For a country to develop, it needs natural resources, modern technology and human resources. It is also essential to strengthen the foundations of national culture that nurture citizens’ patriotism, national spirit, and sense of national pride and dignity.
The 27th Traditional Myanmar Cultural Performing Arts Competition has successfully concluded. These competitions showcasing Myanmar’s culture are not merely artistic contests; they are also events that promote and preserve traditional cultural practices and customs based on the close friendship and cordial relations among the national brethren living under the Union Flag of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. They also serve as occasions for young artistes of the new generation to connect and build relationships with one another. In other words, these events bring together national brethren through culture, friendship and mutual understanding.
Amid the current global political landscape, every country can be seen protecting and advancing its own national interests. In Myanmar, too, safeguarding and advancing national interests requires nurturing and strengthening patriotism, national spirit, and love, respect and appreciation for traditional culture among younger generations. If these sentiments can be fostered through the power of the arts, the desire to protect and safeguard the interests of one’s own country and people will become even stronger.
Myanmar’s traditional culture encompasses the diverse traditional cultural heritage of all ethnic nationalities. It includes not only traditional attire, the languages of all ethnic groups, customs and traditions, and social ethics, but also valuable artistic heritage passed down through successive generations, including classical Myanmar song and music, old and modern songs, traditional musical instruments, traditional theatrical performances, and traditional marionette performances.
As the new generations of young people have been taught by experienced masters to understand and master the art of performing traditional Myanmar music and singing in the performing arts style, they have competed enthusiastically in competitions. Winning awards deservedly is recognition of their hard work and efforts. They must continue studying and practising to further improve their artistic skills and fulfil the important responsibility of passing on the art forms they have mastered to future generations.
Young people are responsible not only for preserving and developing the cultural and artistic skills they have acquired, but also for mutually respecting the traditional cultures of all ethnic nationalities and working to further strengthen the unity and solidarity of the Union. They should also make effective use of modern technologies and join hands in efforts to ensure the continued preservation, development and sustainability of Myanmar’s traditional arts.
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