"ASEAN cannot remain silent over Myanmar unrest: PM Lee"

And indeed. ASEAN issued a statement. Only a statement. I can't help but feel extremely frustrated with the incompetency of ASEAN. Several years ago, someone journalist referred to ASEAN as the "talk-shop", its policy of non-interference of member states has always been the main obstacle in turning this organisation into one that is productive and beneficial to the region.

Aung Sung Suu Kyi's party won the elections more than 17 years ago but was never given the chance to rule the country. Instead, she came under house arrest by the military who voided the elections. And for 17 years (even though Myanmar only joined ASEAN later), ASEAN did nothing. The current unrest is probably the best chance the country can see some form of reform. However,the situation seems to be spiraling out of control. Just two days ago a Japanese journalist was shot dead at close range, (ie. possibly intentionally).

Let's face it, how many military governments actually managed to rule the country properly? Most of them are only interested in building up their power and wealth. Absolute power corrupts absolutely. This is one of the things I learnt in my political science lectures. As long as there is not enough checks and balances in any system, corruption is bound to happen. Singapore included.

Was just discussing with Dominic the other day that I cannot fathom the idea of a soldier killing another countryman. If I'm ordered to kill an innocent civilian Singaporean, I don't think I have the heart to do it.

There appears to be no good way out of the situation for the junta of Myanmar. Already the global pressure on them is mounting. Perhaps what they really need now is for someone to offer them a good way out of this awkward position. An exit plan of sort. One good way would be to release Aung Sung Suu Kyi and reform the military to be one that will help in the new government. That's probably the best exit plan they can have. Any other moves to forcibly contain the protests will only result in a bigger reaction from the people.

All over the world and SEA, people are angry and upset over this apparently injustice. Here in Singapore, nothing at all. Kyaw Kyaw Min, Education Committee, National League for Democracy, says: "We want ASEAN to take action on Myanmar. ASEAN is so weak...they are responsible because Myanmar is one of ASEAN countries. European Union also gives pressures, US also gives pressure, UN security council also...only ASEAN is so weak." Sigh...