Giving hopes to the people

“The desire of people” is the term that Myanmar President Thein Sein stressed as the inspiration for him to lead the challenging transformation of his country. 

At a special session with World Economic Forum founder Karl Schwab, he said: “There are requirements that had been unaccomplished in the last 60 years. All these reforms are the desire of people.”

He admitted that there were challenges, negotiations with 11 armed groups in a short period being the most difficult part. “It’s very risky, posing numerous challenges, but the ceasefire is good for the country.”

He holds as a priority first to eradicate poverty by bringing economic growth, and to ensure that people’s livelihoods are improved after two decades of economic sanctions that put millions under the poverty line. 

Looking forward, he sees Myanmar being attractive to foreign investors, thanks to its location next to high-growth countries as well as its abundant natural resources. On the plus side, 3 million Myanmar workers are now working overseas. They could return if jobs were created domestically. “These are the foundations for the endeavour for economic growth.”

On the transformation path, he sees the need for huge capital and technology. Foreign investment will be the key to bring in what the country needs. 

“Myanmar will be a great venue for investment if this is joined by technology and advice that you can bring in,” he told the audience yesterday.

A lot of experiences were shared by Philippine President Benigno Aquino, who came into power three years ago and ably fought the corruption that had kept his country behind many of its neighbours. Like Thein Sein, Aquino was inspired by the loss of hope of most people in his country. By opening dialogues with all, supporters and opponents, the politician has gained trust. He acknowledged that he succeeded because of “the ability to imprison people who have done wrong”. 

In preparing for the future, he focuses his efforts on education, research and development, and health. 

After taking place in Bangkok in 2012, the World Economic Forum on East Asia was hosted by Myanmar this year and was wrapped up yesterday. Next year, the venue will be moved to Manila. 

While Aquino invited all to Manila to witness the Philippines’ latest achievements, Thein Sein noted that the forum was the stage where Myanmar demonstrated its re-entry to the global economy as well as embracing ideas from political leaders and non-governmental organisations that are “very beneficial for our country”.

To confirm his willingness to be a part of the global community, Thein Sein used the word “colleague” to address Aquino. While handing the bell to Aquino to pass the host status to the Philippines, he joyously shook the bell. He advised Aquino to do so also, inviting a big round of applause from hundreds of participants from 55 countries.