Dr. Sasa
Dr. Sasa (also known as Salai Maung Taing San) is a Chin ethnic medical doctor, humanitarian, and political leader currently serving as the Union Minister of International Cooperation and Spokesperson for Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG). He is also the former Special Envoy to the United Nations for the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw (CRPH), the body formed by Myanmar’s ousted lawmakers following the February 2021 military coup.
Early Life and Humanitarian Work
Born in Lailenpi, a remote village in Chin State, Dr. Sasa grew up in extreme poverty and witnessed severe human rights abuses, including forced labor and violence against his community. At age 13, he walked through the jungle for weeks to reach high school in Yangon, learning Burmese on his own and graduating at the top of his class. He later studied medicine at Yerevan State Medical University in Armenia and completed clinical training in the UK.
In 2007, during a devastating famine caused by a bamboo flowering event known as “Mautam,” Dr. Sasa led a humanitarian response, treating over 3,500 patients and delivering aid to more than 120,000 people. He founded Health & Hope, a Christian health organization that trains community health workers and promotes development in Chin State.
Political Leadership and Advocacy
Following the 2021 military coup, Dr. Sasa became a prominent voice for Myanmar’s pro-democracy movement. He was appointed as the CRPH’s Special Envoy to the United Nations on February 22, 2021, and later served as the Union Minister of International Cooperation and Spokesperson for the NUG. In these roles, he has advocated for international support, condemned the military junta’s actions, and called for the establishment of a federal democratic union in Myanmar.
Dr. Sasa has been recognized for his diplomatic efforts, including receiving the Diplomatic Service Medal for his commitment to democracy, justice, and human rights.
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Vision for Myanmar’s Future
Dr. Sasa envisions a Myanmar free from military dictatorship, where a federal democratic system ensures self-determination, equality, and justice for all ethnic groups. He advocates for the complete nullification of the 2008 constitution and the discriminatory 1982 citizenship laws, aiming to replace them with a new constitution developed through inclusive consensus and referendum.
Personal Philosophy
Despite the challenges and dangers he faces, Dr. Sasa remains committed to his faith and the principles of love, peace, and justice. He emphasizes the importance of showing love even in the face of oppression, stating, “If we don’t show love, who will?”
Christian Solidarity International
For more information, you can visit the official website of the Ministry of International Cooperation:
