|
HISTORY
AND PRESENTATION OF THE MYEIK (MERGUI) ARCHIPELAGO PROJECT
- RESEARCH AND INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT
MAP-RAID
is international. It was created by a group of scientists,
students and professionals and is supported by a network of
specialists from many disciplines: ethnologists, anthropologists,
painters, photographers, biologists, geologists, computer
engineers, film makers, cultural operators and specialists
in informal education.
The members share a common objective: to study and promote
in order to safeguard the natural and cultural heritage of
this region, an historical and ethnic crossroads.
MAP-RAID operated through the Tenasserim Division and more
specifically through the 800 islands of the Mergui (Myeik)
Archipelago since 1998. With the support of the Ministry of
Hotels and Tourism, the Center for history and tradition (CHAT),
the French Embassy and private sponsors , a non profit association
(Sibian Discovery) got a special authorization to sail in
the Moken islands. We then could work with the Moken (research,
movies, exhibitions...) locate historical and archeological
sites (Kubin and Selor islands, Tenasserim town...), understand
the specific relationship between different ethnic groups
and collect data for any others interests (geology, botanics...).
We have been allowed to travel on traditional Myanmar cargo
boat. The aim of the project is to rediscovering the region,
to promote it, to give our aid and to accompany the development
of the local groups and minorities.
This is done in co-operation with the local people, for instance
through co-operative agreements, exhibitions, collective books,
etc.
To support discussion and exchange of ideas, we realized an
exhibition which gave back to the Myanmar people part of their
forgotten history. The CHAT (Center for History and Tradition),
regional center of the SEAMEO offer its support needed for
the exhibition. The exhibition was held at Pan Sea hotel (20-28
April 2002) and then donated to the CHAT.
The success of this project convinced our partners
(sponsors, local and national institutions) of the viability
of the project. Proposals of association for conferences and
research projects were made. We are currently working on the
modalities of such an agreement which will include, CHAT,
CNRS, French. A research team is currently working in this
region and will inform of the working progress and discovery.
top
|
|
