Hawnang Replica Museum: Inauguration of Keng Tung Sawbwa Hawnang Replica

A Hawnang replica Museum of Keng Tung Sawbwa Sao Kawng Kiao Intaleng was opened on Sunday, with the attendance of Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

The facility was constructed at the site, adjacent to the Hawnang Garden on Naung Ton Lake Circular Road in No.5 Ward of Keng Tung in Shan State (East). The ceremony commenced with the brief explanation on the emergence of Keng Tung Hawnang. One of the townselders expressed thanks for re-emergence of Keng Tung Hawnang replica which has been lost since many years ago.

After formal opening of the ceremony, the Prime Minister unveiled the stone inscription of the Hawnang replica museum. A commemorative gift for opening of Hawnang replica museum was presented to the Prime Minister, followed by the entertainment programs.

The Prime Minister and wife and party took a tour of the new facility, observing the documentary photos of the Keng Tung Sawbwa and family members, documentary records, utensils and room structures in the Hawnang.

The previous Keng Tung Hawnang was constructed in 1903 by inviting experts from India, and completed in 1906. The Hawnang was a very first cement structure of Keng Tung with a mixture of Shan and Myanmar architecture, combining Europe and Indian styles.

The families of Sawbwa had been resided there till 1959, and starting 1962, it has been used as the Government Office. With the proposal of the relatives of Sawbwa and local community in 2021, the construction works have been initiated with the guidance of the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister and party later proceeded to Keng Tung Airport and inspected the upgrading works. Officials reported on progress of works and the Prime Minister instructed for making preparations to be able to land Jet Aircrafts, to operate direct flights with neighbouring countries including Laos, China and Thailand. He also called for systematic implementation of the upgrading works.

The Prime Minister and party later oversaw the upgrading works and instructed the needs. In the evening of May 10th, the Prime Minister and wife and party visited Keng Yin Monastery and paid homage to the Patron Sayadaw, offering donations. The Prime Minister also toured the monastery and coordinated the needs for renovation measures.