[3][4] The origins of Mon National Day parallel that of Karen New Year, as both were colonial-era celebrations that fostered the ethnic identity of these communities.
[3] The former was established by the United Mon Association via resolution, in October 1947 in the village of Kamawuk in Mudon Township.
[6] That same year, Aung San Suu Kyi, the country's de facto leader, spoke at large-scale Mon National Day celebrations held at Yangon's People's Square and Park.
[citation needed] Countries with significant Mon populations, including in Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, also observe the occasion.
[13] During the festivities, many celebrants don traditional Mon outfits, consisting of red-colored longyis and white tops.