Nay Pyi Taw March 10
Acting President of the Re-public of the Union of Myanmar, Chairman of the State Security and Peace Commission, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing reviewed the government’s accomplishments for national development during the period from 2021 to 2025 and gave directives at Thabin Hall of Office National Defence and Security Council in Nay Pyi Taw this afternoon.
Also present were Vice Chair-man of SSPC Vice-Senior General Soe Win, SSPC member Prime Minister U Nyo Saw, SSPC member Executive Chief U Aung Lin Dway, SSPC Secretary General Ye Win Oo, SSPC members, union level dignitaries, union ministers, deputy ministers, permanent secretaries of ministries, and directors general. Region/state chief ministers and members of local governments attended the meeting through video conferencing.
Assumption of the State duties in accord with 2008 Constitution
The Senior General said the meeting was held to review the current government’s accomplishments in serving the State duties during the five-year period and to ponder the possible future endeavours. Generally, in the past, governments and political parties strove for political progress in their endeavours for national development in accord with the adopted systems. But nowadays, domestically established NGOs and INGOs also took part in the task, in addition to the government and parties.
The country has witnessed change of governments and political systems throughout the successive periods since it regained independence, and in 2011 it started its journey on the democratic path. Vote rigging surfaced in the 2020 elect-ion, and instead of solving the problem, attempts were made to forcefully grab the State power by convening the Hluttaw with representatives generated by the results of the fraudulent election. In this regard the Tatmadaw had to assume the State duties in accord with the 2008 Constitution.
As the government in office assumed the State duties in accord with the Constitution, it was formed not only with Tatmadawmen, but also with well experienced civilians to be in alignment with democracy. The government has adopted the five-point roadmap which stipulates the assurance for transfer of State duties to the government that wins the elect-ion held after the completion of all necessary preparations. But during the time, political differences evolved into nation-wide demonstrations and finally reached the stage resorting to violence, and in addition, CO-VID-19 also broke out. The government had to strive for national peace and stability and progress amidst the many hardships.
Free and fair multi-party democracy general election
The government in office, after making preparations for the election, launched the 2024 population and housing census to compile a correct voter list and made arrangements to introduce Myanmar electronic voting machines (MEVMs).
The Senior General said he told the people that an election would be held in 2025 at a meeting with the public in Meiktila in 2024. The government per-mitted the registration of political parties in 2023 and the parties got a nearly three-year period for preparations. It allowed organizing activities to increase the number of party members. As the efforts to raise the population of party members amount to organizing the people, the parties had had the opportunity to moderately organize the people. Increase in party member population will lead to the rise in the number of supporters. The right to gather party members and launch canvassing campaigns had already been permitted systematically. But some parties were unable to effectively use the allowed opportunity, and parties that were more in touch with the people won greater public support. Six parties that represented the whole country and another 51 that represented the respective regions and states, totalling 57 took part in the election. The opportunity to set up political parties and stand for the election had strengthened democracy.
Across all three phases of the completed election, out of more than 24.22 million eligible voters, over 13.14 million cast their votes, resulting in a voter turnout of more than 54.22 per- cent. A breakdown of the votes shows that 45 percent of voters were between the ages of 18 and 40, and 20 percent were between 40 and 50, indicating that youth groups showed the highest level of interest and participation in the election. Du-ring the election, international election observation groups and media organizations came to observe and report on the process. Although there had been inaccurate allegations prior to the start of the election, during and after the election the international community personally witnessed that it was a free and fair process, and the unfounded accusations subsequently subsided. As the election was successfully con-ducted, the representatives elected by the people have now emerged. Consequently, Hluttaw sessions will be held in March, and in April, the State authority will be transferred to the government that emerges, enabling it to assume responsibility for governing the country.
Efforts to restore internal peace and to amend the Constitution
Regarding domestic peace, efforts will be made to ensure unavoidable progress, and actions will be guided by what is necessary for the benefit of the public rather than merely by personal intentions. The Tatmadaw has continued to firmly follow the path of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA). To further promote the peace process, 2022 was designated as the Year of Peace. Meetings and negotiations were held a total of 149 times, including 89 meetings with ethnic armed organizations that have signed the NCA, 25 meetings with ethnic armed organizations that have not yet signed the NCA, 22 meetings with political parties, and 13 meetings with peace facilitators.
During these discussions, the demands of ethnic armed organizations, matters relating to amendments to the 2008 Constitution, and issues genuinely necessary and appropriate for the regions and the country were thoroughly discussed. The points agreed upon will be presented and deliberated in the upcoming parliament, and further actions will be carried out in accordance with Hluttaw decisions.
Regarding constitutions, countries around the world are also undertaking amendments. The current constitution was initially drafted based on the National Convention in 1991, and there may be aspects that need to be revised to align with modern systems. A constitution that is strong and well-established provides greater benefits; there-fore, when drafting laws, it is necessary to take a long-term perspective and consider all aspects carefully. This principle is also important when drafting other key laws.
Regarding peace, efforts were made to create a national-level platform in which all sectors of society could participate in the peace process. Peace dialogues and peace forums were organized to develop strategies that support peace and to engage youth across the country in peacebuilding activities. The discussions and recommendations emerging from these forums are expected to provide significant support for advancing peace and constitutional amendments. By increasing youth participation in national affairs, the future of the country can be further strengthened and improved.
During the tenure of our government, efforts were also made to strengthen the media sector as an important civil society institution. Support was provided not only to state-owned media but also to other media outlets to upgrade their capacity, including technical and other forms of assistance, in order to promote overall development. More-over, support and assistance were provided to individuals and groups in the film, music, and performing arts sectors, including journalists, who faced difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges, ensuring they received the help needed to continue their work.
Artistes also contributed to ensuring the successful conduct of the recently held multi-party democratic general election. During its tenure, the government recognized and honoured artistes from various fields who actively worked to preserve and sustain Myanmar’s traditional culture and arts over the long term. These artistes were awarded honorary titles and medals in acknowledgment of their contributions. The government’s support and recognition of artists and other civil society organizations were aimed at strengthening these sectors. From a political perspective, the government also reviewed and assessed its own actions, drawing lessons to guide preparations and improvements for future administrations.
Efforts undertaken to enhance agriculture-based manufacturing industries and MSMEs for national economic development
Regarding the economic sector, as our country primarily pursues an economy based on agriculture and livestock farming, it is necessary to work towards national economic development based on agrobased product-
ion industries. Approximately 70 percent of our country’s population resides in rural areas, with over 50 percent engaged in the agricultural and fisheries sector. Even among the 30 percent urban population, many are economically connected to this sector. To develop agrobased industries, it is essential to first advance the agricultural and livestock sectors. Our regional neighbouring countries also primarily focus on the agricultural and livestock production sector while also developing industries. Therefore, it is necessary to produce value-added products from agricultural and livestock enterprises to generate export earnings.
To achieve the per-acre pro-duction targets in agriculture, human resources skilled in agricultural and livestock know-ledge and techniques, as well as necessary inputs, are required. Hence, we have been opening and conducting education at industrial, agricultural, and live-stock science schools. Similarly, basic industrial, agricultural, and livestock knowledge is being taught in basic education high schools. In the coming academic year, it will also be included at the middle school level to strengthen this sector, which supports the nation’s primary economy and development. Industrial, agricultural, and live-stock-focused basic education high schools are also being opened and operated at the district level.
Even in developed countries, the agriculture and livestock sector remains crucial, and we can see that high-level products are produced based on this sector. In our country, the output of agricultural and livestock products is lower compared to other countries, resulting in fewer exports. This low export volume leads to lower foreign exchange earnings. To increase exports, we must work towards the development of agriculture-based production industries. Subsequently, it is necessary to increase the production of high-level products. Only then will our country’s GDP grow.
During the two terms of the previous democratic governments, the trade deficit was approximately US$-25 billion. Taking this as a lesson, we need to enhance production industries to increase exports. If we continue with business as usual without striving for improvement, we will not be able to achieve the goal of poverty reduction. Only when every citizen genuinely works will individual incomes rise, leading to an increase in national re-venue. Only when there are agricultural and livestock industries suited to the population of each region can regional food self-sufficiency be achieved, and the prices of basic consumer goods will remain at reasonable levels. High prices in some regions are due to mismatches between regional demand and production capacity, as well as high production costs. We must also work to develop livestock industries using animal feed produced from locally grown agricultural products.
With the aim of promoting production, substituting imports, and developing the national economy, we have encouraged the development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Even developed countries around the world operate MSMEs. The development of MSMEs will increase domestic products and can significantly substitute for imports. Currently, with government encouragement, MSMEs are achieving unprecedented development and need to continue progressing. I would like to urge that MSMEs be further encouraged and developed in each region and state. The electricity demand for MSMEs can be addressed by providing solar power. The state is also doing its utmost to fulfill these needs. In agrobased industries, MSME production enterprises are indispensable.
As MSMEs can greatly contribute to the development of the national economy, it is necessary to find ways to overcome challenges and achieve success.
Efforts undertaken to improve transportation and communication links
Regarding transportation, I have placed greater emphasis on the public transportation system. Developing countries are also working to improve public transport, including rail-ways, to a greater extent. During our government’s tenure, we have been working to ensure more convenient and smoother travel for the public and to faci-litate the easy and swift flow of goods. This included upgrading railway lines and expanding train services. Similarly, the up-grading of the Yangon-Mandalay railway line was continued during our government’s term using the state budget. As a result, train services have improved significantly, and trains can now run at speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour. Furthermore, to boost tourism, trade, and investment through international flight routes, we were able to carry out upgrading works for airports in Pathein, Lashio, Kengtung, Tachilek, Monghsat, NyaungU, Dawei, and Myeik. When we began assuming state responsibilities, we advocated for the use of electric vehicles (EVs) and also made plans for operating electric trains. During the current international political tensions causing fuel difficulties in our country, similar to many nations world-wide, the role of electric-powered transportation vehicles is evidently increasing. Due to fuel challenges, we are seeking ways, as other countries do, to reduce fuel consumption as much as possible. Responsible officials need to supervise systematically, and I also urge the public to cooperatively participate in these efforts.
Regarding the advancement of the education sector
He stated that education is an indispensable foundation for nation-building, and a better, more stable living system can be established through education. He noted that while the government is enhancing the education sector, efforts are also being made to improve the physical appearance of universities and basic education schools, as well as to fulfill requirements for libraries, re-search departments, sports halls, infrastructure, and teaching and learning aids. He added that just as the state provides these resources, respective universities, colleges, and schools must also systematically maintain them.
He also stated that as the pre-sent age is the era of technology, the quality of technological and computer universities has been enhanced. He noted that Naypyitaw State Academy and Naypyitaw State Polytechnic University were successfully opened in Nay Pyi Taw, and Poly-technic Universities were also established in four regions and states. Furthermore, he added that plans are being implemented to continue expanding and opening additional institutions.
Then, he stated that looking back at the country’s successive historical periods, many weaknesses regarding education can be observed. He noted that while the nation reached high standards in technology, literature, fine arts, and culture during the monarchical era, the transmission of this knowledge to future generations was weakened by a lack of internal unity and mutual conflict. He added that education was suppressed during the colonial era, and following independence, internal instability led to further educational shortcomings. Even at present, he observed that education is being severely impacted in certain areas experiencing unrest and instability. He emphasized the need to promote education so that all school-age children can study, asserting that without peace, it will remain difficult to achieve national development. There-fore, he stated that peace must be achieved at all costs, and while the state will make appropriate concessions, armed groups must focus only on the interests of their regions and the nation and make only feasible demands.
Furthermore, he stated that non-formal education programs are being implemented for those unable to attend school, alongside the expansion of libraries across the country. He noted that the public, particularly those engaged in agriculture and livestock breeding, can acquire essential vocational knowledge through these libraries, books, and articles. Furthermore, he emphasized that when writing literature, general knowledge, and articles, authors should use clear and simple terminology that is easily accessible and understandable to the public.
Regarding the advancement of the health sector
He stated that the government has diligently carried out healthcare services for the entire public, including COVID-19 prevention, control, and treatment efforts. He noted that while the nation’s life expectancy has increased compared to previous years, it remains the lowest among neigh-boring and ASEAN countries, necessitating further improvement. To achieve this, he emphasized the need to elevate living standards, ensure the consumption of healthy, balanced, and nutritious food, and provide access to school education for everyone to raise general know-ledge. He asserted that the government is responsible for ensuring that every citizen can live a full life and for increasing the national life expectancy through comprehensive measures. Ultimately, he concluded that education and health are the very lifeblood of the country, urging the Union Government and region and state governments to systematically work toward the development of these sectors.
Carrying out international relations
Regarding international relations, we have pursued an independent and active non-aligned foreign policy while adhering to the five principles of friendly relations and peaceful coexistence. During our term in office, we visited Thailand, the People’s Republic of China, the Russian Federation, Belarus, and Kazakhstan, focusing on promoting our country’s interests through international cooperation. During the last elect-ion, international election observation teams, including those from ASEAN member countries, visited and observed the successful conduct of a free and fair election. We must continue to further strengthen and expand our international relations.
Regarding the lawsuit at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), we have participated in all stages of the proceedings from 2021 to 2026 during our term of responsibility and have been able to address the legal issues effectively.
Regarding the fight against online gambling and the prevention and suppression of drugs, we have taken this as a national responsibility and are implementing effective measures. We are actively working to identify and eliminate locations where online gambling is conducted and to take action against those involved, as well as to uncover drug production sites. Efforts will continue to locate and take action against the remaining sites. It is necessary for all stakeholders to work together to eliminate online gambling and the production and sale of drugs in our country. Based on the findings to date and the online fraud and drug-related cases that have occurred, it is evident that some ethnic armed groups are engaging in online fraud and drug production for their own benefit and survival. Therefore, responsible administrative organizations need to take action to prevent such activities from taking place in the areas under their control.
At the same time, we urge those responsible for controlling illegal trade to take systematic and strict measures. It is necessary to combat the harmful practice of encouraging illegal trade in various ways. Such activities can lead to rising prices and corruption, while also generating income for armed terrorist groups and affecting the stability of the country. Therefore, as the flow of illegal goods can harm the country and its citizens in many ways, we call on everyone to work together to prevent it.
During our government’s term of service, we endured many challenges while striving for the country’s development. We are deeply grateful to everyone who cooperated faithfully for the benefit of the nation during this period, and our efforts have been duly recorded in the country’s history.
We urge the future government to thoroughly document and systematically transfer the difficulties and experiences encountered during their service, so that similar challenges can be prevented and good practices can be preserved and carried forward.
