MYANMAR is one of the earliest Southeast Asian countries, with the establishment of city-states thousands of years ago, and it is rich in both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. The government is currently leading efforts to preserve these cultural elements to ensure their long-term survival for future generations. 

As information technology advances, the development of physical structures and the globalization process compel countries worldwide to preserve their national identities and integrity. It is particularly important to sustain and protect intangible cultures. Furthermore, all citizens of Myanmar, regardless of their ethnicities, religions, or languages, share the responsibility of preserving the traditional cultural heritage of all national races. 

Myanmar has steadfastly preserved its own culture and fine arts throughout successive eras. However, after losing its independence, the country has faced the influence of foreign cultures. It is widely acknowledged that traditional performing arts in Myanmar are at risk of disappearing due to rapid technological advancements and the proliferation of modern physical structures.

The ongoing performing arts competition aims to foster friendly relations among different national races and support the preservation and promotion of their traditional fine arts. By encouraging a comprehensive understanding of their cultures, the Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions play a crucial role in sustaining national cultures and enhancing national integrity. 

The new generation of contestants who participated in the Performing Arts Competition in 1993 are now professional artists, coinciding with the competition’s 25th anniversary. It is gratifying for the national cause that these professional artists are now passing on the fine arts legacy to amateur performers from various regions and states. 

Myanmar is a Union where the major ethnic groups — Kachin, Kayah, Kayin, Chin, Bamar, Mon, Rakhine, and Shan — live together in harmony, united by a shared national identity. Despite their diversity, the musical instruments of all national races in Myanmar primarily rely on five categories: bronze, string, leather, wind, and percussion instruments.

Since they all share a common heritage in the performing arts, artistes must promote the flourishing of these fine arts across all national races in Myanmar. They should enhance the national spirit among the youth of the new generation. These artists have a responsibility to preserve traditional cultural performing arts against the encroachment of foreign influences, ensuring the sustainable development of traditions and cultures. This effort should draw lessons from past events in cultural heritage, and it must be conducted without discrimination.

Myanmar has a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse ethnic groups, and it offers a unique opportunity to develop an integrated travel and tourism approach that can benefit local communities and provide an enriching experience for local travellers and tourists. Integrated travel and tourism in Myanmar can be considered promoted through several vital aspects, and the following are some all-inclusive steps to approach these considerations;

1. Market Research and Analysis

- Identify Target Markets: Determine who the potential tourists are (domestic, regional, international) and what their preferences and needs are.

- Competitive Analysis: Study other countries with successful integrated tourism models to understand best practices and potential challenges.

- SWOT Analysis: Conduct a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis of Myanmar’s tourism sector.

2. Sustainable Tourism Development

- Environmental Conservation: Implement policies that protect natural resources and promote eco-friendly tourism. Encourage practices like waste management, conservation of wildlife, and protection of natural habitats.

- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Ensure that tourism activities do not harm historical sites and cultural landmarks. Work with local communities to maintain and showcase their traditions and customs.

- Community Involvement: Engage local communities in tourism planning and development to ensure their needs and perspectives are considered.

3. Infrastructure Development

- Transport: Improve accessibility to tourist destinations by enhancing roads, airports, and public transport systems. Consider developing sustainable transport options like electric buses or bikes.

- Accommodation and Facilities: Upgrade existing hotels, resorts, and other accommodation facilities to meet international standards. Promote the development of eco-lodges and community-based homestays.

4. Community Engagement

- Local Involvement: Engage local communities in tourism planning and decision-making processes. Provide training and capacity-building programmes to help them benefit economically from tourism.

- Empowerment: Encourage local entrepreneurship by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism sector, such as local guides, artisans, and food vendors. 5. Combined Tourism Packages

- Thematic Tours: Develop themed travel packages (e.g., cultural tours, adventure tours, eco-tours) that integrate various attractions and activities.

- Multi-Destination Tours: Create tours that connect different regions and highlight the diversity of Myanmar, such as combining urban experiences with rural and natural attractions.

- Collaborative Partnerships: Work with local businesses, tour operators, and international agencies to create comprehensive packages that offer diverse experiences.

6. Marketing and Promotion

- Branding: Develop a strong brand identity for Myanmar as a unique and attractive travel destination. Highlight its diverse culture, rich history, and natural beauty.

- Digital Presence: Utilize social media, websites, and other digital platforms to promote tourism. Offer virtual tours and interactive experiences to attract international tourists.

- Trade Shows and Exhibitions: Participate in international travel and tourism fairs to promote Myanmar as a travel destination.

7. Partnerships and Collaboration

- Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between government bodies, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to pool resources and expertise.

- International Cooperation: Work with international tourism organizations and neighbouring countries to create regional travel packages and joint promotional activities.

8. Policy and Regulation

- Regulatory Framework: Establish clear policies and regulations that govern tourism activities, ensuring they are sustainable and beneficial to local communities.
- Incentives: Provide incentives for businesses and investors who adopt sustainable practices and contribute to local development.

9. Education and Training

- Skill Development: Offer education and training programmes for individuals seeking careers in tourism and hospitality. Focus on areas like customer service, language skills, and sustainable tourism practices.

- Awareness Campaigns: Conduct awareness campaigns to educate tourists and locals about the importance of preserving the environment and respecting cultural heritage.

10. Monitoring and Evaluation

- Impact Assessment: Regularly assess the impact of tourism on the environment, economy, and local communities. Use these assessments to make informed decisions and adjustments.

- Feedback Mechanisms: Establish channels for tourists and locals to provide feedback on tourism services and experiences, using this feedback to improve offerings.

In addition, Myanmar can develop a robust travel and tourism sector that leverages its unique strengths and offers meaningful experiences for visitors. By focusing on the above-mentioned areas, Myanmar can develop and promote an integrated travel and tourism industry that is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to both visitors and local communities as well as for our country.

Source- The Global New Light of Myanmar

THE widespread use of mobile phones, particularly among students, has raised concerns about their impact on mental health and learning. In response, some U.S. states and countries like France, Finland, Sweden, Australia, and Russia have enacted laws banning mobile phone use in schools. These measures aim to reduce distractions and safeguard the well-being of students.

Initially designed for communication, mobile phones have evolved into powerful devices with advanced applications, making them essential in daily life. Youth, in particular, are drawn to these technologies. However, the increasing reliance on mobile phones, computers, and other digital devices among school-age children has created several issues. Excessive mobile phone use can lead to social problems, mental health challenges, and harmful behaviours such as cyberbullying and cybercrime. These issues often occur in schools, disrupting students’ learning, health, and well-being.

In Myanmar, although mobile technology is not as advanced as in other countries, there is still a need to address the potential threats posed by mobile phone misuse among students. Proactively educating students on the responsible use of mobile phones and limiting their access during school hours can help mitigate the negative impacts of these devices. If done correctly, the younger generation will be better equipped to use mobile phones efficiently in their daily lives without succumbing to harmful effects.

A 2023 report by the PEW Research Centre revealed that 95 per cent of teenagers aged 13 to 17 worldwide use smartphones. Surveys indicate that teenagers spend an average of 4.8 hours per day on social media platforms. Studies show that using mobile phones for more than three hours a day can lead to mental health issues. Despite these risks, the number of young people using smartphones continues to rise.

Given these trends, it is crucial to consider how mobile phones are used in schools carefully. Restricting phone use during school hours is essential to ensure that students can focus on their education and avoid the adverse effects associated with excessive screen time. By limiting mobile phone access, schools can create an environment that fosters learning, protects mental health, and prepares students for a balanced future.

Currently, countries around the world are striving to improve communication technologies to enable smoother and more efficient connections. Technological advancements benefit society by reducing the time needed to accomplish tasks and enhancing socioeconomic conditions. However, it is important to ensure that young people do not overuse smartphones, as excessive reliance on applications can lead to negative consequences.

ILLEGAL trade can hamper the economic development of the State by reducing manufacturing activity among business owners and diminishing their competitive capability in the market. Preventing illegal trade can boost export volume and enhance the commercial sector by promoting product manufacturing and market competition. Additionally, these initiatives can increase local money circulation, raise export product volume, and generate more foreign exchange. As a result, the country can experience growth in its manufacturing, trade, and service sectors.

Myanmar is rich in natural resources, with a strong focus on the agricultural sector. To boost the state economy, the government has encouraged the manufacturing of natural resource-based products and agricultural goods while also working to promote micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). However, illegal trade activities have had negative impacts on the nation’s socioeconomic sector.

Illegal trade eradication task forces formed in regions and states managed relevant squads, impounding smuggled goods and addressing illegal trade activities worth K300.28 billion across 14,659 cases during the two years and eight months from January 2022 to August 2024. However, this amount was relatively small compared to the State’s overall trade sector. Therefore, authorities and task forces must intensify efforts to take action against those involved in illegal trade activities.

With regard to seizures in July and August 2024, the Customs Department nabbed the most considerable amount and volume of illegal trade process, followed by the task force from Mandalay Region, Sagaing Region and Kahin State in series. The authorities seized unregistered vehicles and illicit commodities in the largest volume, industrial raw materials in the second largest volume and capital goods in the third largest one.

The economic development of a country depends on manufacturing and trade sectors. As such, authorities need to encourage agriculture- and livestock-based businesses. Meanwhile, relevant ministries have to fulfil the basic needs of farmers from the agriculture and livestock breeding sectors as part of implementing the assigned duties.

It is necessary to supply fertilizers, pesticides, quality strains of seeds, agricultural inputs, animal feeds, vaccines, and other needs to farmers on time. On the other hand, relevant authorized bodies need to systematically supervise the trafficking of prohibited goods, taking advantage of priority on legal trade measures. If so, legal trade contributes to local businesspersons and traders on their official process at home and crack down on illegal trade processes.