Myanmar is conducting necessary arrangements to enlist the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda in UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, according to U Aung Naing Moe, Assistant Director of the Department of Archaeology and National Museum (Mawlamyine Branch).
“There is a lot of work that the Department of Archaeology and National Museum has to carry out to maintain the ancient and cultural heritage within Mon State. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture will make an effort to include the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda located in Kyaikto Township, Mon State, on the World Heritage List. Ten historical and cultural heritage sites in Mon State are preserved at the national level. The pagodas and stupas located in respective townships are maintained by the township level historical research bodies, pagoda trustees, and archaeological heritage bodies,” U Aung Naing Moe said.
In addition, the ministry is also making efforts to be able to enlist the Shwedagon Pagoda, Pontaung Ponnya area, and Powintaung on the World Heritage List. Required documents and proposals are submitted to the World Heritage Centre in order to register the designated sites on the World Heritage List.
Eight places rich in cultural and historical values in Myanmar were submitted to UNESCO to be enlisted on the list in 1996. Amongst, three ancient Pyu cities are listed as the world heritage sites in 2014 and the Bagan Ancient Cultural Zone was listed in 2019. — ASH/ TMT
