When going home is impossible: Myanmar nationals find solace in Singapore’s Peninsula Plaza

More than just a shopping centre, the Peninsula Plaza is where citizens of a country in turmoil go to find comfort in the familiar and dream of a better future. Located in the heart of Singapore, the building is a reminder of the bustling life back home for many Myanmar nationals. Here, Myanmar grocery stores, clothing boutiques, and jewellery shops stand side-by-side, with Myanmar music playing and the Myanmar language filling the air. Since the military coup in 2021, Myanmar has been in a state of political turmoil and economic hardship, forcing many to flee the country. Singapore has become a refuge for many from Myanmar, offering relative safety and economic opportunities. The Peninsula Plaza serves as a vital hub for these individuals to maintain their connection to home and build a community. Here, they exchange information, offer each other encouragement, and find support to navigate their challenging circumstances. "This place is like my second home," says a Myanmar woman working in Singapore. "I miss my home country, but here I can at least get a taste of home." The Peninsula Plaza is not just a physical location for Myanmar nationals, but also a source of emotional solace. Here, they find hope and nurture dreams of a brighter future.