Paying Tribute to Martyrs: 78th Anniversary Martyrs’ Day ceremony in Yangon

The 78th Anniversary Martyrs’ Day was observed at the Martyrs’ Mausoleum in Yangon on 19th July.

Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing attended the ceremony, and cordially greeted the family members of martyrs and guests. He highlighted the pivotal role of General Aung San, who led Myanmar’s struggle for independence.

Chairman, State Administration Council, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing said "General Aung San led the country’s struggle for independence. He envisioned Myanmar becoming a nation that could stand alongside others on the world stage after gaining its independence. This vision is evident in the speeches he delivered. To fulfill General Aung San’s aspirations and honor his sacrifice for the nation, all Myanmar citizens must work together in unity for the good of the country. Moreover, the true value of a nation lies in its independence and development. However, discipline is equally important—without it, the country could face serious challenges."

After that, the Prime Minister laid wreaths at the mausoleum to pay homage to General Aung San and the fallen martyrs. Union Ministers, regional officials, senior military officers, and other dignitaries also participated in the wreath-laying ceremony. The State Flag was lowered to half-mast, and the Guard of Honour presented arms while the military bugle sounded the last post. A two-minute silence was observed to honor the memory of the martyrs.

Family members of the martyrs shared their reflections on the occasion.

Family of General Aung San said "It is important for the new generation to protect the independence that our martyr heroes sacrificed their lives for."

Ye Myint Aung, Family of Thakhin Mya said "Every Martyrs’ Day, we remember those who gave their lives for the country."

Thant Zin Cho, Family of Deedok U Ba Cho said "Nowadays, the world is facing various challenges. It is important for the public to overcome the challenges with cautious."

Family of Mahn Ba Khaing said "I would like to express my thanks to the State leaders for successfully organizing the ceremony. As for my great-grandfather, I happened to read about him in a book that described him as an architect of Kayin-Bamar friendship. Although I am no longer with my great-grandfather, I have come to understand his wish to build friendship through loving-kindness. We will continue to carry forward his legacy."

Myint Myint Khaing, Family of Mahn Ba Khaing said "Our leaders sacrificed their lives for the country, paving the way for us to stand tall and independent in the world as a developed nation. If we work in unity, we can fulfill the aspirations of our leaders."

Dr. Min Myanmar, Family of U Ohn Maung said "We truly appreciate the efforts of the state leaders in organizing the ceremony every year without fail."

Lt-Gen Aung Ko Ko (Retired), Family of Yebaw Ko Htwe said "If we review the work undertaken over the past 78 years, we have not been dutiful enough in following the path laid down by General Aung San and our leaders. They strove for national solidarity, the preservation of independence and sovereignty, and the development of the country. They also laid down plans for the nation’s future."

The ceremony also featured wreath-laying by representatives from the Yangon Region government, political parties, foreign diplomatic missions, and various organizations. People also gathered to pay their respects to the martyrs at the mausoleum.

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