When a prominent Buddhist monk in Myanmar noticed a surge in plastic waste generated by residents in his Yangon neighborhood during the pandemic, he decided to do something about it.

But Abbot Ottamasara, who runs the Thabarwa meditation centre, was taken aback by the response to his request for plastic containers as a substitute for bowls used by his monastery to feed thousands of people in need.

Helped by dozens of volunteers, his team now receives several thousand used plastic bottles a day from the community, with some recycled as food containers and others incorporated into building materials used at the meditation centre.

“More plastic waste was being dumped on the street during the pandemic,” said Ottamasara, 51, who launched the recycling drive three months ago after seeing waste piling up on the streets during daily walks to collect food donations.

Authorities do not routinely organise recycling in Myanmar, while around 2,500 tonnes of trash are thrown out everyday in Yangon, often dumped on roads and in waterways, or burned.

“If we (the meditation centre) ask for donations, people will keep them clean,” said Ottamasara, who uses one name. “Then we can use these plastic bottles as food containers and it not only saves money, but also tackles the plastic waste issue.”

He estimates two tonnes of plastic waste, or around 200,000 plastic bottles, have been recycled so far, saving around $10,000.

The nine acre (3.6 hectare) meditation centre hosts workshops to process the plastic waste.

Volunteers use hanging plastic bottles to make sunshades and have even constructed a shelter using car tyres packed with plastic waste and cement to form the walls.

When a prominent Buddhist monk in Myanmar noticed a surge in plastic waste generated by residents in his Yangon neighborhood during the pandemic, he decided to do something about it.

When a prominent Buddhist monk in Myanmar noticed a surge in plastic waste generated by residents in his Yangon neighborhood during the pandemic, he decided to do something about it. But Abbot Ottamasara, who runs the Thabarwa meditation centre, was taken aback by the response to his request for plastic containers as a substitute for bowls used by his monastery to feed thousands of people in need. Helped by dozens of volunteers, his team now receives several thousand used plastic bottles a day from the community, with some recycled as food containers and others incorporated into building materials used at the meditation centre. “More plastic waste was being dumped on the street during the pandemic,” said Ottamasara, 51, who launched the recycling drive three months ago after seeing waste piling up on the streets during daily walks to collect food donations. Authorities do not routinely organise recycling in Myanmar, while around 2,500 tonnes of trash are thrown out everyday in Yangon, often dumped on roads and in waterways, or burned. “If we (the meditation centre) ask for donations, people will keep them clean,” said Ottamasara, who uses one name. “Then we can use these plastic bottles as food containers and it not only saves money, but also tackles the plastic waste issue.” He estimates two tonnes of plastic waste, or around 200,000 plastic bottles, have been recycled so far, saving around $10,000. The nine acre (3.6 hectare) meditation centre hosts workshops to process the plastic waste. Volunteers use hanging plastic bottles to make sunshades and have even constructed a shelter using car tyres packed with plastic waste and cement to form the walls.

Myanmar's upcycling monk leads push to cut plastic waste

Myanmar's military has sought to undermine the confessions of two soldiers who said they were ordered to "exterminate" Rohingya Muslims before taking part in the massacre of scores of men, women and children.

NGO Fortify Rights and the New York Times on Tuesday released details of the filmed interviews -- seen by AFP -- of Private Myo Win Tun, 33, and Private Zaw Naing Tun, 30, in which they described "wiping out" entire villages.

The soldiers allege they were ordered by senior commanders to "shoot all that you see and hear" during the military operations in 2017 that forced some 750,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh.

Widespread atrocities have been documented by UN investigators and rights groups in violence that now sees Myanmar facing charges of genocide, but this is the most detailed account so far given by alleged perpetrators.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-vows-victory-in-election-as-campaign-starts-amid-virus-surge-326082">Also read:&nbsp;Myanmar’s Suu Kyi vows victory in election as campaign starts amid virus surge</a>

Military spokesman Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun admitted to BBC Burmese late Wednesday the men were former soldiers, but claimed they had been "taken hostage" by the Arakan Army (AA) militant group and "threatened and coerced into confessing".

The AA is fighting the military in the country's northwest for more autonomy for ethnic Rakhine Buddhists.

Both sides frequently trade accusations of human rights abuses in a civil war raging in the same area where the military operations against the Rohingya took place three years ago.

The AA dismissed the military's claims, telling AFP Thursday the two soldiers had deserted.

"They voluntarily confessed about the war crimes committed by Myanmar's military," AA spokesman Khine Thu Kha said, adding other defectors had given similar testimonies, which they have posted online in recent months.

AFP is unable to independently verify the video or statements, but Fortify Rights said it published its analysis of the confessions only after being certain they were not made under duress.

The NGO said the men appeared at the Bangladesh-Myanmar border asking for protection, and have since been taken to The Hague, where the International Criminal Court (ICC) is investigating atrocities against the Rohingya.

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The ICC told AFP the men are not in its custody, while the prosecutor's office said it was unable to comment to "ensure the safety and security" of victims and witnesses.

'Exterminate all Rohingya'

Fortify Rights is calling for the men to be prosecuted at the ICC, calling this a "monumental moment" in the Rohingya's ongoing struggle for justice.

Working in different teams in separate townships, the soldiers confessed to killing up to 180 women, men and children between them, burying many of the bodies in mass graves.

Myo Win Tun also admitted to rape.

They gave the names and ranks of 17 other soldiers they say committed atrocities -- including six senior commanders who ordered them to "exterminate" all Rohingya.

Myanmar's military has always justified its 2017 operations as a means to root out Rohingya militants after attacks against around a dozen security posts and police stations.

In parallel to the ICC investigation, Myanmar also faces genocide charges at the UN's top court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi led the country's defence team at preliminary hearings in December, conceding the army might have used "disproportionate" force, but denying genocide.

The Rohingya are widely seen as illegal immigrants in Myanmar, denied citizenship and stripped of rights.

The Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights congratulated the soldiers for "coming forward and beginning to repair the relationship between Rohingya and Burmese people in Rakhine state".

Ethnic Rakhine mobs were widely accused of collaborating with the military to drive the Rohingya out.

But times have now changed and the AA has an "obvious interest in making the Myanmar military look bad", said Yangon-based analyst Richard Horsey, adding there were questions about the group's motives and the credibility of the videos.

"But that doesn't mean the soldiers themselves can't be credible witnesses or sources of information."

Myanmar's military has sought to undermine the confessions of two soldiers who said they were ordered to "exterminate" Rohingya Muslims before taking part in the massacre of scores of men, women and children.

Myanmar's military has sought to undermine the confessions of two soldiers who said they were ordered to "exterminate" Rohingya Muslims before taking part in the massacre of scores of men, women and children. NGO Fortify Rights and the New York Times on Tuesday released details of the filmed interviews -- seen by AFP -- of Private Myo Win Tun, 33, and Private Zaw Naing Tun, 30, in which they described "wiping out" entire villages. The soldiers allege they were ordered by senior commanders to "shoot all that you see and hear" during the military operations in 2017 that forced some 750,000 Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh. Widespread atrocities have been documented by UN investigators and rights groups in violence that now sees Myanmar facing charges of genocide, but this is the most detailed account so far given by alleged perpetrators. Also read: Myanmar’s Suu Kyi vows victory in election as campaign starts amid virus surge Military spokesman Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun admitted to BBC Burmese late Wednesday the men were former soldiers, but claimed they had been "taken hostage" by the Arakan Army (AA) militant group and "threatened and coerced into confessing". The AA is fighting the military in the country's northwest for more autonomy for ethnic Rakhine Buddhists. Both sides frequently trade accusations of human rights abuses in a civil war raging in the same area where the military operations against the Rohingya took place three years ago. The AA dismissed the military's claims, telling AFP Thursday the two soldiers had deserted. "They voluntarily confessed about the war crimes committed by Myanmar's military," AA spokesman Khine Thu Kha said, adding other defectors had given similar testimonies, which they have posted online in recent months. AFP is unable to independently verify the video or statements, but Fortify Rights said it published its analysis of the confessions only after being certain they were not made under duress. The NGO said the men appeared at the Bangladesh-Myanmar border asking for protection, and have since been taken to The Hague, where the International Criminal Court (ICC) is investigating atrocities against the Rohingya. × The ICC told AFP the men are not in its custody, while the prosecutor's office said it was unable to comment to "ensure the safety and security" of victims and witnesses. 'Exterminate all Rohingya' Fortify Rights is calling for the men to be prosecuted at the ICC, calling this a "monumental moment" in the Rohingya's ongoing struggle for justice. Working in different teams in separate townships, the soldiers confessed to killing up to 180 women, men and children between them, burying many of the bodies in mass graves. Myo Win Tun also admitted to rape. They gave the names and ranks of 17 other soldiers they say committed atrocities -- including six senior commanders who ordered them to "exterminate" all Rohingya. Myanmar's military has always justified its 2017 operations as a means to root out Rohingya militants after attacks against around a dozen security posts and police stations. In parallel to the ICC investigation, Myanmar also faces genocide charges at the UN's top court, the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi led the country's defence team at preliminary hearings in December, conceding the army might have used "disproportionate" force, but denying genocide. The Rohingya are widely seen as illegal immigrants in Myanmar, denied citizenship and stripped of rights. The Arakan Rohingya Society for Peace and Human Rights congratulated the soldiers for "coming forward and beginning to repair the relationship between Rohingya and Burmese people in Rakhine state". Ethnic Rakhine mobs were widely accused of collaborating with the military to drive the Rohingya out. But times have now changed and the AA has an "obvious interest in making the Myanmar military look bad", said Yangon-based analyst Richard Horsey, adding there were questions about the group's motives and the credibility of the videos. "But that doesn't mean the soldiers themselves can't be credible witnesses or sources of information."

Myanmar army tries to discredit Rohingya abuse confessions

The Ministry of Health and Sports has issued stay-at-home orders in all 17 townships in Rakhine State and Yangon’s Thingangyun, Insein, North Okkalapa, Thaketa, Hlaing, Pazundaung and Mingaladon townships.

Myanmar elections: Low voter turnout expected due to COVID-19 rules

Myanmar's election campaign began Tuesday with Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains widely admired and respected at home despite her tarnished image abroad, hoping for a landslide win to further cement her status as the country's civilian leader.

The Nobel laureate's National League for Democracy (NLD) swept to power in 2015 — the first national polls since the Southeast Asian nation emerged from decades of junta rule.

Despite the coronavirus threat, campaigns are, for now, under way — albeit with accessories.

Wearing a red face mask, plastic visor and rubber gloves, Suu Kyi Tuesday morning raised the NLD flag — with its fighting peacock symbol — at the party's office in the capital, Naypyidaw.

"We want our victory to be the country's victory," she said, thanking supporters for flying the NLD colours across the nation.

A tide of red NLD paraphernalia has swept across Yangon with printing shops in recent weeks in overdrive to produce stickers, T-shirts and masks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-suu-kyi-pulls-out-of-first-election-trip-over-coronavirus-325734">Also read:&nbsp;Myanmar's Suu Kyi pulls out of first election trip over coronavirus</a>

"I don't think about policies or candidates. I love Mother Suu and I like what she does for our country," 61-year-old street vendor Myint Myint Htay told AFP.

But the military is still hugely powerful in a country governed under a constitution written by the former junta.

The armed forces control three key ministries and 25 percent of parliamentary seats -- effectively giving them a veto on legislation.

In August, Suu Kyi reminded the country on Facebook why her party needed every vote: "We can't just get more than 50 percent of elected seats like in a normal democracy."

Credibility in question?

Suu Kyi -- once hailed as a democracy icon -- has seen her international standing plummet in recent years over allegations that Myanmar committed genocide against its Rohingya Muslim community.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-a-nun-in-myanmar-is-battling-deeply-rooted-misogyny-324936">Also read:&nbsp;How a nun in Myanmar is battling deeply-rooted misogyny</a>

Her decision to travel to the UN's top court to defend military operations against the minority was widely condemned in the West but stoked nationalistic pride at home.

NLD fervour still rages across much of the majority-Bamar heartlands, but a flagging peace process in a nation wrought with conflict -- as well as a perception the NLD acts only for the dominant Bamar group -- means a likely boon for ethnic minority parties.

The ruling party's principal foe, the military-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), sees this as an opening.

"I'm trying to build understanding with ethnic parties," USDP leader Than Htay told AFP.

Also out in force in Yangon Tuesday were the blue-clad People's Pioneer Party (PPP), led by businesswoman Thet Thet Khine, ousted from the NLD last year and proclaiming a "middle way" between Suu Kyi's party and the military.

But the coronavirus pandemic could still upend the vote with case numbers quadrupling in the last three weeks -- even if they remain relatively low at just 1,610 with eight deaths so far.

Campaign events are limited to a maximum of 50 people.

Many are even calling for the election to be postponed, but Suu Kyi would be loath to delay, said Yangon-based analyst Richard Horsey.

She has led the nation's fight against the pandemic and delaying would be a "sign she's not winning the battle".

If her hand is forced, a postponement of more than two months would theoretically cause a constitutional crisis and even the invocation of a state of emergency.

But Horsey predicted the government and military would reach a consensus to head off any political fallout.

Many observers expect the vote to be cancelled in the worst conflict areas, including northern Rakhine state -- likely fuelling further discontent.

Rakhine was also where the military drove out hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims in 2017 -- operations that now see Myanmar facing genocide charges.

The disenfranchisement of refugees and most of the 600,000 Rohingya still in Myanmar -- stripped of citizenship and rights -- raises "fundamental doubts" about the election's credibility, warned Phil Robertson from Human Rights Watch.

Myanmar's election campaign began Tuesday with Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains widely admired and respected at home despite her tarnished image abroad, hoping for a landslide win to further cement her status as the country's civilian leader.

Myanmar's election campaign began Tuesday with Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains widely admired and respected at home despite her tarnished image abroad, hoping for a landslide win to further cement her status as the country's civilian leader. The Nobel laureate's National League for Democracy (NLD) swept to power in 2015 — the first national polls since the Southeast Asian nation emerged from decades of junta rule. Despite the coronavirus threat, campaigns are, for now, under way — albeit with accessories. Wearing a red face mask, plastic visor and rubber gloves, Suu Kyi Tuesday morning raised the NLD flag — with its fighting peacock symbol — at the party's office in the capital, Naypyidaw. "We want our victory to be the country's victory," she said, thanking supporters for flying the NLD colours across the nation. A tide of red NLD paraphernalia has swept across Yangon with printing shops in recent weeks in overdrive to produce stickers, T-shirts and masks. Also read: Myanmar's Suu Kyi pulls out of first election trip over coronavirus "I don't think about policies or candidates. I love Mother Suu and I like what she does for our country," 61-year-old street vendor Myint Myint Htay told AFP. But the military is still hugely powerful in a country governed under a constitution written by the former junta. The armed forces control three key ministries and 25 percent of parliamentary seats -- effectively giving them a veto on legislation. In August, Suu Kyi reminded the country on Facebook why her party needed every vote: "We can't just get more than 50 percent of elected seats like in a normal democracy." Credibility in question? Suu Kyi -- once hailed as a democracy icon -- has seen her international standing plummet in recent years over allegations that Myanmar committed genocide against its Rohingya Muslim community. Also read: How a nun in Myanmar is battling deeply-rooted misogyny Her decision to travel to the UN's top court to defend military operations against the minority was widely condemned in the West but stoked nationalistic pride at home. NLD fervour still rages across much of the majority-Bamar heartlands, but a flagging peace process in a nation wrought with conflict -- as well as a perception the NLD acts only for the dominant Bamar group -- means a likely boon for ethnic minority parties. The ruling party's principal foe, the military-aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), sees this as an opening. "I'm trying to build understanding with ethnic parties," USDP leader Than Htay told AFP. Also out in force in Yangon Tuesday were the blue-clad People's Pioneer Party (PPP), led by businesswoman Thet Thet Khine, ousted from the NLD last year and proclaiming a "middle way" between Suu Kyi's party and the military. But the coronavirus pandemic could still upend the vote with case numbers quadrupling in the last three weeks -- even if they remain relatively low at just 1,610 with eight deaths so far. Campaign events are limited to a maximum of 50 people. Many are even calling for the election to be postponed, but Suu Kyi would be loath to delay, said Yangon-based analyst Richard Horsey. She has led the nation's fight against the pandemic and delaying would be a "sign she's not winning the battle". If her hand is forced, a postponement of more than two months would theoretically cause a constitutional crisis and even the invocation of a state of emergency. But Horsey predicted the government and military would reach a consensus to head off any political fallout. Many observers expect the vote to be cancelled in the worst conflict areas, including northern Rakhine state -- likely fuelling further discontent. Rakhine was also where the military drove out hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims in 2017 -- operations that now see Myanmar facing genocide charges. The disenfranchisement of refugees and most of the 600,000 Rohingya still in Myanmar -- stripped of citizenship and rights -- raises "fundamental doubts" about the election's credibility, warned Phil Robertson from Human Rights Watch.

Election countdown starts in Myanmar under virus shadow

Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi pulled out of the first event of her election campaign on Monday, citing a worsening outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the country.

The Southeast Asian nation reported 100 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, the biggest daily increase since detecting its first infection in March, followed by 45 more on Monday.

Suu Kyi, who rules as state counselor, was set to tour the constituency where she is seeking re-election in the commercial capital of Yangon on

Tuesday, the first official day of campaigning ahead of polls set for Nov. 8.

But she said in a live broadcast on Facebook that the health minister had advised her to cancel the trip.

“At the moment the ministry of health is the most powerful. We must follow the instructions of the ministry,” she said.

A spokesman for the ruling National League for Democracy did not answer phone calls from Reuters seeking further comment.

Myanmar had gone weeks without a local coronavirus transmission until mid-August, when authorities reported an outbreak in the western state of Rakhine.

Since then, the number of cases has more than doubled to 1,464 infections and eight deaths.

Last week, a member of the staff at Suu Kyi’s lakeside home in Yangon tested positive for the virus. She said on Monday she felt bad to hear about the infection.

Doctors say they fear a major outbreak in a country with a health system weakened after decades of neglect under the former ruling military junta.

Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi pulled out of the first event of her election campaign on Monday, citing a worsening outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the country.

Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi pulled out of the first event of her election campaign on Monday, citing a worsening outbreak of the novel coronavirus in the country. The Southeast Asian nation reported 100 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, the biggest daily increase since detecting its first infection in March, followed by 45 more on Monday. Suu Kyi, who rules as state counselor, was set to tour the constituency where she is seeking re-election in the commercial capital of Yangon on Tuesday, the first official day of campaigning ahead of polls set for Nov. 8. But she said in a live broadcast on Facebook that the health minister had advised her to cancel the trip. “At the moment the ministry of health is the most powerful. We must follow the instructions of the ministry,” she said. A spokesman for the ruling National League for Democracy did not answer phone calls from Reuters seeking further comment. Myanmar had gone weeks without a local coronavirus transmission until mid-August, when authorities reported an outbreak in the western state of Rakhine. Since then, the number of cases has more than doubled to 1,464 infections and eight deaths. Last week, a member of the staff at Suu Kyi’s lakeside home in Yangon tested positive for the virus. She said on Monday she felt bad to hear about the infection. Doctors say they fear a major outbreak in a country with a health system weakened after decades of neglect under the former ruling military junta.

Myanmar's Suu Kyi pulls out of first election trip over coronavirus

In a nation where the plight of nuns is not openly spoken or written about, 40-year-old Ketumala is confronting the situation head-on.&nbsp;

There is a popular saying in Myanmar that asks women to "regard her son as her master and her husband as her god" which is very much seen in practice too where nuns are required to shave their heads, wear pink and several amongst them face abuse too.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/three-years-since-rohingya-exodus-from-fleeing-myanmar-to-icj-trial-323112">Three years since Rohingya exodus: From fleeing Myanmar to ICJ trial</a>

However, Ketumala, a fierce advocate for the significance of women in religion, is fighting this battle for more than two decades as she didn't pursue the desire of marriage and children as a teenager.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-urged-to-restore-internet-in-rakhine-to-help-contain-virus-322960">Myanmar urged to restore internet in Rakhine to help contain virus</a>

"When a man enters into monkhood, people always applaud saying it is good for the religion and will make it better, but when a woman enters into nunhood, people always think it is because of a problem," said Ketumala, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

"They think it's a place for women who are poor, old, sick, divorced or need help for their life."&nbsp;

Backed by strong beliefs and outspoken attitude, Ketumala is undoubtedly Myanmar's best-known nun and is responsible for founding the Dhamma School Foundation, which runs over 4,800 Buddhist education centres for children across Myanmar.&nbsp;

However, she adds that nuns are still seen with contempt as the nunneries survive on donations but they are not given the same respect as is given to monasteries and so funding remains a concern.&nbsp;

In the worst scenarios, nuns have also been abused when they ask for alms.&nbsp;

Women of Myanmar woes can be understood from the fact that only 10.5 per cent of MPs are women and laws are often made by men.&nbsp;

Rights activists say that the violence again women is so widespread that now it is considered as normal.

Also, there are superstitious practices that don't allow women's clothes with men, believing that doing that will affect men's masculinity.&nbsp;

In some Buddhist sites or temples, women are not allowed to enter and are asked to not sit above men.&nbsp;

In a nation where the plight of nuns is not openly spoken or written about, 40-year-old Ketumala is confronting the situation head-on. There is a popular saying in Myanmar that asks women to "regard her son as her master and her husband as her god" which is very much seen in practice too where nuns are required to shave their heads, wear pink and several amongst them face abuse too.

In a nation where the plight of nuns is not openly spoken or written about, 40-year-old Ketumala is confronting the situation head-on. There is a popular saying in Myanmar that asks women to "regard her son as her master and her husband as her god" which is very much seen in practice too where nuns are required to shave their heads, wear pink and several amongst them face abuse too. Also read | Three years since Rohingya exodus: From fleeing Myanmar to ICJ trial However, Ketumala, a fierce advocate for the significance of women in religion, is fighting this battle for more than two decades as she didn't pursue the desire of marriage and children as a teenager. Also read | Myanmar urged to restore internet in Rakhine to help contain virus "When a man enters into monkhood, people always applaud saying it is good for the religion and will make it better, but when a woman enters into nunhood, people always think it is because of a problem," said Ketumala, as quoted by news agency AFP. "They think it's a place for women who are poor, old, sick, divorced or need help for their life." Backed by strong beliefs and outspoken attitude, Ketumala is undoubtedly Myanmar's best-known nun and is responsible for founding the Dhamma School Foundation, which runs over 4,800 Buddhist education centres for children across Myanmar. However, she adds that nuns are still seen with contempt as the nunneries survive on donations but they are not given the same respect as is given to monasteries and so funding remains a concern. In the worst scenarios, nuns have also been abused when they ask for alms. Women of Myanmar woes can be understood from the fact that only 10.5 per cent of MPs are women and laws are often made by men. Rights activists say that the violence again women is so widespread that now it is considered as normal. Also, there are superstitious practices that don't allow women's clothes with men, believing that doing that will affect men's masculinity. In some Buddhist sites or temples, women are not allowed to enter and are asked to not sit above men.

How a nun in Myanmar is battling deeply-rooted misogyny

August 25, 2017 - the date Myanmar's army unleashed a wave of violence on Rohingya refugees in Rakhine state, forcing nearly a million people to flee and seek shelter in neighbouring Bangladesh

Three years since Rohingya exodus: From fleeing Myanmar to ICJ trial

Humanitarian workers battling the novel coronavirus in Myanmar's Rakhine State have urged authorities to restore high-speed internet access to help tackle rising infections in an area where tens of thousands of people have been displaced.

The region has seen the fastest spread of the coronavirus in Myanmar in recent months with more than 80 confirmed cases out of the country's total of 474.

Citing security, Myanmar has curbed internet access in large swathes of the area, where many people live in camps due to fighting between the army and ethnic minority insurgents.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-china-pushes-for-bri-why-myanmar-is-coming-close-to-india-312084">As China pushes for BRI, why Myanmar is coming close to India</a>

Aid workers from three groups said the government should restore 4G internet access to help inform people about the virus.

"If they do not do it at this time, when information is essential, it will be recorded in history as a crime," said Zaw Zaw Tun, the secretary of one of the aid groups, the Rakhine Ethnic Congress.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-outbreak-in-myanmars-sittwe-sparks-fears-for-rohingya-camps-322585" hreflang="en">Coronavirus outbreak in Myanmar's Sittwe sparks fears for Rohingya camps</a>

The high-speed internet blackout, imposed in June last year, is due to be lifted this month and while the internet is working in some areas, in others there is only slower 2G service.

A government spokesman did not answer telephone calls seeking comment.

Another humanitarian worker, Aung Than Tun, said the limited access was making it easier for misinformation and rumours about the coronavirus to spread.

Most recent infections have been in the state capital of Sittwe, where officials have imposed a stay-at-home order and a curfew.

Sittwe is also home to camps where about 100,000 Rohingya Muslims have been confined since an outbreak of violence in 2012. Rohingya are mostly denied citizenship and face strict curbs on freedom of movement and access to healthcare.

Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has said people of all faiths and ethnicities would be treated equally.

Three more coronavirus cases were reported on the weekend in Mrauk U town in Rakhine where internet access is limited to 2G.

Local legislator Tun Thar Sein said the service was too patchy to ensure that people got health and news updates on the outbreak.

Humanitarian workers battling the novel coronavirus in Myanmar's Rakhine State have urged authorities to restore high-speed internet access to help tackle rising infections in an area where tens of thousands of people have been displaced.

Humanitarian workers battling the novel coronavirus in Myanmar's Rakhine State have urged authorities to restore high-speed internet access to help tackle rising infections in an area where tens of thousands of people have been displaced. The region has seen the fastest spread of the coronavirus in Myanmar in recent months with more than 80 confirmed cases out of the country's total of 474. Citing security, Myanmar has curbed internet access in large swathes of the area, where many people live in camps due to fighting between the army and ethnic minority insurgents. Also read: As China pushes for BRI, why Myanmar is coming close to India Aid workers from three groups said the government should restore 4G internet access to help inform people about the virus. "If they do not do it at this time, when information is essential, it will be recorded in history as a crime," said Zaw Zaw Tun, the secretary of one of the aid groups, the Rakhine Ethnic Congress. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak in Myanmar's Sittwe sparks fears for Rohingya camps The high-speed internet blackout, imposed in June last year, is due to be lifted this month and while the internet is working in some areas, in others there is only slower 2G service. A government spokesman did not answer telephone calls seeking comment. Another humanitarian worker, Aung Than Tun, said the limited access was making it easier for misinformation and rumours about the coronavirus to spread. Most recent infections have been in the state capital of Sittwe, where officials have imposed a stay-at-home order and a curfew. Sittwe is also home to camps where about 100,000 Rohingya Muslims have been confined since an outbreak of violence in 2012. Rohingya are mostly denied citizenship and face strict curbs on freedom of movement and access to healthcare. Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has said people of all faiths and ethnicities would be treated equally. Three more coronavirus cases were reported on the weekend in Mrauk U town in Rakhine where internet access is limited to 2G. Local legislator Tun Thar Sein said the service was too patchy to ensure that people got health and news updates on the outbreak.

Myanmar urged to restore internet in Rakhine to help contain virus

Rohingya exodus and their horror trail since August, 2017

Two Myanmar migrant workers on death row for the brutal murder of a pair of British backpackers in Thailand have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment following a mass royal pardon.

The men's lawyer Nadthasiri Bergman said the pardon decree -- which was published Friday and applies to all inmates on death row -- was "effective immediately".

Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Tun were found guilty of the rape and murder of Hannah Witheridge, 23, and of killing David Miller, 24, after their battered bodies were found on a beach on the southern resort island of Koh Tao in September 2014.

But defence lawyers have said the evidence used to convict the two men -- who are both from Myanmar's impoverished Rakhine state -- was unreliable and alleged that confessions by the pair were obtained under duress.

"I can't find words to express how thankful we are," Ye Zaw Tun, a brother of Win Zaw Tun, told AFP on Saturday following the decree.

"We knew this case was totally unfair, and we sometimes feel bitterness, but we want to say thanks for the royal pardon."

A commutation of their sentence had been the pair's only remaining hope after their final appeal failed last year, with Thailand's top court ruling the evidence against them was clear.

The case triggered a strong reaction from Myanmar, where many felt the two men had been given an unfair trial as low-paid migrant workers -- an integral part of Thailand's workforce -- are often regarded with contempt by its public.

The police were accused of buckling under pressure to solve a crime that attracted worldwide attention.

Defence lawyers claimed authorities mishandled DNA related to the case and did not allow independent analysis of the samples.

Win Zaw Tun's brother said the men were in good health in prison but called for them to be "immediately released".

The royal pardon comes as Thailand is rocked by near-daily anti-government demonstrations by student-led groups

Two Myanmar migrant workers on death row for the brutal murder of a pair of British backpackers in Thailand have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment following a mass royal pardon.

Two Myanmar migrant workers on death row for the brutal murder of a pair of British backpackers in Thailand have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment following a mass royal pardon. The men's lawyer Nadthasiri Bergman said the pardon decree -- which was published Friday and applies to all inmates on death row -- was "effective immediately". Zaw Lin and Win Zaw Tun were found guilty of the rape and murder of Hannah Witheridge, 23, and of killing David Miller, 24, after their battered bodies were found on a beach on the southern resort island of Koh Tao in September 2014. But defence lawyers have said the evidence used to convict the two men -- who are both from Myanmar's impoverished Rakhine state -- was unreliable and alleged that confessions by the pair were obtained under duress. "I can't find words to express how thankful we are," Ye Zaw Tun, a brother of Win Zaw Tun, told AFP on Saturday following the decree. "We knew this case was totally unfair, and we sometimes feel bitterness, but we want to say thanks for the royal pardon." A commutation of their sentence had been the pair's only remaining hope after their final appeal failed last year, with Thailand's top court ruling the evidence against them was clear. The case triggered a strong reaction from Myanmar, where many felt the two men had been given an unfair trial as low-paid migrant workers -- an integral part of Thailand's workforce -- are often regarded with contempt by its public. The police were accused of buckling under pressure to solve a crime that attracted worldwide attention. Defence lawyers claimed authorities mishandled DNA related to the case and did not allow independent analysis of the samples. Win Zaw Tun's brother said the men were in good health in prison but called for them to be "immediately released". The royal pardon comes as Thailand is rocked by near-daily anti-government demonstrations by student-led groups

Death sentence of Myanmar men commuted in Brit murder case

Pakistan's spy agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), is training terror groups in Myanmar and its main goal is to destabilise some countries in the region using cross-border terrorism.

Siegfried O Wolf, an analyst at the South Asia Democratic Forum, a Belgian group based in Brussels, confirmed the possible involvement of the ISI in the training of 40 Rohingya by Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB).

The expert said it would be better for Pakistan to choose a third country for cross-border terrorism. This yet again substantiates the fact that Islamabad continues to harbour and support terror and carry out attacks in countries, including Afghanistan and India, in a bid to create instability in the region.

In 2016, the JMB carried out an attack on a Holey Artisan coffee shop near the diplomatic district of Dhaka, claiming 22 lives, mostly foreigners. Due to this, the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh, bordering Myanmar, have become a target for the terror groups.

Abdur Rashid, a Bangladeshi security expert, said that there were attempts by extremist Rohingyas in the past, but Dhaka has not allowed them to carry out terror activities.

Rashid also said Bangladesh has helped India so far in such matters pertaining to insurgency in north-east India.He added that Pakistan could "destabilise India" by supporting extremist groups but Bangladesh has assured it will not be allowed.

Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Shahriar Alam said that attempts to spread extremism in the camps did not prove to be a major success in the past.

The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) has now returned to the border and has increased its operations, according to Myanmarese military officials.

The ARSA members are active at night in refugee camps but they are disguised during the day. For instance, ARSA leader Attah Ullah was born in Pakistan and raised in Saudi Arabia.

He and his entourage have been trained in military tactics and carrying out bombings.The ARSA, which operates on Bangladesh-Myanmar border, also revealed that it had received training from Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or the Pakistani Taliban, a spokesperson of the TTP.

According to foreign diplomats monitoring Cox's Bazar, ARSA and JMB are linked and videos of them undergoing armed training have surfaced on social media. Weapons used by ARSA members are old AK-47s, M-21s, M-22s and M-16 rifles. Some of these arms have been likely taken by the group during the seizure of police stations in Myanmar.

Pakistan's spy agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), is training terror groups in Myanmar and its main goal is to destabilise some countries in the region using cross-border terrorism.

Pakistan's spy agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), is training terror groups in Myanmar and its main goal is to destabilise some countries in the region using cross-border terrorism. Siegfried O Wolf, an analyst at the South Asia Democratic Forum, a Belgian group based in Brussels, confirmed the possible involvement of the ISI in the training of 40 Rohingya by Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). The expert said it would be better for Pakistan to choose a third country for cross-border terrorism. This yet again substantiates the fact that Islamabad continues to harbour and support terror and carry out attacks in countries, including Afghanistan and India, in a bid to create instability in the region. In 2016, the JMB carried out an attack on a Holey Artisan coffee shop near the diplomatic district of Dhaka, claiming 22 lives, mostly foreigners. Due to this, the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh, bordering Myanmar, have become a target for the terror groups. Abdur Rashid, a Bangladeshi security expert, said that there were attempts by extremist Rohingyas in the past, but Dhaka has not allowed them to carry out terror activities. Rashid also said Bangladesh has helped India so far in such matters pertaining to insurgency in north-east India.He added that Pakistan could "destabilise India" by supporting extremist groups but Bangladesh has assured it will not be allowed. Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Shahriar Alam said that attempts to spread extremism in the camps did not prove to be a major success in the past. The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA) has now returned to the border and has increased its operations, according to Myanmarese military officials. The ARSA members are active at night in refugee camps but they are disguised during the day. For instance, ARSA leader Attah Ullah was born in Pakistan and raised in Saudi Arabia. He and his entourage have been trained in military tactics and carrying out bombings.The ARSA, which operates on Bangladesh-Myanmar border, also revealed that it had received training from Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or the Pakistani Taliban, a spokesperson of the TTP. According to foreign diplomats monitoring Cox's Bazar, ARSA and JMB are linked and videos of them undergoing armed training have surfaced on social media. Weapons used by ARSA members are old AK-47s, M-21s, M-22s and M-16 rifles. Some of these arms have been likely taken by the group during the seizure of police stations in Myanmar.

Pakistan's ISI training terror groups in Myanmar

A Rohingya Muslim has been barred from standing in Myanmar's upcoming election, in a decision decried by rights groups as discriminatory and a symptom of the "ongoing genocide" against the persecuted minority.

A 2017 military operation drove 750,000 Rohingya out of the country into sprawling refugee camps in neighbouring Bangladesh, prompting genocide charges at the UN's top court.&nbsp;

Myanmar has denied the allegations and justified the military operations as a means of rooting out terrorists.

Another 600,000 Rohingya remain in Myanmar, but most are not regarded as citizens and will have no vote, living in what Amnesty International describes as "apartheid" conditions.

Three Rohingya-led parties had hoped to field at least a dozen candidates in November's vote, according to regional watchdog Fortify Rights.

But Abdul Rasheed, 58, a member of the Democracy and Human Rights Party, told AFP on Wednesday that his candidacy was rejected by the district election commission in Rakhine state capital Sittwe a day earlier.

The commission said this was because his parents were not Myanmar citizens when he was born, Rasheed said, even though he had proof his parents and grandparents were granted citizenship in 1957, four years before his birth.

"This is not in line with the law," he said, adding he would appeal the decision. "The Rohingya are being degraded so we cannot compete."

The Muslim minority has had citizenship and other rights eroded over decades.

Rasheed, who said his father worked as a Myanmar government civil servant for more than 30 years, also tried without success to stand in the country's landmark 2015 election.

"This rejection is discriminatory and not unrelated to the ongoing genocide of Rohingya," said Matthew Smith from Fortify Rights, a group for which Rasheed also consults.

"The government of Myanmar must end its mass disenfranchisement of Rohingya."

The Rakhine State election commission in Sittwe denied any unfair treatment of Rasheed.

"He wasn't rejected because he is a Muslim but because his application was not in line with the electoral law," chairperson Tin Hlaing told AFP.

A Rohingya Muslim has been barred from standing in Myanmar's upcoming election, in a decision decried by rights groups as discriminatory and a symptom of the "ongoing genocide" against the persecuted minority.

A Rohingya Muslim has been barred from standing in Myanmar's upcoming election, in a decision decried by rights groups as discriminatory and a symptom of the "ongoing genocide" against the persecuted minority. A 2017 military operation drove 750,000 Rohingya out of the country into sprawling refugee camps in neighbouring Bangladesh, prompting genocide charges at the UN's top court. Myanmar has denied the allegations and justified the military operations as a means of rooting out terrorists. Another 600,000 Rohingya remain in Myanmar, but most are not regarded as citizens and will have no vote, living in what Amnesty International describes as "apartheid" conditions. Three Rohingya-led parties had hoped to field at least a dozen candidates in November's vote, according to regional watchdog Fortify Rights. But Abdul Rasheed, 58, a member of the Democracy and Human Rights Party, told AFP on Wednesday that his candidacy was rejected by the district election commission in Rakhine state capital Sittwe a day earlier. The commission said this was because his parents were not Myanmar citizens when he was born, Rasheed said, even though he had proof his parents and grandparents were granted citizenship in 1957, four years before his birth. "This is not in line with the law," he said, adding he would appeal the decision. "The Rohingya are being degraded so we cannot compete." The Muslim minority has had citizenship and other rights eroded over decades. Rasheed, who said his father worked as a Myanmar government civil servant for more than 30 years, also tried without success to stand in the country's landmark 2015 election. "This rejection is discriminatory and not unrelated to the ongoing genocide of Rohingya," said Matthew Smith from Fortify Rights, a group for which Rasheed also consults. "The government of Myanmar must end its mass disenfranchisement of Rohingya." The Rakhine State election commission in Sittwe denied any unfair treatment of Rasheed. "He wasn't rejected because he is a Muslim but because his application was not in line with the electoral law," chairperson Tin Hlaing told AFP.

Myanmar bars Rohingya candidate from contesting election

A Canadian preacher who claimed Christians were safe from coronavirus was on Thursday jailed for three months in Myanmar after he and dozens of his followers became infected when he held a banned service.

The Southeast Asian nation has so far weathered the pandemic well with just 357 confirmed cases and six deaths, although the low numbers tested make many fear the true figures are far higher.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-canadian-preacher-denied-bail-after-church-services-led-to-surge-in-coronavirus-cases-303182">Myanmar: Canadian preacher denied bail after Church services led to surge in coronavirus cases</a>

Toronto-based David Lah, 43, was born in Myanmar and often returns to his motherland to preach.

The country imposed a ban on gatherings in mid-March, but footage emerged in early April of Lah holding a service in Yangon.

"If people hold the Bible and Jesus in their hearts, the disease will not come in," he proclaimed in one video to a roomful of faithful.

"The only person who can cure and give peace in this pandemic is Jesus."

Lah tested positive for coronavirus shortly afterwards, and dozens of confirmed cases were traced back to his followers.

The preacher was arrested after recovering from the illness in May and faced up to three years in jail for violating the Natural Disaster and Management Law.

On Thursday, however, a Yangon court chose to be lenient.

Lah and his colleague Wai Tun had been sentenced to three months imprisonment, Lah's lawyer Aung Kyi Win told reporters outside the court, adding that time already served would be deducted.

A waiting crowd of the preacher's followers erupted into cheers and celebrations at the news.

The scandal even touched Myanmar's Christian vice-president Henry Van Thio and his family, who had attended an earlier service with Lah in February, although they later tested negative.

About six percent of Buddhist-majority Myanmar's population identifies as one of the various Christian denominations in the country.

A Canadian preacher who claimed Christians were safe from coronavirus was on Thursday jailed for three months in Myanmar after he and dozens of his followers became infected when he held a banned service.

A Canadian preacher who claimed Christians were safe from coronavirus was on Thursday jailed for three months in Myanmar after he and dozens of his followers became infected when he held a banned service. The Southeast Asian nation has so far weathered the pandemic well with just 357 confirmed cases and six deaths, although the low numbers tested make many fear the true figures are far higher. Also read | Myanmar: Canadian preacher denied bail after Church services led to surge in coronavirus cases Toronto-based David Lah, 43, was born in Myanmar and often returns to his motherland to preach. The country imposed a ban on gatherings in mid-March, but footage emerged in early April of Lah holding a service in Yangon. "If people hold the Bible and Jesus in their hearts, the disease will not come in," he proclaimed in one video to a roomful of faithful. "The only person who can cure and give peace in this pandemic is Jesus." Lah tested positive for coronavirus shortly afterwards, and dozens of confirmed cases were traced back to his followers. The preacher was arrested after recovering from the illness in May and faced up to three years in jail for violating the Natural Disaster and Management Law. On Thursday, however, a Yangon court chose to be lenient. Lah and his colleague Wai Tun had been sentenced to three months imprisonment, Lah's lawyer Aung Kyi Win told reporters outside the court, adding that time already served would be deducted. A waiting crowd of the preacher's followers erupted into cheers and celebrations at the news. The scandal even touched Myanmar's Christian vice-president Henry Van Thio and his family, who had attended an earlier service with Lah in February, although they later tested negative. About six percent of Buddhist-majority Myanmar's population identifies as one of the various Christian denominations in the country.

Canadian pastor jailed in Myanmar for defying coronavirus ban

A Rohingya migrant is feared to be the only survivor from a boat carrying at least two dozen asylum seekers that is believed to have run into difficulty off the Malaysian coast near Thailand, a coastguard official said Sunday.

Mohamad Zawawi Abdullah, coastguard chief for the northern states of Kedah and Perlis, said the 27-year-old named Nor Hossain was detained by police after he swam to shore on the resort island of Langkawi.

"Based on the information from the police, the illegal Rohingya migrant had jumped off the boat that had 24 other people and that he was the only one who managed to swim to the shore safely," Zawawi said.

A search and rescue operation had been launched, but another official told AFP that no bodies or survivors have been found.

It is not clear what happened to the boat.

Muslim-majority Malaysia is a favoured destination for Rohingya, who face persecution in their mostly Buddhist homeland of Myanmar, but authorities have in recent months been trying to stop them entering over coronavirus fears.

Many of the 700,000-plus&nbsp;Rohingya&nbsp;Muslims who fled a military crackdown in Myanmar three years ago have attempted to leave overcrowded refugee camps in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district on boats headed for Malaysia and neighbouring Indonesia.

Zawawi said two coastguard aircraft and two boats have been deployed to search the suspected area.&nbsp;

Malaysia has stepped up maritime patrols since the outbreak of the coronavirus epidemic in a bid to stop Rohingya boats from landing.

Although some have made it ashore many boats have been turned back, sparking anger from rights groups.

A Rohingya migrant is feared to be the only survivor from a boat carrying at least two dozen asylum seekers that is believed to have run into difficulty off the Malaysian coast near Thailand, a coastguard official said Sunday.

A Rohingya migrant is feared to be the only survivor from a boat carrying at least two dozen asylum seekers that is believed to have run into difficulty off the Malaysian coast near Thailand, a coastguard official said Sunday. Mohamad Zawawi Abdullah, coastguard chief for the northern states of Kedah and Perlis, said the 27-year-old named Nor Hossain was detained by police after he swam to shore on the resort island of Langkawi. "Based on the information from the police, the illegal Rohingya migrant had jumped off the boat that had 24 other people and that he was the only one who managed to swim to the shore safely," Zawawi said. A search and rescue operation had been launched, but another official told AFP that no bodies or survivors have been found. It is not clear what happened to the boat. Muslim-majority Malaysia is a favoured destination for Rohingya, who face persecution in their mostly Buddhist homeland of Myanmar, but authorities have in recent months been trying to stop them entering over coronavirus fears. Many of the 700,000-plus Rohingya Muslims who fled a military crackdown in Myanmar three years ago have attempted to leave overcrowded refugee camps in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district on boats headed for Malaysia and neighbouring Indonesia. Zawawi said two coastguard aircraft and two boats have been deployed to search the suspected area. Malaysia has stepped up maritime patrols since the outbreak of the coronavirus epidemic in a bid to stop Rohingya boats from landing. Although some have made it ashore many boats have been turned back, sparking anger from rights groups.

At least 24 Rohingya migrants feared drowned off Malaysia

Myanmar will soon launch its first-ever satellite, joining an unlikely coalition of nascent space nations aiming to protect millions from environmental disasters.

It is the first space venture for Myanmar, the least economically developed country in a consortium that includes the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia.

The future "super constellation" of micro-satellites from nine Asian countries will track typhoons, seismic activity and water flows, as well as provide data on land use, the growth of crops and disease outbreaks.

The target is to launch around five micro-satellites every year, each weighing under 100 kilograms and with a lifespan of five years, until the consortium controls around 50 devices in orbit.

Myanmar's first contribution will cost a relatively non-astronomical $16 million -- a fraction of the $100 million bill or more for conventional satellites.

The launch will be overseas, but Myanmar will have its own ground control centre, working alongside a counterpart in Japan.

The satellites will also track changes in land use, from urban development to deforestation and illegal mining.

The launches should also deliver a decent payback; it is estimated every dollar the US spends in space returns up to $40 to the economy.

Myanmar's first batch of seven aerospace engineers have had their bags packed for several months, ready to fly to Japan for pre-launch development.&nbsp;

But their travel plans are still on hold, stymied by coronavirus border closures -- and time is tight with Myanmar's first launch slated for early 2021.

(with inputs from AFP)

Myanmar will soon launch its first-ever satellite, joining an unlikely coalition of nascent space nations aiming to protect millions from environmental disasters.

Myanmar will soon launch its first-ever satellite, joining an unlikely coalition of nascent space nations aiming to protect millions from environmental disasters. It is the first space venture for Myanmar, the least economically developed country in a consortium that includes the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia. The future "super constellation" of micro-satellites from nine Asian countries will track typhoons, seismic activity and water flows, as well as provide data on land use, the growth of crops and disease outbreaks. The target is to launch around five micro-satellites every year, each weighing under 100 kilograms and with a lifespan of five years, until the consortium controls around 50 devices in orbit. Myanmar's first contribution will cost a relatively non-astronomical $16 million -- a fraction of the $100 million bill or more for conventional satellites. The launch will be overseas, but Myanmar will have its own ground control centre, working alongside a counterpart in Japan. The satellites will also track changes in land use, from urban development to deforestation and illegal mining. The launches should also deliver a decent payback; it is estimated every dollar the US spends in space returns up to $40 to the economy. Myanmar's first batch of seven aerospace engineers have had their bags packed for several months, ready to fly to Japan for pre-launch development. But their travel plans are still on hold, stymied by coronavirus border closures -- and time is tight with Myanmar's first launch slated for early 2021. (with inputs from AFP)

Myanmar to soon launch its first-ever satellite

In an attempt to avoid China's debt trap, Myanmar could prioritise infrastructure projects backed by India. WION's Palki Sharma why Myanmar is wary of the dragon's infrastructure push.

Gravitas: Avoiding China's debt trap | Myanmar to prioritise India-backed infra projects

China's move to arm rebel groups in Myanmar could post a major security challenge for India. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how Chinese arms and cash have ended up in the hands of terror groups in Myanmar.

Gravitas: China's terror links | Chinese arms in hands of terror groups in Myanmar

China is taking a dangerous path in its attempts to make the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) successful.&nbsp;

The dragon is forcing the projects down the throat of its partners and Myanmar is one such example, a country that now regrets its contract with Beijing.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-chinas-bad-loan-crisis-lead-to-the-collapse-of-its-economy-312044">Will China's bad loan crisis lead to the collapse of its economy?</a>

The all-powerful generals of Myanmar&nbsp;have spoken out about their discontent over China forcing BRI projects on them.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-debt-trap-increases-amid-budget-deficit-bri-roadblock-312031">China's debt trap increases amid budget deficit, BRI roadblock</a>&nbsp;

This is about the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, something similar to CPEC between Beijing and Islamabad.&nbsp;

This project gives China access to the Bay of Bengal and the eastern part of the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;

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Myanmar's national debt stands at $10 billion, out of which they owe $4 billion to China.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Myanmar has to pay China $500 million annually.&nbsp;

Naypyidaw has now sought New Delhi's help to expedite infrastructure projects with India.&nbsp;

Both nations are working on a transit transportation project that passes through the northeastern Indian state of Mizoram.&nbsp;

The project will open up sea routes and a highway transport system. It will link a seaport in the Indian city of Kolkata to Rakhine and the Chin states in Myanmar.&nbsp;

These projects have angered the dragon and now Beijing is playing dirty.&nbsp;

Reports say Beijing is training rebel groups that could target Indian interests in Myanmar.&nbsp;

WION told you this earlier too.&nbsp;

Naypyidaw has accused Beijing of arming the Arakan Army and the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, the rebel groups that operate in the Rakhine state.&nbsp;

Last year, a report had claimed that the armies of India and Myanmar prevented an attack on a transport project. The perpetrator was apparently of the Arakan Army.&nbsp;

This is not the first time that China has been accused of supporting armed groups with weapons and funds in Myanmar.&nbsp;

Between 2015 and 2017, Chinese nationals were accused of funding the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army. This is a communist-inspired armed group.&nbsp;

This group used a WeChat account to collect funds worth over $500,000. Payments made by Chinese citizens were allegedly held in Chinese banks.

These include payments in&nbsp;a state-owned bank&nbsp;in China and the accounts were suspended after news agency Reuters reported about it.&nbsp;

Earlier also, China has backed insurgent groups, including fuelling United Wa State Army, Myanmar's largest armed ethnic group.&nbsp;

A Chinese businessman gave this group as much as $1.5 billion and the funding came from a Ponzi scheme.&nbsp;

That businessman defrauded nearly a million Chinese investors, who lost nearly $7.6 million.&nbsp;

So, Myanmar is wary of Chinese investments and this is the reason why projects backed by India are getting a push.&nbsp;

China is taking a dangerous path in its attempts to make the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) successful. The dragon is forcing the projects down the throat of its partners and Myanmar is one such example, a country that now regrets its contract with Beijing.

China is taking a dangerous path in its attempts to make the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) successful. The dragon is forcing the projects down the throat of its partners and Myanmar is one such example, a country that now regrets its contract with Beijing. Also read | Will China's bad loan crisis lead to the collapse of its economy? The all-powerful generals of Myanmar have spoken out about their discontent over China forcing BRI projects on them. Also read | China's debt trap increases amid budget deficit, BRI roadblock This is about the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, something similar to CPEC between Beijing and Islamabad. This project gives China access to the Bay of Bengal and the eastern part of the Indian Ocean. × Myanmar's national debt stands at $10 billion, out of which they owe $4 billion to China. Reportedly, Myanmar has to pay China $500 million annually. Naypyidaw has now sought New Delhi's help to expedite infrastructure projects with India. Both nations are working on a transit transportation project that passes through the northeastern Indian state of Mizoram. The project will open up sea routes and a highway transport system. It will link a seaport in the Indian city of Kolkata to Rakhine and the Chin states in Myanmar. These projects have angered the dragon and now Beijing is playing dirty. Reports say Beijing is training rebel groups that could target Indian interests in Myanmar. WION told you this earlier too. Naypyidaw has accused Beijing of arming the Arakan Army and the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, the rebel groups that operate in the Rakhine state. Last year, a report had claimed that the armies of India and Myanmar prevented an attack on a transport project. The perpetrator was apparently of the Arakan Army. This is not the first time that China has been accused of supporting armed groups with weapons and funds in Myanmar. Between 2015 and 2017, Chinese nationals were accused of funding the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army. This is a communist-inspired armed group. This group used a WeChat account to collect funds worth over $500,000. Payments made by Chinese citizens were allegedly held in Chinese banks. These include payments in a state-owned bank in China and the accounts were suspended after news agency Reuters reported about it. Earlier also, China has backed insurgent groups, including fuelling United Wa State Army, Myanmar's largest armed ethnic group. A Chinese businessman gave this group as much as $1.5 billion and the funding came from a Ponzi scheme. That businessman defrauded nearly a million Chinese investors, who lost nearly $7.6 million. So, Myanmar is wary of Chinese investments and this is the reason why projects backed by India are getting a push.

As China pushes for BRI, why Myanmar is coming close to India

In the recent years, China has tried to tighten its grip on Myanmar. Myanmar's national debt stands at $10 billion, out of which they owe $4 billion to China.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Myanmar has to pay China $500 million annually.&nbsp;

To impose its influence on Myanmar, the dragon is extending support to the armed groups in the country. The United Wa State Army (UWSA), which is the largest ethnic armed group in Myanmar, has received Chinese money, as well as, gunships.&nbsp;

A Chinese businessman gave this group as much as $1.5 billion and the funding came from a Ponzi scheme. That businessman defrauded nearly a million Chinese investors, who lost nearly $7.6 million. &nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-china-pushes-for-bri-why-myanmar-is-coming-close-to-india-312084">Also Read: As China pushes for BRI, why Myanmar is coming close to India</a>

Even Chinese state-owned banks have helped rebel groups in Myanmar. Chinese nationals were accused of funding the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army. This is a communist-inspired armed group.&nbsp;

The group was able to complete a crowd-funding campaign to raise the money for military activities against Myanmar's government.&nbsp; 
 
This group used a WeChat account to collect funds worth over $500,000. Payments made by Chinese citizens were allegedly held in Chinese banks. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-debt-trap-increases-amid-budget-deficit-bri-roadblock-312031">Also Read: China's debt trap increases amid budget deficit, BRI roadblock</a>

The dragon’s move could de-stabilize Myanmar, and hence, the Myanmar military has now called out China for supporting the rebel groups in the country.

Last month, Myanmar military spokesperson Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun had revealed that Arkan Army was backed by China. &nbsp;The Arkan Army has been declared a terrorist organisation by Myanmar.&nbsp;

China is using insurgent groups as bargaining chips just to ensure that Naypyidaw honours the belt and road deal. The dragon's tactics pose a direct threat to Indian interests in Myanmar.

&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In the recent years, China has tried to tighten its grip on Myanmar. Myanmar's national debt stands at $10 billion, out of which they owe $4 billion to China. Reportedly, Myanmar has to pay China $500 million annually.

In the recent years, China has tried to tighten its grip on Myanmar. Myanmar's national debt stands at $10 billion, out of which they owe $4 billion to China. Reportedly, Myanmar has to pay China $500 million annually. To impose its influence on Myanmar, the dragon is extending support to the armed groups in the country. The United Wa State Army (UWSA), which is the largest ethnic armed group in Myanmar, has received Chinese money, as well as, gunships. A Chinese businessman gave this group as much as $1.5 billion and the funding came from a Ponzi scheme. That businessman defrauded nearly a million Chinese investors, who lost nearly $7.6 million. Also Read: As China pushes for BRI, why Myanmar is coming close to India Even Chinese state-owned banks have helped rebel groups in Myanmar. Chinese nationals were accused of funding the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army. This is a communist-inspired armed group. The group was able to complete a crowd-funding campaign to raise the money for military activities against Myanmar's government. This group used a WeChat account to collect funds worth over $500,000. Payments made by Chinese citizens were allegedly held in Chinese banks. Also Read: China's debt trap increases amid budget deficit, BRI roadblock The dragon’s move could de-stabilize Myanmar, and hence, the Myanmar military has now called out China for supporting the rebel groups in the country. Last month, Myanmar military spokesperson Brigadier General Zaw Min Tun had revealed that Arkan Army was backed by China. The Arkan Army has been declared a terrorist organisation by Myanmar. China is using insurgent groups as bargaining chips just to ensure that Naypyidaw honours the belt and road deal. The dragon's tactics pose a direct threat to Indian interests in Myanmar.

Rebel groups in Myanmar have China's backing: Report

Myanmar has indirectly called out China for arming 'terrorists' on its soil. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how Myanmar fears that this situation could endanger Indian development projects along the Myanmar-Mizoram border.

Gravitas: Is China arming terrorists in Myanmar?

The new division of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) -- the Development Partnership Administration (DPA IV) has emerged as the nodal point when it comes to dealing with heritage restoration projects undertaken by the Indian Government across the globe. It hence plays an important role in the restoration of cultural heritage in several countries across the region from Sri Lanka to Myanmar to Vietnam to Bhutan.

DPA IV, created in January 2020, aims to put all the stakeholders on the same page when it comes to the mammoth task of dealing with projects which New Delhi is helping restore across the world. The overarching aim is to revive and display India’s cultural and heritage linkages with other countries.

In Southeast Asia, the focus is on Myanmar, Lao, Cambodia and Vietnam. In Myanmar, conservation of earthquake-damaged Pagodas at Bagan is underway. In Lao, restoration of Vat Phou Shiva temple in Lao is being carried out in two stages. Vat Phou Shiva is Lord Shiva temple dating back to 5th and 6th century AD and predates the famous Angkor Wat. The water from the spring behind the temple is considered to be sacred. The second phase of the project began in November, 2018 and shall continue until 2028. &nbsp;

In Cambodia, India has committed to carry out the restoration of the ancient temple of “Preah Vihar” built during the period of the Khmer Empire.

In Vietnam, India is restoring, “My Son group of temples” which are regarded as one of the prime Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia. The temple complex was built in the 9th century AD under the reign of King Indravarman II. During the restoration work, the Archaeological Survey of India made a discovery of the monolithic sandstone Shiv Linga.&nbsp;

In fact, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar had tweeted on it, calling the discovery "Reaffirming a civilisational connect" and "A great cultural example of India’s development partnership."

In South Asia, India is restoring temples and monasteries in Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal. In Sri Lanka, India has restored Thirukeeteswaram Temple in Mannar and official handing over ceremony is expected to happen very soon. In Bhutan significant projects like the restoration of Rigsum Goenpa Lhakhang, Lingzhi Dzong Conservation Project, Construction of Sarpang Dzong and Wangdiphodrang Dzong Reconstruction is being undertaken. &nbsp;

In Nepal, renovation of nine sites of historical places in and around Lalitpur District, Shree Pal Ewam Namgyal Monastic, Choonup in Mustang District, Harihar Bhawan, Kathmandu, Balmiki Campus of Nepal Sanskrit University, Kathmandu and rehabilitation of East and West Bhagmati Ghats at Pashupatinath Temple are some of the many projects being carried out.

The Ministry of External Affairs has completed over 49 projects all around the globe which includes cultural and heritage restoration projects in Malaysia, Mongolia, Bahrain, Israel, Turkestan, France, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Indonesia, Africa and other CMLV countries--Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam.

The DPA IV division also plans to promote restoration and revival of Intangible Cultural Heritage like language, rituals, practices, performing and other fine arts in an institutional manner. This is expected to be broadened to scripture preservation and digitization of manuscripts.&nbsp;

India had in 1986 sent teams of Archaeological Survey of India for the restoration of “Angkor Wat”. Other examples of India's restoration include temple complex at “Ta Prohm” in Cambodia.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The new division of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) -- the Development Partnership Administration (DPA IV) has emerged as the nodal point when it comes to dealing with heritage restoration projects undertaken by the Indian Government across the globe.

The new division of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) -- the Development Partnership Administration (DPA IV) has emerged as the nodal point when it comes to dealing with heritage restoration projects undertaken by the Indian Government across the globe. It hence plays an important role in the restoration of cultural heritage in several countries across the region from Sri Lanka to Myanmar to Vietnam to Bhutan. DPA IV, created in January 2020, aims to put all the stakeholders on the same page when it comes to the mammoth task of dealing with projects which New Delhi is helping restore across the world. The overarching aim is to revive and display India’s cultural and heritage linkages with other countries. In Southeast Asia, the focus is on Myanmar, Lao, Cambodia and Vietnam. In Myanmar, conservation of earthquake-damaged Pagodas at Bagan is underway. In Lao, restoration of Vat Phou Shiva temple in Lao is being carried out in two stages. Vat Phou Shiva is Lord Shiva temple dating back to 5th and 6th century AD and predates the famous Angkor Wat. The water from the spring behind the temple is considered to be sacred. The second phase of the project began in November, 2018 and shall continue until 2028. In Cambodia, India has committed to carry out the restoration of the ancient temple of “Preah Vihar” built during the period of the Khmer Empire. In Vietnam, India is restoring, “My Son group of temples” which are regarded as one of the prime Hindu temple complexes in Southeast Asia. The temple complex was built in the 9th century AD under the reign of King Indravarman II. During the restoration work, the Archaeological Survey of India made a discovery of the monolithic sandstone Shiv Linga. In fact, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar had tweeted on it, calling the discovery "Reaffirming a civilisational connect" and "A great cultural example of India’s development partnership." In South Asia, India is restoring temples and monasteries in Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal. In Sri Lanka, India has restored Thirukeeteswaram Temple in Mannar and official handing over ceremony is expected to happen very soon. In Bhutan significant projects like the restoration of Rigsum Goenpa Lhakhang, Lingzhi Dzong Conservation Project, Construction of Sarpang Dzong and Wangdiphodrang Dzong Reconstruction is being undertaken. In Nepal, renovation of nine sites of historical places in and around Lalitpur District, Shree Pal Ewam Namgyal Monastic, Choonup in Mustang District, Harihar Bhawan, Kathmandu, Balmiki Campus of Nepal Sanskrit University, Kathmandu and rehabilitation of East and West Bhagmati Ghats at Pashupatinath Temple are some of the many projects being carried out. The Ministry of External Affairs has completed over 49 projects all around the globe which includes cultural and heritage restoration projects in Malaysia, Mongolia, Bahrain, Israel, Turkestan, France, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Indonesia, Africa and other CMLV countries--Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. The DPA IV division also plans to promote restoration and revival of Intangible Cultural Heritage like language, rituals, practices, performing and other fine arts in an institutional manner. This is expected to be broadened to scripture preservation and digitization of manuscripts. India had in 1986 sent teams of Archaeological Survey of India for the restoration of “Angkor Wat”. Other examples of India's restoration include temple complex at “Ta Prohm” in Cambodia.

MEA's new division spearheading restoration of temples, pagodas in Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Vietnam

The death toll from a mud slide at a jade mine in northern Myanmar surged to over 100 Thursday, authorities said, in one of the worst accidents ever to hit the perilous industry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/myanmar-sets-november-8-as-the-date-for-parliamentary-election-309998">Myanmar sets November 8 as the date for parliamentary election</a>

"A total of 113 bodies been found so far," Myanmar Fire Service said in a Facebook post.&nbsp;

A local police officer said search and rescue efforts had been suspended due to heavy rains.

The death toll from a mud slide at a jade mine in northern Myanmar surged to over 100 Thursday, authorities said, in one of the worst accidents ever to hit the perilous industry.

The death toll from a mud slide at a jade mine in northern Myanmar surged to over 100 Thursday, authorities said, in one of the worst accidents ever to hit the perilous industry. Also read | Myanmar sets November 8 as the date for parliamentary election "A total of 113 bodies been found so far," Myanmar Fire Service said in a Facebook post. A local police officer said search and rescue efforts had been suspended due to heavy rains.

Death toll from Myanmar jade mine landslide rises to 113

China's behaviour towards its neighbours fits the classic definition of a bully. Every time a nation pursues an accomodating approach. China gets more encouraged and ups the ante.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-extends-support-to-nepal-as-pakistan-struggles-with-its-own-problems-310301" hreflang="en">Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems</a>

How then does one deal with such a compulsive bully?

They have to either submit and become an abettor as Nepal and Pakistan have or you stand up and treat the bully the way it should be --- like India is doing.

India's determined actions have emboldened another nation to take a stand.&nbsp;One of China's closest ally in south-east Asia is pointing fingers at Beijing, Myanmar.

First, the country said no to Chinese loans. This was last month.&nbsp;Now reports say that Myanmar is blaming China for arming insurgent groups in the country.

The commander-in-chief of the Myanmar armed forces senior general Min Aung Hlaing gave an interview recently. It was aired on Zvezda, a Russian state-run TV channel.

Hlaing said: "A country may be able to suppress terrorist organizations on its soil. But in cases when there are strong forces behind that terrorist organization, the country alone may not be able to handle it."

He did not take any names. But the mention of "strong forces" is widely being seen as a reference to China.

By terrorist organizations, the Myanmar Army Chief was referring primarily to the Arakan army. The largest Buddhist insurgent group in Myanmar. It has been active along Myanmar's border with China.

Arakan insurgents have been caught with Chinese weapons time and again. So have members of several other ethnic militias.

In November 2019, the Myanmar army busted a huge cache of weapons from an insurgent group.

Most of the weapons seized were Chinese! The headlines are on your screens. The Myanmar army raised the issue with China. Beijing vehemently denied arming rebel groups.&nbsp;

The issue soon got brushed under the carpet. But suspicions about China's intentions only grew.

Now over the months, these suspicions have taken many forms. Reports say the Myanmar army has now sensed a pattern of how these insurgents groups operate.

The Arakan army for example. It hinders every development project on the Myanmar-Mizoram border. It has a history of taking Indian construction workers hostage.

But when it comes to China, the same insurgent group lays down its arms. The Arakan army does not disrupt any Chinese development projects along Myanmar's border.

The word is that China is using its influence on this insurgent group to ensure a smooth implementation of belt and road projects. Beijing is desperate to push the China-Myanmar economic corridor.

A project that will give China a strategic opening into the Bay of Bengal and leverage over India. To ensure its complete China is using the ethnic militia to keep other countries away from Myanmar --- and threaten the Myanmar government.

It is supplying funds and sophisticated weaponry to insurgents in Myanmar. One report says --- that 95 per cent of the total funding of the Arakan army comes from China.

The modern weapons it uses -- have Chinese written all over them. The agenda is loud and clear. China wants Myanmar to become another vassal state. If diplomacy &amp; debt traps fail. Terror will be China's tool to achieve its motives.

China's behaviour towards its neighbours fits the classic definition of a bully. Every time a nation pursues an accomodating approach. China gets more encouraged and ups the ante.

China's behaviour towards its neighbours fits the classic definition of a bully. Every time a nation pursues an accomodating approach. China gets more encouraged and ups the ante. Also read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan extends support to Nepal as Pakistan struggles with its own problems How then does one deal with such a compulsive bully? They have to either submit and become an abettor as Nepal and Pakistan have or you stand up and treat the bully the way it should be --- like India is doing. India's determined actions have emboldened another nation to take a stand. One of China's closest ally in south-east Asia is pointing fingers at Beijing, Myanmar. First, the country said no to Chinese loans. This was last month. Now reports say that Myanmar is blaming China for arming insurgent groups in the country. The commander-in-chief of the Myanmar armed forces senior general Min Aung Hlaing gave an interview recently. It was aired on Zvezda, a Russian state-run TV channel. Hlaing said: "A country may be able to suppress terrorist organizations on its soil. But in cases when there are strong forces behind that terrorist organization, the country alone may not be able to handle it." He did not take any names. But the mention of "strong forces" is widely being seen as a reference to China. By terrorist organizations, the Myanmar Army Chief was referring primarily to the Arakan army. The largest Buddhist insurgent group in Myanmar. It has been active along Myanmar's border with China. Arakan insurgents have been caught with Chinese weapons time and again. So have members of several other ethnic militias. In November 2019, the Myanmar army busted a huge cache of weapons from an insurgent group. Most of the weapons seized were Chinese! The headlines are on your screens. The Myanmar army raised the issue with China. Beijing vehemently denied arming rebel groups. The issue soon got brushed under the carpet. But suspicions about China's intentions only grew. Now over the months, these suspicions have taken many forms. Reports say the Myanmar army has now sensed a pattern of how these insurgents groups operate. The Arakan army for example. It hinders every development project on the Myanmar-Mizoram border. It has a history of taking Indian construction workers hostage. But when it comes to China, the same insurgent group lays down its arms. The Arakan army does not disrupt any Chinese development projects along Myanmar's border. The word is that China is using its influence on this insurgent group to ensure a smooth implementation of belt and road projects. Beijing is desperate to push the China-Myanmar economic corridor. A project that will give China a strategic opening into the Bay of Bengal and leverage over India. To ensure its complete China is using the ethnic militia to keep other countries away from Myanmar --- and threaten the Myanmar government. It is supplying funds and sophisticated weaponry to insurgents in Myanmar. One report says --- that 95 per cent of the total funding of the Arakan army comes from China. The modern weapons it uses -- have Chinese written all over them. The agenda is loud and clear. China wants Myanmar to become another vassal state. If diplomacy & debt traps fail. Terror will be China's tool to achieve its motives.

Myanmar continues to speak up against China; holds responsible for Arakan insurgents

At least 110 people were killed, and around 200 others are trapped after a jade mine collapsed in Hpakant, northern Myanmar on July 2. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: 110 killed as mine collapses in Myanmar | Rescue underway | Hpakant mines

Myanmar on Wednesday announced November 8 as the date for a parliamentary election set to serve as a test of the country’s first democratic government in half a century.

A statement attributed to union election commission chairman Hla Thein and read out during an evening broadcast by Myanmar Radio and Television said a "multi-party general election for the parliament" would be held on November 8.

The polls are seen by analysts as an important test of Myanmar's transition away from direct military rule.

Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi won power in a landslide in 2015 that ended decades of junta rule. But her administration has come under pressure internationally over a military crackdown that drove hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims into Bangladesh in 2017.

At home, while Suu Kyi remains overwhelmingly popular, her government has had to rebut criticism over escalating fighting with ethnic armed groups and slower-than-expected economic growth.

While the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) is expected to do better than others in the election, analysts say its large majority could be dented.

Myanmar on Wednesday announced November 8 as the date for a parliamentary election set to serve as a test of the country’s first democratic government in half a century.

Myanmar on Wednesday announced November 8 as the date for a parliamentary election set to serve as a test of the country’s first democratic government in half a century. A statement attributed to union election commission chairman Hla Thein and read out during an evening broadcast by Myanmar Radio and Television said a "multi-party general election for the parliament" would be held on November 8. The polls are seen by analysts as an important test of Myanmar's transition away from direct military rule. Nobel peace laureate Aung San Suu Kyi won power in a landslide in 2015 that ended decades of junta rule. But her administration has come under pressure internationally over a military crackdown that drove hundreds of thousands of Rohingya Muslims into Bangladesh in 2017. At home, while Suu Kyi remains overwhelmingly popular, her government has had to rebut criticism over escalating fighting with ethnic armed groups and slower-than-expected economic growth. While the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD) is expected to do better than others in the election, analysts say its large majority could be dented.

Myanmar sets November 8 as the date for parliamentary election

Three Myanmar military officers were found guilty by a court martial investigating atrocities against Rohingya Muslims in conflict-ridden Rakhine state, the army announced Tuesday. 
 
The rare action against military members came as Myanmar faces charges of genocide at the United Nations' top court over a brutal 2017 crackdown against the Rohingya. 
 
Some 750,000 Rohingya fled to neighbouring Bangladesh with accounts of widespread murder, rape and arson.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/suspected-rohingya-refugee-boat-seen-floating-off-indonesia-308314" hreflang="en">Suspected Rohingya refugee boat seen floating off Indonesia</a> 
 
Rights groups accused security forces of committing atrocities in various villages, including Gu Dar Pyin, where they alleged at least five shallow mass graves had been found.&nbsp; 
 
After initially denying the allegations, the military started court martial proceedings in September, admitting there had been "weakness in following instructions" in the village.&nbsp; 
 
The commander-in-chief's office announced Tuesday the court martial had "confirmed the guilty verdict" and sentenced three officers.&nbsp; 
 
No details were provided on the perpetrators, their crimes, or sentences.&nbsp; 
 
Estimates from survivors in Bangladesh put the death toll from the village in the hundreds.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/malaysia-could-send-rohingya-detainees-back-out-to-sea-sources-306778" hreflang="en">Malaysia could send Rohingya detainees back out to sea: Sources</a> 
 
The government has largely supported the army's justification of the 2017 operations as a means of rooting out insurgents. 
 
Civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi admitted at the International Court of Justice in December, however, that disproportionate force may have been used. 
 
The military has maintained any atrocities were committed by a few maverick individuals.&nbsp; 
 
UN investigators also found evidence of extrajudicial killings in other Rakhine villages, Maung Nu and Chut Pyin.&nbsp; 
 
The army chief's office said Tuesday a court of inquiry would "continue to investigate" events at both villages. &nbsp; 
 
In 2018 the military sentenced members of the security forces to a decade in prison for the killing of 10 Rohingya in Inn Din village, but they were released after serving less than a year.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/south-asia/traffickers-demand-payments-for-rohingya-stranded-at-sea-306121" hreflang="en">Traffickers demand payments for Rohingya stranded at sea</a> 
 
Two journalists who exposed that&nbsp;massacre were detained for more than 16 months before they were pardoned following global outcry.&nbsp; 
 
The state remains a flashpoint of ethnic and religious tensions, and the military has been locked in battle since January last year with insurgents fighting for more autonomy for ethnic Rakhine Buddhists. 
 
Intensified fighting over the weekend drew alarm from the UN on Sunday, who called for both sides to respect international humanitarian law as thousands more civilians fled their homes from artillery shelling.

Three Myanmar military officers were found guilty by a court martial investigating atrocities against Rohingya Muslims in conflict-ridden Rakhine state, the army announced Tuesday.

Three Myanmar military officers were found guilty by a court martial investigating atrocities against Rohingya Muslims in conflict-ridden Rakhine state, the army announced Tuesday. The rare action against military members came as Myanmar faces charges of genocide at the United Nations' top court over a brutal 2017 crackdown against the Rohingya. Some 750,000 Rohingya fled to neighbouring Bangladesh with accounts of widespread murder, rape and arson. Also read: Suspected Rohingya refugee boat seen floating off Indonesia Rights groups accused security forces of committing atrocities in various villages, including Gu Dar Pyin, where they alleged at least five shallow mass graves had been found. After initially denying the allegations, the military started court martial proceedings in September, admitting there had been "weakness in following instructions" in the village. The commander-in-chief's office announced Tuesday the court martial had "confirmed the guilty verdict" and sentenced three officers. No details were provided on the perpetrators, their crimes, or sentences. Estimates from survivors in Bangladesh put the death toll from the village in the hundreds. Also read: Malaysia could send Rohingya detainees back out to sea: Sources The government has largely supported the army's justification of the 2017 operations as a means of rooting out insurgents. Civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi admitted at the International Court of Justice in December, however, that disproportionate force may have been used. The military has maintained any atrocities were committed by a few maverick individuals. UN investigators also found evidence of extrajudicial killings in other Rakhine villages, Maung Nu and Chut Pyin. The army chief's office said Tuesday a court of inquiry would "continue to investigate" events at both villages. In 2018 the military sentenced members of the security forces to a decade in prison for the killing of 10 Rohingya in Inn Din village, but they were released after serving less than a year. Also read: Traffickers demand payments for Rohingya stranded at sea Two journalists who exposed that massacre were detained for more than 16 months before they were pardoned following global outcry. The state remains a flashpoint of ethnic and religious tensions, and the military has been locked in battle since January last year with insurgents fighting for more autonomy for ethnic Rakhine Buddhists. Intensified fighting over the weekend drew alarm from the UN on Sunday, who called for both sides to respect international humanitarian law as thousands more civilians fled their homes from artillery shelling.

Myanmar finds soldiers guilty in Rohingya atrocities court martial

The internet shutdown in Myanmar's conflict-ridden northwest, described by rights groups as the world's longest, entered a second year Sunday with locals and campaigners appealing for an end to the blackout as coronavirus fears grip the region.

The Myanmar military has been embroiled in a bloody civil war since January 2019 against the Arakan Army (AA), an insurgent group fighting for more autonomy for ethnic Rakhine Buddhists.

Also read&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/afghanistan/afghanistan-and-myanmar-drown-in-chinas-loans-afghanistan-rejects-loan-306145">Afghanistan and Myanmar drown in China's loans; Afghanistan rejects loan</a>

The government shut down mobile data in several townships across Rakhine state and neighbouring Chin state on June 21 last year, causing panic among residents desperate for information about the unrest.

Human Rights Watch had called on Friday for an immediate end to "the world's longest government-enforced internet shutdown".

"It's critical for civilians to get the information needed to stay safe" during a global pandemic, said HRW's Linda Lakhdhir.

The country has so far recorded 287 coronavirus cases including six deaths, but experts fear the low numbers are due to a lack of testing.

A government official said earlier this month the internet shutdown would continue until at least August 1 in eight townships.

Telecom companies said the government ordered the blackout to prevent "illegal activities".

The conflict has displaced tens of thousands of civilians and seen hundreds injured and scores killed, with both the military and the AA trading allegations of abuses.

Few in Myanmar have personal computers, with the majority relying on mobile phones to access the internet for communications and information -- making those under the blackout especially vulnerable to COVID-19.

Rights groups have also condemned the blocking of several local media websites and are urging telecom firms to push back against the government's orders.

Rakhine state is also home to the Rohingya, a Muslim minority group that faced a brutal crackdown by the military in 2017.

Some 750,000 fled to neighbouring Bangladesh in violence that has led to charges of genocide against Myanmar at the UN's top court.

The 600,000 Rohingya remaining in Rakhine live in what Amnesty International has branded "apartheid conditions", with little freedom of movement.&nbsp;

"We want to know more information regarding COVID-19, what's happening to the displaced people in Sittwe (Rakhine's capital) and what's happening in Bangladesh," Abdullah, a Rohingya resident from Mrauk U township, told AFP by phone.

They now struggle to contact relatives, send them money or even check the weather forecast, he added.

Schoolteacher Aung Win in Buthidaung township said he was unable to access lessons from the education department before the new academic year begins in July.&nbsp;

"We just want the internet back as soon as possible," he said. 
&nbsp;

The internet shutdown in Myanmar's conflict-ridden northwest, described by rights groups as the world's longest, entered a second year Sunday with locals and campaigners appealing for an end to the blackout as coronavirus fears grip the region.

The internet shutdown in Myanmar's conflict-ridden northwest, described by rights groups as the world's longest, entered a second year Sunday with locals and campaigners appealing for an end to the blackout as coronavirus fears grip the region. The Myanmar military has been embroiled in a bloody civil war since January 2019 against the Arakan Army (AA), an insurgent group fighting for more autonomy for ethnic Rakhine Buddhists. Also read | Afghanistan and Myanmar drown in China's loans; Afghanistan rejects loan The government shut down mobile data in several townships across Rakhine state and neighbouring Chin state on June 21 last year, causing panic among residents desperate for information about the unrest. Human Rights Watch had called on Friday for an immediate end to "the world's longest government-enforced internet shutdown". "It's critical for civilians to get the information needed to stay safe" during a global pandemic, said HRW's Linda Lakhdhir. The country has so far recorded 287 coronavirus cases including six deaths, but experts fear the low numbers are due to a lack of testing. A government official said earlier this month the internet shutdown would continue until at least August 1 in eight townships. Telecom companies said the government ordered the blackout to prevent "illegal activities". The conflict has displaced tens of thousands of civilians and seen hundreds injured and scores killed, with both the military and the AA trading allegations of abuses. Few in Myanmar have personal computers, with the majority relying on mobile phones to access the internet for communications and information -- making those under the blackout especially vulnerable to COVID-19. Rights groups have also condemned the blocking of several local media websites and are urging telecom firms to push back against the government's orders. Rakhine state is also home to the Rohingya, a Muslim minority group that faced a brutal crackdown by the military in 2017. Some 750,000 fled to neighbouring Bangladesh in violence that has led to charges of genocide against Myanmar at the UN's top court. The 600,000 Rohingya remaining in Rakhine live in what Amnesty International has branded "apartheid conditions", with little freedom of movement. "We want to know more information regarding COVID-19, what's happening to the displaced people in Sittwe (Rakhine's capital) and what's happening in Bangladesh," Abdullah, a Rohingya resident from Mrauk U township, told AFP by phone. They now struggle to contact relatives, send them money or even check the weather forecast, he added. Schoolteacher Aung Win in Buthidaung township said he was unable to access lessons from the education department before the new academic year begins in July. "We just want the internet back as soon as possible," he said.

Internet blackout in Myanmar's Rakhine enters second year

Bus travel in Myanmar has gone from cramped seats to first-class, private pod seating, thanks to the coronavirus outbreak. As a social-distancing measure, local bus operator JJ Express has introduced cubicles in dozens of its buses where long-distance travellers sit with minimized contagion risk behind closed aluminum doors.

Myanmar bus launches private pod seats to discourage virus spread

A mobile barbershop in Myanmar is attempting to trim coronavirus fears by going door-to-door, offering customers haircuts at their doorsteps.

Myanmar barbershop on wheels trims virus worries by going door-to-door

Malaysia is considering a plan to send nearly 300 Rohingya Muslim refugees detained after arriving on a damaged boat back out to sea once the ship has been fixed, two security sources told Reuters on Thursday.

Muslim-majority Malaysia has been a favoured destination for ethnic Rohingya fleeing persecution in Myanmar and more recently, refugee camps in Bangladesh, in search of better prospects.

But Malaysia has said it will no longer accept Rohingya refugees after tightening border controls to rein in the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Malaysia had earlier asked Bangladesh to take back 269 Rohingya refugees, who were detained upon their arrival on June 8, but Bangladeshi officials had rejected the request.

Authorities have now drawn up a plan to send the detainees back out to sea after the boat has been fixed, two Malaysian security sources said. They declined to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter.

"That is the current plan but no decision has been made yet," one of the sources said.

The boat would be supplied with food and water if the plan to push them out to sea was approved, the source said.

The Malaysian government`s National Taskforce on migrant issues, which includes the maritime agency, navy, police and immigration, did not respond to an emailed request for comment. Nor did Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin`s office.

The body of one Rohingya woman was found on the boat but rights groups say more had died while others were left starving after being stranded at sea for months before being rescued.

The Arakan Project, a non-profit group focusing on the Rohingya crisis, urged Malaysia not to send the refugees back out to sea.

"This would amount to refoulement and would be completely inhumane as passengers already died aboard this boat before it was rescued," Chris Lewa, the group`s director told Reuters.

Refoulement means the forced return of refugees to a place where they risk persecution in contravention of international humanitarian and human rights laws.

"Rohingya need protection and cannot be pushed off from one country to another, let alone back to sea."

In recent weeks, Malaysia has turned away at least two boats and detained hundreds of Rohingya already in the country, as well as other undocumented migrants.

The action comes amid heightened public anger towards foreigners in Malaysia, who have been accused of spreading the coronavirus and being a burden on state resources. 
At least one boat with as many as 300 Rohingya refugees on board remains at sea, according to rights groups. Some of those on board are believed to be sick. 
Its location is not known.

Malaysia is considering a plan to send nearly 300 Rohingya Muslim refugees detained after arriving on a damaged boat back out to sea once the ship has been fixed, two security sources told Reuters on Thursday.

Malaysia is considering a plan to send nearly 300 Rohingya Muslim refugees detained after arriving on a damaged boat back out to sea once the ship has been fixed, two security sources told Reuters on Thursday. Muslim-majority Malaysia has been a favoured destination for ethnic Rohingya fleeing persecution in Myanmar and more recently, refugee camps in Bangladesh, in search of better prospects. But Malaysia has said it will no longer accept Rohingya refugees after tightening border controls to rein in the spread of the novel coronavirus. Malaysia had earlier asked Bangladesh to take back 269 Rohingya refugees, who were detained upon their arrival on June 8, but Bangladeshi officials had rejected the request. Authorities have now drawn up a plan to send the detainees back out to sea after the boat has been fixed, two Malaysian security sources said. They declined to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter. "That is the current plan but no decision has been made yet," one of the sources said. The boat would be supplied with food and water if the plan to push them out to sea was approved, the source said. The Malaysian government`s National Taskforce on migrant issues, which includes the maritime agency, navy, police and immigration, did not respond to an emailed request for comment. Nor did Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin`s office. The body of one Rohingya woman was found on the boat but rights groups say more had died while others were left starving after being stranded at sea for months before being rescued. The Arakan Project, a non-profit group focusing on the Rohingya crisis, urged Malaysia not to send the refugees back out to sea. "This would amount to refoulement and would be completely inhumane as passengers already died aboard this boat before it was rescued," Chris Lewa, the group`s director told Reuters. Refoulement means the forced return of refugees to a place where they risk persecution in contravention of international humanitarian and human rights laws. "Rohingya need protection and cannot be pushed off from one country to another, let alone back to sea." In recent weeks, Malaysia has turned away at least two boats and detained hundreds of Rohingya already in the country, as well as other undocumented migrants. The action comes amid heightened public anger towards foreigners in Malaysia, who have been accused of spreading the coronavirus and being a burden on state resources. At least one boat with as many as 300 Rohingya refugees on board remains at sea, according to rights groups. Some of those on board are believed to be sick. Its location is not known.

Malaysia could send Rohingya detainees back out to sea: Sources

A Canadian Christian preacher was denied bail on Wednesday by a court in Myanmar after he held church services, violating a ban on gatherings to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

David Lah, a Canadian of Burmese origin, and Wai Tun, Myanmar national, held church services in the city of Yangon in early April that led to several coronavirus cases, including the Christian preacher himself. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-police-find-the-largest-haul-of-synthetic-drugs-in-south-east-asia-seizing-200-million-meth-tablets-299550">Myanmar police find the largest haul of synthetic drugs in South East Asia, seizing 200 million meth tablets</a>&nbsp;

"For lawsuits which carry a sentence of three years or more, we don't need to grant bail," judge Moe Swe told reporters after the proceedings, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-generals-confess-abusing-prisoners-in-rakhine-state-298737">Myanmar army generals confess abusing prisoners in Rakhine state</a>

Both the accused are facing&nbsp;prison sentences of up to three years under a disaster management law.&nbsp;

Nearly 20 people who participated in the gathering were tested positive, which later led to a cluster of 67 cases including the preacher, officials said.&nbsp;

In Myanmar, over 230 coronavirus cases have so far been reported with at least six deaths.&nbsp;

In many countries in South Asia, religious gatherings have led to a surge in cases.&nbsp;

The matter will next be heard on June 8.&nbsp;

A Canadian Christian preacher was denied bail on Wednesday by a court in Myanmar after he held church services, violating a ban on gatherings to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus.

A Canadian Christian preacher was denied bail on Wednesday by a court in Myanmar after he held church services, violating a ban on gatherings to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus. David Lah, a Canadian of Burmese origin, and Wai Tun, Myanmar national, held church services in the city of Yangon in early April that led to several coronavirus cases, including the Christian preacher himself. Also read | Myanmar police find the largest haul of synthetic drugs in South East Asia, seizing 200 million meth tablets "For lawsuits which carry a sentence of three years or more, we don't need to grant bail," judge Moe Swe told reporters after the proceedings, reported Reuters. Also read | Myanmar army generals confess abusing prisoners in Rakhine state Both the accused are facing prison sentences of up to three years under a disaster management law. Nearly 20 people who participated in the gathering were tested positive, which later led to a cluster of 67 cases including the preacher, officials said. In Myanmar, over 230 coronavirus cases have so far been reported with at least six deaths. In many countries in South Asia, religious gatherings have led to a surge in cases. The matter will next be heard on June 8.

Myanmar: Canadian preacher denied bail after Church services led to surge in coronavirus cases

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