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As Burma’s military rulers settle into their new administrative capital near Pyinmana, the fate of Rangoon remains an open question
The symbolism was sure to spark rumors—towering concrete statues of three of Burma’s ancient conquerors overlooking the new military parade ground in Naypyidaw, the country’s newly-minted administrative capital. The name itself, which translates as “royal city,” suggests for some in Rangoon that the relocation is much more than the product of fear or astrology...s the regime begins a new chapter of its history in Naypyidaw, among concrete kings and theme-park recreations of the country’s principal monuments, many in Rangoon fear that the city’s broad avenues and historic buildings will fall prey to foreign invaders of another sort—developers from China, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Reports have circulated for years that the military government has been quietly attempting to auction off some of Rangoon’s oldest buildings...A source involved in the project has confirmed to The Irrawaddy that the Burmese government has brokered a deal with the Chinese company Shanghai Jingqiao to develop plans for a special economic zone adjacent to Rangoon’s Thilawa Port in Thanlyin Township.
Such a move would further entrench Chinese investors who have already made enormous inroads into Mandalay and elsewhere...
