Myanmar Diaspora Grapples with Earthquake Tragedy
In the wake of a devastating earthquake that struck Sagaing, Myanmar, last Friday, the diaspora community is left grappling with feelings of helplessness and survivor’s guilt. The quake, which has claimed at least 2,000 lives, has deeply affected those who have fled the country, including Ko Naing, a labor rights activist now residing in Thailand. As he mourns the loss of his great-uncle, who perished in the disaster, Ko Naing reflects on the challenges faced by his homeland and the diaspora’s efforts to provide support.
Devastation in Sagaing
The earthquake that rocked Sagaing near Mandalay was the most powerful in a century, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Buildings collapsed, and historical landmarks were severely damaged, including centuries-old pagodas and temples. The tremors were felt not only in Myanmar but also in neighboring countries like Thailand, India, and China. For many in the diaspora, the news of the disaster has been overwhelming. Ko Naing, who fled Myanmar nearly a year ago, describes the moment he learned of the earthquake’s impact. He felt the ground shake in Samut Sakhon, Thailand, and immediately turned to social media for updates. The sight of the Ava Bridge, a local landmark, lying in ruins was particularly devastating.
As communications were slow in the immediate aftermath, Ko Naing anxiously awaited news from his family. While most relatives were safe, he received the heartbreaking news that his great-uncle, known as Oo Oo, had died in the quake. This loss has left him feeling both guilty for leaving and helpless in the face of the ongoing crisis in Myanmar.
The Struggles of the Myanmar Diaspora
Thailand is home to the largest community of Myanmar nationals, with estimates suggesting around 4.3 million people, many of whom are undocumented migrants. The ongoing political turmoil in Myanmar, exacerbated by the military coup in 2021, has led to an influx of people seeking refuge in Thailand. Many members of the diaspora work in sectors such as construction, agriculture, and seafood processing. The recent earthquake has further complicated their situation, as some workers were involved in the construction of a Bangkok skyscraper that collapsed due to the quake.
In Samut Sakhon, a bustling fishing port, the atmosphere is heavy with concern. Local markets are filled with Myanmar nationals, many of whom are worried about their families back home. Workers like Yin Yin express their sorrow over the destruction they see online, feeling powerless to assist those affected. Shopowner Thant Zin, whose hometown was spared from the quake, mourns the loss of cultural heritage as historical sites crumble.
Ko Naing’s Journey and Resilience
Ko Naing’s journey to safety was fraught with danger. He fled Myanmar with his wife and young son, escaping a military regime that had issued a warrant for his arrest due to his activism. Their perilous journey involved crossing the border into Thailand illegally, where they faced numerous challenges. Despite the trauma of their escape, Ko Naing has found a semblance of stability in Thailand, securing a job and a place to live.
However, the emotional toll of the recent earthquake weighs heavily on him. He describes feelings of depression and helplessness as he watches the situation in Myanmar unfold from afar. The combination of the pandemic, the military coup, and now the earthquake has compounded the suffering of the people he cares about. Yet, Ko Naing remains determined to help. He is actively involved in efforts to collect donations and provide humanitarian assistance to quake victims, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.
Looking Ahead
Despite the overwhelming challenges, Ko Naing emphasizes the importance of hope and action. He believes that the diaspora can play a crucial role in supporting their homeland during this crisis. “If we always feel depressed, nobody will help our people,” he asserts. “We have to make up our mind on how to rebuild, how we can move on.” His commitment to aiding those affected by the earthquake reflects a broader sentiment within the Myanmar diaspora, who are united in their desire to support their communities back home while navigating their own struggles in a foreign land.
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