Myanmar’s government has stepped up preventive measures in confronting the coronavirus pandemic by cancelling the country's largest water festival and placing restrictions on travellers from countries with a high number of cases, UCAnews reported.

“As Covid-19 can rapidly spread in crowded places, it has requested the public not to hold public gatherings including ceremonies and festivals from March 13 until April 30,” the President’s Office said in a notice issued on March 13. It said the suspension period will be extended if necessary.

Myanmar annually celebrates the Thingyan water festival marking the Myanmar New Year, which is slated to be held on April 13-16. The celebration attracts thousands of revellers.