Suu Kyi urges those overseas to contribute knowledge back home

Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi yesterday urged Myanmar nationals living overseas not to wait for “favourable opportunities” before returning to their homeland, and instead create the opportunities themselves.

Addressing more than 5,800 Myanmar nationals living in Singapore at the Resorts World Convention Centre, Ms Suu Kyi, Chairperson of Myanmar’s opposition National League for Democracy, acknowledged the need to offer a sense of security for those living in Myanmar, but said this is something she cannot do alone.

Speaking in Burmese, Ms Suu Kyi shared that she had a short discussion with some Myanmar students, and they had told her they valued the choices and career paths available to them overseas. She appealed to the overseas Myanmar community to use what they have learnt overseas to contribute back home.

When asked how she would tackle corruption if she becomes Myanmar’s President, Ms Suu Kyi said it would take laws and proper enforcement.

She pointed out that citizens can do their part, giving the example of how it is common for people to attempt to skip long customs lines when entering Myanmar by bribing officials. This should not be perpetuated, she said.

Although weighty topics were discussed, the atmosphere in the ballroom was celebratory, with the audience often laughing or applauding during her speech. Some began queuing as early as 5am to snag good seats at the ticketed event, and many were dressed in their national costume of longyis.

Speaking to reporters after the event, of Myanmar Club Committee Member Myat Maw Tun said organising Ms Suu Kyi’s visit has strengthened the community’s unity.

He said: “In Singapore, we have several small Myanmar groups ... some have different views and objectives. I think we never ever worked together on such a large scale … we found unity, under her name.”