The Arakan Students Union (ASU) organized a sports tournament aimed at fostering social harmony and coexistence among diverse communities in AA-controlled areas of Arakan (Rakhine) State.

The Arakan, Chin, Thakama (Daingnet), Kamein, and Muslim communities living in Arakan State participated in the tournament.

“The communities displaced by the conflict come from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds. This tournament is meant to help build understanding and harmony between locals and displaced communities. It aims to rebuild trust, learn from past mistakes, and encourage people to work together for the future reconstruction of Arakan State,” Ko Hla Pan Tu, information official for the ASU told DMG.

The tournament was held over two weeks, from January 1 to January 18 at an undisclosed location under AA control. It featured men’s and women’s football, as well as sepak takraw competitions.

Ko Hla Pan Tu added that he believes such sports tournaments can help foster friendship, unity, and mutual trust among the different ethnic groups living in Arakan State.

“ASU aims to carry out as many initiatives as possible to strengthen unity among different ethnic groups, believing this will also benefit the future of Arakan State,” he said.

Since November 2023, the AA has conducted military operations to seize cities and towns in Arakan State and now controls 14 townships there, as well as Paletwa Township in neighboring Chin State.