Hsu/ Saw (NSS) – Feb 22

 The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation has designated 2,275 acres in Kyaikto Township, Kyaikto District in Mon State as the "Kyeikpi Shwethaungkwin protected public mangrove forest".

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation officially designated the area as the "Kyeikpi Shwethaungkwin protected public mangrove forest" on February 18.

The Kyeikpi Shwethaungkwin protected public mangrove forest aims to achieve multiple goals: preventing deforestation, mitigating the impact of tidal waves, storms, and sea waves on local communities, protecting mangrove habitats for aquaculture, and providing a sanctuary for hibernating and water birds.

On 15 February 2024, the 2,275-area wide "Kyeikpi Shwethaungkwin” was protected as public mangrove forest under Notification No. 13/2024. This action was authorized by Sub-section (e) of Section (6) of the Forest Law promulgated in September 2018.

Designating the area as a protected public mangrove forest offers multiple environmental and climate benefits. Encouraging the growth of healthy mangrove ecosystems provides natural protection against tides, strong winds, and erosion, effectively reducing saltwater intrusion into nearby paddy fields.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation highlights the importance of mangrove forests for ecological balance. These forests provide vital habitat for diverse marine life and serve as crucial breeding grounds for both migratory and water birds.

On the International Day of Disaster Risk Reduction on 13 October, the UN announced that Myanmar's mangrove forests have been listed as the most endangered forests.