Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Ma Jia speaks during a ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the CITIC's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in Myanmar held in Yangon, Myanmar, Dec. 5, 2025. (Photo by Myo Kyaw Soe/Xinhua)

YANGON, Dec. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese companies have contributed immensely to supporting local communities in Myanmar and enhancing people's livelihoods, residents said.

Nyeinn Chann Maung, chairman of the Kyaukphyu District Native Ethnic Development Association, told Xinhua recently that the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by CITIC Group (Myanmar) Co., Ltd. helped fill important gaps in education, healthcare and social development.

"They teach Chinese language to local people, grow mangroves, provide healthcare through mobile clinics, and donate books," he said.

"Having a strong partner like China is truly advantageous for our peace and development," he said.

Over the past decade, CITIC has invested steadily in community initiatives in Myanmar, implementing more than 20 CSR projects focused on poverty alleviation, education, health, environmental protection and disaster relief. Most of these projects have taken place in Kyaukphyu, where the company spearheaded the development of the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone and Industrial Park. More than 100,000 residents across Myanmar have benefited from those projects.

Kyaw Kyaw Soe, chairman of the Kyaukphyu Socio-Economic Development and Assistance Association, recalled CITIC's support during the COVID-19 period.

"During the COVID-19 period, we urgently needed oxygen and reached out to CITIC. They provided oxygen cylinders, which were a great help to the local people," he told Xinhua.

"CITIC has been carrying out CSR projects for 10 years, and I truly appreciate their efforts," he said.

Young people who benefited from the programs echoed this appreciation. Phyo Ko Ko, a third-year student at Myanmar Maritime University in Yangon, said a scholarship from CITIC encouraged him to keep studying hard.

"The scholarship award motivates me. CITIC supports both outstanding students and those in need. These efforts are truly beneficial," he said.

Hninn Pyae Phyo Hlaing, a fourth-year Chinese major student at Yangon University of Foreign Languages, said the "CITIC Star" scholarship program made a meaningful difference in her studies.

"With the support, I can buy the books and materials I need. It also strengthens friendship between the people of the two countries," she said.

"I am grateful to CITIC Myanmar for the support," Hninn Pyae Phyo Hlaing said. ■