Myanmar’s President U Thein Sein signed off on the countdown for Myanmar’s first census in over 30 years, to officially begin at the gala launch on Saturday (01 March 2014) in Nay Pyi Taw, the nation’s capital.

More than 1000 high level dignitaries and invited guests from Myanmar’s Government, Parliament (Hluddaw), political parties, religious and ethnic organisations, civil society, army (Tatmadaw) and armed groups, including Ambassadors, representatives from the international donor community and United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA) and other UN agencies, witnessed President U Thein Sein give the seal of approval and inaugurate the upcoming 2014 Myanmar Population and Housing Census which will commence on 30 March to 10 April 2014. 

H.E. U Thein Sein, President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar highlighted in his address the critical importance of the census and that “accurate statistics are essential for the current and future development planning and policies of our country.” He emphasized that the census is of critical importance to Myanmar and that it is an activity which must not be hindered or delayed. 

President Thein Sein also stated that the census would produce an accurate picture of the population, its composition and its living conditions. “The census will reveal the country’s truly diverse demographic nature to the world, as a bright and prestigious image of a proud nation. It is an opportunity to mark a milestone in Myanmar’s history with the combined efforts of our people…The information produced from the census is not only useful for the present government, but also for the future as part of our heritage.” 

The President concluded by urging everyone to participate and to provide accurate answers during the data collection. “The census is an event which requires the support of all people across Myanmar in order to be carried out successfully… The count-down begins from today.” 

Ms. Janet Jackson, UNFPA Myanmar Representative said that it was a historic day for Myanmar as it embarks on its first census in more than three decades. “Today marks the beginning of the census campaign and it is very emotional to think that in less than 30 days the first houses are going to be enumerated, and that the country after more than 30 years will be able to have complete, reliable and accurate data so they can push ahead with the ongoing development reform process.” 

 

She also stressed that UNFPA has for the past 18 months been working closely with the Government of Myanmar offering technical and financial support to ensure that the census will be conducted in compliance with international standards. “This is a very exciting time for all of us and tonight is as much a testament as it is a celebration which highlights that Myanmar is on the right path to securing a brighter future.” 

Saturday’s gala launch also included live performances from many of Myanmar’s popular artists, comedians, traditional ethnic dance groups and celebrities, including hip hop star Bunny Phyo, pop star R-Zarni, legendary singer Mar Mar Aye and many others. 

A special flag hand-over ceremony involving all the Chief Minister’s for Myanmar’s 7 States and 7 Regions signifying unity, participation and the handing over of responsibility all leaders to sensitize communities and ensure the public have information and know about the census, was presided by Vice President H.E. Dr. Sai Mauk Kham. 

The last census took place in 1983. Everybody present within the borders of Myanmar on the Census Night (29th/30th 2014) will be enumerated regardless of their citizenship, religion, age, gender, etc.