Head of State Senior General Than Shwe has given guidance that the performing arts competitions are to be held grandly the way the Union Day celebrations are held so that rich cultural resources could be put to most beneficial use in promoting the image of the nation and the people, guarding against penetration of alien culture while enabling national brethren to meet at the competitions, preserve, promote and cherish the cultural traditions; that only then, will they have common views and stand and can patriotism be strengthened.
In accord with the guidance of the Head of State, the opening ceremony of the 13th Myanma Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions took place at the National Theatre in Yangon on 13 October 2005.
All the people will have to preserve the traditional culture in its original style as it reflects the significant characteristics of the people and the nation.
Likewise, the task to perpetuate national trait or national character, modes of dress, language, culture and customs, social norms should be carried out through preservation of national culture and race. In accord with one of the four social objectives— uplift of national prestige and integrity and preservation and safeguarding of cultural heritage and national character, the government has been safeguarding national trait or national character.
In this age of globalization, the alien thoughts and culture are entering the nation in waves through the door of culture and economy including the media and the Internet. The domination of alien culture can be warded off only with the spirit to love and cherish own traditions and culture.
The performing arts competitions will be able to vitalize nationalistic spirit and preserve and uplift national traditions and culture among the people. This being so, we would like to call upon all the participants to equip the people with patriotism and nationalism, while striving for flourishing of nationalistic spirit and Union Spirit through their artistic skills.
