Yangon: Myanmar's civilian president, Htin Kyaw, has resigned with immediate effect "in order to take rest from the current duties and responsibilities", his office said.

A statement posted on the Myanmar President Office's Facebook page said that 71-year-old was wished to take a rest, and follows reports that he suffered ill health that forced him to take at least two trips abroad for medical care in the past year.

The statement said his post would be filled within seven working days, in line with the constitution.

Htin Kyaw became president in March 2016. He was Myanmar's first elected civilian president and head of its first government to be elected in free and fair polls since a 1962 military coup.

Suu Kyi then became Myanmar's de facto leader when she was named state councilor, a position created for the country's once-leading voice for democracy since she is constitutionally banned from the presidency. By mutual agreement, Htin Kyaw, acted as a proxy for Suu Kyi, who is also foreign minister.