Transcript: Episode #118: Progressing Towards Victory
Following is the full transcript for the interview with Kyar Phyu, which appeared on August 19, 2022. This transcript was made possible by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and has not been checked by any human reader. Because of this, many of the words may not be accurate in this text. This is particularly true of speakers who have a stronger accent, as AI will make more mistakes interpreting and transcribing their words. For that reason, this transcript should not be cited in any article or document without checking the timestamp to confirm the exact words that the guest has really said.
Host 01:42
I'd like to welcome everyone tuning into this episode. Many of you now listening likely have a measure of personal freedom and liberty in your own lives, freedoms that the speaker you're about to hear from no longer enjoys. I don't say this to make anyone feel guilty. But to offer a reminder that we're very fortunate to have a degree of agency and safety in our lives that our upcoming guests and everyone else in Myanmar these days can only dream of. So after you hear their story, please consider how you can use your freedom to support or advocate on behalf of the Burmese people. Any action no matter how small counts now let's hear what they have to say.
02:32
Again goodbye. Ha ha. No way that really had a good day. Yeah, absolutely. Yeah, maybe that is that.
Host 03:38
I'm joined by a guest that we had on almost exactly a year ago. This was a guest that we spoke to extensively about the CDM movement as she had been training civil servants and Myanmar for 10 years previous to the coup. So she ended up playing quite an important role in the foundation of the CDM movement and helping many of those civil servants who wanted to go on CDM but had questions or were worried or had needs or safety issues. Shortly following that interview, the activities of this guest became known to the military and she had to go into hiding. And we're going to pick up from that incident we're going to hear about what has been happening to this guest personally for the past year, how her life has changed for supporting the democracy movement. And then after some of this personal discussion, we're gonna go a bit into looking at the wider movement looking at where is CDM today what is happening with the N ug I should mention that this person now has a prominent position in UG, thoughts on the general revolution on the PDFs and some other information as well. But first of all, we're just going to check in and find out how she's doing and how the past year has been. So thanks so much for joining us again one year later and checking in and letting us know how things are going.
KYAR PHYU 05:12
Oh, thank you so much for your invitation. Yes, my pleasure to talk to you again, in this insight podcast, it is very benefited to the, to our people to listen to our story. So last year, I, as you already mentioned, I, I involved in the CDM movement a lot, seriously. And so I, mostly at the time, I couldn't stay, I couldn't live in my home anymore. I had, I had to hide in many different places is mostly in the safe house safe houses. So, so I moved from Safe House to safe house in and last year was a very shocking experience for me, because I lost my parents got infected with COVID last year, and I had to I couldn't hide in the safe house anymore, because I had to take care of my parents. So it was very challenging for me to get out of the safe house and take care of my parents. But, but luckily, i i Over overcame it. In in them. Most of most of the people who who joined the revolution, we couldn't stay in the safe houses anymore. And also in Yangon, or in any way because you know, the SEC the SEC soldiers are checking us every day. I mean, checking our houses, and checking our activities online. So it is very unsafe for us to live in Yangon. So and also in, in, in many places. The SEC soldiers, I mean, many safe houses, the SEC soldiers, they check in they rated the safe houses. So safe houses, safe houses were not safe anymore. So we couldn't even stay in the safe house anymore, because it is not safe for us anymore. So that's why I decided to leave the country. But I couldn't travel. Like a normal, normal, ordinary citizen. I couldn't I didn't dare to pass the immigration checKyar Phyuoint at the airport. So I I had to cross you know, the only the only way we can do is we had to go to the ethnic organizations area like they can new areas are the key areas. And then we can we can cross the border to the neighboring countries. That's the only way we can do if we couldn't stay in the in the in the city anymore. That's that's what I did. So I went to one of the EEO camps in current state. And then I crossed the across the border to mess up. And then now I'm staying in myself and still working for the revolution. Yeah, that's so that's, that's my, my whole story.
Host 09:11
Yeah, thanks for sharing that. And I'd like to go into little more detail and color just understanding what these experiences are like you're, you're describing kind of the, the, the actual journey that you go through and step by step. But I think it's important for listeners to also know the feeling and what it's like to actually be living and doing the things that that that you're doing. So maybe you can start with talking about living in the safe house and just tell us a bit about what the feeling was like in the safe house, what the routines were, and what the fear was like that it could be rated and then how you ended up making the decision that you you had to leave it and make a run for it which is also dangerous in its own right
KYAR PHYU 10:00
Um I mean safe house is a place that a temporary place for us when we couldn't stay at our own residence anymore so no i i I looked for a safe house and then I stayed there but safe house safe house are also only in jungle areas it's it's very risky for us I mean we can go out in in we couldn't make any when we we need to lock up inside the safe our own safe house because if someone knows the safe house where we are staying there it's very risky for us and we we couldn't believe our are we going to trust our neighbor neighborhood to our neighbor so the safe house neighbors you know, they they also don't know we are staying day they also don't know who who we are so things like that, you know, we are very hiding. We're hiding indeed. We are hiding in touch place. But but some the some some some people I mean like the delivery people came and gave us the food and other things we need. But we couldn't go out of the safe house. So So inside the safe house i i I feel I was okay, but I know we we we it's not a safe place to say even though we were in safe house, it's not safe place for us. We could be found any time but by the SEC because you know they are checking us everywhere. Especially people like me working for the UN ug or working for the strikes or working for the PDF so it's very risky for us and N inside the safe house. I couldn't attend my meetings with the NUJ regularly because I was worried some people listening to my meetings or you know as in I always use VPN on my computer because it's IP very worried my computer could be traced binder binder by the SEC my internet could be traced so it's like I had to be very careful you know even staying in the same house that that's that's my my my my my concern and my feeling there and then some of this around October yes September October safe houses very you know high risk situation because a cc troops they know people people are hiding in the safe houses so they start looking for safe houses in the check the check and they pressure the room owners the apartment owners or the control owners not to accept any strangers any outside people and the owners or they don't take a step anyone they don't know so these are the the the start of the you know we couldn't stay in the safe house anymore and we couldn't move to another safe house because the owners don't do to us anymore and in some of my friends safe houses got raided by the SEC they because the owner informed to the SEC or other What the What administrator inform to the SSH so we you know we we at the time it was my totally my nightmare for us every every night I prayed you know I couldn't be I couldn't I was no such by the SEC I couldn't be fun every night I was pretty less less Yeah. Praying last year.
Host 14:31
And so how many months was it that you lived in this Yangon apartment without being able to step outside and during those months that you were living like that? What was it like to to live with a sense of being enclosed a lack of freedom and the fear everything that you were living with? Having to stay in those close quarters and and also be tried try to be sane and try To be be healthy. So I'm curious how long that was for and just mentally and also socially with the other people that were in there how you manage that space?
KYAR PHYU 15:14
It was like I think it's much starting from much, much. April, May, June, July, August, September, October, yeah. Eight months,
Host 15:27
eight months. And you didn't go outside for eight months?
KYAR PHYU 15:31
Yes. But I moved to two safe houses, I moved to two safe houses, because, you know, because of the situation in the areas, risky situation, so I had to move. So, like, one place is four months, like, yeah, to place, I had to move to places.
Host 15:52
So it was it was eight months in three safe houses. And did you go outside? Sorry,
KYAR PHYU 15:58
no, I couldn't go outside. So for
Host 16:00
eight months, you only went outside when you had to move from one safe house to the other? Yes. Yes. Right. And, right, that's, that's unbelievable. I mean, that's almost like a prison or a house arrest in itself. So So what was it like managing that inner space, you know, managing the fear, the boredom, the lack of freedom, the social interactions, the inability to to go outside and just have have air or variety, or restaurants or social or any, anything like that? How did you manage eight months and living under those conditions?
KYAR PHYU 16:33
Yeah, it was very difficult and challenging, you know, I, I really want to wanted to go out into the streets to try to strike I, you know, there are there were so many strikes, at the time around match, February and match. So I really wanted to try, but I couldn't try any more. But, but how I could try is only online, in my mind work with with CDM, mostly in CDM, all over the country, they contacted me through messenger, or Facebook Viber, or the or the telegram. So I was very busy with the CDN, you know, talking to the CDN, how to move from. They also, you know, the CDM were also very difficult at the time, hey, they need money, they need money. And also they need to move to other places, because they do they will also very risky. So I was very busy helping them. So and I was busy with my computer the whole day, you know, luckily, I got online internet. And so I just only focus on my CDN work. Apart from that, my daily activities include meditation, because I was very traumatic at the time, when many CDM considered me and I I was helping them and because of their trauma, it also affects affected me. And I also Oh, you know, shocked by myself, I was very frightening at the time. Because the SEC they killed the protest protest or even in front of our streets. I mean, like my hiding streets, that my hiding place that there was the street and the protester was chilled. So it was so shock for me. So I got trauma. So I need to take the meditation in the safe house and I also need to listen to the monk of praying regularly, you know, otherwise, I couldn't stand it anymore. So that's not the only the thing I did know, when I was in safe house with a CD and helping the CDM and taking to meditation and doing some yoga and exercise.
Host 19:24
That's, that's great. That's great. You're able to do yoga, meditation exercise, what kind of meditation were you doing if I could ask
KYAR PHYU 19:30
I yeah, I am focusing too, you know. I mean, like, I my, my mind, I mean because of the the pressure in also the situation. I I might, my mind is not I think I'm I is not stable anymore. And also, like I, I saw the images, you know, like it's, but then when I started doing meditation I focus only on the breathing. So it's really you know, focusing on the breathing and then the mind is coming, more and more coming. So I really, really like that, that first stage.
Host 20:32
So you started by focusing on the breathing and then after, after, after breathing, you switch to looking at something in the mind and how what exactly were you observing there?
KYAR PHYU 20:45
I focus on the breathing. And then you know, the Mogul. CRO like, how can I say?
Host 20:55
Yeah, like a rays pass away? Yes. Yes. Yes. So you were focusing on the arising and passing away of like, sensations or so working like with the body sensations? Yes, yes. Yeah. And how was that experience? Like, what? Did you have insights from it? Did it did it? Did it help you? What what did you get from from focusing on the peope, yet the arising passing away?
KYAR PHYU 21:22
It makes me more compassionate, to be myself in, you know, to make me more peaceful, you know, I can accept anything happen. You know, that's what what I learned from the meditation. So I can accept the things happening. At first, you know, I was very angry. And I was very so shocked. I was very shocked. But later, after the meditation, I could assert you know, anything can happen. And these things were also overcome. So things like that. Yeah.
Host 22:07
Right, okay. So it's been eight months that you were basically under house arrest living in a kind of fear and isolation and you eventually make the decision to get out and to escape and you end up going through the ethnic areas eventually landing on Mesa can what can you share with us about that, that decision and also the actual travels and experience of making it out there?
KYAR PHYU 22:33
Because, you know, one of the safe houses was traded by sec. So everyone in the safe house got wedding, you know, not to live there anymore. So we we we had to think we should still living in Insight Myanmar, or we should leave because you know, we don't have many chances anymore. And I was also involved in too much with the with the energy. So if I got arrested, I was totally I was I was I was sent to the jail, and I got sentenced. So I couldn't get arrested. And my parents pushed me to leave the country. They didn't want me to stay there in Insight Myanmar anymore, that's why I decided to leave the country. And and so me and my roommate who was also CDM doctor, medical doctor, we we left our safe house and we went to one of the areas in current state it comes in current state and we stayed there for three weeks there because we had to wait for the transportation to cross the border
Host 24:06
right and then you were able to cross the border without incident
KYAR PHYU 24:10
Yes, the with the hub of the evil Yes, I crossed the border. Yeah, but we don't have the you know, the fog formal. We don't have any formal documents. You know, it's like a refugee crossing the border.
Host 24:27
So what is your situation like now?
KYAR PHYU 24:32
I am. So here I'm illegal. You can miss out. But there are many people now I know. A new cheese such that they are around 800 people staying in vessel like me. Because the area's got rich. By sec, and in, in there were many battles along the border. So many camps or camps were attacked by the SEC. So there are many IGP along the borders, and they cross the border. So they're there around 800 or 1000 people here illegally, including me. So people, politicians, member of Parliament's cdmo in it, there's so many so many here. But that, you know, it's like, we don't have the documents. So it's very difficult for us. We we were always looking out the police time police, you noticed check. They check. Like, they are also strict every day, these days. And also they are checking patrolling around patrolling the shopping mall. The Thai police are patrolling the shopping mall checking the permits people. They check the people who talk who speak Burmese or things like that, you know, so it's very risky for us to to stay here.
Host 26:24
And if those Thai police were to find someone who was Burmese and didn't have proper documents, what would they do with them?
KYAR PHYU 26:32
They sent to the jail. So the Thai jail? Yeah, time jail. Yeah, some of the MP were sent to the jail. And also some of the activists were sent to the jail. And some some even sent back to Myanmar. So it's, it's not good. It's not good. But yeah, we have to be careful here staying here. You know, we are like violating the law by letting the immigration law. So we need to be careful.
Host 27:05
So you're basically under house arrest again, in Mossad. It sounds like,
KYAR PHYU 27:10
yeah, I couldn't go out like a normal people. I couldn't, you know, I couldn't travel. Because I don't have the document. So only within the message area. I could I could travel from the side of safety. I mean, I mean, not travel, it's like, commute. You know, I just go out, go to the shopping center.
Host 27:35
Right, but that's safe. It's, it's in Mesa, Burmese without papers are able to go around pretty freely without fear of arrest. Is that right?
KYAR PHYU 27:44
Um, not very often. You know, I because just like, I went out twice, by men only just tried two or three times. Yeah. So it's not very, very free. Because the Thai police is patrolling areas, all the all. All around so it's difficult. I couldn't we we cannot go to the area's very freely like the normal people.
Host 28:24
Yeah, right. So this this is an experience of living like an illegal alien or a refugee. I imagine you never expected in your life. You'd have to do that.
KYAR PHYU 28:35
No, yeah. Because before the coop, I travel like, like, having like the How can I say it's like, I travel to many countries and I travel. I travel very freely. Yeah, like it's like, I was in the kitchen. I couldn't travel I couldn't do anything what I like that's totally different for me. Very different experience for me.
Host 29:13
Yeah, and I must I can't imagine how it feels to live in you know, you're coming from Myanmar you're in such danger in Myanmar, to your to your life to your your safety. And the only reason you're in danger is because you're supporting the democracy movement. You're not doing anything more than that, but but that makes you a threat and an enemy of the state. And so you're you're living in these constrained circumstances for so long. You finally escape and you make it out of the country and you're you're just barely safer you're still at same risk to to authorities in another state that are not sympathetic to your cause or your your your work, even though you're you're not doing anything wrong. You're just supporting the democracy movement. And you have have that risk again of those authorities in another country, either imprisoning you or even worse, sending you back to a, an even worse danger that you're trying to escape from. So that kind of perpetual hiding and, and constant concern for safety. You know, just psychologically, I can't begin to imagine how how one develops that, that stamina and that strength to just continue and persevere and surviving and staying healthy. And above all that on a personal level continuing to work for this democracy movement in Myanmar and against the military takeover.
KYAR PHYU 30:41
It's just like, I couldn't even believe myself, you know, it's like, my mind limitation. I, I thought I could overcome my limitation, I stretched my limitation. I never, I, you know, I never imagined my I would, I would involve in the coop, the coop, the coop, and the movement. Because when 88 uprising happened, I was only four years old. So only just my parents talk about that. And I never imagined that I would, it would happen to me again. Then it happened, and it really happens to be. And then I took part I took part, it's like a very seriously, very, very seriously. So like, every day I walk for the revolution, every day, it's in my mind, I had to work to fight the regime. So So I, I thought, well, I could do that I could, I could overcome that. I could stay in the same house. You know, I thought I couldn't stay in the same house, you know, I need to go out and you know, I just like always going out hanging out with my friends. But I was like house arrest. And I even sympathize, Dawn Sensoji because, you know, she was under house arrest. Water 10 or 20 years, and I thought, wow, she, she could do that. And now I I am in in our situation. And I why not. I also need to be liked how you know to do, because I know that she she she also she, she she also she is doing meditation, she is doing reading, she makes many books. So I also do the same thing, you know, like meditation, reading and working for the revolution. So it's like, I, I really appreciate her, her strength, her ability. It's really admiring for me. And I also couldn't believe myself. But now I feel more confident about myself, I overcome all these challenges. I'm still you know, there are so many challenges still waiting for me. Because I'm still working for the revolution. And I'm now even in the refugee. I mean, like even in the refugee status. So there are many challenges, we're still waiting, but I am more confident I can overcome.
Host 33:36
That's great. And yeah, that's that's interesting just to think about you You never imagining you could end up here and end up working as you did. And I think that that's true for so many people in the democracy movement. I think for any of us, if we just think about if we just rewind a few years ago, we think about these network of friends or professional contacts we had of, you know, even you and I when when's the last time we had, we had a meal together we hung out or sigh looked at happened to see the handicrafts that the you were supporting and had a conversation there. You know, we're going back years after that, and looking at the training seminars that we were in together and some of the other people that were there and who would have known that those networks that were both friendly and personal as well as professional and in the field. Who would have ever guessed that those contacts would lead to these what are now underground networks and advocacy and support for that are that are these these networks where we're really relying on one another and and who we are and our backgrounds and what we offer to work together and to find ways to see how we can continue supporting this. That's just the situation that we've all found ourselves in those who've decided of course to take apart of course there are people in in all of our networks that have chosen not to rise up the same way that others have and haven't have laid low or or have have, have sought greater personal safety and not taking the same risk or advocacy of one to support the movement? And that's the question I have for you. You know, in your interview last year, you describe the very organic way that you came to play a leading role in CDM. That was never anything you intended or tried to do or had ambition for, it was really just one civil servant after another coming and asking for your advice for your help. And suddenly, you were this very important person that was leading and assisting in all of these civil servants that were following CDM. And that then put you at risk. And that just that all happened organically, it wasn't something you were you were trying to make for yourself or trying to carve out some position. So and you didn't know where that would lead, you didn't know how long this would last or the dangers that it would that would come or the personal risks that you would face? So my question is knowing now knowing where this was leading, and what kind of personal strain and risk it would place on you? Do you have any regrets? Do you feel that looking back you you wish you might have done things differently? Or that that knowing that the the position that would place you in of risk and danger? Do you do you have any second thoughts or regret about how, how active you've chosen to become in your work and in your activism?
KYAR PHYU 36:31
No, no, no, I never regret about my mind decisions. Even I feel I feel better. Because, you know, I see. My belief is even stronger. To fight for democracy, access to I thought, I believe in democracy just for that. No, I told that I now I face the regime now. And I, I was really standing up to fight them. So my, my belief is stronger and stronger. So it's, it's like, I never regret it. And there are many not only me, you know, because there are so many people who who get their life. People who you know, like many PDF many Gen Z, they even they were even touch during the fights or during the protests. So why not me? You know, it's not only this, this revolution is totally different from 88th generation. This, this is like totally did Myanmar history change changing? So I never regretted I involved in touch a part of the movement, you know, it's just, I'm even proud of myself. Even even feeling better. You know, I said, That's what I can do. You know, it's like, how can I say it's in Burmese we call elite? Yeah. Yeah. It's like my mind is very my cautious. My cautious my respect, is like very clear about my way. It's, this is a very conscious decision, I make it, I'm very clear about that.
Host 38:20
Right, that's very inspiring to hear. And it's also in thinking about our own democracy in my country in the US and how it's something those kinds of freedoms are things that people take for for granted to such an extent and not realizing the the struggle and the personal risk of people giving so much so that we can then live in safety. And I think that's something really valuable for us to remember here and to appreciate the the freedoms that we have. And also the delicate nature of them that they're those freedoms are always at risk in some regard and how important it is to affirm the value of of everyone living under those basic freedoms and human rights and not let that slip away. When when we do have a hold on them and remembering the struggle and the and how, how much dedication people like you are working towards with trying to to bring about those in Myanmar. So, on that note, I want to go back to your interview last year, it's the link to that interview will be in the notes of this interview. And we definitely encourage listeners to go and check that out to get to look at where you were at a year ago and how you were assisting the CDM movement at that time. I know that you also listened to that interview before we talked. Now what were your thoughts when you were listening to that interview a year ago what what stood out to you what did you notice
KYAR PHYU 39:56
at the time, you know, I noticed that I, um, I thought the revolution didn't take so long. It's it's like, I thought, it just we just, we just finished like two or three minutes. But now it's it's a it's like a year in an event, it would be longer, like two or three years. And in building the country again, it will take another two or three years again. So I now I think it at least it was like four or five years. But Myanmar will suffer. So that's that's my only talk after last year interview, but there are so many changes happening in in I really glad that I, I overcome. I overcame this the challenges I face.
Host 41:11
Right. So listen to that interview a year ago, you felt some kind of, I guess we could say like naivete a feeling that that the movement was going to overcome the military faster than it did.
KYAR PHYU 41:26
Yes, yes. Yes. Yes.
Host 41:29
Right. Was there anything else that stood out from that?
KYAR PHYU 41:37
Not Not exactly. That's what I remember. Mostly. Yeah.
Host 41:43
Right. So let's continue following with CDM. For now, because the main thrust of that interview, we talked extensively about what you were doing with building up the CDM movement, which at that time, was really one of the most important aspects of the revolution, which is the power of CDM. And the confidence of CDM working and more and more employees that we're not going to office or some that we're staying in the office, but we're actually spying on the regime to help the movement. And that was where we left off a year ago. And over the course of the last year, we've heard less and less about CDM. In the news, there have been more aspects of the revolution that in the conflict that have come out. And that leaves a lot of us wondering, well, what's going on with CDM? Today, I we hear reports of more and more people going back to the office, there's a question about how effective is CDM? Really, when we're starting to look at some of the actual battles when we're looking at the end ug and the international stage, we're looking at the PDFs. And we tend to forget about this role of CDM, which was so important and so prominent at the beginning. So can you walk us through what changes happened in the course of the year with CDM as someone who is so involved in on the inside of this movement? And where we're at now with civil disobedience movement?
KYAR PHYU 43:04
Well, it's, it's it's, it's how can I say it's like, the movement is weaker, because of the pressure of sec. And also the duration of the revolution. So CDM Could, could stand I, I still have connection with many students every day. And I'm talking to I still, I'm still talking to them every day, and now I'm even working with them. So the problem is the financial difficulties CDM are facing and the lack of job opportunities, they couldn't find a job easily in the pressure from sec to go back. And also they have some, you know, the mostly the financial problems, they got the loans from the government, previously, they joined the CDN. So SEC pressure, you know, to give this law, the civil service law, and if they couldn't return the notes, they got arrested. So things like that SEC pressure a lot on them. So the movement is weaker and weaker. But, but there are many CTM I really admire We are in inspire all these financial hardship and difficulties and threatening, they, they are still fighting. They don't join the don't go back to their offices, they still they still join the movement, and they are still very proud of themselves, you know, and they have all these records. What you know, even among the senior, you know, the dates they are did take the take the joint, the CDM movement is very important. Try Alia, like February, is always proud of themselves. People who've joined later is that, you know, they don't like the Nova CDF. So, now I'm looking for the new T CDM CDM. Committee, we have the energy Annucci has the CDM success committee, and I'm working for that. I'm the second I'm the Secretariat, member of the CDM Services Committee. And so we are working on the CDM, policy CDM and net CDN, and what are the benefits for the CDN after the revolution. So we are going to give them rewards, or the unit government, the new the new government, the new civilian government, again, after the revolution, they are going to promote these the CDM ah, you know, the like the like the heroes, like our heroes. So there are CDM categories, we identify like CDM, and the PDF CDM, who joined the PDF forces, they are the highest groups, the highest, the highest resolution group, and then CDN, the longer the CDN, time to join, that sort is like the rank of the CDN is higher. So it's like the CDM category we make. So that we we are working on touch draft policy for the CBN. I'm really, I really inspired the CMR. And I really appreciate their courage and their teachers, they do their findings for the country. They are did my sacrifice is nothing comparing with them, you know, I'm just helping them. I don't have that much sacrifice like them, you know, they they love their job. I didn't leave my job like them. They left all their all their job and their houses there. All these benefits they got from the government, they take any other job. They did their sacrifices we hire in SBI a really nice way for me to join the movement.
Host 48:07
Yeah, and that's, that's something it's hard to even imagine is when we first looked at CDM. And we looked at people just not going to work for days or weeks or maybe months ahead. But we're now looking at over a year and maybe years in total, it's hard to even perceive this of someone not being able to go to work, not get an income support a family support their their daily expenses. And then on top of all that to be at risk. It's not just that they're not going and accruing benefits and income, if they can't simply stay home and just not work or finances aside. They're also at risk. They're there. The military is trying to arrest CCDM are saying that they are partaking in an illegal action for not going to their work. So it's hard to even imagine how they're able to live with such difficulties for as long as they have
KYAR PHYU 49:06
mostly they, they find another job, another source of income, like selling the products or, or or asking, I mean, like asking for money from their parents or their family, or they rely on their husband or you know, so it's like very difficult for cdmi to get the job. The the company or the businesses, they don't want to hire the city and it's because of the pressure from the SEC they they don't get to hire the CDN. So it's very difficult for the CDN to get jobs. So most most of them are working in for their own businesses, Maltese This is now we are helping them to set up their small businesses. So so things like that, you know, the financial difficulties they are facing, it's very, very hard for them.
Host 50:16
Right and looking at the CDM movement overall, how, what role is CDM currently playing in the overall democratic movement, as I mentioned before, CDM was kind of at the forefront of everything happening during the first few months, and we've heard less about it. So how important strategically, is CDM at this moment?
KYAR PHYU 50:35
Yes, yes, it's still important. But this day, we focused more on the revolution, the defense, defensive war, batch CTN. From the army, and the police, is still is still important for the revolution. So the military, see, the military cdmo The soldiers cdmo, the policy DMR they join the movement, they still join the movement, it's very important for us, you know, that efficient program is important. The, if they they join the movement more and more, it's, you know, they are less the less people with the SEC. So it's it's CDM are still still important. They they still dry, but mostly, these are police in the army. We focus on that now.
Host 51:46
Right, right. That's obviously the more important one. So what can you tell us about those operations about focusing on the military and the police defections as part of CDM?
KYAR PHYU 51:58
Yeah, we have the Annucci has this people embrace program, we call it, people embrace it to it is welcoming the military and police, soldiers, police, police officer and military soldiers to join the movement. So every day, we have this DC army and police cdmo who joined with us. So for police, we have around two to the 2500 police city and in the police I heard last year in currently state they are state they that the police the DMR last year, the first police idiom is from tyranny. theistic. I have I have I have them at the time. So these these they are not. They are they are all police force. They currently state police force. It's like I I am very proud of them. You know, I have the CGM and they now even have their own state photos. So it's really remarkable for me, you know, to help them and the police, the police, police is very important. I mean, like, these days, we have more territory, I mean, the concepts happening in Sakai or chain or McQueen, this area need more or rule of law in the stability. So police CDM are very important to join the movement. If police join us. This police will protect the communities. So I'm helping them the police to to help the communities in Sakai or chain or Maguy each many, many townships have their own police force. I mean, they look like the current state police at a math day they are running in their own Township. They are having their communities in their own township now. Not with a cc anymore. Where the PDF control Yeah, that the PDF that area is controlled by the PDF
Host 54:32
right that's That's remarkable. So that's that's showing a showing that the military is actually controlling less administration and less ground so that's that's really inspiring.
KYAR PHYU 54:43
Yeah, yes, yes. Yes.
Host 54:47
Yeah. So moving from CDM to N ug, you reference that you're helping take that now that CDM mission is incorporated in and ug and you've become involved in national unity government for Some time now and and supporting their mission. And I know you have some things to say about your your view on what an FPGA is doing and how it's working. So tell us what your thoughts are on that.
KYAR PHYU 55:20
Yes, so I'm taking part many, many roles in a new CI I mean, I'm working for the CDM and mostly for the CTN and also working for the township administration, all the supporting the international donors with their humanitarian aids, so things like that. Yeah. So and ug Annucci is functioning it's revolution government, there are many challenges and he is still facing but we are still you know, or working. Working as as much as we can to move to move the revolution.
Host 56:25
Right and how's your experience been? And then Yugi What do you have to share about your involvement and how you've seen in their, their mission and their activities.
KYAR PHYU 56:36
This day, we have more or works with Skyn region in McQuaid McQuaid region. So there are many letters, and conflict and fighting everyday in sky or McQuaid or chain. And I'm helping with the sky administration groups, or sky chain or McQuaid administration groups, you know, to strengthen the ground situation?
Host 57:06
And how are you doing that? What, as far as it's safe to tell what what is your involvement, then
KYAR PHYU 57:13
I'm helping them with their their IDB and also giving them training, how to manage the administration functions or how to work during the conflict situation, conflict management and community resilience. Activities did things like that, so I mostly I kept them training and coordination meetings with them.
Host 57:44
Right and in over the course of the past year, you've joined in Eugene, when we were talking before you you weren't a part of that you were more doing your own thing with encouraging CDM So as you've come to take a role in and ug and work on in the national unity government from the inside, what have been your thoughts or reflections on seeing their, their efficiency and their, their activity and how they've, how the energy has been has been running and how it's been accomplishing its mission? What thoughts or feelings do you have on that?
KYAR PHYU 58:21
Energy is the revolution government and it's, it's not perfect, I think there are so many weaknesses and challenges they are facing. But the spirit of the energy is really good. I mean, the ministers are revolution fighters in and they they can inspire the people a lot. So people like the vessel we saw, or delta saw really inspire them or Massimo mouth, it was a model I really inspired them. They they they use many strategies. They also they inspire the people, not to not a motive, not to be not to motivate and also to stand up to, you know, to be to be stronger. Again and to to to to still fight you know, they tickle you know, they call for the fighting stronger and stronger us so it's but but I stopped. They are also who they are also some weaknesses but but the leadership is difficulties the revolution leadership. I wish we have more stronger leaders, but still, our leaders also doing their best for the country?
Host 1:00:06
What do you mean by stronger leaders? Like what type of what type of leadership do you think is most valuable at this time of a revolutionary period?
KYAR PHYU 1:00:16
It's like, because we we is via the Ukraine. President. I am sometimes frustrated with the annuity, you know, they their communication strategy is weak and they don't match communicate with the people. Things like that. So it's like, I wish we have stronger leaders like the Ukraine president, but but still. I know the challenges that our ministers facing, so I cannot say you know, they are also working 24/7. I couldn't tell them during the updates, they cannot stretch their capacity anymore. Yeah.
Host 1:01:07
So that's an interesting contrast, Ukraine and Myanmar, and many people have looked at that we actually did an episode exploring in depth the differences between the situations, different differences and similarities between Ukraine and Myanmar. And you referenced just now how you wish that we had a Burmese Alinsky the Ukrainian leader. So why do you think it is that such a leader has not emerged in over a year either you could have such a leader from the energy from the PDFs, the activism from medical field, any any number of professions, you can have a central leader who just starts inspiring and motivating and leading the people forward. And we haven't and also speaks to the international community with Zelensky has done so well. Why do you think it is the Myanmar has not been this revolution, it's not yet been able to produce a type of Zelinsky figure that can lead the way as such.
KYAR PHYU 1:02:01
That's what we are still looking for. We're still thinking, the leaders looking for the leaders? But yeah, I think I think we will find, but I don't know why we couldn't have that kind of leaders.
Host 1:02:29
Also, you referenced how some of the energy leaders are perhaps not listening to the people as well as they could be or perhaps are separated from some of the people on the ground? Can you say more about what you meant by that?
KYAR PHYU 1:02:48
I mean, they are very busy with the with the meetings. But but they are they are also I mean, they are. So some ministers, like doctors always. So they, they have meetings with the people regularly. But still, you know, a new tea is weak interaction, to motivate the people, that that's what I'm thinking. So I think we need to work on that. How we can motivate the people, what kind of leadership we need to give more clear guidance to the people. That's what I think
Host 1:03:36
it's interesting to think that because the people themselves are so motivated, we've seen such great amounts of sacrifice and motivation among the people. So it seems kind of ironic, in a sense, to reference the leadership as not inspiring motivation. When among the people there's already so much motivation to defeat this military.
KYAR PHYU 1:04:02
Yes, it's the people. It's, it's very motivated to, to fight the regime. i What, what my think thinking is the revolution is when, because of the people not because of the energy or any leader, because the people motivation is very, very high. And energy is always like the people is always in front of us. Yeah, that's it. That's, that's what I thought.
Host 1:04:40
And if the revolution were to win, how do you see like a reconciliation taking place between the people and the leadership? Because right now there's there's not great communication or coordination and there's definitely fresh growing frustration that we sense from people on the ground of feeling like leadership is not really in touch with you What they're trying to do and what their aims are and are moving too slowly. So if the revolution were to win, this divide is not going away, there is going to remain a gap between people feeling that they're taking all the risks on the ground and the leadership that is seem to be a bit more removed. Do you have any concerns about how in the post revolution period of how to bring about greater communication and to shorten this gap that has come to exist between them?
KYAR PHYU 1:05:29
Yes, we need to definitely think of that. But But right now, the political situation is very sensitive. So we have more engaging engagement with the people. And also we develop the energy is developed, developing the strategy, the communication strategy. So yeah, a new CI is still trying to encode that.
Host 1:06:02
And what other changes would you like to see in in UG, you talk about having a better communication strategy with the people having, you know, as we all like, Zelinsky type leader that that's involved as well. But if you were given the task and the ability to reform or remodel and ug, how would you do that? How would you like to see it reshaped to better serve the interests of the revolution?
KYAR PHYU 1:06:28
I don't want to make it bigger. You know, government, it's it. This is the revolution government, I feel like energy is more like the normal government, you know, they, they have many ministries, I don't want to touch it, just like, I want to have only two or three, like three or four Ministries is enough, like the humanitarian for the IDP. And then the defense in the justice in the administration, that so that's in the foreign affairs, that's, that's a net four or five ministries enough. So I went, all the other ministers and I went all the resources, to focus only on the resolution, you know, areas like Skype, or McAfee or cin, they need more help. So, all the resources need to go to there correctly. So, I want to make better resource allocation, not to all the states and regions, where the, you know, where the areas are still under control of assessing and the you know, that the resources are very scattered. Very few, and we have to make more strategic allocation of the resources.
Host 1:07:54
Right, right. So, you're, you're describing wanting to see more of a strictly like revolutionary government that is, is not trying to to place itself as a stable government or shadow or parallel government trying to administer a country, which it doesn't because as, as we've seen, even members of parliament are hiding out in Thailand, trying to avoid arrest and capture by by Thai authorities. And so it's difficult to imagine these this type of body, administering a full country rather, they should embrace their role as a transitory, transitional revolutionary government trying to restore democracy and rightful elections, and then have a stable government then take charge. And it sounds like what you're saying is they're trying to do everything at once perhaps Is that Is that fair to say?
KYAR PHYU 1:08:47
Yes, yes. Yes.
Host 1:08:50
And so what you referenced a little bit just now of what you'd like to see a revolutionary government do have less ministries be able to more effectively allocate resources to those places that are in need to focus attention on some of the critical needs that are happening and to dit to maybe let go of some of those tasks that are not so essential right. Now. Is there any other ways you would describe or define what a revolutionary government is how it's different from what we have now and what what features or or priorities a revolutionary government should be carrying out at this time?
KYAR PHYU 1:09:32
It should be focusing more on the the winning strategy, how can we win the win the SEC, I want more on that. The strategy should be clear and direction should be clear to the people. So that that's what I went for the N UG.
Host 1:09:54
That makes sense because I feel like at the moment if someone were to ask what is the N ug doing or what is it pursuing? There's not really like a clear or distinct voice or direction, or strategy that is known either publicly or people that are engaged in their own activities and operations. It seems like there's not one clear voice or mission that's coming out of what it's really trying to accomplish. Or at least that's someone like myself being more on the outside in the periphery. At least that's the sense I get is someone like you who is much more involved directly with the mission. Is that something you think is fair to say, as well? Or am I just kind of missing something here?
KYAR PHYU 1:10:39
No, no. Yeah. I I also want to say like that, yeah.
Host 1:10:44
And why do you think it's developed that way? I mean, it's so urgent that they're solidarity and clear lines of operation at this moment, and that the leadership should be doing that. And yet, it seems like it hasn't found a way to accomplish that. Why do you think it is that that it's been so muddled, and it's not able to to have such a clear directive and mission in one voice and leading one strategy? In, in lean forward? What Why hasn't had been able to accomplish that?
KYAR PHYU 1:11:17
It's because we are weak in dialogue, and communication, I think. So in energy, we have many ministers from different backgrounds, like the ethnic backgrounds, or the party background and an antibody background. So the dialogue between these different groups challenging and take time, it's I think that's, that's, that's what I think.
Host 1:11:55
Right? And as you've seen those dialogues progress, and you've you've been involved in, in that communication, and it is taking time to to be able to find common ground. How are you finding that communication develop? Are you seeing changes along the course of the past year, and how different groups are able to discuss and work together more openly?
KYAR PHYU 1:12:21
Yeah, we are still working on that. Like? Yeah, the revolution is taking longer and Naga. Actually, you know, I think revolution is not in the hands of Annucci revolution is only in the ground. So I cannot even say Annucci is leading the revolution and Yugi is just for eating and hoping the the revolution leaders in the ground
Host 1:12:49
that's very interesting.
KYAR PHYU 1:12:51
Because of their not not inside the annuity.
Host 1:12:55
Well, let's go there, then let's let's go and take a look at some of those leaders operating on the ground where the real revolution is happening and where the real important leaders and events are shaping up and taking place. Tell us what you know about what is happening on the ground in the forefront of the revolution.
KYAR PHYU 1:13:14
I mean, I'm walking with the with the sky leaders or Chain Leaders, there are many interesting in brief, in very high GPA, a competent leader you know, that they are leading the revolution, they are leading the, the petal Ian's so I really admire them. They make quick decisions. They inspire their people. So, so people like Oh, Nica you, you I think you know him. He is on the on Facebook and social media. So it's very interesting. He is leading the groups there. So people like him is really inspired for me. You know, they have many, they have many challenges, but they, they they're still working. They don't have the proper weapons, but they find the waist, how to make the weapons. So that it makes me really inspiring, you know, the people, their leaders like him taking control of the revolution and winning the revolution.
Host 1:14:29
Right so leaders like Bona gar Have you coordinated or supported them with and what they're doing or are you more in a different field of operations and you're just following more on social media like like the rest of us?
KYAR PHYU 1:14:47
We know him Yeah, we support him. Yeah, we I mean, like the MOT Ministry of Defense is supporting them. So we are they our energy is supporting them. Yeah. All
Host 1:15:02
right, and any other thoughts about some of the the importance of the leaders that are on the ground and some of the, the PDF missions that are taking place? So what what what else about that? Can you tell us
KYAR PHYU 1:15:18
I also think another leader like this, he is also very inspiring leader for me, the he, he can motivate the people, he can motivate the he can also coordinate the Gen Z. So, this this kind of, you know, the urgency and the liters also we need we, it's essential for us. So, yeah, the day that the crown leaders that I only rely on the crown leaders to win the revolution.
Host 1:15:54
What do you think? How do you think these ground leaders were able to come to such prominence and to, you know, these, these people now, leading these operations, none of them came from these kinds of backgrounds, for the most part of these before the revolution, these were doctors and teachers and civil servants, taxi drivers, just normal people from all walks of life, and those that have chosen to step up are not just risking their lives, but in some ways are leading movements and having to find the resources when there are very, very little to rely on little material, a little support from the international community level in terms of experience and training and knowing what they're doing. So how did they find those inner resources to be able to step up and play a role in in something that they've never done before and to actually, as you described, to be successful and inspiring and what they're doing?
KYAR PHYU 1:16:53
Yes, that's what I observed from them is their perseverance, perseverance, and also their strong determination to fight for the region, and for the people. So that's, that's what they are leading their role. And they also have many followers. They, they, they inspire so yeah, observed from them is their determination to fight for the democracy.
Host 1:17:28
You reference Boehner gar who's a PDF leader, you also mentioned to our son who I don't believe is in the PDFs now, I think he's, he's more of an activist and speaker, is that right? Yes.
KYAR PHYU 1:17:39
Yes, he is. He's not BDS. Right.
Host 1:17:42
So yeah. Yeah. So these are two examples that come to mind of the type of leaders that that you think are important right now for the movement? Are there any other young leaders that come to mind that you'd like to call attention to?
KYAR PHYU 1:18:02
I see many PDF, Gen. Gen Z, I'm also working with them. So, but but not like prominent, like them, you know, but these two figures are very prominent, but I see many Gen Z. They are also trying very hard, they can give even their gift, they can even give their life for the country. They don't they to die for the country. I mean, they dare to die for the country. So just I really inspired them. You know, I cannot say like, I cannot make it just like they they are very brave and very courage and yeah, I really aspire.
Host 1:18:50
Yeah, well, there's a lot of unsung heroes right now there's a lot of people that are are dedicating their lives and risking their lives whose names are virtually unknown. And for many, that's their own choice that's their own service and their own their own work to do they don't want the attention for their own safety as well. But I think you and I both know some names that are not well known but but are playing really quite prominent and important roles now. How about women? What have you seen in from Gen Z female activists and how they've been responding and do any particular women come to mind that have emerged as leaders.
KYAR PHYU 1:19:32
It's like the BDS group, you know mele, young woman warrior group. Have you seen on on the Facebook?
Host 1:19:41
Describe? Yeah, describe to our listeners what that is. That's really interesting.
KYAR PHYU 1:19:44
It's very interesting. I mean, very inspiring for us, you know, the Gen Z woman, they form the PDF, woman PDF group, to support the PDF, and also to, to produce weeper. And themselves and to, to keep each other the fighting trainings, or the to help the IDP to help the code, the humanitarian activities. So it's really inspiring for me, you know, the young woman warrior, they, they also issue the statement announcement, you know, to boycott the SEC to, to ask the CDM, to ask the service office to join the CDM movement and things like that. So it's, it's very inspiring for me, you know, young woman warrior.
Host 1:20:40
Yeah. And that seems to be something new in Myanmar history from my reading of past Myanmar history and, and military, I can't really think of another period, another conflict period where women have played such an important role in the actual conflict part of it.
KYAR PHYU 1:21:00
Yeah, yeah. This is the new history for us.
Host 1:21:06
It certainly is, it certainly is. Why do you think it is? Why do you I mean, this is like a first time in in Bomar history that women have have stepped forward to take on the greatest risk of the greatest personal risk they can incur. And this has never happened before. So what it didn't happen in Oh, seven, it didn't happen in 88. There were certainly women involved in the movement, but not like they are now in the risks and the courage that they're, they're showing, so why do you think it is that this time this generation has produced so many young women that are willing to make this ultimate sacrifice?
KYAR PHYU 1:21:43
I think it's the because of the the, the technology, and also exposure we got it's different from the previous generation, this generation is, is the is the generation everything can access the internet, it's the internet generation. So So that's, that's what I think, you know, and we can assess to anything on the wall in a we got many privileges, comparing with other generations. So. So I think that that's why that's why you know, the younger generation even got more freedom. And in, within the 10 years of the this democratic democratic period ties up from previous history. I think, these 10 years, a lot of young people got many exposure to the international communities, the freedom of speech, freedom of thoughts, political science, studying political science or so in the universities, Freedom movements, there's so many activities, you know, have been in conflict. That's why I think, the political attitude, the political thoughts are very, I mean, like a very, very high already in the generation. So I think that's, that's, that that's what I guess, for this, this new generation.
Host 1:23:33
That's all very exciting. So what would your thoughts be towards if the revolution is successful, and we move on to a democratic post revolution society, this involvement of women, this empowerment of women is not going to go away as people settle back into a more traditional conservative, Burmese Buddhist society, this kind of activity they're doing is going to persist? I think it's fair to say in some way, what do you have any thoughts of like, if in a new society, what what impacts this kind of involvement in power and empowerment of women now, how that would translate to settling back into a more normal democratic society, how they would carry this activism and this confidence to pass the revolution into into further life and society?
KYAR PHYU 1:24:30
I feel very, very much proud of the the new generation the the new leaders of the the woman leaders. So I have very positive and optimistic hope for my country. After the revolution, you know, if we win, we will definitely I can I can say we can definitely overcome whatever political challenges we face in The the previous decades that you know, we, we we can remove all these things with the new generation. Yeah.
Host 1:25:10
Right and concerning the women as well staying on that for another moment are there any particular women that come to mind as as leaders or examples that have have really stood out to you?
KYAR PHYU 1:25:22
I mean, this these two two ladies are the you know, it turns out as far as they know, these two ladies are prominent, but there are many ladies you know, the many young ladies I can I cannot even say names I mean like there are many many young ladies joining the movement. So, just like I mean, not only one I cannot say one lady to Lady these two lady, but there are so many ladies like makes no woman warrior or other lady is a chi or Chi Chi also has many, many young ladies joining that video. And also, you know, the woman who fell from the building on 5050 Street, it's like the underground underground utilities. There are many groups and many young ladies groups so I really aspire all ladies for fighting in the revolution, I really inspired I met many PDF leading to so it's really inspiring for me, you know, they they are taking the training, the military training, like like the men, so it's really, really inspiring.
Host 1:26:49
Yeah, I bet it is widening the outlook, beyond just the PDFs and looking at the EAA owes the ethnic armed organizations, how have the relations and the coordination been between these different factions between these different groups, the audios the PDFs, the N ug, what can you say about this whole relationship?
KYAR PHYU 1:27:13
We are still working on that we are still building the dialogue, and still building the trust and communication. So but but the substitution is really really good. I believe that we have a stronger, stronger belief and trust than than the last 70 years to fight for the regime. So I I am very optimistic about the current situation on the relationship with the E R. O N, a new T of video.
Host 1:27:47
So one question I have is like looking at your own personal background and your own personal practice your meditation practice with some of these wider goals and operations in Myanmar. And this is this is a really difficult question. It's a different thing to consider. For many of us on one hand, you're practicing meditation mogul technique, which you're describing, is giving you more peace inside, especially compassion, it's giving compassion towards yourself and towards others and allowing you to persist. And yet on the other hand, there's these PDF fighters that are being supported to to kill the tatmadaw soldiers that are not defecting, and that are carrying on their terror in their tyranny. This is just an enormously difficult situation because they are not stopping their evil, they're not stopping their harm of innocent people day after day, and they will not stop force is it's become very apparent that force is the only language that they know. And the only way to that has been determined to resist force is with force. And so there's this awful situation of having to find a way to kill them more effectively than they are killing the country man and to support those PDFs that are charged with that effort. But on a personal, ethical, spiritual level, how is that for you? You know, how is it to, to to have to be to have nonviolent ethics for your life to follow an ethical spiritual path and believe in not harming people and really try to live by those values. And yet and to to continue doing that you have your own meditation practice even today, yet at the same time to recognize the necessity that this evil is not going away if not for for so how have you been able to reconcile that?
KYAR PHYU 1:29:48
It's a very good question. I I'm also looking for that. That that solution, because you know, one day supporting the PDF to make donating the money for the weapon protection to kill to kill the assessee. But the other day, I'm like, oh, no, like killing people, supporting them to kill people. So it's like, very difficult dilemma for me, I need to balance myself. My thoughts. But But, but what I think is that the military is killing the people, you know, if we are not killing them, they are going to kill us. That's, that's what I think that's the that's what other people, you know, I, I always met the PDF, I met a CDM I met the parents of the PDF. So they, they all are very suffering, and I cannot accept this suffering. So it's like, I was very angry with the SEC, you know, they are greedy. They agreed in their destruction to the country. That's my hatred to them is, you know, it's like, we have to stop them. If we cannot stop them in this generation. It's like our next generation would we suffer? Even harder than so that's that's what I think. And so, yeah, it's just I have to balance my my thoughts on that.
Host 1:31:39
Yeah, I can imagine, it's certainly no way forward to determine how to have to win the revolution, in the least harmful way possible, while also maintaining your own humanity and your own morals. And I imagine this is something that the PDFs have to deal with much more intensively since they're the ones actually on the ground doing this.
KYAR PHYU 1:31:59
Yes, yes.
Host 1:32:03
Yeah. Have you had any conversations with those in the PDF that have struggled with this with this kind of thing?
KYAR PHYU 1:32:09
Yes, yes, of course. Yes. Yes. But they are like, you know, they are always only looking at the present moment. I like that, you know, only just check checking yourself with your present moment, what's happening to you? So it's like, yeah, it's difficult. Yeah, it's difficult for us to cope with all these values and the situation?
Host 1:32:41
Yeah. I can imagine and you're coping with this on your own, there's so little international support or sympathy for the struggle that's being waged from people who don't have any background, any training any resources, and are just trying to do the best they can with with what they have. And I think it's really been an inspiration for the world. But it's, it's also been a tragedy that, that the Democratic Movement has been so isolated and unsupported. It's very sad that, that the people waging this have to have such resilience and such perseverance. It would be nice if there was more support, but But given how the conditions are, it's it's really amazing what people have how people have responded to a very difficult situation.
KYAR PHYU 1:33:37
Yeah, yeah. Yeah. At first, you know, the last year I wish we could have more international support. But now we know I have no hope, international support anymore. We have to fight ourselves to get our democracy Yeah. To get our independence.
Host 1:34:05
Yeah, yeah, that's certainly is the situation and where do you think we're at now in this revolution, what you you reference listening to your interview last year, you felt you were a little naive and how long the revolution would last that the momentum was was going to be more impactful than it was at that time? And yet still here we are now where their people are as as as optimistic and dedicated as ever, even after a year plus of this this terror and this horror, but where are we at? What do you feel like? What What's your feeling in terms of where the revolution is at and where the momentum is and what you think is gonna happen the next months and even years?
KYAR PHYU 1:34:51
The momentum was very high in the earlier stage of the revolution, like last year, no, no, but it's is lower and lower this year I think this year, but then again you know it areas and places like Sakai or change or McQueen, the resolution is stronger in this area. So, it's different different stages in different different areas. So, I, I can say like generally we have very good situation you know, the assessee is losing and we are winning, but still, you know, we have to be more systematic and more stronger, communicate, communicate to the people motivations, so many things involve tu tu tu tu tu, tu tu, which with revolution, but still I feel we are in very good situation now.
Host 1:36:02
And with that I thank you so much for joining us on this episode. I'm so glad that you're in a continued place of safety and continuing to support from where you're at, even though I know the conditions are less than ideal, but I think speak for many listeners when I say that you're an inspiration for many of us in your sacrifice in your dedication towards wanting to work towards this greater goal of freedom and safety and an equitable society for all people in Myanmar to be able to live and build their lives in and get away from this. This current terror of the military that is, is trying to control it and I wish the movement the most success. So thanks, thanks so much for taking this time with us.
KYAR PHYU 1:36:45
Thank you, thank you so much also for inviting me to share my experiences and things I want to say to the world thank you so much for the listeners also listening to the stories and helping Nima for our democracy movement
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Wait.
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You Your
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holy day round
Host 1:38:13
many listeners know that in addition to running these podcast episodes, we also run a nonprofit better Burma, which carries out humanitarian projects across Myanmar. While we regularly post about current needs and proposals from groups on the ground. We also handle emergency requests, often in matters that are quite literally life or death. When those urgent requests come in, we have no time to conduct targeted fundraisers, as these funds are often needed within hours. So please consider helping us maintain this emergency fund. We want to stress that literally any amount that you give allows us to respond more flexibly and effectively when disaster strikes. If you would like to join in our mission to support those of Myanmar who are being impacted by the military coup, we welcome your contribution in any form currency your transfer method. Your donation will go to support a wide range of humanitarian missions, aiding those local communities who need it most. Donations are directed to such causes as civil disobedience movement CVM families of deceased victims, internally displaced person IDP camps, food for impoverished communities, military defection campaigns, undercover journalists, monasteries and nunneries education initiatives, the purchasing of protective equipment and medical supplies COVID relief and much more. We also make sure that our donation Fund supports a diverse range of religious and ethnic groups across the country. We invite you to visit our website to learn more about past projects as well as upcoming needs. You can give a general donation or earmark your contribution for a specific activity or project you would like to support. Perhaps even something you heard about in this very episode. All of this humanitarian aid work is carried out by a nonprofit mission that or Burma. Any donation you give on our insight Myanmar website is directed towards this fund. Alternatively, you can also visit the better Burma website better burma.org That's BETTRBURM a.org and donate directly there. In either case, your donation goes to the same cause, and both websites accept credit cards. You can also give via PayPal by going to paypal.me/better Burma. Additionally, we take donations through Patreon Venmo, GoFundMe and Cash App. Simply search better Burma on each platform and you'll find our account. You can also visit either the Insight Myanmar better Burma websites for specific links to those respective accounts or email us at info at better burma.org. If you'd like to give it another way, please contact us. Thank you so much for your kind consideration and support.