Thai-Burmese Relations

The United Wa State Army (UWSA) has donated a 5-acre (12.5 rai) plot of land for the renovation of a stupa believed to have been built in the early 17th century in today’s Mongton township, opposite Chiangmai, according to sources.

Although details are still sketchy, both sources, one a respected elder in Mongton, the other a long-time border security officer, have confirmed the fact. “The abbot of Loi Kawng Mu (a mountain temple 2 miles east of Pongpakhem — See map) had asked only for the plot that used to contain the now defunct stupa,” said the Mongton source. “Wei Xueyun (also written Wei Hsuehying) however gave him 5 acres instead.”

Wei Xueyun, also known by his Thai name Sophol Jandee, is the younger brother of the more well-known Wei Xuegang (also written Wei Hsuehkang), Commander of the Thai-border based 171st Military Region. He is wanted both in the United States and Thailand on drug charges.

The King Naresuan stupa, located 25 miles (40 km) from the border, was demolished and bulldozed by the Burma Army around 1960, following widespread reports of the spirit of the king watching over fighters of the Noom Seuk Harn, the first Shan armed resistance movement. Remnants of its bricks were carried by Shan fighters under the command of Gen Gawnzerng (1926-1991) in 1969 to Muang Ngai, a Thai border town opposite Mongton. A new stupa was then constructed under the auspices of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Sao Hseng Wan, the Loi Kawng Mu abbot, said he has already made contact with Thai donors who are interested in restoring the stupa to its former glory, according to the Shan elder.

The Thai security official added that two Thai monks visited the site two months ago with historic documents to conduct a survey there.

According to Shan history, King Naresuan (1555-1605) had died while on the way to relieve Prince Kham Khai Noi of Hsenwi, who was under attack by both Burmese and Chinese forces.