Food Systems, Rice and Power in Southeast Asia (with Thin Lei Win)

Why does Myanmar, often called the "rice bowl of Southeast Asia," continue to struggle with high rates of malnutrition? In this episode, journalist Thin Lei Win helps us unpack how political decisions, land ownership, and regional power dynamics shape food systems in Myanmar and beyond. We explore how issues like palm oil expansion and rice production connect to wider challenges around climate and biodiversity—and why lasting change remains difficult without addressing structural inequalities. Still, there are reasons for cautious optimism. Thin shares why she’s inspired by a new generation of journalists and activists working toward more just and sustainable food futures across Southeast Asia.For more info, transcript and resources, visit: https://tabledebates.org/podcast/episode85Check out and subcribe to Thin InkWant to share your reflections on the episode? Send us an email or voice memo to [email protected] Lei Win, Food and Climate JournalistHostJack Thompson, TABLEEpisode edited and produced by Matthew Kessler and Jack Thompson. Music by Blue dot sessions.