Culture

Myanmar

Ben Roberts

Myanmar and digital, formerly known as Burma was granted independence in 1948. Since then it has been conflicted between ethnic groups and involved in one of the world’s longest ongoing civil wars. It is a country rich in jade, gems, oil, natural gas & other mineral resources.

Now it's ripe for the digital era.It has a population of 53 million and Aung San Suu Kyi who led the National Democracy to their first open election victory in 25 years, is seen as its de facto leader, Htin Kyaw, President is a close confidant.

The official entrance of international telecoms Ooreedo and Telenor in 2014 proved transformative to digital activity in Myanmar. Both provide affordable mobile phones & access plans, compared to 2013, when SIM cards alone cost more than $200. Mobile penetration now stands at 50% of the population and counting. Interestingly Facebook has become a vibrant portal for news and politics in Myanmar, and it’s one that the government has embraced as well.

Along with its beautiful temples and sights, tourism is growing as is the start up scene. One of the fastest growing markets in South East Asia,it will surely have a brighter future than its past.