Residents of Paletwa Township want the government to restore 4G internet services immediately in southern Chin State, as 2G isn’t fast enough to access the internet.
Aung Ma Phyu, from Chin Women’s Organization in Paletwa town, told Khonumthung News she can’t send an email or even open a website indicating how this could endanger her during the pandemic because she couldn’t read news about COVID-19.
Residents used to transfer money electronically using Wave Money in Paletwa. Since the Co-operative Bank (CB) has ceased operation, the only option left in town is Myanmar Economic Bank.
A government employee, who requested anonymity, said reinstating internet services, however, and only allowing 2G Internet “was just for show.” The employee pointed out that because they can’t use the internet, it delays their work. Instead of sending emails, for example, they have to send letters, which takes more time.
Because of the conflict between the Burma Army and Arakan Army, the government claimed it needed to block the internet in eight townships in Rakhine State and Paletwa Township in Chin State on July 21, 2019. In August, it reinstated services, but only allowed 2G.