MUNAUNG ISLAND: AMID ISOLATION AND MOUNTING CONSTRAINTS

English | Myanmar

Introduction

(a) Main Focus

A study on the military and political changes in Munaung Township and their impacts on the security and socioeconomic conditions of local communities.

(b) Geographic Scope

Munaung Township, Arakan/Rakhine State, Myanmar

(c) Study Period

From November 2023 to June 2026

Background and Context

Following the resurgence and escalation of fighting in Rakhine State in November 2023, the Arakan Army (AA) has gained control of 14 townships across the state. Munaung Township, together with Sittwe and Kyaukphyu, remains among the areas still under the control of the military regime. Although no fighting has taken place in Munaung Township, the island township is considered strategically important for military control of the Rakhine coastal region. The military regime has continued to strengthen its control over Munaung Township by imposing tighter restrictions on the movement of people and goods, reinforcing military infrastructure, and carrying out ongoing military preparations.

As a consequence of these military activities and restrictions, local fishing and other livelihood activities have been affected. Rising prices of essential commodities and medicines, shortages of goods, limited access to basic healthcare services, and restricted access to electricity and communication services have further exacerbated socioeconomic difficulties among local communities. The situation has become increasingly isolated, particularly following the loss of regular connections with Ramree, Kyaukphyu, Taungup, and Thandwe townships after these areas came under AA control.

Furthermore, during 2025 and 2026, there have been increasing military and administrative activities in Munaung, including preparations for elections, the resumption of airline services, and the expansion of the military presence through measures such as the development of the airport, the establishment and strengthening of checkpoints, and the deployment of additional troops.

This study provides an overview of key security, humanitarian, and socioeconomic developments in Munaung Township from November 2023 to the present, and examines their impacts on local communities. The analysis is based primarily on reports and information published by local news sources and media outlets.

Summary of Findings

November 2023

Food, medicine, and basic services shortages in Munaung Township due to the military Regime’s Blockade of Waterways

Beginning on 13 November 2023, the military regime blocked major land and waterways in Rakhine State, resulting in shortages of food, medicine, and fuel in Munaung Island, which relies almost entirely on maritime transportation. Residents faced increasing difficulties in accessing basic food items such as rice, vegetables, and fish. Coastal fishing activities also came to a halt, significantly affecting local livelihoods. Shortages of medicines created difficulties for emergency patients in accessing medical treatment, while in some cases it was no longer possible to transfer patients to Taungup Township for further medical care. In addition, fuel shortages posed a risk of disruption to electricity and telecommunications services, with mobile phone services reportedly cut off in some villages.

MPT mobile services begin to experience disruptions in several Rakhine Townships, including Munaung

Due to the military regime’s restrictions on transportation, fuel supplies could not be delivered to mobile phone towers. As a result, MPT mobile services were disrupted in parts of Ann, Myebon, Pauktaw, and Munaung townships, affecting local residents’ access to telecommunications and the internet.

December 2023

Rising livelihood difficulties in Munaung due to the military regime’s restrictions on movement

The military regime’s restrictions on land and maritime transportation within Rakhine State resulted in food shortages in Munaung Township. As a consequence, the livelihoods and access to necessities of low-income households reportedly deteriorated further.

January 2024

Military regime officials allegedly permit gambling operations and collect fees in Munaung

In January 2024, gambling operations were reportedly held daily in several villages in Munaung Township, with military regime officials allegedly collecting fees from the operators. Local residents reported that these gambling activities , were contributing to social problems and negatively affecting the behaviour and moral development of young people.

February 2024

Military regime prepares to upgrade Sa Mon Te Airport in Munaung for military use

In February 2024, the military regime was reportedly preparing to expand and upgrade Sa Mon Te Airport in Munaung for military purposes. According to local sources, the authorities were constructing perimeter walls and carrying out other improvements to enable transport aircraft and military helicopters ... Read More

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