Asia-Pacific

New Taipei's 'Little Myanmar' Seeks Aid for Homeland After Earthquake

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By Kama Hsu/Tiffany Wong

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Taiwan's Burmese-Chinese community is raising donations to help those affected by the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Myanmar that has killed thousands of people. But they face barriers getting aid to the war-torn country, whose borders are controlled by the ruling military junta.

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Myanmar Community in Taiwan Rallies for Quake Relief Amid Uncertainty 

In the quiet drizzle over New Taipei’s “Little Myanmar,” what’s usually a lively cultural hub has turned somber. Taiwan’s Chinese Burmese community has gathered in mourning and uncertainty, just days after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake devastated central Myanmar, killing thousands in the city of Mandalay and surrounding areas. 

Many here are still anxiously waiting for news from family and friends in the quake zone. 

“I still haven’t been able to contact my siblings,” one woman said. “I hope nothing happened to them.” 

The Myanmar diaspora in Taiwan, estimated at tens of thousands, has been working to mobilize aid. But efforts have been hindered by poor communication and logistical roadblocks. Myanmar’s military junta, which seized power in 2021, has imposed tight control over humanitarian access. While it has called for foreign assistance, it is being selective about where it comes from. 

“We’re really worried, we don’t know what to do,” said another community member. “Taiwan tried to send resources over but [the junta] wouldn’t let them enter. We can only donate money to help them in this way. It’s really, really tragic. We don’t know what will happen next.” 

Despite these challenges, solidarity is growing. Many in the community have rallied to support Sagaing, one of the hardest-hit areas. Already scarred by years of armed conflict between the military and ethnic resistance forces, the region now faces widespread destruction from the earthquake. 

Lee Pei, chair of the Myanmar Overseas Chinese Association in Taiwan, said the outpouring of support has been deeply moving. 

“So far, a lot of people in our community say they want to help those affected by the disaster,” he said. “But, since the devastation is so serious, we are hoping to raise even more donations.”

While many Chinese Burmese have made Taiwan their home for generations, their ties to Myanmar remain strong. The earthquake has renewed those bonds, motivating urgent action despite the geopolitical complexities that stand in the way. 

Even without direct access to the disaster zone, the community is staying resilient. Fundraising events, prayer gatherings, and donation drives have sprung up across New Taipei and beyond. Organizers say their goal is not only to raise money but also to raise awareness about Myanmar’s plight — both from the natural disaster and the ongoing humanitarian crisis under military rule. 

With phone lines unreliable and aid organizations restricted, Taiwan’s Chinese Burmese community is relying on informal networks and international partners to make sure support reaches those in need. 

For many, the hope is simple: that the people of Myanmar — whether in conflict zones or disaster-hit areas — know they are not alone.