A: It’s possible that Chinese regime officials visited Kyauk Phyu to assess the region and their significant investment project. Kyauk Phyu holds strategic importance for China, given its role in the large-scale Silk Road initiative. However, due to the ongoing conflict and tension in the Kyauk Phyu area, it’s unlikely that they can make further progress at this time. We’ve heard reports that they visited up to Maday Island, but the specific purpose of their visit remains unclear.
Q: Did the regime make the outcomes of the EIA process for this project public?
A: During the implementation of this process, those responsible for conducting it, along with regime officials, engaged with residents, civil society organizations (CSOs), and political parties. Such interactions are essential when conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
Q: Did this project employ local residents? If so, what roles were they hired for?
A: The project doesn’t heavily rely on local residents. Occasionally, they hire residents as general workers or for daily wage labor. When constructing the project’s infrastructure in Kyauk Phyu, some local residents are employed as manual laborers. However, they are not typically hired for permanent positions. The majority of workers in the oil and gas project are Chinese nationals.
Q: Do you think the daily lives of residents could be improved if AA took control of Kyauk Phyu’s entire area?
A: Improvement wouldn’t happen immediately after gaining control. We must build our country’s economy independently with our owned hands. However, even if AA managed to oversee this region, including education, healthcare, and foreign investment processes, discussions with the Burma Regime would still be necessary due to pre-existing foreign investments. Although military control might have been secured then, political dialogue is essential too. Currently, local Rakhine people see no benefits from ongoing projects. If AA assumes control and starts negotiations related bodies, rightful benefits should accrue to all Rakhine State residents. For instance, revenue from natural gas sales—currently at 1 billion USD annually by the regime—should belong to Rakhine people under AA’s governance. Securing such rights requires political discussions about what percentage of foreign investment should be allocated to Rakhine residents as a mean of clarifying these issues.
Q: On the second day of this month, the AA released a statement declaring its intention to continue seizing the remaining towns in Rakhine State. Following this announcement, the AA has indeed intensified its offensives. In light of these developments, what could be the implications for Chinese interests and benefits if conflicts arise in Kyauk Phyu?
A: Throughout this conflict, both the AA and the military council have made commitments. The AA has welcomed foreign investment and has taken measures to safeguard all such investments. This is evident when considering India’s investment in the Kaladan project, which spans from Paletwa to Sittwe – regions largely under AA control. The AA is actively providing protection for this project. Consequently, it is expected that ongoing Chinese projects will receive similar security assurances from both parties involved. The oil and gas project in Kyauk Phyu remains a vital source of foreign revenue for the military council; thus, it too will likely be defended vigorously. Although both sides have pledged protection, nothing can be assumed as certain in wartime conditions. Potential damage to these projects cannot be ruled out, particularly if Close Air Support (CAS) operations involving fighter jets escalate—if heavy ordinance like 500 lb bombs are repeatedly deployed over Ramree Island, there could be collateral damage to nearby projects due to their impact vibrations. At present time, preparations for further conflict seem to be underway by both sides; henceforth, hostilities may persist unabatedly. Nonetheless, China may continue efforts to mediate between the conflicting parties with vested interests at stake—making it challenging to forecast or comment definitively on future outcomes.
Q: Do you think China could intervene to prevent the conflict in Kyauk Phyu?
A: China would definitely intervene if fighting escalated in Kyauk Phyu. It might urge both sides to avoid escalating hostilities or express its concerns. When Chinese diplomats arrived in Kyauk Phyu, naval patrol boats slightly retreated toward the exit of the Than Zit River. This move suggests that the junta’s military aims to assure China of its non-aggressive stance. Reports indicate that all navy boats remained outside the river during the visit. Essentially, both sides are engaged in a strategic game.
Q: As a resident and activist, what message would you like to convey to the bodies and groups implementing these projects?
A: Currently, implementing new projects seems impossible, and we remain uncertain about existing ones. From the outset, these projects have failed to benefit us—offering no job opportunities for residents. On the other hand, we haven’t reaped any advantages from them. As residents, we wouldn’t suffer losses if these projects ceased to exist. Their presence hasn’t significantly improved our lives. Consequently, local people don’t engage in extensive discussions about these projects. However, our hope lies in future developments. If new projects emerge, Rakhine people desire tangible benefits—employment opportunities and contributions to the state’s development. Yet, if the Arakan Army (AA) gains control over the entire Rakhine State, these challenges may diminish. Under AA’s administration, people could rightfully access benefits. Ultimately, the situation hinges on the ongoing conflict, which will determine the outcome.
The situation in the Kyauk Phyu area, where numerous projects exist, has been discussed in this interview. This program is sponsored by the Earth Journalism Network (EJN). You can listen to the Rakhine news program on Lay Waddy FM every Thursday via Mizzima Radio. Additionally, it’s available on Lay Waddy FM’s Facebook page, website, and YouTube channel. I’m your presenter, Nay Nay.
12 comments
It’s concerning to see how the residents of Kyauk Phyu are prioritizing their safety over development projects due to the ongoing conflict. The lack of transparency in these projects, especially under the military junta, has left the people uninformed and distrustful. It’s understandable why they place their hopes in the Arakan Army, which seems to prioritize their rights and resources. However, the strategic importance of Kyauk Phyu for both Myanmar and China cannot be ignored. How can the local community be better informed and involved in these projects to ensure they benefit from them? It’s crucial to find a balance between development and the well-being of the people.
Hello everyone, Tharli Swa Par. The situation in Kyauk Phyu is indeed concerning, especially with the ongoing clashes overshadowing the development projects. It’s disheartening to see that the residents are more focused on survival than on the potential benefits of these investments. The lack of transparency from the military junta has clearly left the people in the dark about the true impact of these projects. It’s understandable why they place their trust in the Arakan Army, as they seem to prioritize the rights and resources of the local population. However, I wonder if there’s a way to bridge the gap between the community and the developers to ensure that the projects truly benefit the people. What steps can be taken to ensure that the residents of Rakhine State are informed and involved in these developments? It’s crucial that their voices are heard and their needs are addressed.
This situation in Kyauk Phyu is deeply concerning. It’s heartbreaking to see residents prioritizing survival over development due to ongoing conflicts. The lack of transparency in these projects is alarming, and it’s no surprise that people feel disconnected from their potential benefits. The reliance on the Arakan Army for hope highlights the failure of the current regime to address the needs of the people. It’s crucial for the international community to pay attention to how these projects impact local communities. How can we ensure that the voices of the Rakhine people are heard and their rights protected? What steps can be taken to make these development projects more inclusive and beneficial for the residents?
Hello everyone, Tharli Swa Par. The situation in Kyauk Phyu Township is indeed concerning, especially with the ongoing clashes and the lack of transparency in the development projects. It’s disheartening to see that the residents are more focused on survival than on the potential benefits these projects could bring. The role of the Arakan Army in protecting the rights and resources of the indigenous people is commendable, but it raises questions about the effectiveness of the current regime. How can we ensure that the people of Rakhine State are properly informed and involved in these projects? The strategic importance of Kyauk Phyu for both Myanmar and China is undeniable, but shouldn’t the local population’s welfare be a priority? What steps can be taken to balance economic development with the needs and rights of the residents? I believe that a more inclusive and transparent approach is essential for the long-term success of these projects. What are your thoughts on this?
The situation in Kyauk Phyu is deeply concerning, especially with the ongoing clashes and the lack of transparency in the development projects. It’s heartbreaking to see residents more focused on survival than on the potential benefits these projects could bring. The fact that the military junta hasn’t prioritized the well-being of the people is disappointing, to say the least. It’s understandable why the Arakan Army is seen as a beacon of hope, given their focus on human rights and natural resources. However, I wonder if there’s a way to ensure that these projects can proceed in a way that truly benefits the local population. What steps can be taken to involve the residents more in the decision-making process? It’s crucial that their voices are heard and their needs addressed.
Interesting perspective on the situation in Kyauk Phyu. It’s concerning how the residents are more focused on survival than on the development projects. Do you think the lack of transparency from the military junta has contributed to this? It’s also striking how the Arakan Army is seen as a beacon of hope for the people. What are your thoughts on their role in protecting natural resources and human rights? The strategic importance of Kyauk Phyu for China’s Silk Road project is undeniable, but it seems the local population is being left behind. How can the international community help ensure that the residents benefit from these projects? Lastly, do you think the current conflict will further delay any potential benefits for the people of Rakhine State?
The situation in Kyauk Phyu Township is deeply concerning, especially with the ongoing clashes and the lack of transparency in the development projects. It’s heartbreaking to see residents more focused on survival than on the potential benefits these projects could bring. The military junta’s failure to involve the local population in decision-making is a recurring issue that needs urgent attention. The reliance on the Arakan Army for hope and protection highlights the government’s failure to address the needs of its people. It’s crucial that the residents of Rakhine State are properly informed about the projects and their implications. How can we ensure that the voices of the local population are heard and considered in these development plans? What steps can be taken to improve transparency and accountability in these projects?
Hello everyone, Tharli Swa Par. The situation in Kyauk Phyu Township is indeed concerning, especially with the ongoing clashes overshadowing the development projects. It’s disheartening to see that the residents are more focused on survival than on the potential benefits of these investments. The lack of transparency from the military junta has clearly left the people in the dark about the true impact of these projects. It’s understandable why they place their trust in the Arakan Army, given their stance on human rights and natural resources. However, I wonder if there’s a way to bridge the gap between the community and the developers to ensure that the projects truly benefit the local population. What steps can be taken to ensure that the residents of Rakhine State are not only informed but also actively involved in these developments? It’s crucial that their voices are heard and their needs are prioritized.
This situation in Kyauk Phyu is deeply concerning, especially with the ongoing clashes and the lack of transparency in these development projects. It’s heartbreaking to see residents more focused on survival than on the potential benefits these projects could bring. The fact that the military junta hasn’t been transparent about these initiatives only adds to the mistrust and fear among the people. It’s understandable why they’re placing their hopes in the Arakan Army, as they seem to prioritize the rights and resources of the indigenous population. However, I wonder if there’s a way to ensure that these projects can be developed in a way that truly benefits the local community. What steps can be taken to involve the residents more in the decision-making process? It’s crucial that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed, especially when it comes to their land and resources. How can we ensure that Kyauk Phyu’s strategic importance doesn’t come at the expense of its people?
Hello everyone, Tharli Swa Par. The situation in Kyauk Phyu Township is indeed concerning, especially with the ongoing clashes and the lack of transparency in the development projects. It’s disheartening to see that the residents are more focused on survival than on the potential benefits these projects could bring. The role of the Arakan Army in advocating for the rights of the indigenous people is noteworthy, but it raises questions about the effectiveness of the current governance. How can the residents be better informed about the pros and cons of these projects? It’s crucial for the people of Rakhine State to have a say in the development that directly affects their lives. What steps can be taken to ensure that the benefits of these projects are more equitably distributed? The strategic importance of Kyauk Phyu cannot be overstated, but it should not come at the expense of the local population. What are your thoughts on how to balance economic development with the well-being of the residents?
The situation in Kyauk Phyu seems dire, with residents caught in the crossfire of conflict and development. It’s concerning that such significant projects are being implemented without transparency or clear communication with the local population. The reliance on the Arakan Army for protection and advocacy highlights the lack of trust in the military junta. How can development projects truly succeed if they don’t address the immediate needs and fears of the people? The strategic importance of Kyauk Phyu is undeniable, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of the residents’ well-being. Do you think international pressure could push for more transparency in these projects? It’s frustrating to see how geopolitics overshadows the lives of those directly affected. Could the Arakan Army’s role evolve into a mediator for development in the region?
The situation in Kyauk Phyu is deeply concerning, especially with the ongoing clashes overshadowing the development projects. It’s frustrating to see how the residents are left in the dark about the potential benefits and risks of these investments. The lack of transparency from the military junta is not surprising but still disappointing. It’s understandable why people are placing their hopes in the Arakan Army, as they seem to prioritize the rights and resources of the local population. However, I wonder if there’s a way to ensure that these projects can bring real benefits to the community without escalating the conflict. What steps can be taken to involve the residents more in the decision-making process? It’s crucial to find a balance between development and the well-being of the people. Do you think international pressure could help improve transparency and accountability in these projects?