YANGON, Feb. 3 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar held a film academy award ceremony in the capital Nay Pyi Taw on Saturday evening.

       Speaking at the ceremony, Vice Chairman of Myanmar's State Administration Council Soe Win underscored the power of films, saying that films have the ability to touch the public's hearts and evoke emotions.

       He urged artists to try hard together with the government for the country's peace, unity and development, fostering a sense of national spirit and love for the country.

       He said that the government will continue to provide assistance to literature, music and film sectors.

       U Kyi Soe Tun, chairman of the Myanmar Motion Picture Organization, said that the Myanmar film industry dates back to 1920, and the primary objective of presenting film academy awards is to promote the standard of Myanmar films and their international influence.

       A total of 12 academy awards for the year 2023 were presented to artists at the ceremony.