The Information Team of the State Administration Council yesterday announced that this year’s Thingyan Water Festival will be observed in a peaceful and traditional manner, without entertainment programs such as singing and dancing, due to a period of national mourning.

The decision comes in light of the devastating earthquake that recently struck the country, causing loss of life and injuries in Naypyidaw, Sagaing, Bago, Magway, Mandalay Regions, and Shan State.

Given the nation's sorrow, authorities have decided that this year’s Thingyan celebrations will forgo entertainment activities and instead be conducted in accordance with Myanmar’s traditional cultural customs in a calm and respectful manner.