The Colombo Plan Staff College (CPSC) extends its solemn greetings to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar on its 77th Independence Day this January 4, 2025. May this Independence Day be a reminder of the enduring unity, strength, and resilience of the Myanmar people.

History

Following over six decades of colonial rule, Myanmar gained independence from Britain on January 4, 1948 through nationalist movements and significant political dialogues. Nationalist leader General Aung San played crucial roles in attaining the country’s freedom, particularly in the signing of the Panglong Agreement in January 1947. This agreement was made to guarantee the independence of Burma as a unified state.

Portrait of Aung San
Photo courtesy of Wikipedia




“If you desire independence, cultivate the discipline necessary to attain it. If you want independence, maintain the unity required to achieve it. If you wish for independence, build the foundations that can make it possible. After doing so, if you wish to truly savor the essence of independence, you must work hard, be disciplined, and starting now, reform yourselves by shedding bad habits, outdated customs, and indulgences.”

General Aung San, in a speech delivered before achieving independence


2025 Myanmar Independence Day

While the Panglong Agreement offered hope for continuous unity, Myanmar is plagued with post-independence struggles, armed rebellions, political divisions. The country’s progress is hindered by ongoing armed conflicts, a deteriorating economy, and the lack of political maturity. Despite this, the government has kept the door open for peace.

This year, Myanmar commemorates its independence by remembering the people who have uprightly served for the country’s freedom, and expressing its collective desire for lasting peace, continued stability, and protection of democracy.

References

  • Bwar, Zarni. (2024, December 27). Hailing the 77th Anniversary of Independence Day 2025: People in generations have dutifully served. Ministry of Information, Myanmar. Retrieved from https://www.moi.gov.mm/moi:eng/article/16549
  • Independence Day 2024, 2025 and 2026 in Myanmar. (n.d.). PUBLIC HOLIDAYS GLOBAL. Retrieved from https://publicholidays.asia/myanmar/independence-day/