Tenasserim (Tanintharyi) Division

   One of Burma's 14 states and divisions, it has an area of 43,346 square kilometers (16,736 square miles) and an estimated population in 2000 of 1.35 million (1983 census figure: 917,247). The divisional capital is Tavoy (Dawei). Tenasserim Division comprises three districts (Tavoy, Mergui [Myeik], and Kawthaung) and 10 townships. It is elongated in shape, extending from Mon State in the north to Burma's southernmost point at Kawthaung (formerly Victoria Point). It forms a long border with Thailand on the east, defined geographically by the Tenasserim Yoma (mountain range). To the west, it fronts the Andaman Sea and includes the Mergui (Myeik) Archipelago, an abundant marine environment with tropical reefs and diverse sea life. Ethnically, Burmans (Bamars) form the majority, while minorities include Tayoyans, Karens (Kayins), Mons, and the Moken, or "Sea Gypsies," who live a nomadic existence in the Mergui Archipelago. Tenasserim Division's climate and environment are more closely akin to those of Island Southeast Asia (Indonesia and Malaysia) than to continental Burma. It has abundant tropical fruits (coconuts, durians, mangosteens, and rambutans, among others) and is Burma's most important producer of betel nut. Fishing and fisheries are economically important, including the breeding of prawns, which are exported to foreign countries. While Mogok (Mogoke) in Mandalay Division has its rubies, the Mergui Archipelago produces high-quality pearls. Mining, especially for tin and tungsten, is economically important, and the cultivation of rubber and palm oil is being expanded.