Myanmar Urges Accurate Terminology for UNESCO Cultural Heritage Listings

Naypyidaw, The Gulf Observer: The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture of Myanmar has urged media outlets to use the correct terminology when referring to the country’s cultural heritage recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Reports have inconsistently used terms such as “World Intangible Cultural Heritage” and “World Heritage,” whereas the correct designation is the “Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.”

Myanmar’s ancient Pyu cities and the historic Bagan site were inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2014 and 2019, respectively. Additionally, in 2024, the traditional Myanmar New Year Ata Thingyan festival was included in the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Thanaka culture of Myanmar is currently under consideration for inclusion in this prestigious list.

UNESCO annually updates the World Heritage List to safeguard tangible cultural and natural sites, while the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity aims to protect traditions, customs, and cultural expressions globally. The Ministry emphasized the importance of accurate reporting to ensure clarity in preserving and promoting Myanmar’s cultural heritage.