Historic Building: Palace Museum opened in Theinni

The opening ceremony of Theinni Haw Palace Museum took place on Tuesday. The Grand Haw Palace (Haw Kunshanwi) of Theinni Chieftain HkunHsang Ton Hong was re-constructed as the museum. The ceremony was attended by Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

In his speech, the Prime Minister said under the leadership of the Chieftain of Theinni in successive eras, the local nationals took part in the national defewnce duty. In recognition of their efforts, it is very honourable to re-construct the Haw Palace which is the history land mark to show unity of Theinni. It is learnt that the facility will be establish as the cultural museum for the study of people under the leadership of Township Shan Literature and Culture Association. It will also host the celebration for religious matters.

The Prime Minister called for cooperation of all local people and concerned personnel for long term maintenance of the facility. One of the locals spoke words of thanks for re-construction of Haw Palace. It was followed by formal opening of the Haw Palace Museum by the officials. The Prime Minister later unveiled the inscription of the museum and sprinkled scented water on it. The Prime Minister and party later paid respect to the ancient Buddha images that have been revered by the Chieftains of successive eras.

They then viewed the display of utensils, documentary phots and records of the re-construction of Haw Palace. He also instructed to display some of the ancient items in the glass frame in order not to damage the valuable items. The Official from Shan Literature and Culture Association later presented commemorative gift to the Prime Minister and wife who in turn presented the gift. After the ceremony, the Prime Minister and wife and party enjoyed splashing of Thingyan water together with the departmental personnel, members of people’s militia and local nationals.

Theinni Chieftain HkunHsang Ton Hong with title of DathadhammarazaNigyawda Maha Minkhaung started construction of a new grand Theinni Haw Palace in 1910.The Haw Palace in design of Mandalay Royal Palace was built of teak timber, and the main structure comprised many buildings connected with each other.

The conference hall was located in the centre of Haw Palace, along with a throne, laid on the ground.The Chieftain passed away in heart attack after 33 year of ruling period in 1916. The Japanese air force operated bombing attacks on northern Shan State in 1937, and totally occupied Theinni in 1940.

In 1944, the US military aircrafts destroyed Theinni-Namtu creek bridge with bombing attacks and also bombed Theinni which left many damages including the Haw Palace of Theinni Chieftain HkunHsang Ton Hong.The re-construction of Haw Palace was initiated on 5th December 2019 under the guidance of Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services. The new Haw Palace hase been built, 63 feet left side of the site of old Palace.