I share Mr Desker's concern regarding the situation in Myanmar. It is sad that the poor monks and civilians are suffering under military oppression.

It is heartening to see Asean and Singapore taking an active stand against the Myanmar junta's violent responses towards its people. I hope that Asean can do more to engage the Myanmar government and help it to work towards progress in the socio-economic and political spheres.

I do not share Mr Desker's view that Asean should suspend Myanmar from Asean. The military government of Myanmar took the wrong path of violent oppression but its people and country are still a key part of Asean.

Will a suspension of Myanmar membership in Asean improve the situation? Will this suspension benefit the well-being and livelihood of the people in Myanmar? I doubt so.

The upcoming Asean Summit should not be used to lobby for a suspension of Myanmar. During this summit, Asean member countries can work together to help Myanmar move towards peace and the promotion of human rights, good governance and sustainable economic growth.

My heart goes out to the civilians and monks who are now detained and suppressed by the junta. I hope that UN and Asean representatives can monitor the situation and provide tangible support for a peaceful and stable resolution, to the benefit of the people of Myanmar and Asean.

Edmund Lim Wee Kiat