The Hpa-an-based Phalon Education Development Unit (PEDU) has donated over 10 million kyats (approx $8,170 USD) worth of food and other supplies to internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Myaing Gyi Ngu, Karen State.
The IDPs have fled fighting in the Mae Tha Wor area of Hlaingbwe Township in Karen State.
Nan Khin Thet Mar Win, the head of PEDU said: “On 12 September We donated 302 rice bags, food, and other items worth over 10 million kyats to the war refugees, who have arrived in Myaing Gyi Ng. During our visit we found that they are in immediate need of mosquito nets, blankets and clothes.”
She said that over 3,800 people have taken refuge in Myaing Gyi Ngu since the fighting broke out in Mae Tha Wor in early September.
Ashin Ottama, the head of Taung Kalay Monastic School, who went to donate in Myaing Gyi Ngu with PEDU members, said that most of the refugees are women, old people and children and that the children need assistance to continue their education.
He said: “Most of the war refugees are children. They didn’t look happy, they looked sad. They can’t learn anymore. Arrangements need to be made so that they can continue their education.”
PEDU was founded by Taung Kalay Sayadaw Dr Ashin Pyinnya Tharmi (Taw Hmi Yahan) from Hpa-an Township. Previously the organisation sent donations to the Irrawaddy Region after it was hit by Cyclone Nargis in 2008.
Reporting by Saw Nyunt Thaung for KIC News
Translated by Thida Linn
Edited in English by Mark Inkey for BNI
