via Myanmar Times, 12 August 2019: Continuing conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine state threatens the bid to list Mrauk-U as a World Heritage site (among other things).
Intensified conflict in Rakhine State and the government’s internet shutdown have dealt serious blows to hopes that the ancient capital of Mrauk-U might achieve World Heritage status and further develop tourism.
The riverside town in western Rakhine has been cut off from internet access since late June when the Myanmar government instructed telecom providers to shut down internet services across all of Rakhine and in southern Chin. The move was criticised by Myanmar-based digital rights and civil society groups, which demanded an end to the blackout. Foreign business chambers in Yangon issued a joint statement warning of “possible reputational impact in the international community and view of Myanmar as a responsible investment destination” as a result.
Source: Conflict and internet shutdown hit Mrauk-U tourism | The Myanmar Times
