Who’s who in Myanmar: Political, Military, and National Leaders
Myanmar’s modern history has been shaped by a complex mix of independence leaders, military rulers, civilian reformers, and opposition figures. The country’s political evolution—from colonial rule to independence, military domination, partial democratization, and renewed conflict—can be understood through the lives and decisions of its most influential individuals.
This Who’s Who in Myanmar directory provides a neutral, factual reference to the key figures who have played defining roles in Myanmar’s political, military, and social history.
Purpose of the Who’s Who in Myanmar Directory
The purpose of this directory is to:
Document historically significant figures in Myanmar
Provide contextual understanding of leadership transitions
Serve as an educational reference for readers, researchers, and journalists
Present information in a balanced, non-partisan manner
Each profile focuses on verifiable roles, leadership periods, and historical impact, rather than opinion or speculation.
Political Leaders
🏛️ Civilian Leaders
Aung San Suu Kyi — State Counsellor of Myanmar
U Nu — Prime Minister of Burma
U Thant — UN Secretary-General; Burmese statesman
Thein Sein — President of Myanmar
🪖 Military / Junta Leaders
Ne Win — Military ruler ; Revolutionary Council
Than Shwe — Former junta leader
Maung Aye — Deputy military ruler
Min Aung Hlaing — Commander-in-Chief; junta leader
Khin Nyunt -Former Myanmar Intelligence Chief
🏴 Opposition & Resistance Leaders
Du Wa Lashi La — Acting President, National Unity Government (NUG)
Mahnn Win Khaing Than — Prime Minister, NUG
Dr. Sasa — Former NUG Minister; political strategist
🏴 Ethnic Political Leaders list
Twan Mrat Naing-Arakan Army Leader of Rakhine
Saw Mutu Say Poe — KNU (Karen)
General Gun Maw — KIA (Kachin)
Khun Htun Oo — Shan Leader
🕊️ Founding & Historic Leaders
General Aung San — Independence Leader; founding father of Myanmar
Thakin Than Tun — Anti-colonial revolutionary; communist Leader
🏢 Business Leaders
U Tay Za — Founder, Htoo Group
Serge Pun (U Htun Myint Naing) — Founder, Yoma Group
Zaw Zaw — Chairman, Max Myanmar Group
Steven Law (Tun Myint Naing) — Asia World Group
Aung Ko Win — KBZ Group
U Chit Khine — Eden Group
🎭 Cultural Figures
Thakin Kodaw Hmaing — Poet; cultural nationalist
Min Thu Wun — Poet; writer
Zawgyi — Poet; literary figure
Ludu Daw Amar — Writer; cultural intellectual
Bagyi Aung Soe — Modern artist
🛕 Religious Leaders
Mahasi Sayadaw — Theravāda Buddhist scholar
Ledi Sayadaw — Buddhist monk; philosopher
Sitagu Sayadaw — Buddhist preacher (note: controversial)
Archbishop Charles Maung Bo — Cardinal; Catholic leader
🎬 Actors & Actresses
Female
Eaindra Kyaw Zin
Thet Mon Myint
Wutt Hmone Shwe Yi
Khin Than Nu
Moe Hay Ko
Male
Win Oo
Nyunt Win
Kyaw Hein
Pyay Ti Oo
Paing Takhon
🌟 Models & Celebrities
Thuzar Wint Lwin — Miss Universe Myanmar 2020
May Myat Noe — International model
🎤 Singers (Myanmar)
🎤 Male Singers
Lai Shao Thein Aung
Lay Phyu
R Zarni (Zarni)
Sai Htee Sai
Sai Khan Late
Sai Sai Kham Leng
🎤 Female Singers
Hay Mar Nay Win
May Sweet
Ni Ni Khin Zaw
Phyu Phyu Kyaw Thein
Frequently Asked Questions (Who’s Who in Myanmar)
1. What is Who’s Who in Myanmar?
Who’s Who in Myanmar is a reference directory documenting influential political, military, and national leaders who have shaped Myanmar’s modern history.
2. Which types of leaders are included in this directory?
The directory includes independence leaders, military rulers, civilian presidents, reform-era politicians, opposition figures, and National Unity Government leaders.
3. Is this directory politically neutral?
Yes. All profiles are written using factual, non-partisan language and focus on verified historical roles rather than political opinions.
4. How are individuals selected for inclusion?
Figures are selected based on their historical significance, leadership roles, and impact on Myanmar’s political, military, or social development.
5. Does inclusion imply endorsement?
No. Inclusion reflects historical relevance only and does not represent support or opposition to any individual or political position.
6. Is this directory regularly updated?
Yes. The directory is expanded and updated as new leaders emerge and historical assessments evolve.
7. How is this directory useful for readers?
It serves as an educational resource for students, researchers, journalists, and readers seeking contextual understanding of Myanmar’s leadership history.
