We simply expect equal rights: Daw Imbiya Kha Tu from Kyauktaw

Are the Muslims,who live in the townships of Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya and Pauktaw, currentlyunder the administration of the Arakan Army (AA),still facing the same restrictions and prohibitions as they experienced underthe previous Myanmar governments. Or is there any change for the better ? Tounderstand it, Narinjara News reporters conducted a face-to-face dialogue withDaw Imbiya Kha Tu (also known as Daw Ma Saw Myaing, aged over 50), a residentof Kyauktaw township.

Question:Howare the current living conditions for Muslim people in areas under the controlof  AA?

Answer: Our livelihood is now somewhat comfortable. Previously, itwas difficult, but now it's better. Earlier, travelling was also verydifficult. We couldn't enter Kyauktaw town due to the conflict in 2012.Permissions to travel were  restricted. However, under the AA'sadministration, travel has become more convenient.

Q: How does living under the AA now compare with the earlier timeunder the  military junta?

 A: There are noticeable differences. Currently, everything isfine. However, we cannot predict what the future holds. Thus far, Muslims havethe freedom to move around as they wish and live according to theirpreferences.

Q: How is the current scenario in the healthcare sector?

 A: In the past, if you needed medical treatment, you had to reportit in advance. For instance, if you were sick and needed to go for treatment,you needed permission. If you had to travel to Sittwe, Kyauktaw hospitals itwas necessary to incur extra cost. We had to cover medical expenses and alsopay for a recommendation letter. Now, things have changed. Medical treatment isavailable in Kyauktaw. Clinics established by the AA offer us access tohealthcare, and we can visit freely. They allow treatment, although most peopleneed a medical certificate to enter. However, there aren't enough doctors andsufficient volume of medicines. Often critically ill patients die before theycould receive treatment.

Q: Is there any additional information you would like to share?

 A: I have one more thing to say. Under the rule of the AA, theMuslims must live according to their directives. Currently, the situation isstable. However, if they mistreat us as they did in the past, it will not beacceptable. We seek equal rights and opportunities alongside them, particularlyin employment. Our students also need to cooperate with them. That's what Iwant to emphasize. I simply desire equality. We endured hardships in the past,and I hope we do not face such difficulties once again.  (END)