via The Irrawaddy, 13 May 2024: The Myanmar junta recently inaugurated a replica of the historic Kengtung Haw, a palace in eastern Shan State previously demolished by the military regime in 1991. The event was attended by notable figures including the junta leader and descendants of the original palace’s royal family. The new structure, intended as a museum, represents an attempt to preserve and celebrate Shan cultural heritage, albeit amidst political tensions.
The palace was built by Indian architects. Construction started in 1903 and was completed in 1906. Kengtung Saopha Sao Kawng Kiao Intaleng, his son Saopha Sao Kawng Tai and grandson Saopha Sao Sai Long and their families lived in the palace till 1959. The white palace, which combined European and Indian architectural features, was a symbol of autonomy in eastern Shan State.
The palace was used as a government office after Myanmar’s first dictator General Ne Win seized power in a coup in 1962. In 1991, the military government that succeeded Ne Win after a popular uprising in 1988 ordered the demolition of the palace to make way for a hotel, removing the symbol of Shan national identity.
Source: Myanmar Junta Boss Attends Opening of Replica of Shan Palace Demolished by Previous Regime
