Despite directives suspending traditional festivals during the university entrance exam period, gambling operations sanctioned and secured by the military junta continue unchecked across Mon State, according to local sources.
Since early February, the junta’s state administration in Mon State has ordered a temporary halt to donation festivals and gambling activities, including in Mawlamyine and other townships. However, sources close to local administrators indicate that theatrical performances and gambling will resume by late March.
In Paung Township, despite a ban on traditional festivals and loudspeakers, gambling operations remain active.
“In Paung, gambling hasn’t stopped, but festivals have been put on hold. Officials announced the suspension from February 20 to March 25, prohibiting public celebrations and loudspeakers. However, enforcement is inconsistent—some comply, others don’t,” said a local resident.
Since the Thadingyut festival period, gambling has continued daily alongside theatrical performances in townships including Paung, Thaton, Kyaikmaraw, Chaungzon, Mudon, and Mawlamyine, despite lacking any connection to religious or cultural events.
The noise and disruptions from these operations have led some residents to relocate, frustrated by the lack of enforcement.
In Chaungzon and Bilin townships, traditional festivals have been suspended, yet gambling remains widespread.
“Gambling happens daily without interruption. Once the exam period ends, there will be consecutive events across Chaungzon, with gambling in every village,” a local said.
A visitor to a gambling site reported that security was provided by the junta-affiliated People’s Security Force and Pyu Saw Htee militia, with restrictions placed on photography.
Meanwhile, large-scale gambling operations in Chaungzon and Mawlamyine have reportedly contributed to a rise in thefts, robberies, and missing children cases.
The junta’s education department has announced that this year’s university entrance exams will be held from March 17 to 22, with one subject administered per day.
