Filming a scene for Wonder in Asia at U Pain bridge

THE country’s first promotional DVD aimed to raise awareness of tourist destinations in Myanmar is due to be released worldwide in October.

The English-language film, entitled A Wonder in Asia, is being produced by the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism and is expected to be finished in August, said Myanmar academy award-winner Sin Yaw Maung Maung, who is directing the film.

“There are no Myanmar cast members in the film, but we filmed some ethnic people, whose traditions tourists find interesting,” he said.

The three-month film shoot began in March and took the crew to many tourist destinations around the country, including Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay, Inle Lake, Mrauk U and Kyaikhtiyo Pagoda, as well as some beaches and lesser-known destinations like Putao in Kachin State, with its snow-capped mountains, and mountainous Chin State.

During the 5000-kilometre trip, the crew was deeply impressed by the beauty of Myanmar, especially the eight expatriates who appeared in the film. They include Mr Oliver E Soe Thet, Mr Isaak Gibson, Mrs Olga Tuchviewska, Ms Hazel Majuca, Ms Beatrix Lanzinger, Ms Rebecca Raby, Ms Aloyse Rossignol De La Ronde and Ms Martina Ntuhold.

“It was also an amazing filming experience for me, although I have made other movies featuring amazing scenery. But with this movie, I found my country full of breathtaking beauty,” said director Sin Yaw Mg Mg.

The film will be narrated in several other languages, including Thai, Japanese, Chinese and German, and will be distributed to other countries through Myanmar’s embassies and international travel shows.

“I feel great to be taking on the responsibility to attract tourists to Myanmar by presenting the country’s attractive destinations,” Sin Yaw Mg Mg said.

One actor in the film, Mr Oliver E Soe Thet, the general manager of Bagan Hotel and the president of Myanmar Chefs Association, believes that the film will definately benefit Myanmar’s tourism, as it will show the world the country’s many attractions.

“Even I, who have lived in Myanmar and worked in the tourism industry for 11 years, was very much impressed in my travels around the country,” he said.