Myanmar President Htin Kyaw pardons at least 63 political prisoners on the country's traditional New Year Sunday, according to a watchdog group, in his first major political act since he was sworn in last month.

Myanmar's new president has been sworn in, the first elected civilian leader in more than 50 years.

Myanmar's parliament has elected Htin Kyaw as the next president, the first civilian to lead the country after more than 50 years of military rule.