Burmese flock to Maesod to get donated rice

DVB (August 19,2003)

Many Burmese turned up at annual rice donation ceremony by Chinese businessmen held at Mae Sod, Burma-Thai border. Burmese from Myawaddy on the Burmese side of the border even crossed over to Thai side to get donated rice.

DVB’s Khine Thazin reports from Maesod :

Khine Thazin : Despite the intensifying arrests by the Thai police, Burmese people, their age ranging from over 80 years to suckling babies have been waiting fearlessly for the food. The people from Myawaddy have been waiting at the town since two days ago and one woman explained why they risked their lives as follows:

A Burmese woman : We, people have nothing to eat. We would come here if they could get one packet of rice. It could keep them alive for a day or two. We have to buy the border pass. Five people in a family get five packets. A pregnant mother gets 2 packets. They also give it to children. Burmese, Karen, Chinese and people of all religions come here. If they run out of rice, some give money about 50 bahts.

A Burmese man said that despite the arrests of Burmese citizens in Maesod, he is happier in Thailand than in Burma where the commodity prices are sky high:

A Burmese man : I am not happy in Burma. It is hard to make a living. Our net is not even enough for daily food. We come here to Maesod often. They (Thai police) arrest us. But we keep on coming. I am happier here.