Mae Sot, Thailand – Ng La, a 28-year-old tattoo artist and punk enthusiast from Myanmar, lives as an undocumented national in Thailand after fleeing military oppression following the 2021 coup that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi. He highlights the precariousness of his life in exile, where he faces constant fear of deportation while operating a punk-themed bar and tattoo parlor. As civil conflict in Myanmar escalates, the military’s upcoming election is viewed as a “sham” by many, including Ng La, who believes it lacks legitimacy. His story reflects the struggles of many young Myanmar nationals escaping violence and seeking freedom.
