The Democratic Voice of Burma relaunched its DVB Debate program tackling the subject “Is AI an opportunity or a threat?” in Chiang Mai, Thailand, on April 6. The show was put on hiatus following the military coup on Feb. 1, 2021. It was recorded live at Payap University on April 4.
“In a polarized world, DVB Debate stands for something simple but powerful, the right to disagree without division,” said Aye Chan Naing, the DVB Chief Editor.
DVB host Sai Khit Nway moderated the debate featuring Ma Han, a former university lecturer who joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) in opposition to the 2021 military coup, who is currently working on educational projects for Myanmar students, which includes the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“Reviving DVB Debate is about creating a space where difficult issues can be discussed openly, thoughtfully, and respectfully,” said Sai Khit Nway.
“At a time when public conversation is often shaped by fear, division, and misinformation, we believe debate remains essential to [Myanmar’s] democratic culture,” he added.
Padaythar, an AI trainer and founder of the Padaythar Pin YouTube channel, creates educational and entertainment content to support the anti-coup movement in Myanmar. He was one of the four panelists.
The other two were Aung Ye Kyaw, a 3D artist and AR/VR interactive technology developer, as well as Myanmar heavy metal musician Novem Htoo, also joined the debate.
“Our motto, agree to disagree, is not just a phrase…it’s a commitment to real conversation,” Aye Chan Nating added.
The live DVB Debate recording at Payap University was attended by at least 50 participants, including media workers, technology professionals, and Myanmar students studying at universities in Chiang Mai.
DVB Debate is now airing on DVB TV News’ satellite channel and on-demand on YouTube on Mondays at 10:30 p.m., Wednesdays at 7 a.m., Thursdays at 11 a.m., Fridays at 4:30 p.m., Saturdays at 10:30 p.m., and Sundays at 4:30 p.m.
Originally launched in August 2013, DVB Debate aimed to foster civic discourse and promote an “agree to disagree” culture in Myanmar. The program adopted a town hall-style format, bringing together stakeholders from across the political spectrum—including government officials, ethnic leaders, and civil society actors—to debate contentious issues.
Past discussions have addressed topics such as military accountability, conflict-related sexual violence, and environmental exploitation.
DVB Debate focuses on ongoing issues, including crisis management, resistance movements, and the societal impact of emerging technologies such as AI.
On March 8, 2021 – following the 2021 coup – the regime revoked the publication licenses of five media outlets, including DVB, which was subsequently forced into exile, halting most of its programming except for its daily news.
DVB Debate is inviting audience participation for its second episode. You can find the public survey on DVB TV News Facebook with two options: Myanmar migrants in Thailand, or social media addiction. The topic receiving the most votes will be selected and recorded in early May, but the exact date has not yet been announced.
