Docu Athan Square News
We opened Docu Athan Square, the community space for Myanmar creators in Mae Sot, Thai-Myanmar borderland! Our founders, Toru Kubota and Yuki Kitazumi are taking the lead to operate the space. We report our update about our activities.
We Had an Opening Ceremony!!
Last Saturday, Docu Athan Square proudly held its office opening ceremony, welcoming more than 50 people who are all dedicated Myanmar filmmakers, artists and activists. We are blessed to be able to celebrated this special occasion with the family-like comrades like them. During the event, we shared our experiences of supporting and funding film projects by showcasing our films, and discussed how we can utilize our space in Mae Sot. Please kindly keep your eye on our activity update. Your support means the world to us.
Introduction to Min Thant Maung, Executive Director of DA Square!
Hello, I am Min Thant Maung, the Executive Director of Docu Athan Square. I hold a degree in Electronics Engineering and have six years of working experience in the telecom, e-commerce, and fitness industries.
Following the coup in Myanmar, I was arrested for criticizing the military on social media and spent five months detained in Insein Prison. After my release, I continued to engage in political activities, however, I had to flee Myanmar in 2022. Now being based in Mae Sot, I dedicate my time to supporting fellow Burmese who, like me, had to flee the country. I chose to work with Docu Athan because we share the same ambition and experiences. My current role is to operate the Docu Athan Square as well as translation and advertisement.
New Grant for Documentary Project
Docu Athan is proud to provide a grant to the youth filmmaker group T'wo Pants Production for their upcoming documentary film project. The group, graduates of Human Color's filmmaking training, that was hosted by Htun Kyaw in Mae Sot. In addition, Docu Athan has also supported Human Color’s filmmaking training program with a small grant, further contributing to the development of young filmmakers.
Introducing Ko Zin
Introducing the indomitable journalist Ko Zin, a new member of the Docu Attan project! Ko Zin has been working as a journalist since 2011, but after the coup, he felt the risk of being unjustly arrested, so he left Myanmar and fled to the Thai border area. Even after he fleed Myanmar, he established a media organization called Justice Wave and continue working!
Song Behind Bars by Ko Zin
We recently shared Ko Zin's film 'Song Behind Bars' on our website. The film tells the story of a woman who writes songs while in prison to show how political prisoners stay strong. Through her music, she gives a glimpse into the tough life behind bars and the courage of those who are jailed for their beliefs. Song Behind Bars is a touching film that highlights the resilience and spirit of political prisoners, reminding us of their fight for freedom despite the challenges they face.
We can donate to Ko Zin's creation through the link below!
What's Happening in Myanmar This Week
Myanmar Devastated by Typhoon Yagi
The military junta in Myanmar announced that over 100 people have died due to Typhoon Yagi, with 113 confirmed dead, 64 missing, and 14 injured. General Zaw Min Tun stated that floods and landslides have damaged over 72,900 homes, affected more than 78,000 households, and displaced over 320,000 people. Rescue efforts continue.
Arrested Over Social Media Criticism of Junta
According to a report on September 16, by Data for Myanmar, an independent research group, a total of 1,691 people have been arrested over the past three years for posting criticism of the military junta on social media.
Translated by Min Thant Maung