In a rare display of communal solidarity, diverse ethnic and religious groups gathered in Buthidaung Township, Rakhine State, to participate in a harmony exchange forum aimed at fostering trust and mutual respect.
The event, which took place on 6 March 2026, was organized by the Kankaw Social Development Organization, a local civil society group. The forum brought together a wide array of participants, including Rakhine, Mro, Khumi, Thet, and Daingnet (Chakma) ethnic groups, alongside members of the Rohingya community.
Organizers stated that the primary goal of the event was to encourage coexistence by embracing cultural and religious diversity. Participants shared traditional foods and engaged in cultural exchanges, showcasing the unique customs of their respective communities.
“When people from different backgrounds lose touch, they stop understanding each other’s ways,” a member of the organizing committee told the Myanmar Pressphoto Agency (MPA). “This event creates a vital link, encouraging collaboration and building much-needed trust among us all”.
The atmosphere was marked by optimism, with young participants expressing pride in the inclusive nature of the gathering. A young Rohingya attendee told reporters that he felt honored to participate regardless of race or religion, adding, “I believe this will lead to even better relationships in the future”.
A young woman from the Thet ethnic group, who travelled from neighboring Maungdaw to attend, described the experience as emotionally significant. “It is incredibly exciting to accept our differences and share our food and traditions,” she said.
The Buthidaung and Maungdaw regions of northern Rakhine State are home to a complex tapestry of ethnicities and faiths, including Buddhists, Muslims, and Hindus. While the region has faced significant historical tensions, local advocates believe that grassroots initiatives like this forum are essential for establishing a lasting peace through cultural understanding.
