Statement on Myanmar Independence Day
On the occasion of Myanmar Independence Day, the Office of Siridantamahāpālaka respectfully extends warm greetings to the people of Myanmar in the homeland and abroad.
Independence is not only a political milestone. It is also a moral responsibility to protect human dignity, strengthen social trust, and build a future free from fear and hatred. From a Buddhist perspective, lasting peace depends on sīla (ethical discipline), non-greed, non-hatred, and right speech—qualities that support harmony in families, communities, and institutions.
On Myanmar’s Independence Day, we honor all who have worked, suffered, and sacrificed for freedom. May their courage inspire our shared commitment to truth, non-harm, and the well-being of all communities in this land.
We reaffirm our mission
To safeguard sacred relics (dhātu) with integrity and diligent care.
To teach the Dhamma, nurturing wisdom, compassion, and ethical conduct.
To cultivate peace through understanding, dialogue, and the four brahma-vihāras: mettā, karuṇā, muditā, and upekkhā.
As custodians of Buddhist sacred relics, we recognize that relics are part of Myanmar’s living cultural heritage and shared spiritual memory. Their protection requires careful stewardship, truthful communication, and transparent governance. In this spirit, we reaffirm our commitment to:
Protect cultural heritage with dignity and professional care (SDG 11.4),
Support peace, justice, and strong institutions through integrity and accountability (SDG 16), and
Build respectful partnerships with temples, communities, scholars, and public institutions (SDG 17).
True independence ripens where conscience (hiri-ottappa) guides action, where speech is truthful and kind, and where power serves the vulnerable. May leaders and citizens alike embody appamāda—vigilant diligence—in building a just, harmonious society. Our work is guided by classical teachings such as: “Abstain from evil, cultivate the good, purify the mind” (Dhp 183), the six principles of cordiality that support communal harmony (AN 6.12), and the Noble Eightfold Path as a road to peace and freedom (SN 45.8).
We dedicate our work today to the welfare of Myanmar: to healing divisions, protecting life, and fostering conditions for practice and peace. May all beings in this country be safe, healthy, and free from fear. May wisdom prevail over hatred, generosity over greed, and truth over falsehood. May peace be established in hearts first, then in homes, and across the nation. Sādhu.
Issued by: The Office of Siridantamahāpālaka
Affiliation: The Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum
Date: 4 January 2026
.jpeg)
