Friendship Football Tournament Concludes in Maungdaw to Promote Social Harmony

News March 12, 2026

Ward Friendship Football Tournament in Maungdaw (Photocrd: ABN)

A “Ward Friendship Football Tournament” aimed at strengthening relations among different ethnic communities and steering young people away from drug abuse has successfully concluded in Maungdaw Township, local sources said.

The tournament’s award ceremony was held on March 10, marking the conclusion of the competition, which had been organized by the township party committee from February 5 to March 10. The event brought together communities from diverse ethnic backgrounds—including Rakhine, Muslim, and Hindu residents—with the goal of promoting social harmony through sports.

According to the township party committee, the tournament was organized with four key objectives: encouraging youth to spend their free time engaging in sports and reducing the risk of drug abuse; fostering interaction and friendship among different ethnic groups in the region to strengthen social harmony and national unity; promoting healthy lifestyles and positive sporting habits among young people; and enhancing engagement and unity between the Arakan People’s Revolutionary Government and local residents.

A total of 17 teams took part in the tournament, representing various wards, departments, and military-related units within the township.

Ward Friendship Football Tournament in Maungdaw (Photocrd: ABN)

Matches were scheduled on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) to allow the public to attend and watch the games. Throughout the competition period, the tournament drew strong interest and enthusiastic support from local residents.

Speaking about the initiative, the chairperson of the Maungdaw Township Party Committee said the region is home to multiple ethnic communities living together, making social harmony and unity particularly important.

“Maungdaw is a place where diverse communities live side by side. Promoting harmony and unity is therefore essential. Organizing a football tournament like this not only helps protect young people from the dangers of drugs, but also strengthens trust and friendship among communities. Our aim is for the government and the people to work together as one in promoting regional development,” the chairperson said.

The award ceremony was attended by township party committee members, officials from relevant departments, and local sports enthusiasts. During the event, trophies and cash prizes were presented to the winning teams.

One of the team captains who participated in the tournament also shared his experience:

“For us young people, it is a great opportunity to take part in a tournament like this. Beyond winning or losing, what matters most is the chance to meet and build friendships with people from different wards and departments. By encouraging sports, we believe young people can avoid harmful influences and help create a healthier social environment.”

According to the township party committee, sports activities will continue to be expanded in the future to support social harmony, regional stability, and the overall development of youth in Maungdaw Township.

Source@arakanbaynews