A Silent Revolution

Everyone's talking about the 'Saffron Revolution'. This is just my quick tribute to them.

To be perfectly honest, I did not understand the full gravity of the situation until recently. I admit that there is still to be a lot more to learn but sadly, the amount of news (unbiased, that is) actually managing to escape out of the country is pitifully small.

It is pathetic that Malaysia, as a neighbouring country and fellow ASEAN member had not been able to pitch in to help more. Many more countries face similar plights; economic sanctions can't be carried out because they harm the public more than the ruling economic junta. China and India, Burma's main trade partners have so far refused to meddle with the situation, prefering a noninterference policy.

Nonetheless, the images we see on the news of the 'Saffron Army' peacefully marching down the streets in silent protest are a breath of fresh air. We have been desensitized by years of terrorism; IRA, Al Qaeda, Jemaah Islamiyaah, etc. and now to see people taking up political action with quiet, peaceful marching down the street is indeed an eye-opener. It is certainly more powerful a message than a car bomb.

Many a friend growing up in Northern Ireland in Derry and Belfast tell me about being accustomed to the sights of car bombs and amputees in their neighbourhood. It was just a part of growing up and it was never out of place. When they moved out of their hometowns, they were shocked to discover that nobody carried guns and car bombs were not the norm.

It is unfortunate that a whole generation had grown up without actually knowing any better; they have not lived a life of peace. Many countries suffer this fate, Afghanistan amongst others. There are whole generations of people who have not known peace.

Hence, it is indeed very, very encouraging to see that when there are protestors in Burma, instead of resorting to violence, they have opted for a peaceful revolution. Unfortunately, the military junta would most likely not see it this way.

As reported by the BBC, the military has bought thousands of saffron robes and ordered some army personnel to shave their heads. They wanted the soldiers to infiltrate the monks and act as agent provocateurs, in effect, providing just cause for violent and military action against the defenseless and peaceful monks.

The use of such evil tactics are obviously not below such a regime. They have resorted to such underhanded methods in order to get what they wanted. Aung San Suu Kyi was allowed to leave the country to visit her husband's deathbed in 1999 but it was clear that she would never be allowed to re-enter the country. Likewise, her husband was not granted an entry permit. She has not been able to see her family for many many years.

Let's just hope, for the sake of Burma, and its citizens, that this time, luck will be on her side.