Narinjara, 17 May, 2025

Reports indicate that the Arakan Army (AA) and junta forces are currently involved in intense combat close to the Chinese energy project in Malakyun, Kyaukphyu Township. 

A source from the military on the ground stated, “Troops are being dispatched by the Military Council to the AA positions. If the junta forces approach the AA site, AA will launch an attack. If AA fails to counterattack, the AA side will endure consequences. At present, there is combat occurring close to Malakyun and the Chinese electricity distribution facility. 

Since yesterday, May 15, the Arakan Army (AA) and the junta forces have been engaged in intense clashes close to the Chinese projects near Malakyun village. 

Although the junta deployed navy vessels, aircraft, and drones in the fight, the military is withdrawing from their positions back to their bases. 

"The junta forces are pulling back significantly. They are positioned in factories of Chinese projects. The military is seeking shelter and fighting from within the Chinesefactories. Gunfire can now be heard from that location," he stated. 

Reports indicate that the military council has established a base close to the Chinese power distribution and waste heat plant in Malakyun village to ensure the project's security.

On May 11, the AA ambushed a military convoy moving toward Laek Khamaw in Kyaukphyu Township utilizing guerrilla tactics, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of military council troops and halting their progress. 

Reports indicate that the military council has reinforced the Kyaukphyu battle with a significant force of troops sourced from both the air and sea, primarily consisting of militia recruits, including those from Division (99). 

Due to heavy casualties at the Kyaukphyu battle, the military council intensified its deployment of drones and machine parachutes. 

The inauguration ceremony for the test operation of the waste-to-energy power facility took place in October 2022. The commercial operations of the Kyaukphyu natural gas and waste-to-energy power plant commenced on May 19, 2023. The military council has dug bunkers and trenches near the Chinese gas refinery and enhanced its defenses. 

The Kyaukphu (Power China) power station is an active power facility of at least 135 megawatts (MW) located in Kyaukphyu, Rakhine, Myanmar.