Myanmar Intangible Cultural Heritage : Committee meeting held in Nay Pyi Taw

Myanmar Intangible Cultural Heritage Promotion Committee held its meeting at the Ministry of Culture, Hotels and Tourism in Nay Pyi Taw on Friday. Union Minister U Khin Maung Soe attended the meeting and gave a speech.

Highlighting the sustainable development of country’s cultural identity in a rapid globalization, the Union Minister called for preservation of country’s own history, trait and traditions to be able to transfer to the next generations in a systematic manner.

The Union Minister noted the existence of diverse tangible and intangible cultural heritage of 135 ethnic groups presiding in Myanmar which serves as a cornerstone for upholding the national dignity and pride. The Union Minister said collaboration among related ministries, region/state government organization, NGOs and local business entities is essential to safeguard nation’s intangible cultural heritage.

Attendees reported on the current and future preservation plans and the Union Minister coordinated the needs. On May 7, 2014, Myanmar officially ratified to UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, and since then, Myanmar has established relevant committees and expert groups to hold meetings.

On December 5th, 2025, “Myanmar Traditional New Year Atar Thingyan Festival” was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Additionally, the “Practice of Thanakha Culture in Myanmar" has been summited to the UNESCO and the decision will be made at the 21st session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage scheduled to take place in Xiamen, China in November this year.

Similary, “Myanmar Tea Culture”, “Myanmar Htamanè Culture” and  “Traditional 100-Shuttle Silk Weaving” were submitted to the UNESCO on 20th March, 2026.