Myanmar seeks to build trustworthy and friendly ties with neighbouring China

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing expressed his aspiration to further strengthen the China-Myanmar relationship and deepen the bond of friendship between the peoples of both nations.
A ceremony to organize the Chinese New Year celebration in the Year of Snake for 2025 took place at the National Indoor Stadium I in Thuwunna in Yangon yesterday afternoon, attended by Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and his wife Daw Kyu Kyu Hla.

The Senior General and his wife were warmly welcomed by Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Ms Ma Jia and distinguished guests.
Union Ministers U Tin Oo Lwin, U Min Naung and U Tun Ohn, Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein, the minister-counsellors of the Chinese Embassy, the patron of Myanmar-China Buddhist and Cultural Exchange Association, officials from the Interfaith Dialogue Group, the chair of Myanmar-China Chamber of Commerce, the chair of Yunnan Social Welfare Association and chairs of other Chinese association cut the ribbon to open the ceremony.
The troupe of eight lions paid respect to the Senior General and his wife and the Chinese Ambassador with towels to mark the Chinese New Year.
The Senior General and the Chinese Ambassador pressed the button to launch the New Year festival.
A Shaolin monk extended the New Year greetings to strengthen China-Myanmar friendly ties. The Senior General, his wife and attendees enjoyed the Shaolin Kung Fu demonstration.
The Senior General and his wife offered Buddha images and a flower basket to the Shaolin monks who returned gifts.
The Senior General, his wife and the Chinese Ambassador posed for documentary photos together with attendees.
The Senior General and his wife presented cash awards to the entertainment troupes.
They visited the Chinese traditional cultural booths from Chinatown and Chinese traditional food booths.
At the dinner to mark the Year of Snake, the Senior General and his wife, and the Chinese Ambassador painted the traditional Chinese lion statue. Then, the traditional Chinese lion dance troupe performed dances.
Speaking on the occasion, the Senior General said that it is understood that the snake symbolizes wisdom, strategic transformation, renewal, growth, and deep insight. It is believed that these qualities will enable greater progress and transformation, fulfilling the aspirations of the Chinese people.
Due to centuries-old relations and a long-standing shared border, China and Myanmar have been able to establish strong ties, including kinship-based relationships, strategic cooperative partnerships, and efforts to build a community with shared future benefits. Moving forward, the Senior General expressed his aspiration to further strengthen the China-Myanmar relationship and deepen the bond of friendship between the peoples of both nations.
Regarding Myanmar, it was expressed that due to the implementation of Myanmar-China economic corridor projects, Myanmar attaches importance to collaboration with China for peaceful development and mutual benefits. Myanmar aims to enhance the momentum of ongoing projects with China and continue to establish itself as a trustworthy and friendly neighbouring country to China.
In November of last year, the Senior General recounted that he visited the People’s Republic of China at the invitation of the Chinese government. During the trip, he attended the Mekong Summit and related meetings and held separate discussions with the Chinese Premier and other leaders from ASEAN countries who participated in the event. During discussions, the Chinese Premier reaffirmed the matters previously confirmed during the Chinese Foreign Minister’s visit to Myanmar. These include China’s full support for Myanmar’s internal peace and stability, endorsement of Myanmar’s efforts following the five-point roadmap of the State Administration Council, and assistance concerning the elections. Moreover, discussions emphasized enhancing multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, strengthening China-Myanmar relations, and fostering greater political trust.
It was also highlighted that China’s confirmations and assistance reflect its status as a steadfast friend of Myanmar. Myanmar expressed gratitude to China for its unwavering stance and support.
China firmly supports Myanmar’s independence and sovereignty and values its assistance in promoting stability and peace. Myanmar expresses its gratitude to the Chinese government and all Chinese citizens for their continued support. Moreover, Myanmar requests China’s continued cooperation in its peace processes and efforts toward national development.
Diplomatic relations between Myanmar and China will have reached a milestone of 75 years on 8 June this year. China and Myanmar have supported each other in various matters since the establishment of their diplomatic ties.
Both domestic and international groups do not welcome the friendly and close relations between the two nations and they employ various methods to instigate Myanmar and China. Therefore, the authorities and citizens of both countries must remain vigilant and committed to safeguarding their mutual ties.
In light of this, the people of Myanmar, Chinese-Myanmar associations within Myanmar, Chinese descendants in Myanmar, and Chinese citizens working in Myanmar should collaborate with a sense of patriotism and mutual harmony, living together in unity.
Then, the Senior General and his wife and the Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar exchanged commemorative gifts to mark the 2025 Snake Year of the Chinese New Year.
Afterwards, the Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar delivered New Year greetings, stating that the Chinese New Year is the most significant festival for the Chinese people and expressing great joy in welcoming the Year of the Snake. Chinese individuals have actively integrated into the larger family of Myanmar, which is home to various ethnic groups, and have become important contributors and participants in Myanmar’s economic and social development, as well as in fostering China-Myanmar friendship. Throughout this year, both nations have maintained positive progress in mutual exchanges and collaborations in various sectors, including culture, tourism, and religious affairs. This year marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Myanmar. With the attention and guidance of the leaders of both countries, the comprehensive and strategic partnership between the two nations has yielded fruitful results, fostering new developments and creating numerous opportunities for the development of both peoples.
It is believed that in the coming year, by joining hands, they can continue contributing to the construction of a shared future and a harmonious community for China and Myanmar. Together, they will build a beautiful future for both nations, ensuring mutual development, prosperity, and peace. With this in mind, best wishes are extended for continued growth, harmony, and lasting peace between the two countries.

Afterwards, the Senior General and his wife joined attendees of the ceremony to partake in a dinner reception held in honour of the Chinese New Year.
During the dinner, entertainment was provided by a special cultural and literary performance group from China, including martial arts demonstrations by Shaolin monks. Under the Directorate of Public Relations and Psychological Warfare, the Myawady Entertainment Troupe and artists showcased dances, musical performances, and songs promoting Sino-Myanmar friendship. Chinese cultural troupes presented traditional Chinese songs and music performances, while external artists entertained with various songs. During the performances, a speech was delivered celebrating Myanmar’s traditional New Year water festival (Thingyan), which was the first to be inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. In recognition of this honour, the Myawady Band performed the Thingyan song “Khit Lay Khit” (Four Eras).
The Senior General, his wife and the Chinese Ambassador presented flower baskets to the Chinese traditional dance troupes from China, the Myawady Entertainment Troupe and artistes.
All participants and artistes sang the theme song “Let all flowers blossom”. After the ceremony, the Senior General and his wife cordially greeted the attendees. — MNA/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

SINGAPORE has introduced stricter measures to regulate screen use among children in schools and preschools as part of a broader multi-ministry health initiative launched on Tuesday.
From 1 February preschools will enforce updated rules banning screen use for children under 18 months and limiting it to teaching and learning purposes for those aged 18 months to six years, according to a joint statement by the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Social and Family Development.
Educators will also be guided to prioritize “meaningful experiences” over sedentary activities such as prolonged screen time and sitting.
Primary and secondary schools have implemented similar measures, requiring students to store their phones in designated areas during lessons and restricting device use to specific times and locations, such as during recess or after school.
The Ministry of Health has also revised its recommendations for parents, advising less than one hour of screen time per day for children aged three to six and less than two hours for those aged seven to 12, excluding schoolwork. — Xinhua

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

MORE than 140 of the 1,400 lodgings and food stalls being built to accommodate travellers attending the Mann Shwesettaw Buddha Pujaniya Festival in Minbu (Sagu) Township, Magway Region, have been completed, according to U Aye Ko, Chairman of the Mann Shwesettaw Pagoda Board of Trustees.
The festival, traditionally held annually, will take place for 75 days, from 2 February to 17 April.
“We have scheduled the Mann Shwesettaw Buddha Pujaniya Festival from 2 February to 17 April. A total of over 140 lodgings have been completed, and we are in the process of constructing more than 600 additional lodgings and 800 food stalls to accommodate the expected influx of visitors from across the country,” U Aye Ko said.
Furthermore, a bridge measuring 12 feet and eight inches wide and 100 feet (approximately 30 metres) long has been constructed to facilitate the easy passage of pilgrims to the Lower Sacred Footprint of the Lord Buddha during the festival.
The Mann Shwesettaw Buddha Pujaniya Festival typically sees the highest number of visitors on Saturdays, Sundays, the full moon day of Tabaung, and during Thingyan (the Myanmar New Year celebrations). During the festival, pilgrims from across the country also visit other popular attractions, including the Mann Chaung Elephant Resort, which features an elephant museum, Myathalun Pagoda in Magway, Sekkaintae Pagoda, Nagabwat Hill, and other notable sites, in addition to the Shwesettaw Buddha Pujaniya Festival. — ASH/MKKS

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

Everybody, Mingalaba!

First of all, I would like to extend my greetings and best wishes to all the distinguished guests attending today’s “53rd Myanmar Health Research Congress,” wishing you all peace of mind, good health, and prosperity in every aspect.

The Myanmar Health Re-search Congress has been held for 53 times to conduct health research of Myanmar keeping abreast of other countries.

The first congress was successfully held in 1965. During the early years of the congress, only research papers were submitted. However, starting from the health research congress held in 1991, research poster exhibitions were introduced. From the 2002 congress onwards, subject-wise seminars were also incorporated, making the congresses more impactful and extensive.

Research findings based on solid and reliable results emerging from health-related research congresses are instrumental in formulating modern and appropriate health policies for the nation. They also play a significant role in enhancing the effectiveness of healthcare initiatives, ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for everyone, and driving large-scale processes aimed at improving overall public health outcomes.

The theme for the 53rd Myanmar Health Research Congress is reported to be: "Moving forward to a healthy lifestyle and addressing health risk behaviors." It aims to shed light on the growing significance of non-communicable diseases in the current context.

The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with relevant ministries, effectively implemented measures to prevent, control, and treat diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, with the aim of controlling the rise of non-communicable diseases, the World Health Organization (WHO) is working together with the Department of Public Health, the Department of Medical Services, the Department of Human Resources for Health, and the Department of Medical Research under the Ministry of Health. They are conducting the "STEP Survey 2024," a study to assess the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Myanmar.

Especially, it is essential for our people to maintain good basic health and live long, healthy, and resilient lives. To achieve this, it is necessary to promote the selection and consumption of nutritious and health- conscious foods, as well as to encourage health-conscious lifestyles and behaviors. This involves advancing practical health research related to these areas, widely disseminating the findings to the public, and providing knowledge to raise awareness.

Regarding traditional medicine, it is essential to collaborate with senior traditional medicine practitioners and the Department of Traditional Medicine to conduct practical research. This will ensure tangible benefits for the public, strengthen the foundation of our country's traditional medical practices, and enable traditional medicine products to penetrate the inter-national market by generating more reliable and robust re-search-based data.

It is essential to make decisions and formulate health policies based on accurate and reliable research findings. Therefore, researchers conducting these studies must fully under-stand the significance of their findings and consistently adhere to research ethics. This aware-ness and commitment are crucial at all times.

In our country, it is essential to foster a mindset of thoroughly exploring, studying, and con-ducting research before under-taking any activities. This means encouraging the emergence of young people and intellectuals with a passion for research. We need to take action to ensure the development of individuals who are committed to research in accordance with ethical standards. To achieve this, efforts should be made to establish a thriving research culture in the country, with numerous researchers emerging. This includes systematically reorganizing research advisory committees and enhancing the structure of research ethics boards as needed. Such measures are necessary to promote the growth and sustainability of a research-oriented culture.

The organizing committee for the congress has categorized the research papers submitted into three systematic categories: fundamental research papers, applied research papers, and papers on social and healthcare systems. The committee has reviewed and selected these sub-missions to ensure they are suitable for presentation during the congress. It has been planned to present 54 research papers and display 43 posters as part of the event.

It is known that the award selection committee has re-viewed and chosen the best papers and posters from those submitted to this conference, and there are plans to present awards to recognize and honor them appropriately.

In conclusion, I would like to express my best wishes for success in these efforts to conduct research.

-  When conducting health research, prioritize the public's benefit by improving the overall health standards of the people. Focus on basic healthcare improvement, promoting healthy living and nutrition, understanding the nature of communicable and non-communicable diseases, and taking proactive measures for prevention. Increase practical research, traditional medicine studies, and interna-tional research collaborations to advance these goals.

-  The research findings should also be shared with the public in a timely manner through activities such as organizing congresses, publishing research journals, and releasing magazines, in order to inform and alert the public accordingly.

-  Similarly, when the public attends and receives treatment at people’s hospitals, efforts should be made to ensure the provision of care that guarantees mental well-being, patient safety, and high-quality medical services. Practical research activities related to medical treatment and hospital management should be enhanced to achieve these objectives.

-  Through health research activities, may we be able to adopt health policies suitable for our country, ensure that everyone has access to high-quality healthcare, and work towards improving the level of healthcare in our country.

Thank you, all.

EFFORTS are being made to put the ‘culture of Myanmar’s Thanaka’ into UNESCO’s world intangible cultural heritage list, similar to the traditional Myanmar New Year Atar Thingyan festival, according to the Department of Archaeology and National Museum.
The department is making preparations to submit the ‘culture of Myanmar’s Thanaka’ to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of UNESCO by 31 March 2025, and the Form Compilation Task Force started compiling the proposal to the nomination form (ICH-02) from 15 to 17 January.
Although Myanmar has many intangible cultural heritages, none have yet been listed as part of the World Intangible Cultural Heritage List. However, for over a thousand years, using Myanmar’s Thanaka as the traditional customs and practices have been passed down through generations, and today, the art of Myanmar’s traditional Thanaka remains a significant cultural symbol of the nation and is preserved with care.
Myanmar’s Thanaka was proposed for inclusion in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list starting in January 2020, as it aligns with the five criteria for designation as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. —ASH/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

THE board of trustees of the Phayathonzu Mountain Monastery in Kyaikto Township, Mon State, announced that a new standing Buddha statue will be built near the sitting Buddha statue, which is the largest in Myanmar and the second largest in the world, located on Phayathonzu Mountain in Kyaikto Township.
The ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of the standing Buddha statue and the ceremony to receive teachings from the abbot of the Phayathonzu Mountain Monastery were held on 10 January. The ground-breaking work has already begun.
The sitting Buddha statue and the Maha Bawdi Pagoda have already been placed on Phayathonzu Mountain in Kyaikto Township, and the new standing Buddha statue is going to be 363 feet tall, including its altar. — ASH/TH

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

ARCHAEOLOGISTS of Cambodia's APSARA National Authority (ANA) have completed the restoration of Tower 15 at Phnom Bakheng temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park in northwest Siem Reap province, said an ANA's news release on Monday. The ruined brick tower, located south of the ancient Phnom Bakheng temple, is more than 1,000 years old. Chhun Ratana, a technical officer from the ANA Department of Conservation of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology, said that before the restoration, Tower 15 had suf fered significant damage, with its roof and walls nearly collapsing due to age and natural elements. She said during the six-month restoration work, the team undertook extensive repairs to reinforce the walls, ceiling, and floor, while also reorganizing the platform to ensure the tower's stability for centuries to come. "The restoration team is now focused on cleaning the site and removing reno vation materials to prepare for the temple's reopening to visitors," Ratana said. "Additionally, plans are underway to initiate a new project aimed at restoring Tower 14, which is situated adjacent to Tower 15," she added. Phnom Bakheng temple is home to 44 brick towers, and thus far, a portion of the site has undergone structural repairs by the ANA in collaboration with the World Monuments Fund, according to the news release. Built in the late ninth century, Phnom Bakheng temple is one of the major temples in the 401-square-kilometre Angkor Archaeological Park, which was inscribed on the World Heritage List of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in 1992. — Xinhua

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

MINBU January 12
According to a source close to the pagoda’s board of trustees, the Buddha Pujaniya Festival at the Mann Shwesettaw Pagoda will take place from 2 February to 17 April, lasting 75 days.
Around 1,000 lodging huts and 500 food stalls are typically set up annually for the Mann Shwesettaw Pagoda Festival. The festival sees its largest crowds on Saturdays, Sundays, the full moon day of Taboung, and during the Thingyan Festival. Approximately 800 huts and 400 food stalls will be constructed to accommodate domestic pilgrims this year. Pilgrims will be allowed to stay overnight during the festival.
Additionally, the Shwesettaw Mann Creek Recreation Camp, which includes an elephant museum, will be open alongside the Mann Shwesettaw Pagoda Festival.

Source: Myawady Daily Newspaper

2025 International Conference on Applied Research in Education begins

Senior General Min Aung Hlaing underlined that technology transfer programmes can help industries adopt these innovations while knowledge-sharing initiatives disseminate research findings to relevant organizations, accelerating national development within a short time.
Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing said so at the opening of the International Conference on Applied Research in Education 2025 at the Myanmar International Convention Centre II in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.
Speaking on the occasion, the Senior General underscored that research uncovers new knowledge, discoveries and innovations while validating existing concepts, offering solutions to current challenges and deepening academic insights.
Through research, he continued, new technologies can be introduced to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), helping them expand into new markets. He noted that research and development (R&D) also supports Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) by producing a skilled workforce equipped with advanced competencies.
The Senior General expressed his aspiration for the conference to open new opportunities for R&D collaborations, fostering partnerships that drive progress and innovation. He stressed that expanding research activities is essential for developing innovative technologies that drive new product creation.
He added that this year’s conference features keynote speeches from renowned academics and over 100 research paper presentations across five domains: Teacher Education, Arts and Science, Marine and Earth Sciences, MSMEs and TVET, and Natural Language Processing (NLP) and AI Technology.
In conclusion, the Senior General emphasized that it is necessary to encourage everyone to share knowledge, insights and innovative ideas and to collaborate on impactful research projects, with the promotion of evidence-based research initiatives, especially among young researchers, to foster a vibrant research culture through such conferences.

SAC Vice-Chairman Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior General Soe Win, Council Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo, Council member General Mya Tun Oo, Union Minister for Education Dr Nyunt Pe and Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr Myo Thein
Kyaw cut the ribbon to open the ceremony.
Students from Yangon University of Education, universities and education degree colleges performed songs and dances to honour the conference. Also present at the ceremony were SAC members, Union ministers, Union-level dignitaries, ambassadors of foreign missions to Myanmar, the Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman, senior Tatmadaw officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief, the commander of Nay Pyi Taw Command, deputy ministers, rectors and principals, scholars and officials.
In line with the theme of the conference “Navigating the Future: Education, Science and Technology for Brighter and More Prosperous Societies”, 62 scholars and experts from 16 countries and 45 organizations and 40 internal and external experts from the Ministry of Education and relevant ministries and educational organizations will attend the conference and submit six keynote addresses, five special talks and 133 internal and international research papers to the conference. — MNA/TTA

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

MYANMAR nationals won four first prizes in the Muse-Ruili Cross-border Marathon, according to a statement from the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar.
T h e 2 0 2 4 M y a n m a r Muse-China Ruili Cross-border Marathon was held in Ruili on 5 January. A total of 9,029 athletes from countries including China, Myanmar, and the UK participated in the competition, which was categorized into four classes —marathon, half marathon, leisure, and warm and comfortable. In the competition, Myanmar nationals won four first prizes — Maung Myo Min Htet in the full marathon men’s race, Ma Htet Yan Pyae Oo in the full marathon women’s race, Zaw Khaing in the half marathon men’s race, and Ma Aye Aye Thein in the women’s half marathon.
The race started at the museum in Ruili and ended at the same museum after going round the border post 81 at the Palace Gate in Myanmar. The Myanmar participants in this race were also awarded Pauk Phaw awards to further enhance the friendship between the two countries and promote goodwill ties. — Htun Htun/ZN

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar