Journalist, National Literary Award for Lifetime Achievement recipient, Alinka Kyawswa Sithu Tekkatho Myat Thu passes away
ONE of Myanmar’s most distinguished journalists, National Literary Award for Lifetime Achievement recipient Tekkatho Myat Thu, passed away at 6:13 pm on 24 June at the No 2 500-Bed General Hospital in Yangon.
Sayagyi Tekkatho Myat Thu (U Myat Thu) was born in Myingyan in 1931. He entered the literary field in 1946 and went on to write numerous works of poetry, novels, non-fiction books, and journalism-related publications.
In newspaper field, he served as journalist to chief editor position at Pyi Taw Soe, Khit Thit, Ohway, Amyotha, Botahtaung, Myanma Alinn, Hanthawady and Kyemon.
Over more than seven decades of dedication to literature, he received numerous prestigious honours and awards, including the National Literary Award for Lifetime Achievement 2021, Alinka Kyawswa Title in 2022, 2018 Pakokku U Ohn Pe Lifetime Literary Award, 2021 Sithu Title, 2007 Social Outstanding Award (second level), 1995 National Literary Award (Poem Collection).
“Sayagyi was a guiding light for our journalism community. His journey from reporter to editor-in-chief and books such as “Comprehensive Journalism” have become invaluable references for future generations of journalists. The loss of such an intellectual giant is not only a great loss for the media industry but also for the entire nation,” a writer posted on social media.
In addition to writing, Sayagyi contested the 2010 General Election as a candidate of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) for Amyotha Hluttaw Constituency 4 in Yangon Region.
His collection of rare books, medals, and historical records is preserved and displayed at the National Library in Nay Pyi Taw under the “Tekkatho Myat Thu Collection Room”.
“Sayagyi loved literature deeply. By donating his rare books, medals, and cherished musical instruments to the National Library, he left behind a valuable legacy for future generations. Everyone who visits the ‘Tekkatho Myat Thu Collection Room’ will remember his devotion to literature. Although he has passed away, his literary works will continue to live on,” said U Zaw Aung, a literature enthusiast from Zabuthiri Township, Nay Pyi Taw, who recently visited the library. Sayagyi Tekkatho Myat Thu was 95 years old at the time of his demise. — TWA/KTZH
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