Skip to main content

Forge unity among ethnic national brethren

RAKHINE State is rich in cultural heritage and artistic treasures, reflecting its long history. As a region where Buddhism is flourishing, Rakhine State has abundant ancient stupas and temples as cultural heritage.

Rakhine State, located on the nation’s western coast, spans 14,200 square miles and shares borders with neighbouring coun­tries, making it a strategic area. Renowned for its natural beauty, the state boasts lush forests, mountains, rivers, and a scenic coastline. Its abundant natural and water resources support the production of valuable goods.

The government has allocated K10 billion from the State Economic Promotion Fund to support agriculture, livestock, cooperatives, and industrial projects in Rakhine State. The funds are currently being distributed to farmers, cooperatives, and industries to carry out their initiatives.

Improving agriculture and livestock sectors in Rakhine State can uplift the socioec­onomic conditions of its pre­dominantly rural population and strengthen the country’s manufacturing sector. This effort reflects the State’s goodwill toward the people of Rakhine, fostering national unity, genuine patriotism, and a shared spirit of Union.

The State Administra­tion Council formed the Ra­khine State Peace, Stability, and Development Central Committee to enhance so­cio-economic development in agriculture, livestock, ed­ucation, health, communica­tion, and electricity. Follow­ing Cyclone Mocha in May 2023, the committee launched immediate rehabilitation ef­forts, enabling swift recovery and progress. Rakhine State continues to rebuild and im­prove conditions, surpassing pre-disaster levels.

The actions of MNDAA, TNLA, and AA, which began in October 2023, have worsened the socioeconomic conditions of ethnic communities. The sabotage by these armed groups has forced many innocent civilians into poverty and hardship. Their politically driven armed attacks, rooted in misguided ideologies, have led to ongoing violence. Rather than fostering unity through a multiparty democratic path, these groups have chosen isolation. Many young people have been manipulated into violent conflicts, often through the use of drugs. It is evident that their goals cannot be achieved through terrorism but through political dialogue and negotiation. A peaceful resolution is the only viable solution, and these groups are urged to abandon armed struggle in favour of constructive political engagement.

Rakhine State has long struggled with transport and infra­structure challenges. Consequently, successive governments have prioritized its development, resulting in significant progress over time. Unity is crucial, as division weakens the nation and risks reducing us to mere followers, left behind by history. To safeguard our future, everybody must heed this warning and collaborate for the nation’s greater good.

#TheGlobalNewLightOfMyanmar