The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation (MoNREC), exercising its authority under Section 6 (e) of the Forest Law enacted in 2018, has declared 6,354 acres of land in Kyunsu Township, Myeik District, Taninthayi Region, as the “Chaungnyiko Protected Public Mangrove Forest” through Notification 74/2025 dated 22 July 2025.
The ministry designates protected public forests and forest reserves to maintain mangrove forest ecosystems, support biodiversity, protect against natural disasters by serving as natural barriers, provide seafood for local communities, and improve the overall management of mangrove forest areas.
Protecting the Chaungnyiko mangrove forest offers several benefits, including conserving mangrove woodlands, preserving habitats for bird species, enhancing ecosystems for fish, and strengthening disaster resilience, contributing significantly to the stability of marine ecosystems. — MNA/MKKS

The State funded K500 billion to support the reconstruction of homes and buildings of the people damaged by the disaster, and a further K2 trillion to continue supporting reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts.

A ceremony to commence the Post-Earthquake Technical Forum under the title of technically reviewing post-earthquake construction and renovation process and preparing potential technical challenges in the future took place at Mingala Thiri Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning, with an address by Chairman of the State Administration Council, Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.
The Senior General and forum participants observed a one-minute silence for the demise of monks and people in the devastating Mandalay earthquake to mark its fourth month of the incident.
They all viewed a video clip on the technical reviewing post-earthquake construction and renovation process, and preparing potential technical challenges in the future.

Salient points from the speech delivered by the Senior General at the Post-Earthquake Technical Forum

• Myanmar has to consider the construction of skyscrapers, high-rise buildings, and advanced structures using high-quality construction materials and advanced technology similar to Japan, China and Indonesia.
• Only when all levels of stakeholders within the construction industry collaborate systematically and with awareness can the basic infrastructure we are responsible for building today ensure the safety of people’s lives and homes when facing future earthquake risks.
• Participating experts have to engage in open and collaborative discussions to identify practical solutions for constructing earthquake-resistant buildings.

Speaking at the forum, the Senior General said that the established infrastructure must meet earthquake-resistant standards and quality benchmarks in order to effectively protect the lives and property of the people from losses and damages.
The State has initially provided K500 billion as funding to support the reconstruction of homes and buildings of the people damaged by the disaster. In addition, a further K2 trillion is being provided to continue supporting reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts.

Due to the major Mandalay earthquake, he recounted that a total of 3,739 monks and civilians lost their lives. In terms of infrastructure damage, more than 50,000 residential homes were destroyed, along with roads, bridges, towers, schools, hospitals, religious buildings, and numerous factories and workplaces.
The Senior General stressed that many quake-affected countries, including Japan, China, and Indonesia, have been able to construct skyscrapers, high-rise buildings, and advanced structures using high-quality construction materials and advanced technology. As such, Myanmar has to consider how to build similar buildings like aforesaid countries.
The Senior General expressed gratitude to all experts, professionals and technicians for their efforts in overseeing high-rise and public-use building projects, jointly conducting assessments, setting the level of damage based on a colour-coded system, and formulating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to guide the repair of earthquake and disaster-affected infrastructures.
To ensure the proper implementation of standards in construction activities, he noted that as the Ministry of Construction, together with the Myanmar Engineering Council, the Myanmar Architects Council, the Federation of Myanmar Engineering Societies, the Myanmar Geosciences Society, the Myanmar Earthquake Committee, and various urban engineering and earthquake-related organizations, jointly coordinated efforts, the Myanmar National Building Code (MNBC), which was first issued in 2012, was revised and reissued once in 2016 and again in 2020.
He underlined that only when all levels of stakeholders within the construction industry including cement, iron, and steel material importers and sellers, local manufacturers, structural design professionals, developers, contractors, supervising engineers, and quality inspectors—collaborate systematically and with awareness can the basic infrastructure we are responsible for building today ensure the safety of people’s lives and homes when facing future earthquake risks.
The Senior General emphasized that the 2025 edition of the Myanmar National Building Code (MNBC), developed based on the latest geoscientific data from the recent major Mandalay earthquake, incorporates updated standards and specifications that are adequate for potential future earthquakes. It includes more detailed and region-specific seismic zone maps and an analysis of the modes of failure observed in buildings damaged during the earthquake. Moreover, it introduces seismic load calculation methods tailored to different building types. As such, MNBC 2025 is expected to serve as an effective Earthquake Resilient Design Framework for Myanmar.
At today’s Post-Earthquake Technical Forum, he continued that participating experts have to engage in open and collaborative discussions to identify practical solutions for constructing earthquake-resistant buildings. The aim is to thoroughly examine the current state of the construction industry in the country and explore how to ensure full compliance with the established rules, regulations, and standards.
The Senior General urged government officials, engineers and architects from the private sector, developers, producers, importers, distributors, and sellers of construction materials, all stakeholders, to join work collaboratively in the Post-Earthquake Technical Forum to create safe and secure basic infrastructure for citizens in the future, ensuring protection from hazards and peace of mind.
The Senior General presented honourary documents of appreciation to chairs from the Myanmar Engineering Council, Myanmar Architects Council, Myanmar Engineering Society, the Expert Committee for the Supervision and Inspection of High-Rise and Public-Use Building Construction Projects, the Myanmar Geosciences Society, and the Myanmar Earthquake Committee.
Speakers and resource persons of papers to the forum introduced themselves to the Senior General. The Senior General visited the booths to mark the Post-Earthquake Technical Forum.
Also, present at the forum were SAC Vice-Chairman, Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior General Soe Win, Council Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo, SAC members, union-level dignitaries, union ministers, senior Tatmadaw officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief, deputy ministers, experts at home and abroad, chairs and members from the engineering and architectural related organizations, and guests.
The Post-Earthquake Technical Forum is organized with the objectives of technically reviewing the reconstruction of infrastructure damaged by the major Mandalay earthquake and discussing solutions to proactively prepare for potential future technical challenges. It is reported that the forum will continue until 29 July. — MNA/TTA

A ceremony for the donation of books titled "Myanmar and Earthquakes" and "Earthquake Disaster Risk Reduction Awareness in Myanmar," authored by Dr. Thein, former Professor and Head of the Department of Geology at Yangon University, was held on Tuesday at the Ministry of Information in Nay Pyi Taw. It was attended by Union Minister U Maung Maung Ohn, Deputy Minister U Ye Tint, the Permanent Secretary and many other concerned officials.

In this ceremony, Dr. Sone Han, Chairman of the Myanmar Geoscience Society, explained that the donation was made with the aim of increasing public knowledge about earthquakes and to reduce the risks of earthquake disasters especially after the significant damage caused by the Mandalay earthquake on March 28.

Also, the Union Minister stated that this donation of books is relevant for the current times and will also be beneficial for the future. He also expressed gratitude for the donation of such valuable books. the Chairman of the Myanmar Geoscience Society officially donated 400 copies of the books.

The Union Minister accepted the donation and presented a certificate of honor in return. The books will subsequently be distributed to the respective libraries under the Ministry, it’s reported.

mitv

The opening ceremony of the Post-Earthquake Technical Forum, held under the theme "Technical Review for Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Works and Preparation for Future Technical Challenges," took place on Monday at Mingalar Thiri Hotel in Nay Pyi Taw.

Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing attended this forum and delivered the opening remarks. The ceremony was also attended by Vice Chairman of the State Administration Council Deputy Prime Minister Vice Senior General Soe Win and many other high-ranking officials.

To mark the four-month anniversary of the Mandalay Earthquake, the Prime Minister and all attendees observed a one-minute silence as a mark of sorrow for the victims who lost their lives due to the earthquake. Following this, a documentary video titled "Technical Review for Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Works and Preparation for Future Technical Challenges" was shown. In his remarks, the Prime Minister stated that earthquakes can cause significant damage and losses, and require preparedness.

Historical records show that since 1839, Myanmar has experienced about 20 major earthquakes of Magnitude 6 or higher, resulting in widespread destruction. The Mandalay Earthquake of March 28, 2025, which registered Magnitude 7.7 and caused damage in five regions and states, including Mandalay, Sagaing, and Nay Pyi Taw, occurred along the Sagaing Fault.

Although the 3,739 lives lost in the Mandalay Earthquake are significantly fewer compared to earthquakes globally, it was a tragic event for Myanmar. The damage to infrastructure included over 50,000 homes, as well as roads, bridges, towers, schools, hospitals, religious buildings, and numerous factories and workshops.

The State has initially provided 500 billion kyats for public housing reconstruction and continues to provide an additional 2 trillion kyats for rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts. And, the Prime Minister urged all participants to effectively and beneficially identify and discuss the needs of our country's construction sector.

The quality and durability of buildings which is crucial for national development are of utmost importance. It is also known that the Myanmar National Building Code (MNBC) 2025 will serve as an Earthquake Resilient Design Framework.

He also urged all stakeholders to collectively strive to create and construct safe and secure infrastructure. Following his remarks, the Prime Minister presented commemorative honors to the chairpersons and officials who carried out Damage Assessment and Earthquake Clinics. And, the topics for discussion and review at the Forum were presented.

After the opening ceremony, the Prime Minister and the attendees enthusiastically toured the exhibition booths commemorating the Post-Earthquake Technical Forum. The Post-Earthquake Technical Forum, held under the theme "Technical Review for Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Works and Preparation for Future Technical Challenges," will continue until July 29.

mitv

In Naungcho Township, Shan State (North), security forces and departmental officials are collaborating to swiftly reopen basic education schools and ensure a peaceful learning environment for students.

This includes repairing school buildings and furniture damaged by terrorists, beautifying the school environment, and clearing landmines. Local ethnic parents are also contributing to these efforts. On July 27, student enrollment began at Basic Education High School No. 2 and the Middle School Branch (Laukkpan) in Naungcho.

On this day, 105 students of school-going age were admitted to these schools by grade level. The Ministry of Education provided free textbooks, stationery, and school uniforms to the newly admitted students. To ensure a peaceful and clean learning environment, Tatmadaw personnel and departmental staff are clearing bushes and weeds and carrying out other necessary tasks at Basic Education High School No. 2 in Naungcho.

Additionally, doctors and health workers from the Tatmadaw and the Ministry of Health have jointly opened a temporary hospital at the Myanan Tawwin Mingalar Hall to provide convenient healthcare services for the local ethnic population. Today, 72 local ethnic individuals received healthcare services.

mitv

Union Minister for Electric Power U Nyan Tun accompanied by concerned officials made inspections at Minbu Solar Power Plant in Magway Region on 27th July.

On arrival at Minbu Power Plant, the Union Minister and officials heard reports on 1st stage 40-Megawatt power generation condition and arrangements to generate 2nd stage 40-Megawatt power. Upon reports, the Union Minister urged to accelerate the work implementations in accordance with the rules and regulations, emphasizing to finish the 2nd stage 40-Megawatt project earlier than the scheduled timeframe.

The Union Minister also assured to provide necessary assistance and encouraged the relevant individuals to engage with the region government to ensure the secure work environment. Then, the Union Minister met with the staff and encouraged them to make exerted efforts to become experts in their respective workplaces.

In the afternoon, the Union Minister met with the engineers and staff from region/district/township at the Magway Region Electronics Engineering Office. There, the Union Minister heard reports on matters pertaining to power generation and distribution within the region, arrangements to reduce power outage, completed projects during 2024-2025 Fiscal Year and ongoing projects within 2025-2026 Fiscal Year, increasing power demand and bill collection.

Upon reports, the Union Minister emphasized on prevention of illegal power usage, better service provision upholding civil service ethics, systematic accommodation at the staff housings, necessary assistance for the well-being of the staff and provided cash assistance.

mitv

A coordination meeting to prepare for Myitkyina’s participation as the "City of Charm" at the 22nd China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO), which will be held in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China was held by the Kachin State Government on July 25 in the Manlikha Hall of the State Government Office.

At the meeting, Kachin State Chief Minister U Khat Htein Nan expressed pride that Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin State, had been selected by the State Administration Council to represent Myanmar as the "City of Charm" for 2025, following preparations by the Ministry of Commerce and the Trade Promotion Department. He urged local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to actively participate and showcase their products with high standards while preserving traditional authenticity, ensuring a proud and impressive presentation.

Following this, State Minister for Economic Affairs U Myo Swe, the Director of the State Industrial Supervision and Inspection Department, and other regional officials and MSME business owners discussed necessary preparations and exhibition plans. The Chief Minister provided guidance and coordinated required support.

The China-ASEAN Expo has been held annually since 2004, with Myanmar participating since 2005 by introducing different "Cities of Charm" each year. This year, Myitkyina will take part as the designated city, presenting new opportunities to strengthen the China-ASEAN community through closer cooperation and mutual benefits, shaping a prosperous future together.

mitv

The second time monsoon tree planning event of the Ministry of Ethnic Affairs held at the Ministry in Nay Pyi Taw on July 24th.

Union Minister Khun Thant Zaw Htoo attended the event together with the Deputy Minister U Zaw Aye Maung and many other concerned officials. First, the Union Minister and the Deputy Minister planted the saplings at the designated places followed by planting of saplings by concerned officials and staff at their respective areas.

And, the Union Minister and party toured around the tree plantation of the officials and staff to make encouragement. During the ceremony, saplings including Kankaw, Padauk, Teak and star-flower were planted. The Union Minister and party later proceeded to Modular House, inspected the resettlement of the staff families, electricity access, bathrooms and toilets placement and provided eggs and foodstuff to the staff. 

mitv

The 98th Anniversary of the Founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) was held at the Novotel Max Hotel in Yangon in the evening on July 24.

Chief of General Staff (Army, Navy, Air) General Kyaw Swar Lin and his wife attended the event. Upon their arrival, General Kyaw Swar Lin and his delegation were warmly welcomed by Ms. Ma Jia, Ambassador of China to Myanmar, Senior Colonel Qu Zhe, Chinese Military Attaché to Myanmar, his wife, and other officials.

They then toured and observed the documentary photos displayed in the hall. The 98th Anniversary ceremony for the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army began with the national anthems of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and the People's Republic of China, followed by the screening of a documentary video about the PLA.

Afterward, Senior Colonel Qu Zhe, Chinese Military Attaché to Myanmar, delivered a welcoming speech. Subsequently, Chief of General Staff (Army, Navy, Air) General Kyaw Swar Lin and his wife, the Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar, and the Chinese Military Attaché and his wife, jointly cut the 98th Anniversary commemorative cake for the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army and took a group photo to mark the occasion.

Following this, the Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar and the Chinese Military Attaché hosted a gala dinner for all attendees. It is reported that the event was attended by Chief of General Staff (Army, Navy, Air) General Kyaw Swar Lin and his wife, high-ranking military officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief and their wives, Yangon Region Chief Minister U Soe Thein and his wife, the Commander of Yangon Command, region government ministers, ambassadors from foreign embassies in Yangon, chargés d'affaires, military attachés, and invited guests.

mitv

In order to ensure that the public can live in peace and stability, the Tatmadaw carried out a counter-terrorism operation and regained control of Naungcho in Shan State (North). Not to cause losses in the education sector of Naungcho, arrangements are being made to reopen the schools, which were closed for nearly one year while the terrorists controlled the township.

The government and Tatmadaw provided school uniforms and stationery for the students and teachers in Naungcho. The ceremony took place at the BEHS 1 in Naungcho. The senior Tatmadaw officers, the administrator of Kyaukme district, departmental officials, teachers and students attended the event.

The officials presented the textbooks, 180,000 notebooks, 3,860 dozen pencils, 3,000 pens and 200 school uniforms provided by the government for the students, and 176 uniforms for the teachers provided by Tatmadaw. Tatmadaw, departmental officials and people cooperate to provide a chance for the students in Naungcho to be able to learn at schools peacefully, like other children in peaceful regions.

mitv