Zhang Yi (Ms)

Proposed Thesis Title: The Integration and Change of the Nat Spirit Cult of Myanmar during Modernization
Supervisor: Associate Professor Maitrii Aung-Thwin

My connection to Myanmar began during my undergraduate studies, where I majored in Burmese language. While studying in Yangon as an exchange student, I developed a deep interest in local customs and religious beliefs. This led me to pursue a master’s degree focusing on Southeast Asian culture. In my master’s thesis, I explored the origins of the Yun Bayin Nat, a local spirit figure, and examined the historical interaction between ancient Burma and the Lanna Kingdom. For my PhD project, I plan to investigate how the nat spirit belief system persisted through the British colonial period and how it was adapted by locals to address daily life and social changes.

I am truly excited about starting my PhD at NUS, with its renowned tradition in Southeast Asian studies and its rich resources in the history department. I believe this will provide me with the support and training needed to become a skilled researcher.

Outside of academics, I have a variety of hobbies. I enjoy learning languages, traveling, watching movies, and playing sports, with volleyball being my favorite.