Myanmar Film Organization Rejects Misleading News on Charity Donations
YANGON, Myanmar – The Myanmar Motion Pictures Organization (MMPO) has vehemently denied recent media reports suggesting that its ongoing charity food distributions are linked to the upcoming Myanmar Film Academy Awards. For the 16th time, MMPO, in collaboration with artists and donors, provided essential food supplies including rice, cooking oil, onions, beans, and canned fish to members of the film industry facing hardship. Vice-Chairman U Aye Kyu Lay stressed that these charitable acts are part of the organization’s long-standing social welfare commitment, and not a competition for accolades. He expressed concern that misleading reports could discourage future donations and undermine the organization’s efforts to support those in need.
The MMPO has been a cornerstone of support for the Myanmar film community, consistently providing assistance to those struggling within its ranks. The current food distribution program, which has now reached its 16th iteration, has benefited numerous film industry members and their families. The organization has prioritized basic necessities, ensuring recipients receive staples like rice, cooking oil, and various protein sources. This ongoing commitment reflects MMPO’s enduring dedication to its social responsibility, ensuring the well-being of the individuals who contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Myanmar cinema.
U Aye Kyu Lay emphasized the voluntary nature of the contributions, highlighting the collective effort of artists, donors, and the organization itself. He reiterated the MMPO’s core mission of social welfare, underscoring that their charitable activities are driven by a sincere desire to aid those facing difficulties, rather than by any ulterior motives. The Vice-Chairman condemned the mischaracterization of these acts of kindness as a pre-awards competition among artists, asserting that such narratives are not only inaccurate but also damaging to the organization’s reputation and future fundraising efforts.
The recent wave of misleading reporting has prompted the MMPO to take a firm stance, urging media outlets to refrain from publishing inaccurate information that misrepresents their charitable work. U Aye Kyu Lay expressed his disappointment that these reports create a distorted narrative, falsely depicting artists’ contributions as being motivated by personal gain rather than genuine altruism. This misrepresentation not only undermines the integrity of the artists involved but also potentially discourages further contributions from donors who may become hesitant to support a perceived competition.
The MMPO, established by pioneering figures in the Myanmar film industry, will celebrate its 80th anniversary in March 2026. This long-standing organization has played a vital role in supporting and promoting the nation’s cinematic arts. Its dedication to social welfare reflects its deep commitment to the overall well-being of the film community, providing crucial assistance to those facing financial difficulties and ensuring the stability and resilience of the industry. The organization’s continuous charitable actions, like the recent food distribution program, underscore its enduring commitment to those who contribute to the art of filmmaking in Myanmar.
The MMPO’s work has been made possible by the ongoing contributions from various stakeholders, including government bodies like the Ministry of Information and the Yangon Region government. Crucially, the organization has also received substantial support from private sector partners, including rice and oil merchants, individual donors, cinema owners, film producers, and artists. This collaborative ecosystem of support has been instrumental in ensuring the MMPO’s continued ability to deliver essential aid to members of the film community. U Aye Kyu Lay expressed his gratitude for the sustained support and emphasized its importance in allowing the organization to fulfill its social welfare mission. He further underscored the MMPO’s commitment to transparency and accountability in managing donations and ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. The Vice-Chairman also reiterated the organization’s determination to protect its reputation and to address any attempts to misrepresent its charitable endeavors.
