Business Daily Business Daily meets: Sean Turnell
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Jul 31, 2025 Sean Turnell, a university academic and former economic advisor to Aung San Suu Kyi, shares his striking journey from academia in Australia to imprisonment in Myanmar following the 2021 coup. He recounts the harrowing moment of his arrest and the harsh realities of life in prison, emphasizing the importance of literature and pacing for his mental survival. Turnell also reflects on Myanmar’s deepening economic crisis and expresses hope for the resilience of its people and the potential for a brighter future.
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Sudden Arrest During BBC Interview
- Sean Turnell was arrested suddenly while mid-interview describing Myanmar's unfolding crisis.
- This marked the last time he spoke publicly for many months.
Survival Tactics in Insane Prison
- Sean Turnell endured horrendous conditions in Insane Prison, facing rats and monsoon flooding.
- He paced up to 10,000 steps daily to maintain mental health despite poor food and weight loss.
Wife's Determined Campaign for Release
- Sean Turnell's wife tirelessly leveraged government and diplomatic channels to secure his release.
- She balanced activism with a full-time academic job to support their family.
