First New Year's party in Myanmar, Mirror Change

                            

YANGON, KOMPAS.com - After five decades under the authoritarian rule of military junta, the people of Myanmar for the first time to celebrate New Year's Eve party openly. Celebrations centered in Yangon, the largest city in the country.

Several events were held, including fireworks. It is seen as part of the major changes underway in the country.

On New Year's Eve, Monday, until Tuesday (01/01/2013) morning, the organizers announced at least 90,000 people gathered in the town square Yangon to count down the moments of the year. Some of them dance to the accompaniment of a song from the entertainment that was held throughout the night. Some mats sit while eating the meal and drinks that they bring.

"It's very exciting, our first experience of celebrating New Year's Eve. We felt like was in another world, "said Yu Thawda, a student who attended along with three colleagues.

Shwedagon Pagoda image of a giant screen set up at the site. Event organizer held company from Thailand that cooperating with local partners. The screen that displays images countdown and celebration of the year in a number of neighboring countries, such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, before the countdown in Myanmar.

The celebrities, singers, and musicians present to enliven the event Eve of that year. Party like it's never been unthinkable could happen in the ruling military junta. Big celebration is only allowed on the anniversary of Myanmar traditional new year every April.

Last year, the event of the year is only permitted in private in hotels, which can only be followed by certain circles. During military rule, a fireworks display is only done on the anniversary day of the country's armed forces.

Strong mutual trust

The Myanmar government encourages open celebration, especially by young country. Advisor to the President of Myanmar, Ko Ko Hlaing, even calling party like it's better to build understanding between people and government.

President Thein Sein likewise asserted in his final year, which led the country's first since 2010, and broadcast by radio throughout the country.

He emphasized, a major factor in the success of the country's transition to democracy is mutual trust between the government and the people. Since coming to power, Thein Sein has released hundreds of political prisoners, removing media censorship and allow protests.

However, there are many people of Myanmar are skeptical with all the changes. Many people admit feeling a lot more freedom. However, they also complained about the reforms that did not improve the welfare of the people. Residents in remote areas remain poor, lack of health services, and their rights are often violated. (Strong AP / AFP / DWA )