Hsu/Saw - (NSS) - Oct 8 

  The 170-year-old Maha Min Htin Monastery in Mandalay will be preserved in its original form with financial assistance from the Japanese government. This information comes from Dr. Than Htike, Director of the Department of Archaeology and National Museum under the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture, in an interview with The Statesman journal.

The monastery was originally built in the ancient city of Inwa in 1852 and donated by Maha Min Hla Min Kyaw U Min Htin, before being relocated to Mandalay in 1876.

Currently, widely circulated Facebook photos of the monastery's deteriorating condition are drawing public criticism and concerns. 

“The calculation stage has been completed. Our teams conducted field surveys and assessments, and the estimates were submitted to Japan, the donor country, for review. Once the donation is officially confirmed, the preservation work will begin,” he explained.

Restoration costs are estimated to exceed one billion kyats due to the scarcity and high price of teak. As a result, priority for replacement and preservation will be given only to the most important sections, depending on the total donations received. 

“The first priority will be the roof, as the monastery is leaning and requires reinforcement. The roof will be completely rebuilt, with priority given to the main prayer hall. Other necessary repairs will depend on the available funding. Flooring, staircases, and supporting pillars will also be reinforced and restored under a close supervision,” he added.

It is also reported that the Japanese government's funding extends to three other sites in Mandalay, in addition to this monastery, as well as heritage locations in Sagaing Region and Naypyidaw.