Durian. Myanmar junta leader Gen. Min Aung Hlaing arrived in Jakarta on Apr.24 minutes before afternoon to attend the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN) Summit that will discuss various issues, particularly on the current development in Burma.
It’s the first time for ASEAN leaders to have physical meeting after Covid-19 pandemic spread globally including in the region.
Hlaing took over power from democratic leaders Aung San Suu Kyi on Feb.1 through a coup d’etat that has triggered protest from civil society.
The junta conducted raids and arrested many civilians including politicians. From raids and violent actions responding peaceful rallies across the country, Myanmar junta has killed more than 700 civilians and detained more than 3,000 political activists.
International community responded the coup and the junta’s actions toward civilians with vary forms such as embargo.
Myanmar is a member of ASEAN and through initiatives of the regional block leaders, Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin, the organization finally hold its leaders meeting at ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta on Apr.24.
Three of 10 ASEAN leaders — from Thailand, Philippines and Laos — confirmed will not attend the summit.
Civil groups such as Urban Poor Consortium (UPC) and Urban Poor Network (JPRM), in Indonesia conducted peaceful rally condemning Myanmar junta and the arrival of Gen. Hlaing in front of ASEAN Secretariat to respond his arrival on Apr. 24 afternoon.
