Enjoy the pleasantness and natural beauty of Taboung
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Taboung is a month distinguished by abundant pleasantness and natural beauty. According to the Myanmar calendar, it is the twelfth and final month of the year, marking the closing chapter before the New Year begins. Astrologically, Taboung falls under the sign of Pisces, symbolized by the fish. Its corresponding lunar mansion is Phalguni, and its seasonal flower, Calophyllum, is blossoming during the month in harmony with the changing climate. As the cool season gradually gives way to summer, the days grow noticeably hot while the nights remain refreshingly cool, creating a unique and balanced atmosphere. In Myanmar’s central dry zone, known as the Anyar region, the name of the month Taboung is closely associated with traditional rural livelihoods. During this month, sap collected from toddy palm trees is boiled and processed into palm jaggery, an important local product and source of income. The clear skies of Taboung are also said to reveal all twelve constellations, adding a sense of cosmic completeness to the month. Regardless of differing explanations about the origin of its name, Taboung is widely regarded as a time that harmoniously gathers the beauty and charm of all seasons into one.
Taboung also marks the completion of the agricultural cycle. For farmers, it is harvest time – the season when paddy is gathered, and earnings are realized. With financial relief after months of labour, communities engage in acts of charity, merit-making, and joyful celebration. Traders travel widely by various means of transport, taking advantage of the dry roads and favourable conditions for commerce.
As the weather shifts, pagoda festivals across Myanmar come alive with the resonant sounds of gongs and drums. Among religious celebrations, Taboung festivals are the most vibrant and well-attended. Many annual Buddha Pujaniya festivals, regularly held at temples and stupas throughout Myanmar, take place during this month. These events are not only expressions of devotion to the Lord Buddha but also treasured cultural traditions through which Buddhists seek to help Buddhism flourish and endure. Taboung also marks the completion of the agricultural cycle. For farmers, it is harvest time – the season when paddy is gathered, and earnings are realized. With financial relief after months of labour, communities engage in acts of charity, merit-making, and joyful celebration. Traders travel widely by various means of transport, taking advantage of the dry roads and favourable conditions for commerce. As schools close for holidays due to gradual raising the tempoerature of the weather, families embark on pilgrimages to visit ancient pagodas and sacred sites. Thus, Taboung is not merely a time for leisure, but a season of spiritual reflection, communal unity, and shared happiness. For the people of Myanmar, it stands as a distinguished month that blends worldly fulfilment with spiritual uplift, truly deserving its description as a time adorned with abundant grace and beauty.
Male and female youths are currently undergoing training in basic and advanced aviation courses at relevant training camps across Myanmar. They come from various regions and states, but have gathered at the training camps in unity to study basic and advanced aviation techniques together.Officials from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief (Air) yearly arrange excursion trips for the youth trainees to significant locations, including airbases and notable landmarks in various regions, so they can observe the aviation duties and functions of the respective airbases and broaden their general knowledge. Under the supervision of instructors and teachers, trainees from all camps observed the daily routines of members of the Tatmadaw (Air) as well as aircraft mechanical techniques.Some may think that aviation technology is highly advanced and that the trainees may find it difficult to understand aviation and mechanical techniques. This is understandable, as even the technicians of the Tatmadaw (Air) have had to work hard to master these skills. However, the observation activities and visits to airbases could greatly inspire these youths and encourage them to set goals of becoming skilled pilots or aviation technicians in the future.During the excursion trips, the youth trainees have opportunities to observe cockpit facilities in aircraft and helicopters, aircraft structures, flight instruments, and engine instruments. Moreover, officials from the airbases explained the flight and combat capabilities of aircraft and helicopters, the operational roles of these aircraft, the history of Tatmadaw (Air), and the deployment of aircraft in aviation operations, including close air support in relevant military operations. Whenever they visited the airbases, the youths were also able to observe aviation technology and the capabilities of aircraft used in military operations, rescue and relief operations during natural disasters, and the transport of cargo and supplies to areas where they are needed.Some may think that aviation technology is highly advanced and that the trainees may find it difficult to understand aviation and mechanical techniques. This is understandable, as even the technicians of the Tatmadaw (Air) have had to work hard to master these skills. However, the observation activities and visits to airbases could greatly inspire these youths and encourage them to set goals of becoming skilled pilots or aviation technicians in the future.These dreams and experiences gained through excursion trips and training courses will benefit the youths in shaping their future goals and career choices. In time, some of these aspirations may become reality. Therefore, it is important for everyone to support young people in pursuing their ambitions and building their futures. These excursion trips and aviation courses have helped many youths become capable and courageous pilots and personnel of Tatmadaw (Air). They are now carrying out their assigned duties for the State with dedication and sacrifice, while also making the most of valuable opportunities in their lives. Therefore, youths should be encouraged to independently shape their futures based on their own ambitions and aspirations.gnlm
In the quiet courtyards of Myanmar villages, before smartphones and electronic games became common, children once grew up surrounded by toys made from bamboo, cloth, wood and imagination. These traditional toys were more than simple playthings. They reflected the wisdom of rural communities, the creativity of artisans and the cultural values passed down from generation to generation.Among the most beloved of Myanmar’s traditional toys are the Pyit Taing Htaung, the colorful Phoe Wah Yoke puppets and a wide variety of handmade bamboo toys that still appear in village markets and pagoda festivals across the country. Though modern toys imported from abroad now dominate urban stores, these traditional creations continue to symbolize Myanmar’s rural identity and artistic heritage.The Ever-Smiling Pyit Taing HtaungPerhaps no traditional Myanmar toy is more recognizable than the Pyit Taing Htaung — the round-bodied figure that always rises back up no matter how many times it is pushed down. Painted with a smiling face and often dressed in traditional Myanmar attire, the toy has become a symbol of resilience and optimism.The name “Pyit Taing Htaung” roughly means “fall down, stand up again,” reflecting the toy’s unique design. A weighted base inside the figure allows it to bounce upright whenever it is tilted or knocked over. For generations, Myanmar parents and grandparents have given the toy to children not only for amusement but also as a lesson in perseverance.In many rural households, the toy is handmade from papier-mâché, clay or wood. Traditional artisans paint the figures in bright colors, adding cheerful expressions that make them instantly appealing to children. Some versions depict traditional dancers, monks or folklore characters, while others take the form of animals.Cultural historians say the Pyit Taing Htaung represents the Myanmar spirit — remaining steady through hardship and returning with hope after difficulties. In recent years, the toy has also become popular as a souvenir for tourists seeking symbols of Myanmar culture.At pagoda festivals and local fairs, vendors often line their stalls with rows of smiling Pyit Taing Htaung figures swaying gently in the breeze. Even adults are drawn to them, remembering childhood days when such toys were part of everyday village life.The Royal Page Doll (Tha Nge Daw / Phoe Wah)Tha Tha Nge Daw (oli,fawmf), known today as Phoe Wah (zkd;0½kyf), is a traditional Myanmar doll with deep historical roots. The Myanmar Dictionary defines the original Tha Nge Daw as “a child servant who performs minor duties in the royal palace,” with historian Dr. Toe Hla noting they were children no older than seven. Over time, dolls representing these figures were carved as decorative elements in pagodas and monasteries.Visually, the Tha Nge Daw doll is a charming child figure with hair parted in two, tied with silk ribbons. It wears a large gold coin pendant, a waist sash, bracelets, and anklets, with circular marks on its cheeks. Traditionally made from wood, stone, or cement in various poses (sitting, playing, standing, or offering lamps), the most common modern version is a large-headed standing doll made of paper. These dolls are sold at festive markets and pagoda fairs, kept as home ornaments. In 1996, the Phoe Wah doll was even used as Myanmar’s official tourism logo.The Tha Nge Daw were royal servants in Myanmar, first documented during King Bodawpaya’s reign (Konbaung Dynasty, 1788 CE). According to the Shwe Nan Taw Wizaya Abhidhan, they were sanitation workers in the western palace halls, supervised by the Western Minister, responsible for cleaning the chambers of queens and princesses, including royal toilets. Nine Tha Nge Daw received 80 baskets of paddy monthly. They originated from 110 Rakhine households resettled in Amarapura.However, earlier evidence from the Bagan Era (inscriptions dated 595–656 ME) shows Tha Nge Daw existed as high-ranking palace servants, listed alongside officials like Thabyin and ministers. They served as royal messengers, witnesses to donations, and close companions—possibly milk-brothers or trusted attendants of the king. Historian Dr. Than Tun concluded they were of higher status than later sanitation roles.During the Pinya, Inwa, and Nyaungyan periods, Tha Nge Daw guarded palace corridors, stairways, and doorways. By King Thalun’s reign, they became armed guards carrying guns, responsible for palace security. In the Konbaung period, under King Singu, they were gatekeepers, and by Bodawpaya’s time, they were assigned cleaning duties, though some records note they guarded toilet doors rather than cleaning them.The Seven Qualities of a Tha Nge Daw included discretion, virtue, and mindfulness. In Myanmar puppet theater, the Tha Nge Daw doll represents Upacaya-rūpa (growth of form), performing a challenging dance before the king’s entrance. This dance later influenced live theater and rural ordination processions.In conclusion, the Tha Nge Daw evolved from elite royal attendants in the Bagan era to sanitation workers by the Konbaung period. Though the role no longer exists, their cultural legacy endures through traditional puppetry and dance in Myanmar.Bamboo Toys and the Creativity of Rural ChildhoodLong before plastic toys became widespread, Myanmar children transformed bamboo into a world of creativity. Across villages, handmade bamboo toys were inexpensive, environmentally friendly and deeply connected to rural lifestyles.In many areas, fathers and grandfathers crafted bamboo toys during evenings after farm work, teaching children patience and practical skills. The process of making toys became a family activity that strengthened bonds between generations.Among the most popular bamboo toys was the spinning top, known for its energetic movement across dusty village grounds. Children competed to see whose top could spin the longest. Bamboo flutes and whistles were also widely loved, producing playful sounds during seasonal festivals.Another favorite was the bamboo toy cart, sometimes pulled by strings or pushed with sticks along village paths. These toys reflected the agricultural environment in which many Myanmar children grew up. Rather than relying on batteries or factory production, the toys encouraged imagination and physical activity.Environmental advocates today point out that traditional bamboo toys offer lessons in sustainability. Bamboo grows abundantly in Myanmar and naturally decomposes, unlike many modern plastic toys that contribute to pollution. As global interest in eco-friendly products increases, Myanmar’s bamboo toy traditions are attracting renewed attention.More Than ToysCultural experts say Myanmar traditional toys carry social and educational value far beyond entertainment. Through these toys, children historically learned creativity, craftsmanship, cooperation and cultural identity.The toys also reflected the rhythms of rural life. During pagoda festivals, village markets transformed into lively gathering places where toy sellers attracted children with colorful handmade creations. Such festivals were not merely commercial events but important community traditions where culture, religion and recreation blended together.In recent decades, however, imported electronic toys and digital entertainment have changed childhood experiences across Myanmar. Many traditional toy makers struggle to compete with cheap factory-made products flooding local markets.Yet there are growing efforts to revive interest in traditional toys. Cultural exhibitions, handicraft fairs and tourism events increasingly showcase handmade Pyit Taing Htaung, Phoe Wah (zkd;0½kyf) and bamboo crafts. Schools and cultural groups have also started introducing traditional games and toy-making workshops for younger generations.Artisans believe preservation is essential not only for economic reasons but also for maintaining cultural identity. Traditional toys, they say, tell stories about how Myanmar people once lived, celebrated and connected with one another.Hsu (Np News)
People around the world have been experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic up to the present day since 2019. While enduring the spread of the disease, efforts were made to develop vaccines. Now, once again, in relation to the outbreak of a newly emerging hantavirus infection for which there is no vaccine yet, preventive measures must be taken in advance before it occurs.The government has been procuring vaccines and related supplies through different mechanisms, including full funding from the state budget and cost-sharing arrangements between the government and international health organizations such as the World Health Organization. Each year, approximately US$10 million in public foreign exchange is spent, and vaccination programmes are being implemented with a strong emphasis on ensuring nationwide coverage.In Myanmar, the Ministry of Health has been providing expanded vaccination coverage for 13 diseases, including diphtheria, pertussis, measles, and tetanus, starting from early childhood, in line with other countries around the world, thereby protecting each generation against these diseases.Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021, vaccine coverage fell to below 50 per cent. However, by 2025, vaccination coverage had increased to over 80 per cent, indicating a recovery and significant improvement in immunization rates. Since vaccination activities are included in the 100-day plan of the President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, priority is being given to the implementation of vaccination and immunization programmes across the nation.Through vaccination and immunization, all members of the public – regardless of age, race, or religion – can be protected from diseases. Vaccination is intended to prevent the outbreak of highly contagious diseases, reduce deaths caused by such illnesses, and avoid related complications. Therefore, the public is encouraged to actively cooperate with the dedicated efforts of healthcare workers and responsible authorities in implementing vaccination programmes.In Myanmar, healthcare workers, volunteers, relevant departments, and people have been cooperating effectively, and vaccination activities are being carried out at an accelerated pace. As a result, there have been no large-scale outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases in the country.The government has been procuring vaccines and related supplies through different mechanisms, including full funding from the state budget and cost-sharing arrangements between the government and international health organizations such as the World Health Organization. Each year, approximately US$10 million in public foreign exchange is spent, and vaccination programmes are being implemented with a strong emphasis on ensuring nationwide coverage.Therefore, in order to promote the long and healthy lives of the public, increase life expectancy, and ensure the health and well-being of future generations, preventive vaccination measures are highly beneficial, as they help prevent diseases before they occur. The government places strong emphasis on providing healthcare services for the public and encourages the entire community, together with relevant health organizations, to actively participate in these efforts.gnlmPhoto: Gemini
World Immunization Week, celebrated in the last week of April, aims to highlight the collective action needed and to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against disease, according to the World Health Organization.WHO works with countries across the globe to raise awareness of the value of vaccines and immunization and ensures that governments obtain the necessary guidance and technical support to implement high-quality immunisation programmes. The ultimate goal of World Immunization Week is for more people, including their communities, to be protected from vaccine-preventable diseases.In looking back at the history of the world, the real-time vaccination and immunisation have saved a large number of people from different pandemics and outbreaks. Moreover, the systematic and timely immunizations could reduce the fatality rate of patients from dreadful diseases.The government also supports immunization efforts by financing the procurement of vaccines and related supplies through two approaches: full funding from the State budget through the way of self-financing and shared contributions between the government and GAVI through the co-financing system. Within seven days after the major Mandalay earthquake that occurred on 28 March 2025, tetanus vaccinations were administered to injured persons, rescue workers, and pregnant women. In addition, oral vaccines to prevent severe diarrheal diseases were also provided as a preventive measure.According to records, vaccination programmes in Myanmar began in 1889. At present, vaccines protecting against 13 diseases are being expanded and administered, in line with other countries worldwide, protecting every generation. A review of Myanmar’s immunization coverage shows that the vaccination coverage fell to below 50 per cent in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the coverage of such activities had risen to over 80 per cent by 2025, indicating a recovery and improvement in immunization coverage rates.In Myanmar, vaccination activities are being carried out with strong momentum through close cooperation among healthcare workers, volunteers, relevant departments, and people. Thanks to their efforts, there have been no outbreak-like clusters of vaccine-preventable diseases in the country.The government also supports immunization efforts by financing the procurement of vaccines and related supplies through two approaches: full funding from the State budget through the way of self-financing and shared contributions between the government and GAVI through the co-financing system. Within seven days after the major Mandalay earthquake that occurred on 28 March 2025, tetanus vaccinations were administered to injured persons, rescue workers, and pregnant women. In addition, oral vaccines to prevent severe diarrheal diseases were also provided as a preventive measure.The vaccination program is included in the President’s 100-day plan, and immunization activities must be prioritized for implementation. Each year, approximately US$10 million in State foreign exchange is spent on these efforts, demonstrating continued support for vaccination and immunization programmes. As such, it is necessary to implement the “For every generation, vaccines work” designated as the theme for World Immunization Week 2026 (24-30 April) to ensure equitable access to life-saving immunizations across all ages.gnlmPhoto: Gemini
In training and producing health human resources, including doctors, dentists, nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals, the State has been increasing the number trained each year in line with national requirements, so as to provide the public with quality healthcare services.It was noted that the severe COVID-19 pandemic, which the entire world had to face, was successfully overcome through the collective efforts of the government, civil servants and the public under the policy that “nothing is more important than human life”. Moreover, when natural disasters such as Cyclone Mocha in 2023, Typhoon Yagi in 2024, and the Mandalay earthquake in 2025 occurred, healthcare workers could be seen selflessly making sacrifices and working in unity to strive to deliver healthcare services.In terms of strengthening healthcare infrastructure, a total of 25 people’s hospitals were upgraded over the past five years. To reduce disparities between urban and rural healthcare services and ensure equal access, 12 new 16-bed hospitals were newly established and expanded in rural areas. In addition, efforts were made to construct high-quality buildings that are essential for hospital operations. As a result, 41 new hospital buildings and staff housing facilities were also constructed during the five years.In addition, to enhance staff performance, opportunities have been arranged for both domestic and overseas postgraduate training. Promotions for nurses and the upgrading of nursing schools to institutions of nursing science have also been carried out. As a result, when providing healthcare to the public, not only must quality and competence be ensured, but healthcare professionals are also expected to adhere to professional ethics and standards in their respective fields.In upgrading the health sector, emphasis has been placed on achieving Goal 3 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – the long-term development of a skilled health workforce. Following the policy of “where there is a hospital, there must be doctors,” over the past five years, every public hospital has been staffed with doctors, including 2,649 newly appointed physicians, along with outpatient and inpatient doctors, nurses, health professionals, and public health workers.In addition, to enhance staff performance, opportunities have been arranged for both domestic and overseas postgraduate training. Promotions for nurses and the upgrading of nursing schools to institutions of nursing science have also been carried out. As a result, when providing healthcare to the public, not only must quality and competence be ensured, but healthcare professionals are also expected to adhere to professional ethics and standards in their respective fields.Research activities related to medical treatment and hospital administration must also be expanded and strengthened. In conducting health-related research, the Ministry of Health will collaborate with medical and allied universities, hospitals, disease control programs, primary healthcare staff, and community-based organizations. Only through such cooperation can successive generations of healthy and resilient citizens be developed.gnlm
Kidney disease is a major global health issue that affects millions of people. Many individuals living with the disease experience serious physical and mental health challenges. Patients may face social isolation, stigma, financial difficulties and reduced employment opportunities as a result of their condition.The increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, high blood sugar, hypertension and obesity has significantly contributed to the rise in chronic kidney disease (CKD). These conditions are among the leading causes of kidney damage worldwide. As kidney disease can weaken a nation’s workforce and reduce productivity, healthcare specialists, doctors and public health professionals have strengthened efforts to raise public awareness. Educational campaigns now emphasize prevention, early detection and proper management of risk factors to reduce the risk of disease.Kidney disease currently ranks eighth among the leading causes of death worldwide. In response, health experts are expanding preventive programmes and public education initiatives. Awareness activities held during World Kidney Day take place in more than 60 countries, including Myanmar, encouraging people to recognize risk factors, adopt preventive behaviours and maintain healthy lifestyles to protect kidney health.World Kidney Day is observed each year as an international health awareness campaign aimed at highlighting the importance of kidney health and reducing the global burden of kidney disease. Through this campaign, healthcare professionals, patient organizations, policymakers and communities collaborate to promote a better understanding of kidney disease and encourage preventive action.A key objective of World Kidney Day is to improve public knowledge of risk factors and the importance of early screening. Chronic kidney disease often develops gradually and may not show clear symptoms in its early stages. As a result, many people remain unaware that they have the condition until it becomes severe. Public health campaigns, therefore, encourage regular medical check-ups, particularly for those at higher risk.The theme for World Kidney Day 2026, “Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet,” highlights the close connection between human health and environmental sustainability. Environmental factors such as climate change, rising temperatures, pollution and exposure to toxins can increase the risk of kidney injury and long-term kidney disease. Extreme heat, air and water pollution may affect the kidneys of patients to suffer from kidney damage over time.Healthcare systems are also encouraged to adopt more sustainable practices. Treatments such as dialysis require large amounts of water, electricity and medical resources. By promoting innovation and environmentally responsible healthcare practices, it is possible to reduce environmental impact while continuing to provide effective care for patients.Kidney disease currently ranks eighth among the leading causes of death worldwide. In response, health experts are expanding preventive programmes and public education initiatives. Awareness activities held during World Kidney Day take place in more than 60 countries, including Myanmar, encouraging people to recognize risk factors, adopt preventive behaviours and maintain healthy lifestyles to protect kidney health.gnlm
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