SHAN State Chief Minister U Aung Aung, along with state ministers, officials, and department representatives, attended the Taunggyi Tazaungdine Balloon Festival on 12 November at 5 pm at the Awaiyar Balloon Ground in Taunggyi. The group visited the MSMEs regional products fair and market exhibition, engaging warmly with festival-goers and vendors.
During the second night of the festival, musical performances and a vibrant competition of hot-air balloons, each representing various organizations and businesses, took place. These included the Aye Thaya Industrial Zone’s balloon, Shan United Football Club’s balloon, and other creative displays such as the jade mine owners’ association balloon, a Ministry of Natural Resources-sponsored snow mountain balloon, a balloon representing 22 wards, and an elaborate multi-tier fire balloon from the hotel owners’ association. The Chief Minister and his team observed the balloon launches, greeted the judges, participants, and spectators, and visited a colourful photo exhibition. On 13 November at 1 pm, the chief minister, accompanied by his spouse, state ministers, and other officials, returned to the field to observe daytime balloons. Locals, young and old, participated in the launch of creative balloons shaped like figures, including dolls, turkeys, roosters, and pigeons, adding a lively touch to the festival atmosphere. — Maung Maung Than (Taunggyi)/ KZL
