Senior General Min Aung Hlaing Inaugurates Kengtung Haw Palace Replica Museum

On the morning of May 12, 2024, a ceremony was held to inaugurate the Kengtung Haw Palace Replica Museum in Kengtung, Shan State (East), Myanmar. The event was attended by Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, his wife Daw Kyu Kyu Hla, and other officials.

Why this matters: The preservation of cultural heritage and promotion of tourism development in Shan State have significant implications for Myanmar's economic growth and regional identity. The successful implementation of such initiatives can also serve as a model for other regions in Myanmar, contributing to the country's overall development and cultural preservation.

The museum is a replica of the Haw Palace of Kengtung Saopha Sao Kawng Kiao Intaleng, built in 1903 and completed in 1906. The original palace was decorated with Shan traditional and Myanmar architectural works influenced by European and Indian styles and was the first-ever cement building in Kengtung.

Town elder U Sai Yi Tip Pawong expressed gratitude to the Senior General for his guidance in building the museum, stating it was a "great auspicious day for the emergence of the museum in Kengtung." The Senior General unveiled the stone plaque of the museum and presented cash awards to dance troupes, cultural groups, and officials involved in the museum's construction.

During his visit, the Senior General discussed the need to gather more historical documentaries, systematically preserve ancient utensils, and install glass partitions to protect the exhibits. He also viewed documentary photos and exhibits showcasing the Saopha's family members and relatives.

Upon arrival at Kengtung Airport, the Senior General heard reports on upgrading the airport from SAC member Union Minister for Transport and Communications General Mya Tun Oo and Director of Military Engineers Maj-Gen Zaw Naing Oo. The Senior General emphasized the importance of upgrading the airport to admit landing and taking off of jets, stating that it aims to prepare for the future and contribute to the development of the tourism industry in Kengtung.

He instructed officials to manage direct flights from Laos, China, and Thailand to Kengtung Airport and to facilitate the runway with necessary equipment for enabling aeroplanes to land at the airport in all seasons. The Senior General also inspected the site for the new Kengtung Airport and upgrading of the runway, providing necessary guidance.

On the evening of May 10, the Senior General paid homage to 99-year-old Presiding Patron of Kengyin Monastery Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Khemacara and donated alms. SAC members, Union ministers, and deputy ministers also donated alms and offerings to the Sayadaw. The Senior General instructed officials to conduct necessary maintenance for the monastery.

The inauguration of the Kengtung Haw Palace Replica Museum and plans to upgrade Kengtung Airport demonstrate the Myanmar government's efforts to preserve cultural heritage and promote tourism development in Shan State. With the Senior General's guidance, these initiatives aim to showcase the region's rich history and attract more visitors to Kengtung in the future.

Key Takeaways

• Kengtung Haw Palace Replica Museum inaugurated in Shan State, Myanmar.
• Museum preserves cultural heritage and promotes tourism development.
• Senior General Min Aung Hlaing attends inauguration and provides guidance.
• Kengtung Airport to be upgraded for jet landings and international flights.
• Initiatives aim to boost regional identity and economic growth.