Overview of translation in Myanmar

The function of translation in Myanmar is to translate written text from another language into the Myanmar language, maintaining the original meaning as accurately as possible. A translator may translate various types of written texts such as government, business, academic, and NGO documents and contracts. The translating function is always the written word, as a verbal translator is classified as an interpreter regardless of whether they are working in a PR/ communication capacity or for the government. Language translators in particular demand in Myanmar are those who can translate text between Chinese, Japanese or English to Myanmar, as these are languages spoken by the majority of international companies setting up in Myanmar. A translator who knows more than one of those languages aside from Burmese would be in very high demand in any number of business environments such as media companies, accounting and finance areas, government, United Nations, embassies, hospitals or translation services. To become a translator, an incredibly high level (if not absolute) fluency is a must, in both Burmese and the language being translated into Burmese. This is because none the meaning can be lost. A translator may be translating brochures, signs, letters, labels, books, reports, journals, or legal contracts. These will either be from a technical, scientific, or social or business perspective.

Career advancement in translation in Myanmar

There is a high demand for translators in Myanmar given the current changes that the country is going through and the need to bridge some communication gaps. To become a translator, being bi-lingual or trilingual is expected as well as having a language degree or certification as well as computer skills. An added advantage is extensive knowledge in the subject of the translation, such as engineering and technical. In the beginning a translator may work through a translation agency, but following this may secure a more permanent role, or start freelancing through referrals and networking. Like careers such as writing and editing, working as a freelancer provides both time and locational flexibility. To be a good translator one must have attention to detail, be able to meet deadlines, be culturally sensitive, and be able to market their translation services well. Or they may choose to work for one company and become an in-house translator. Often administration assistants and personal assistants will double up as a translator for their manager.