Senior General Min Aung Hlaing inaugurated the Anisakhan Airport in Pyin Oo Lwin, opening the door to the "Myanmar Silicon Valley" project managed by his son, amid allegations of benefiting family business interests.
On 16 July 2026, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, leader of Myanmar's military government, opened the Anisakhan Airport in Pyin Oo Lwin, Mandalay Region, after major renovations. He stated the airport will serve as a key gateway to the Yadanabon Cyber City project, which the military government is promoting as Myanmar's "Silicon Valley."
The airport, located just minutes from the Cyber City project, was refurbished by the military since 2023. Originally built during British colonial times, it now features a new two-story passenger terminal, an air traffic control tower, expanded aircraft parking apron, and modern aviation equipment, capable of handling around 100,000 passengers annually.
Following the airport opening, Min Aung Hlaing inspected the progress of the Yadanabon Cyber City project and instructed relevant authorities to prevent illegal construction and encroachment within the project area.
However, the project faces criticism for favoring Min Aung Hlaing's family, as he assigned his son, Aung Pyae Sone, who holds no official government position, to manage housing and infrastructure within the Cyber City. Additionally, the Myanmar leader used recent visits to India and China to invite foreign investors to participate in the project.
Reports also indicate that land prices in Pyin Oo Lwin have soared over the past two years, with military officers and business groups closely linked to the military benefiting from real estate transactions.
Source: Irrawaddy
Image: Head of State