Thanbyuzayat Township in Mon State has secured third place in the 2026 ASEAN Smoke-Free Awards, sharing the honor with several regional counterparts. The joint third prize was awarded alongside Depok in Indonesia, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Pasig in the Philippines, and Maha Sarakham in Thailand. George Town in Malaysia received the second prize, while Baguio in the Philippines was awarded first prize.

The awards were presented during the 17th ASEAN Health Ministers Meeting held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Dr. Myat Wunna Soe, Director-General of the Department of Public Health, accepted the third prize on behalf of Myanmar’s Ministry of Health.

The recognition reflects ongoing efforts by Myanmar’s Ministry of Health to reduce smoking and tobacco use across the country. Collaborating with various partners and social organizations, the ministry aims to enforce and expand smoke-free zones under the Control of Smoking and Consumption of Tobacco Products Law, which was enacted in 2006. These measures are intended to shield the public from the adverse health effects caused by tobacco smoke.

The ASEAN Smoke-Free Awards program highlights regional achievements in tobacco control initiatives, promoting healthier environments through smoke-free policies and public awareness campaigns.