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Zaw Win Shein Since Myanmar’s 2021 military coup, Zaw Win Shein, CEO of Ayeyar Hinthar Group, has emerged as a prominent figure at junta-hosted events, solidifying his role as the country’s youngest and most politically adaptive tycoon. Often seen alongside junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, Zaw Win Shein has donated generously to military-led causes, including religious, educational, and disaster relief efforts. His enduring presence across successive political eras sets him apart from other crony businessmen who have risen and fallen with shifting regimes. A Career Forged in Political Alliances Zaw Win Shein began modestly as a rice exporter during the State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) era. His breakthrough came through connections with the son of then-Quartermaster General Tin Aung Myint Oo, securing him profitable rice export licenses to China. Leveraging these early ties, he expanded into construction, military supply, and palm oil imports. When Tin Aung Myint Oo retired, Zaw Win Shein aligned with his successor, General Wai Lwin, forming similar strategic partnerships that advanced his reach into military-linked enterprises. During the Thein Sein administration, Zaw Win Shein grew closer to “Super Minister” Soe Thane, accompanying him on official missions and winning state tenders. He acquired prime government land and launched A Bank, later securing major projects like Pathein Industrial City with help from regional leaders and military intelligence networks. Influence Under the NLD Unlike many cronies who lost favor under the National League for Democracy (NLD), Zaw Win Shein preserved his influence, maintaining ties with party figure U Win Htein and Finance Minister U Kyaw Win, a former employee of his. While increased scrutiny during the democratic period led to a public backlash over a golf event he sponsored—resulting in U Kyaw Win’s resignation—Zaw Win Shein remained unscathed. His A Bank secured the only new commercial banking license under the NLD, and he was awarded a key hydropower project in northern Shan State. Post-Coup Consolidation After the 2021 coup, Zaw Win Shein strengthened his standing with junta elites such as Lieutenant General Moe Myint Tun and Military Intelligence Chief Ye Win Oo. He retained lucrative military-linked contracts and forged ties with the current Quartermaster General, Lieutenant General Zaw Hein. His most significant coup-era acquisition came in 2023 with the $576-million purchase of Ooredoo Myanmar, one of the country’s top telecom firms. The deal made him the only crony to simultaneously control a bank and a telecom company under the junta’s rule. A Master of Adaptation Unlike predecessors like Tay Za or Aung Ko Win, whose fortunes fluctuated with regime changes, Zaw Win Shein has thrived across Myanmar’s four most recent political eras—the SPDC, Thein Sein’s quasi-civilian government, the NLD, and now the military junta. From a rice trader to a telecom magnate, Zaw Win Shein’s ascent reflects not just business acumen but a rare ability to navigate Myanmar’s volatile power landscape. Now entrenched among the country’s wealthiest and most politically connected elites, he stands as a new-generation archetype of Myanmar’s enduring crony capitalism. -2025-06-11

PLA A fighter jet belonging to Myanmar’s military regime was shot down by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on Tuesday during fierce fighting near Kan Dauk police station in Pale Township, Sagaing Region, according to the PLA and local sources. The jet is the latest in a string of regime aircraft brought down by resistance groups since the 2021 coup, marking at least the tenth loss of a military plane. PLA spokesperson Daw Ni Ni Kyaw confirmed the downing, saying it occurred around 12:15 pm as the group and allied forces continued their assault on the police station, which began on June 2. The regime responded with repeated airstrikes using fighter jets and Y12 aircraft. A local witness said the resistance used a .50-caliber M2 Browning machine gun to shoot down the warplane, which crashed in a nearby village and exploded on impact, setting buildings and a monastery ablaze. Footage released by the PLA shows wreckage scattered near the burning village and what appears to be the remains of the pilot. While the military confirmed a jet had crashed and caught fire in Pale Township, it attributed the incident to engine failure during a training exercise. This event comes just three weeks after two regime helicopters were downed during clashes with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) near Bhamo town. On May 20, the KIA used suicide drones and firearms to disable two helicopters transporting troops to the embattled 21st Military Operations Command headquarters. Resistance media released footage of a drone striking a helicopter rotor and later destroying one of the crash-landed aircraft as junta troops attempted recovery operations. Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar’s resistance forces have downed four fighter jets, five helicopters, and one helicopter gunship in armed confrontations across multiple states, including Sagaing, Kachin, Rakhine, Shan, Karen, and Karenni. The growing ability of resistance groups to target and neutralize air assets marks a significant shift in Myanmar’s conflict, weakening the regime’s once-dominant aerial advantage and signaling a deepening of the country’s civil war. -2025-06-11

TVK, 2024 Cambodia will mark the 89th birthday of Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk with a grand fireworks display in front of the Royal Palace on 18 June, as the nation pays tribute to her decades of service and enduring role as a unifying figure. Chin Ketana, Secretary-General of the National Committee for National and International Festivals, confirmed that the fireworks will begin at 7pm as part of celebrations organised by the government in partnership with the Royal Family and state institutions. “Each year, the Cambodian people come together to honour the King and Queen Mother’s contributions. These celebrations reflect our deep national respect,” said Minister of the Royal Palace Kuy Sophal. Public institutions across the country will grant leave to civil servants, armed forces, and students to join the festivities. Security and public order during the event will be closely overseen by the Phnom Penh Administration, Deputy Governor Keut Chhe confirmed. Born Paule-Monique Izzi in 1936, Queen Mother Norodom Monineath is the mother of King Norodom Sihamoni and the late Prince Norodom Narindrapong. She became Queen Consort in 1952 and stood by King Father Norodom Sihanouk through some of Cambodia’s most turbulent political eras, including exile during the Khmer Rouge regime. Known for her charitable work, she led the Cambodian Red Cross in the 1960s and continues to serve as its Honorary President. She remains a revered national figure, often referred to as a symbol of unity, compassion, and quiet resilience. As the capital prepares for the celebration, banners, portraits, and flowers are already appearing throughout Phnom Penh. Across the country, leaders and citizens alike are expected to send messages of goodwill, with many regarding the Queen Mother as the matriarch of modern Cambodia. While the birthday events are ceremonial in nature, they offer a rare moment of national reflection and unity—a pause to honour the past and the enduring presence of a figure who has witnessed and shaped Cambodia’s history for nearly nine decades. -2025-06-11

Cambodia has denied reports that its troops have withdrawn from contested areas along the Thai border, insisting all military manoeuvres remain strictly within its own territory. The clarification comes after Thai media suggested Cambodian forces had pulled back, prompting concerns and a wave of nationalist sentiment online. In a strongly worded statement, Cambodia’s Defence Ministry said, “There has been no withdrawal… All troop arrangements are conducted entirely within Cambodia’s sovereign territory.” At the heart of the tension is a decades-old dispute involving ancient temples and surrounding land in the Mom Bei region, which recently erupted into the first deadly clash between the two nations' armed forces in over ten years. A Cambodian soldier was killed during a 10-minute skirmish on 28 May. In response, both nations boosted their military presence and closed key checkpoints. A joint meeting on 8 June saw an agreement to “readjust” troops to ease tensions, but not to withdraw them. Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha and Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra have both stressed the importance of avoiding further escalation. Cambodia, however, is preparing to take the matter to the International Court of Justice. Prime Minister Hun Manet has established a high-level committee to document claims over sites including Ta Moan Thom and Ta Krabei temples. Thailand has rejected international arbitration, favouring direct negotiations through a regional border commission set to meet on 14 June. Meanwhile, a wave of misinformation on both sides has stoked public anxiety. Fake news—including false claims of casualties and doctored videos—has circulated widely, prompting arrests and government warnings. Cambodian and Thai officials have urged citizens to rely only on official sources, amid fears that ultra-nationalist sentiment could jeopardise fragile diplomatic efforts. “Cambodia harbours no ambition to invade any other country,” General Tea Seiha said. “Our sole purpose is to defend our territorial integrity.” As both sides dig in diplomatically and militarily, the next few weeks will test whether dialogue can overcome the forces of misinformation and mistrust now inflaming this historic dispute. -2025-06-11

CINCDS Myanmar’s military regime says it will hold elections in 267 of the country’s 330 townships, despite widespread conflict and resistance control across large swathes of the country. The announcement, made by the junta-controlled Union Election Commission (UEC), targets a December or January timeline, though officials admitted it hinges on the security situation at the time. Opposition figures have slammed the move. The National Unity Government (NUG), formed by ousted lawmakers, claims 144 townships are now under anti-junta control, with 79 experiencing active conflict. With nearly half the country either contested or controlled by resistance forces, critics argue the proposed vote lacks credibility. The planned election will use both first-past-the-post and proportional representation systems, with electronic voting also being introduced—raising questions about transparency and oversight. The junta has approved 54 political parties, yet only a handful—mostly regime-aligned—are authorised to contest nationwide. Notably absent is the National League for Democracy (NLD), led by the jailed Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. The party was dissolved for refusing to register with the junta. Western nations, pro-democracy groups, and many Myanmar citizens have already dismissed the proposed poll as a façade for military rule. Meanwhile, China and Russia are among the few backers publicly supporting the junta’s plan, while ASEAN chair Malaysia has urged the regime to prioritise peace over staging elections. With no firm date and much of the country in open revolt, the junta’s electoral roadmap appears to be a bid for legitimacy under increasingly unviable conditions. -2025-06-10

The Irrawaddy Marking 75 years of diplomatic ties, Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing has doubled down on China’s strategic ambitions in the country, vowing to fast-track key Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects despite mounting domestic turmoil. Amid continued armed conflict and territorial losses, the junta is under growing pressure, yet remains firmly backed by Beijing. Min Aung Hlaing pledged not only to advance China’s flagship China–Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC) schemes—such as the Kyaukphyu deep-sea port and cross-border rail links—but also to protect them with a controversial new law. The regime has passed legislation allowing Chinese armed personnel to guard Chinese interests on Myanmar soil, a move widely seen as an extraordinary concession. Analysts say it underscores how reliant the junta has become on Beijing’s support—diplomatic, military, and economic—to maintain power. Critics accuse Min Aung Hlaing of effectively handing over swathes of sovereignty in return for Chinese backing. His government has also aligned itself with China’s cybersecurity crackdown, declaring it a “national duty”, while continuing to echo Beijing’s rhetoric on global development and the One China Policy. As fighting rages in regions housing critical Chinese infrastructure, observers warn that the junta’s deepening dependence on China may further alienate ethnic armed groups and widen the country's internal divide. For many, the 75th anniversary of Myanmar–China relations is less a celebration of equal partnership, and more a stark reminder of how far Myanmar’s military rulers have fallen under Beijing’s shadow. -2025-06-10

A major illegal pornography operation broadcasting live from Phnom Penh has been dismantled following a high-profile raid by military police, leading to the arrest of 12 suspects, including foreign nationals. Acting on direct orders from Lieutenant General Rath Sreang, Phnom Penh Military Police stormed an apartment on Street 242 in Boeung Prelit, Khan 7 Makara, on 4 June. The coordinated operation, supported by Deputy Prosecutor Seng Mengsrun, uncovered a live-streaming setup used for producing and broadcasting explicit content online. The arrested group includes six Chinese nationals, five Cambodians, and one Malaysian. Authorities seized a large cache of evidence from the apartment, including computers, sex toys, artificial genitalia, condoms, and masks believed to have been used in the filming of pornographic content. The suspects were formally sent to court on 6 June in connection with the production and distribution of obscene material online—a serious offence under Cambodian law. Officials have yet to disclose the full scale of the operation or the platforms used to disseminate the content, but early reports suggest the material was broadcast live to audiences outside the country, raising concerns about cross-border criminal networks exploiting local facilities. Cambodian law strictly prohibits the production and distribution of pornography. The case has triggered renewed calls for tighter monitoring of online content and rental properties used as covert filming locations. Authorities have promised further investigations, with more arrests possible as digital evidence is examined. The raid underscores the growing challenge faced by local law enforcement in tackling cybercrime and illicit content production in the capital. -2025-06-10

A wave of domestic tourists is breathing new life into one of Cambodia’s lesser-known historic treasures: Ta Moan Thom Temple, a centuries-old site nestled along the Thai border in Oddar Meanchey province. Once a quiet, remote relic of the Angkorian era, the temple is now enjoying renewed attention from Cambodians keen to connect with their cultural roots. Visitors from across the country—from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap—have made the journey to witness its imposing structure and intricate Bayon-style carvings. “I am truly impressed by this magnificent ancient structure, which reflects the grandeur of our Khmer civilisation,” said Ms Sokha, a first-time visitor from Siem Reap. “It should be more widely promoted.” Fellow tourist Vannak, visiting with his family from the capital, echoed her sentiments. “I discovered the temple through social media and had to see it for myself,” he said. “It feels like stepping into living history.” The temple’s growing popularity has highlighted its untapped potential as a cultural tourism hotspot. Its location near the Cambodian–Thai border also opens the door to cross-border visitors—though smoother coordination on border access would be essential. Experts say that proper promotion and infrastructure investment could transform Ta Moan Thom into a key destination in Cambodia’s cultural tourism portfolio. With the right support, it could help bolster not just local economies, but national pride and heritage preservation. As visitors marvel at its weathered stones and storytelling bas-reliefs, the message is clear: Cambodia’s past still speaks—and more people are listening. -2025-06-10

Popular News Myanmar’s military ruler, Min Aung Hlaing, has found a new scapegoat for the country’s deepening dollar crisis: air travel. Speaking at a post-earthquake economic forum on 30 May, the junta chief claimed that flight ticket purchases are draining the country’s already scarce supply of US dollars. “You don’t walk to foreign countries,” he remarked dryly, pointing to April’s international departures as evidence that outbound travel is a major culprit. His comments come amid growing desperation within the regime to preserve foreign currency. Officials have been increasingly urging trade in rupees, yuan, baht, and ringgit—essentially anything but the greenback—as Myanmar’s economy reels from sanctions, capital flight, and collapsing investment. The junta’s policies have become ever more eccentric in recent years, with the leader previously suggesting citizens bike to work and cut back on imported cooking oil. The latest directive, though unofficial, appears to urge the public to stay grounded—literally—to help conserve foreign exchange. But the dollar drought is not just about plane tickets. On 6 June, the International Labour Organization invoked Article 33, urging its members to suspend cooperation with the regime over its human rights violations. The move could choke off further access to external revenue streams. “If Myanmar can’t secure revenue soon, the country itself will slowly disintegrate,” Min Aung Hlaing warned. Analysts say the junta’s fixation on peripheral causes betrays a refusal to confront the structural damage inflicted by its own policies since the 2021 coup. For ordinary citizens, the dollar scarcity translates into rising prices, import shortages, and deepening economic hardship. With the regime tightening control and the economy unravelling, even basic travel is now being framed as a threat to national survival. -2025-06-09

IRW Myanmar is aiming to export 3 million tonnes of rice and broken rice in the 2025–2026 fiscal year, marking a significant push to expand its reach in key markets like China, according to the Myanmar Rice Federation (MRF). The target, announced by MRF Chairman U Ye Min Aung, follows a strong showing in the 2024–2025 fiscal year, during which Myanmar exported over 2.48 million tonnes. October alone saw more than 424,000 tonnes shipped, the highest monthly figure. To meet its new target, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Irrigation has opened applications for rice exporters seeking access to the Chinese market. Interested firms must submit expressions of interest (EOIs) by 30 June 2025 and adhere to the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) protocols agreed upon with Beijing. Only companies without previous export licences are eligible under this registration round. China is a key focus, but Myanmar’s rice has found buyers further afield. In the last fiscal year, Indonesia led the way, purchasing 107,450 tonnes of rice, followed by China, Côte d’Ivoire, the Philippines, and Poland. For broken rice, major importers included Senegal, Belgium, China, Côte d’Ivoire, and the UK. Rice remains a vital export for Myanmar, especially as the country looks to strengthen trade ties amid ongoing economic pressures. By setting a higher export target, Myanmar signals both its production capacity and its ambition to regain a stronger foothold in the global market. Whether it hits the 3-million-tonne mark will depend largely on market access, export readiness, and the global demand outlook in the year ahead. -2025-06-09

A new exhibition at the Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum in Siem Reap is offering fresh insights into the ceramics industry of the Angkor era—and its deep-rooted ties with ancient China. Launched by the APSARA National Authority (ANA) on 6 June, the exhibition titled “Angkor and China: Ceramics Roof Tiles Tradition and Maritime Trade Road” will run until the end of December. It is a joint effort with the Anthropology Department of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, marking their second major collaboration following a 2017 showcase in Hong Kong. The exhibition explores how Khmer and Chinese civilisations were connected through cultural exchange and maritime trade, particularly in ceramics. Visitors can view artefacts, documents, and multimedia materials in Khmer, English, and Chinese, with many items uncovered through archaeological digs and restoration projects. Deputy Director General of ANA, Long Kosal, said the exhibition reflects the close resemblance between Angkorian and Chinese ceramics, pointing to a sophisticated network of trade and cultural influence during the Angkor period. “The research supports a strong link between the Khmer ceramic industry and Chinese civilisation,” Kosal noted. The opening ceremony drew representatives from both Cambodia and China, including Lu Qizhi, China’s Consul General in Siem Reap, and Sharon Wong from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Together, they underscored the importance of cultural cooperation in deepening understanding of regional history. Running until 31 December, the exhibit is open to locals and international tourists alike, promising a rich dive into a lesser-known aspect of Angkor’s legacy—one that extends beyond temples into the world of ancient craftsmanship and cross-cultural exchange. -2025-06-09

Cambodia has sharply restricted Thai citizens to seven-day entry permits, a direct response to Thailand’s recent curb on Cambodian visitors and ongoing military friction along their shared border. The move was confirmed by Lieutenant General Sok Veasna of Cambodia’s Immigration Department, who said the change came after Thailand cut Cambodian entry periods from 60 days to just seven. “In accordance with the leadership’s orders,” he stated, “we will match Thailand’s policy — Thai nationals now receive seven-day entry stamps and must exit upon expiry.” Tensions between the two neighbours have flared since late May, when soldiers exchanged gunfire at a disputed border point, leaving one Cambodian soldier dead. On 7 June, the Thai military unilaterally closed border crossings, altered operating hours, and limited access to select days — prompting Cambodia to follow suit and shut its own border gates. Cambodian Defence Minister Tea Seiha underscored that the army's presence remains entirely within sovereign territory and is purely defensive. “We aim only to protect our land,” he wrote on Facebook, adding that Cambodia harbours no hostile intentions. Despite the tit-for-tat escalation, signs of de-escalation emerged on Sunday. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced that both nations had agreed to reposition troops to pre-agreed 2024 positions to cool tensions. “Discussions with the Cambodian government have yielded positive results,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter). The sentiment was echoed by Cambodia’s Senate President Hun Sen, who stressed the importance of dialogue and troop coordination. “The people of both nations want peace, not war,” he wrote. “Adjusting military presence with mutual understanding is vital to avoid broader conflict.” While diplomatic channels are now active at every level, the tightening of visa rules and border closures highlight how quickly relations can deteriorate. For now, both sides appear committed to stepping back from the brink — but the situation remains fragile. -2025-06-09

X/DIPRM The dramatic rise of Myanmar’s Arakan Army (AA) is redrawing the political map of the region, forcing neighbouring India and Bangladesh to engage directly with the ethnic armed group now in control of nearly all of Rakhine State. Since launching a sweeping offensive in November 2023, the AA has seized 14 of Rakhine’s 17 townships, including strategic areas along the borders with India and Bangladesh. With the Myanmar junta pushed out of vast stretches of the west, both neighbours are now quietly building channels of communication with the AA—once considered a rebel group on the fringes. Bangladesh is in direct contact, while India has opened dialogue via its Mizoram state. An AA office has reportedly been established in Mizoram, and cross-border trade is increasing despite tensions. Dhaka, acknowledging the junta’s loss of border control, insists it must engage with whoever holds power on the ground. "The central government has no authority there," a Bangladeshi foreign adviser said. "In our own interest, we must maintain some form of communication." The shift comes as the AA offers a measure of stability in areas long plagued by conflict. Trade has resumed, medicine and goods are flowing again, and the AA’s handling of Rohingya in its territory has drawn cautious approval. The UN and Bangladeshi officials have floated proposals for safe zones and even limited refugee repatriation under AA oversight. Yet challenges remain acute. Muslim armed groups such as ARSA and the RSO—aligned with the junta—continue to stir violence along the border. They are accused of exploiting Rohingya refugees and fuelling drug trade in the camps. Bangladesh’s security forces have begun cracking down, arresting key figures. As diplomacy shifts, so too do the risks. Bangladesh’s army remains wary of foreign involvement, recently blocking a UN-backed aid corridor, while the region’s fragile peace hinges on elections and internal power balances. For now, the AA’s rise has not only transformed the battlefield but also regional diplomacy—placing a once-marginal ethnic army at the centre of a complex and evolving crisis. -2025-06-07

Cho Htun Aung Myanmar’s military regime has come under fierce criticism after arresting a six-year-old girl alongside 15 others in connection with the assassination of a retired general, highlighting the junta’s increasingly hardline tactics in a conflict that has gripped the country since its 2021 coup. Cho Htun Aung, a former brigadier general and diplomat, was gunned down in broad daylight on 22 May in Yangon. In a statement published Friday, a state-run newspaper claimed 16 suspects were arrested, including three women and the daughter of the alleged gunman—just six years old. The child’s image, blurred in official reports but later visible in junta-affiliated social media posts, has sparked international outrage, deepening concerns about the military’s treatment of civilians. The anti-junta group Golden Valley Warriors claimed responsibility for the killing, saying the general had supported military operations targeting civilians. Myanmar’s military claims the assassination was funded by the shadow National Unity Government (NUG), which denied any involvement. “There is no truth to the claim that we are paying people to kill others,” NUG spokesperson Nay Phone Latt told Reuters. Myanmar has been locked in turmoil since the military toppled Aung San Suu Kyi’s elected government in 2021. What began as a wave of protests has morphed into a nationwide armed resistance. Rebel forces now control parts of the country, and fighting has crept into urban areas. According to rights group AAPP, over 29,000 people have been detained since the coup, including more than 600 children. The junta insists it is targeting “terrorists”, not civilians—claims human rights observers increasingly view as hollow. The detention of a six-year-old, observers say, is a chilling new low. -2025-06-07

A war of words has erupted between Phnom Penh and Bangkok following a fatal border clash in late May that saw a Cambodian soldier killed and accusations fly over sovereignty violations. Responding to a protest outside Cambodia’s embassy in Bangkok on Friday, the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs firmly rejected claims that its forces had encroached on Thai territory. Spokesperson Chum Sounry instead accused Thai troops of opening fire unprovoked on a Cambodian army post in Techo Morokot village, Preah Vihear province—an area Phnom Penh asserts has long been under its control. “This incident is a violation of Cambodia’s sovereignty and breaches the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding aimed at maintaining peace along the border,” Sounry said. The incident has reignited longstanding disputes along the frontier, particularly near temple sites such as Ta Moan and Ta Krabei, where tensions have simmered for decades. Despite the flare-up, Prime Minister Hun Manet has reiterated his government’s commitment to a peaceful resolution. In a phone call with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, the current ASEAN chair, he stressed Cambodia’s desire to avoid further escalation and announced plans to bring unresolved border areas before the International Court of Justice. Friday’s demonstration in Bangkok, organised by a Thai activist group calling for reform, remained peaceful. Cambodian Ambassador Hun Saroeun confirmed that embassy staff were safe and operations were unaffected. Efforts to finalise the demarcation of the Cambodia–Thailand border continue through the Joint Boundary Commission. While both sides publicly affirm a commitment to dialogue, the recent violence underscores how fragile peace along the border remains. -2025-06-07

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet will travel to Nice, France next week to take part in the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), signalling the country’s growing role in global climate diplomacy. At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Mr Hun Manet will lead a high-level delegation from Monday to Wednesday, joined by First Lady Pich Chanmony and senior ministers including Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn. The conference, themed “Accelerating Action and Mobilising Partnerships”, will focus on ocean-based climate solutions, biodiversity, and sustainable development. Mr Hun Manet is scheduled to deliver Cambodia’s National Statement during the General Debate, outlining the country’s priorities for ocean governance and climate resilience. Bilateral meetings with other world leaders are also expected, as Cambodia looks to strengthen ties and reaffirm its commitment to international cooperation. The trip underscores Phnom Penh’s continued backing of Sustainable Development Goal 14 – Life Below Water – and its pledge to safeguard marine ecosystems amid mounting global environmental challenges. -2025-06-07

The Irrawaddy Farmers across Myanmar’s central regions are facing ruin as relentless monsoon rains flood thousands of acres of sesame and bean crops, with little hope of government assistance. Heavy downpours, triggered by a May storm in neighbouring Bangladesh, have battered Chin, Rakhine, Sagaing, and Magwe, damaging early harvests just as the planting season was underway. In some areas, rainfall has continued for more than ten days without pause. In Sagaing’s Khin-U Township, one farmer told The Irrawaddy, “It has been raining continuously for weeks, severely impacting the mung bean harvest. Damaged beans are sold cheaply, and drying them costs extra.” A 32kg sack of mung beans has dropped by roughly US$13 in value—critical for farmers already stretched thin by high input costs. In neighbouring Magwe, nearly 2,000 acres of sesame fields in Minbu District have been submerged. With sesame seed prices now climbing, most farmers can’t afford to replant. “Some tried pumping water out, hoping to save the crops,” said one local resident. “But it kept raining. The pumping only added to their costs.” Farmers say growing sesame now costs close to one million kyats (about US$435) per acre, while mung beans and pulses cost around 600,000 kyats to cultivate. The early harvest usually brings the highest yield; missing it can mean financial disaster. Experts blame worsening flood impacts on years of environmental mismanagement. The Irrawaddy River, once a natural drainage lifeline, is now struggling to carry away floodwaters due to poor land and water use policies. Meanwhile, Myanmar’s military government has remained silent. State media has yet to report on the damage in Minbu, and locals doubt relief is coming—especially as Magwe remains a heartland of resistance to junta rule. Last year, Myanmar’s agricultural sector suffered staggering losses, with floods destroying over 760,000 acres of crops and killing more than 100,000 livestock. This year’s toll is rising fast—and for many rural families, survival is now a daily struggle. -2025-06-06

Koh Kong province is gearing up for a landmark moment as it prepares to host its first-ever provincial festival, Celebrating the Southwest, from 10 to 15 June in Khemarak Phoumin city. Nestled along Cambodia’s pristine southwestern coast, Koh Kong is often praised for its untouched beauty. Now, local authorities hope the festival will put the province firmly on the tourism map by showcasing its rich natural landscapes, diverse culture, and warm community spirit. The week-long celebration promises a vibrant mix of activities, including live music from popular Cambodian artists, a traditional Khmer martial arts competition, and a province-wide singing contest. Visitors can also sample a wide selection of food at a multi-ethnic culinary fair, browse local crafts from artisans and small businesses, and paddle kayaks along the scenic coastline. Those seeking a closer connection to nature can even camp under the stars. In a heartfelt addition, the festival will feature a humanitarian cycling event, with proceeds going to support children in need—an effort organisers say reflects the province’s community-minded values. Koh Kong’s provincial administration says the festival is not only a celebration of local pride but a strategic step towards sustainable tourism. With its mix of entertainment, cultural heritage, and natural allure, the event aims to attract both domestic and international visitors to discover the province’s often-overlooked potential. As the festival prepares to open its doors, Koh Kong is ready to shine—inviting all to experience the very best of Cambodia’s southwest. -2025-06-06

KT Cambodia has united across political, social, and institutional lines in backing the government’s decision to take a long-standing border dispute with Thailand to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The move follows a deadly clash on 28 May in the contested Mom Bei area, where a Cambodian soldier was killed. Phnom Penh has condemned the incident as a serious violation of its sovereignty, alleging Thai troops opened fire on a long-established Cambodian position. Prime Minister Hun Manet responded swiftly, declaring that Cambodia will file the case at The Hague over four sensitive locations: Mom Bei and the temples of Ta Moan Thom, Ta Moan Tauch, and Ta Krabey. The decision, he said, reflects “a firm commitment to international law” and will be pursued unilaterally if necessary. In an unprecedented show of national unity, the country’s first-ever joint session of Parliament—bringing together both the National Assembly and Senate—offered unanimous support. The public followed suit, launching social media campaigns and donating directly to troops on the border. Even the King and Queen Mother joined the effort, each contributing $10,000. “While the government can fully support the army, these gestures are a great encouragement to our forces,” Hun Manet said. The Royal Government has called for calm, urging Cambodians not to let the issue stir ethnic or nationalist tensions. “We emphasise the importance of maintaining normal relations with Thailand,” read a statement on 5 June, stressing continued cooperation in trade and tourism. Thailand, meanwhile, has stated its preference for bilateral talks and existing mechanisms under the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said her country values peace but is prepared to defend its territory if needed. The two nations are set to meet on 14 June in Phnom Penh through the Joint Boundary Commission, although the four disputed sites will not be on the agenda. Cambodia insists its ICJ move is not an act of aggression, but a peaceful assertion of sovereignty—an approach it has taken before, winning key rulings in similar cases in 1962 and 2013. -2025-06-06

In a dramatic revival of a signature Trump-era policy, US President Donald Trump has reimposed sweeping travel restrictions on 12 countries — with Myanmar among those hit by the full force of the new executive order. Signed on Wednesday, the ban will take effect on Monday and bars entry to nationals from Myanmar, Afghanistan, Iran, and nine other nations. The White House justified the move by citing a recent attack in Colorado allegedly carried out by an undocumented migrant, prompting a swift and unilateral response from the administration. Myanmar, which was included without advance warning, now faces a near-total suspension of travel to the United States. The ban comes as the military-led Southeast Asian nation grapples with ongoing conflict and international isolation following its 2021 coup. Trump likened the action to his 2017 ban that targeted mainly Muslim-majority countries, claiming the previous policy “prevented the kinds of terror attacks that devastated Europe.” Speaking in a video posted on X, he declared, “We don’t want them,” referring to migrants from countries deemed unable to conduct thorough security vetting. Critics say Myanmar’s inclusion is likely to worsen the humanitarian plight of those fleeing military persecution, particularly Rohingya and pro-democracy activists seeking asylum or resettlement abroad. Advocacy groups warn the ban could block vital pathways to safety for vulnerable populations already facing international hurdles. While Trump and his officials claim the move is based on visa overstay rates and lack of government transparency, Myanmar’s embattled status raises questions about how the criteria were applied. The order references countries lacking “competent” authorities or failing to share identity and threat information — conditions that arguably apply to Myanmar under its current regime. Legal challenges are expected, with civil liberties groups describing the measure as discriminatory and politically driven. Nonetheless, Trump has made immigration a cornerstone of his return to the White House, with this ban marking just one piece of a broader hardline agenda. For Myanmar nationals abroad, the announcement has sparked fresh uncertainty and fear. For those still inside the country, it serves as yet another sign of deepening isolation from the international community. -2025-06-05

TVK Cambodia and Vietnam have pledged to complete the final 16% of their shared border demarcation, reaffirming a commitment to stronger defence ties and regional peace during a high-level military visit to Phnom Penh this week. General Nguyen Tan Cuong, Deputy Minister of National Defence and Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army, arrived in Cambodia on Tuesday leading a senior delegation aimed at boosting military cooperation and regional stability. His visit included talks with Prime Minister Hun Manet, Senate President Hun Sen, and top Cambodian military officials. In bilateral talks with General Vong Pisen, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, the two sides emphasised turning the border into one of “peace, friendship, cooperation, and development”. Gen Cuong praised Cambodia’s political and economic stability and noted the significance of plans to erect a Cambodia–Vietnam Friendship Monument at the Vietnam Museum—a symbolic move highlighting the long-standing historical and strategic alliance between the two nations. During his meeting with Hun Sen, Gen Cuong conveyed an invitation from Vietnam’s Communist Party General Secretary, To Lam, for the former Prime Minister to attend Vietnam’s 80th independence anniversary. Hun Sen accepted, saying the visit would deepen military and bilateral ties, while also referencing the June 20 anniversary of his journey into Vietnam in 1977 to fight against the Khmer Rouge. He also reiterated the need to finalise border demarcation, describing it as vital to maintaining peaceful and stable relations. In separate talks with Prime Minister Hun Manet, Gen Cuong stressed the value of regular high-level exchanges and proposed deeper collaboration in defence training. Hun Manet welcomed the initiative, calling for broader cooperation on infrastructure, trade, and cross-border crime prevention. Analysts see the visit as a continuation of the strong political-military alignment between Phnom Penh and Hanoi. Thong Mengdavid, a researcher at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, said the push for full demarcation reflects a shared desire for security and stability in an increasingly unpredictable region. “Enhanced cooperation on border protection and crime prevention will benefit both nations,” he noted. -2025-06-05

Emirates marked a major expansion in Southeast Asia on Tuesday, as its inaugural flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, touched down to a ceremonial water salute and a welcome from senior government dignitaries. The new Dubai–Bangkok–Siem Reap route makes Emirates the first Middle Eastern carrier to connect directly with Cambodia’s famed temple city, adding three weekly flights to its existing daily service to Phnom Penh. This brings the airline’s presence in Cambodia to 10 weekly flights, signalling growing confidence in the Kingdom’s tourism and trade sectors. The arriving Boeing 777-300ER was greeted at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport by Cambodian officials including Dr MAO Havanall, Minister in Charge of Civil Aviation, alongside UAE diplomats and senior executives from Emirates. Local business leaders also attended the ceremony. “This new route supports tourism, trade, and deepens UAE-Cambodia ties,” said Dr Havanall. Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, resumed daily flights to Phnom Penh in May 2024 and now adds Siem Reap to its Southeast Asian network, highlighting Cambodia’s rising global appeal. Nabil Sultan, Emirates’ Executive Vice President, noted that the new route not only celebrates a year since the relaunch of services to Phnom Penh, but also strengthens Cambodia’s links with Europe and the Gulf. “Siem Reap’s cultural richness makes it a natural fit for our growth in this region,” he said. The flight schedule is designed for seamless connections from key European markets including the UK, France, Germany and Spain. Emirates flight EK370 will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, arriving in Siem Reap at 21:30 local time via Bangkok. Return flights depart late evening for optimal onward connections to Dubai and beyond. This expansion comes amid increasing regional competition, but Emirates is betting big on Cambodia’s tourism recovery and growing commercial ties through its support of the UAE-Cambodia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). -2025-06-05 With luxurious three-class service and a robust entertainment offering, the new Siem Reap service reinforces Emirates’ ambition to be the airline of choice for travellers to and from Cambodia—whether for business, leisure, or cultural discovery.

Pyi Oo Aung Myanmar’s coup leader Min Aung Hlaing has appointed a personal photographer to document his and his wife’s activities, breaking with decades of military tradition in what critics are calling a vanity project. The photographer, Major Pyi Oo Aung—a military officer and former underwater photography blogger—was handpicked by the junta chief following the 2021 coup. His exclusive role now includes curating and approving all official images of Min Aung Hlaing that appear in state-run media, effectively shaping the dictator’s public image. In Myanmar’s military history, such a personal appointment is unprecedented. Previous generals, including Than Shwe, relied on official photographers from the Ministry of Information or Myawaddy Media Group. Even during the height of junta rule in the 1990s and 2000s, the public imagery of top brass remained the purview of government agencies, not individuals directly answerable to the generals themselves. That changed after Min Aung Hlaing seized power. His son, Aung Pyae Sone, a photography enthusiast, is said to have helped arrange the appointment, tapping into his network within the Myanmar Photographers Association. Pyi Oo Aung, known in creative circles as “Black Dream” and “Aperture 21,” once enjoyed a reputation for nature and underwater photography. Trained in Russia and serving in a defence technology unit upon his return, he had reportedly tried to resign from the military several times—efforts allegedly blocked due to his specialised training. But the coup opened a new chapter. Promoted and stationed at the War Office in Naypyitaw, Pyi Oo Aung is now the gatekeeper of the junta leader’s image. Only photos he has vetted appear in official channels like Myawaddy TV and state newspapers. In military and media circles, this move has raised eyebrows. Critics say it reflects the junta chief’s deepening obsession with personal image even as the country reels from civil war and economic collapse. The nickname circulating in Naypyitaw—“photographic politician”—speaks volumes about the growing gap between Min Aung Hlaing’s authoritarian governance and the carefully curated persona he projects to the public. -2025-06-05

Cobra Column China is quietly urging two powerful ethnic armed groups in Myanmar to halt their offensives in a bid to protect major infrastructure investments vital to its Belt and Road Initiative. According to a report by The Irrawaddy, Beijing’s special envoy Deng Xijun met with leaders of the Arakan Army (AA) and Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in late May, offering closer ties in exchange for ceasefires in volatile regions of Rakhine and Kachin states. Both regions host key Chinese-backed projects, including the deep-sea port at Kyaukphyu and energy pipelines running to Yunnan province. The AA and KIA, which are part of a broader anti-junta resistance, have made sweeping territorial gains since launching offensives last year. The AA now controls most of Rakhine State, while the KIA is threatening the strategic town of Bhamo, close to the Chinese border. These advances pose a growing risk to China's economic interests—and to the military regime's grip on the region. Beijing’s message is clear: stability must return if trade and development are to continue. China has used similar pressure tactics before. Over the past year, it successfully pushed the other members of the Three Brotherhood Alliance—the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA)—into ceasefires with the junta. That effort included shutting border crossings and cutting internet and fuel supplies, even detaining a rebel commander during negotiations. In a significant concession to China, the MNDAA recently agreed to withdraw from Lashio, a vital trade hub in Shan State, returning control to junta forces under Chinese supervision. The latest reported diplomatic push suggests Beijing is applying the same playbook to the AA and KIA. China’s goal isn’t to prop up the widely unpopular junta out of loyalty, but rather to keep the region calm enough to pursue its strategic aim: a secure corridor connecting Yunnan to the Indian Ocean. With Myanmar’s civil conflict intensifying and rebel groups gaining ground, China appears increasingly willing to throw its weight behind a fragile status quo—at least for the sake of its own long-term ambitions. -2025-06-05

GDP A May statement from a Cambodian human rights NGO has drawn national attention to the plight of children living with their mothers in prisons — claims the General Department of Prisons (GDP) swiftly rejected. The Cambodian League for the Promotion and Defense of Human Rights (Lichado) released its concerns on International Children’s Day, saying children under three raised behind bars are denied proper nutrition, education, and play. The group pointed to the unchanged daily budget of 1,750 riel (about 45 cents) per child since 2018 and cited a former inmate, Leakhena, who described raising her son in cramped and playless conditions. But prison officials pushed back. GDP spokesman Kheang Sonadin said, “We never consider these children as inmates,” stressing efforts to prioritize health and early education for the 120 children currently in custody with their mothers. Sonadin acknowledged that prisons “are not kindergartens” but said officials work with NGOs to create safe areas for toddlers. He also emphasized that children are relocated at age three, ideally to family or, if unavailable, to orphanages. The controversy has revived calls for improved prison conditions, especially as Cambodia continues to balance incarceration policies with the rights of its youngest and most vulnerable residents. -2025-06-04