Unveiling the Unseen: Recent Developments in Myanmar’s Tanintharyi Region
Published by MoeMaKa, September 14, 2023
The Tanintharyi Region in southern Myanmar has recently witnessed a surge in battles and political activities that have caught the attention of the nation. While news reports have shed light on these conflicts, the underlying reasons, organizational structures, political ideologies, and relationships with ethnic armed groups remain shrouded in mystery. In particular, the emergence of the People’s Defense Force (PDF) armed groups, following the military coup, has led to escalating confrontations with the military council forces over the past two years.
Prior to the coup, the KNU/KNLA Brigade-4 was primarily focused on border areas near Thailand, with limited engagements against the military council. However, after the coup, PDF groups emerged in various cities across Tanintharyi, including Dawei, Yebyu, Launglon, Thayetchaung, Tanintharyi, and Kawthaung townships. These groups initiated attacks against the military council troops, sparking clashes that continue to escalate.
The geographical makeup of Tanintharyi includes a diverse range of ethnic communities, including the Dawei, Karen, Salon, and Bamar, making it distinct from other ethnic regions. The eastern part of Tanintharyi, bordering Mon State and extending to the sea coast, is home to a significant Karen population. Historically, this region did not witness major military activities. However, following the military coup, it saw the emergence of PDF movements alongside the presence of KNU/KNLA forces.
Launglon Township, in particular, has become a focal point for ongoing clashes. Situated to the south of Dawei City, it is a peninsula-like area bounded by the sea, the Dawei River, and the Tanintharyi Yoma mountain range. Prior to the coup, the local population in Dawei and Myeik primarily engaged in business or sought employment opportunities in Thailand, with little inclination towards political militancy. This changed dramatically after the coup, as the region became actively involved in armed movements, resulting in attacks on military council troops, camps, and outposts along the extensive Tanintharyi coastline.
The political orientation and affiliations of the PDF groups in Tanintharyi, their communication with the National Unity Government (NUG), and their relationships with KNU/KNLA remain enigmatic to the public. Unlike regions such as Sagaing and Magway, where the NLD party enjoyed overwhelming support, Tanintharyi displayed a unique political landscape. In both the 2015 and 2020 elections, the NLD secured victories surpassing those of ethnic parties.
Despite its relatively sparse population, Tanintharyi boasts abundant natural resources, including minerals, fishing grounds, a lengthy border with Thailand, hundreds of islands, and pearl production. While it may not exhibit the same prominence in terms of ethnic and national issues as Karen, Karenni, Shan, Kachin, and Chin territories, the Dawei ethnic groups within Tanintharyi identify with their distinct Dawei language and traditional culture.
In light of these factors, it is becoming increasingly clear that Tanintharyi is emerging as a politically significant region. Its diverse composition, including Karen, Salon, and a notable Mon population, positions it as a potential focal point for future political developments. In the context of the ongoing Spring Revolution, Tanintharyi may very well evolve into one or more federal units, marking a transformative chapter in Myanmar’s complex political landscape.