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Myanmar’s Central Bank has increased sales of foreign currency to importers of essential commodities, according to state media reports, as authorities seek to contain inflationary pressures and stabilize the domestic mar
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on 19 June kept Myanmar on its list of high-risk jurisdictions subject to a call for action, calling for enhanced due diligence rather than countermeasures, and warned that it will
Myanmar’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, told the UN Security Council on 20 June that more than 900 cases of rape, gang rape, and sexual torture have been documented since the 20
Nine members of a "call boy" gang, who were threatening passengers and collecting protection money from taxi drivers at the Aung Mingalar long-distance bus terminal in Mingaladon Township, Yangon, were arrested with long
YANGON – On June 22, it was learned that 16 soldiers who were forcibly conscripted by the military surrendered to the Karen National Union (KNU) in Ledo Township (Kyauk Gyi), in the administrative area of KNU's Brigade (
Photos: Aung Nay Myo (plus Kim Aris Facebook page) Ranjan Kaul The recently published “Spring Revolution in Myanmar: Songs, Symbols and Tattoos of Resistance” by Nandita Haksar has drawn my attention to the creative use
The Irrawaddy Times June 22nd Public leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's beloved dog Tai Chito, who was separated from his master due to the military coup, has died at Farm No. 54, University Avenue while waiting for his maste
AYEYARWADDY TIMES June 22 On the Yangon-Mandalay Expressway, at milepost 117/7 on the Yangon-bound lane, two express buses collided today, June 22, resulting in the deaths of three men and a traffic jam of approximately
Myanmar’s military was responsible for more than 700 civilian deaths over the six-month election period last year, the United Nations said Monday. A fresh UN report covering the period from last August, when Myanmar’s mi
Thai police intercepted a van heading towards Tak province on the Thai-Myanmar border, which was carrying illegal immigrants, and arrested a Myanmar driver along with nine foreign nationals, according to Thai media. A Ni
In Shwegu Township, Kachin State, Myanmar, the sounds of heavy and small arms fire are constantly heard, and the interim government's forces are also using air power, according to local sources. Since the morning of June
Thai PBS A school in the Mae Sot district of Thailand’s Tak border province suspended classes today over safety concerns, following security reports of an imminent clash between Myanmar government troops and Karen resist
A plastic factory in Boadagon Village, Hmawbi Township, Yangon Region, was found to have stolen and used over 300,000 electricity units, and the business owner is being prosecuted in accordance with the Electricity Law,
MYANMAR possesses abundant forests, rivers, streams, lakes, biodiversity, and natural resources. Its diverse ecosystems, forests, biodiversity, and natural wealth provide a strong foundation for the country’s food production capacity, the development of green economic activities, environmental sustainability, and climate balance. Forests continuously provide essential ecosystem services such as climate regulation, food security, disaster risk prevention, and the conservation of water and soil resources. They also supply forest products and various environmental services. Since forests are central to natural ecosystems, they must be systematically cultivated, maintained, and managed to ensure long-term sustainability. Myanmar is the second largest in terms of forest cover among ASEAN member states. Myanmar’s forest cover was 42.19 per cent of the country’s total land area, and in 2025 it was recorded at 42.15 per cent. In order to leave behind a stable and healthy ecological environment for present and future generations, it is necessary to set a target of increasing forest cover to 50 per cent of the country’s total land area andto make concerted efforts towards achieving this goal. According to the 2026 Climate Risk Index of certain international climate monitoring organizations, Myanmar is among the 10 countries most affected by climate change. Climate change will lead to increasingly severe and intense secondary natural disasters. The central dry zone of Myanmar has been identified as one of the areas with some of the highest temperatures in the world, reaching 44.9° Celsius in 2026. Similarly, 12 major cities in the dry zone have been recorded with temperatures of 41° Celsius and above. In particular, it is forecast that by the end of this year, a very strong Super El Niño may develop, and it is further predicted that 2026 and 2027 could become among the hottest years in recorded global history. Among the various approaches to addressing the climate change and environmental challenges facing the world, tree planting and forest conservation are considered the simplest, easiest, most cost-effective, and universally achievable measures. At the same time, they are environmentally friendly and among the most beneficial actions that can be undertaken. Efforts should be made to promote environmental conservation and nature-based economic development models such as the Bioeconomy, Green Economy, and Circular Economy. As forests help regulate the climate and preserve a wide range of natural resources, they serve as a fundamental pillar for economic development. In order to increase forest cover across the country, forest conservation activities should be jointly carried out as a national responsibility. By Dr Zeyar Win By Laura Htet (UDE) Grow trees to mitigate impacts of climate change Efforts should be made to promote environmental conservation and nature-based economic development models such as the Bioeconomy, Green Economy, and Circular Economy. As forests help regulate the climate and preserve a wide range of natural resources, they serve as a fundamental pillar for economic development. In order to increase forest cover across the country, forest conservation activities should be jointly carried out as a national responsibility. After all, the most important relationship we will ever have is the one we we have with ourselves. And perhaps the brightest window through which we can see our worth is not the judgement of others, but the understanding we develop within our own hearts. As the world braces for a possible Super El Niño, Myanmar must prepare for more than just hotter days. The risks span from crop failures to disease outbreaks and power shortages. Yet with foresight, resilience, and community cooperation, the nation can withstand the challenge. Myanmar’s El Niño Threat: Climate and Health Risks G LOBAL climate monitoring agencies warn that late 2026 to 2027 could bring a Strong El Niño or even a Super El Niño, a phenomenon that threatens to reshape weather patterns worldwide. For Myanmar, a country heavily dependent on monsoon rains, the prospect raises urgent concerns about heat, drought, agriculture, and public health. El Niño occurs when sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific rise above normal, disrupting rainfall and wind circulation across continents. The name dates back to the 1600s, when Peruvian fishermen noticed warm currents around Christmas that reduced fish catches and triggered heavy rains. They called it El Niño, meaning “The Christ Child”. By the late 19th century, scientists began studying the phenomenon systematically. In the 1920s, British physicist Sir Gilbert Walker identified the Southern Oscillation, a shift in air pressure between the eastern and western Pacific. Later, Norwegian-American meteorologist Jacob Bjerknes proved that ocean warming and pressure changes were linked, forming a global climate cycle now known as ENSO (El Niño – SouthernOscillation). Myanmar’s reliance on monsoon rains makes it particularly exposed to El Niño’s impacts. Past events have brought record-breaking heat, delayed rainfall, and severe water shortages. • 1997-1998 El Niño: One of the hottest and driest years in Myanmar’s history. River levels, including the Ayeyawady, dropped dramatically, crippling agriculture. • 2015-2016 El Niño: Temperatures soared to 45-47°C in Ayeyawady, Magway, Mandalay, and Sagaing regions. Thousands of villages faced water scarcity. • 2023-2024 El Niño: Coincided with a global record event, unleashing intense heat waves and worsening drought across the country. These episodes highlight how climate change is intensifying El Niño, pushing temperatures to new extremes and straining rural communities. If a Super El Niño develops, Myanmar could face: • Extreme heat: Higher risk of heatstroke, especially among children and the elderly. • Water shortages: Hydropower generation may falter as reservoirs dry, leading to nationwide electricity rationing. • Agricultural losses: Reduced rainfall could lower yields of rice, beans, sesame, and other staples. • Livestock stress: Animals may suffer from heat and lack of drinking water. • Wildfires: Dry conditions increase forest fire risks, worsening air pollution and respiratory illness. Health Risks on the Rise Doctors warn that El Niño periods often trigger a surge in health problems: • Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. • Waterborne diseases like diarrhea and intestinal infections from unsafe water. • Respiratory issues including asthma, lung disease, and eye irritation caused by smoke and dust from wildfires. • Vector-borne diseases such as dengue, as mosquito breeding patterns shift with climate changes. • Nutrition challenges as crop failures lead to food shortages and malnutrition, particularly among children and pregnant women. • Mental health strains including stress, anxiety, and insomnia linked to extreme heat and hardship. Preventive Measures Health experts urge citizens to prepare: • Drink plenty of clean water; boil before use. • Avoid outdoor exposure between 11 am and 3 pm. • Wear light, breathable clothing. • Pay special attention to children and the elderly. • Practice hygiene: handwashing, safe food preparation. • Use masks in dusty or smoky areas. • Eat balanced diets with vegetables, fruits, and protein-rich foods. • Ensure adequate rest and seek family or community support. • Follow climate warnings and prepare for natural disasters. Public health specialists emphasize that prevention is key. Strengthening Myanmar’s health systems, ensuring early warning mechanisms, and promoting community awareness can reduce the toll of climate shocks. “Prevention is better than cure,” experts say, urging collective action to safeguard lives. As the world braces for a possible Super El Niño, Myanmar must prepare for more than just hotter days. The risks span from crop failures to disease outbreaks and power shortages. Yet with foresight, resilience, and community cooperation, the nation can withstand the challenge. The looming climate event is a reminder that health and environment are inseparable. Protecting citizens from heat, hunger, and disease will be as critical as managing rivers and reservoirs. In the face of global climate disruption, Myanmar’s path forward lies in preparedness, solidarity, and strong public health systems. T HERE is a quote that I have always loved. The first time I read it, it stayed with me for a long time because of its simple but powerful truth: “If we hurt a child, the child’s love for their parents does not become smaller. It is the child’s love for themselves that becomes smaller.” At first glance, these words seem surprising. Many of us might assume that when someone is treated badly, they will stop loving the person who hurt them. However, human emotions are often more complicated than that. From the moment we are born, we naturally have a sense of self-love. It is part of being human. This basic instinct helps us survive. When we are hungry, we look for food. When we are cold, we search for warmth. Every living creature shares this desire to stay alive. Yet survival is not the same as self-worth. Learning to value ourselves, appreciate our strengths, and believe that we deserve kindness is something different. Unlike basic survival instincts, self-worth does not develop on its own. It grows through our experiences, our relationships, and the environment around us. This is why the people in our lives matter so much. As children, we learn who we are through the way our families treat us. As adults, we continue to discover ourselves through our friendships, workplaces, communities, and relationships. In many ways, our self-image is like a mirror built from the reflections we receive from others. When people encourage us, support us, and recognize our efforts, we often feel stronger and more confident. On the other hand, when we are constantly criticized, ignored, or undervalued, it becomes much harder to see our own worth. This process affects everyone. Many of us have areas in life where we feel secure. These strengths help us face challenges with confidence. However, we also have insecurities – parts of ourselves that we secretly worry about. When someone questions something we are confident about, we can usually handle it. We trust ourselves enough not to be shaken. But when someone touches one of our insecurities, the impact can be very different. We may feel hurt, embarrassed, disappointed, or even ashamed. Some people might ask why adults allow these comments to affect them. Shouldn’t we already know our value? The reality is more complicated. Many women are intelligent, kind, and capable, yet after spending years with people who fail to appreciate them, they begin to doubt whether they deserve love and respect. Many men work hard, support their families, and fulfil their responsibilities, yet after constantly being treated without respect, they begin to lose respect for themselves as well. The reason is not weakness. The reason is often love. Love has a unique influence on how we see ourselves. We cannot look directly into our own minds and hearts. Instead, we often understand ourselves through the people closest to us. When we love someone, their opinions carry great weight. Their words can brighten our day or ruin it. Their approval can make us feel valued, while their criticism can leave lasting scars. Even when someone we love hurts us, our feelings for them do not always disappear immediately. Sometimes we continue loving them long after they have stopped treating us with kindness. What slowly fades instead is our belief in ourselves. This process rarely happens overnight. It can take months, years, or even decades. Little by little, repeated negative messages can change how we think. A single comment may not matter much, but hearing the same criticism repeatedly can eventually become part of our self-image. This is why healthy boundaries are so important. People who grow up learning that they have value are often better able to protect themselves from harmful treatment. They understand that love should not require the loss of self-respect. Unfortunately, many of us are still learning this lesson. We live in a world where comparison is constant. Every day, social media, advertisements, and social expectations remind us of what we do not have. As a result, many people carry hidden insecurities. Because of this, the influence of our daily environment should never be underestimated. At the same time, positive influences can be equally powerful. This helps explain why some people with ordinary abilities seem remarkably confident. They may have spent their lives surrounded by encouragement and sup
U Khin Maung Tun from Phaungpyin Constituency sought additional medical personnel for Phaungpyin Hospital. The deputy minister said a dentist would be assigned this year, while further nursing and specialist staff would
YANGON Region Advocate-General Daw Phyu Mar Wai, along with law officers, inspected training-of-trainers (TOT) legal courses across 14 districts yesterday morning. Daw Phyu Mar Wai visited training centres in Ahlon, Kama
A total of 206 out of 209 Hluttaw representatives attended the ninth-day meeting of the second regular session of the third Amyotha Hluttaw in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday. At the meeting, Deputy Minister for Finance and Revenu
Dala Bridge Crossing Hours ... FROM PAGE 1 He announced his decision during the parliamentary session on 22 June, in response to a question from Daw Swe Swe Win, a Hluttaw member representing Dala Township Constituency 1
vehicles and spare parts, and other industrial products to Myanmar, DFT Director-General Ms Arada Fuangtong said. The reopening will enhance cargo transport efficiency and is anticipated to lower transport and logistics
UNION Minister for National Planning, Investment and Foreign Economic Relations U Aung Kyaw Hoe received Mr Abhay Thakur, Ambassador of India to Myanmar at the Ministry of National Planning, Investment and Foreign Econom
UNION Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar U Tin Maung Swe received Mr Indra Mani Pandey, Secretary-General of BIMSTEC yesterday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nay Pyi Taw. Both sides
PRESIDENT of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar U Min Aung Hlaing paid a State Visit to the People’s Republic of China at the invitation of President Mr Xi Jinping of China. During his State visit, the Myanmar President responded to the questions raised by Ms Liu Meixi of Phoenix TV from Phoenix News Agency on 19 June. The full text of the translated replies of the President is as follows: Interviewer: First of all, I would like to thank Your Excellency for giving me the opportunity to interview you here in the beautiful city of Hangzhou. I have studied your speeches, remarks, and responses in various international media. My first question is that, regarding what has been said in the media, Your Excellency is described as someone who is deeply devoted to the country and a political figure who prioritizes doing what is best for the nation both in the present and in the future. How do you view this characterization? President U Min Aung Hlaing: A leader – no matter who the leader is or at what level – if a leader has the mindset of how to improve the work or department under their responsibility, then those work areas or departments will always progress. It is about cultivating a constructive attitude and a positive mindset. I apply this exact approach myself, having always worked to improve the performance and culture of every department I have served in. From the lowest level up to senior responsibilities, I have always worked in this way. In my current role managing state affairs, my focus remains entirely on driving national progress. We continuously evaluate the long-term impact of potential policies to ensure strategic, effective implementation. In doing so, one must have a firm determination. One cannot simply go along with whatever others say without clear judgment. It is necessary to know exactly what one wants to do, and that intention must also be correct. If it is not correct, it will not bring benefits and may instead lead to problems. Looking at various sectors where issues are occurring, I see the same pattern. That is what I would like to express — that I work with such a sincere and committed mindset. Interviewer: I am satisfied with Your Excellency’s response to the question just now. I visited Myanmar in 2023. Myanmar is rich in natural resources and has great potential for development across various sectors. SEE PAGE 4 Myanmar to Chair BIMSTEC Secretariat Next Year FROM PAGE 1 The BIMSTEC Secretary-General discussed the prospects of Myanmar and its people to achieve socioeconomic development, peace and stability of the nation under the leadership of the President-led government, the active cooperation of Myanmar with BIMSTEC member states, the plans of BIMSTEC to host meetings and other activities in the near future and to continuously enhance cooperate with Myanmar. They cordially exchanged views on the full cooperation of Myanmar in BIMSTEC, and needs to participate in development of landlocked Nepal and Bhutan. Myanmar will serve responsibilities of the BIMSTEC Secretary-General in coming year with utmost efforts. They also discussed the further promotion of relations between BIMSTEC states and peoples. After the meeting, the President and the BIMSTEC Secretary-General exchanged commemorative gifts. Also present at the meeting were Union Minister at the President’s Office U Khin Maung Yi, Union Minister for Foreign Affairs U Tin Maung Swe and officials. The BIMSTEC Secretary-General was accompanied by officials. — MNA/TTA Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing grants interview to Phoenix THE Myanmar delegation, led by Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker U Khin Yi, attended the 2nd International Forum of the Union State titled “Great Heritage – Common Future” in Brest, Belarus, yesterday. They were joined by Hluttaw Speakers from 17 countries and other high-level representatives. During the forum, Speaker U Khin Yi delivered a speech. On the morning of yesterday, the Myanmar delegation attended the occasion of the Day of National Remembrance of Victims of the Great Patriotic War and the Genocide of the Belarusian People at the Brest Hero Fortress Memorial Complex. Over 15,000 participants, including representatives from 17 countries, joined the event. The Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker met Mr Igor Sergeyenko, Belarusian Lower House Speaker and Mr Vyacheslav Volodin, State Duma Chairman of the Russian Federation, separately on the same day, and they exchanged views on sector-wise cooperation among parliaments respecting the laws of the respective countries. — MNA/KTZH Hluttaw Speaker addresses 2nd Intl Forum of Union State “Great Heritage – Common Future” Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker U Khin Yi holds talks to strengthen inter-parliamentary and sector-wise cooperation. FOR those who would like to read the Myanma Alinn, the Kyemon and the Global New Light of Myanmar, published daily by the Ministry of Information, please visit www.moi.gov.mm/mal, www.moi.gov.mm/km, www.moi.gov.mm/nlm and www.gnlm.com.mm/e-paper. Daily newspapers available online Phoenix TV correspondent Ms Liu Meixi interviews Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing.
THE 14th Extempore Talk Contest commemorating the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was held on 21 June at the Kyaukse Dhammayon in Bahan Township, Yangon Region. The contest was organized
ACCORDING to the Nay Pyi Taw Development Committee, upgrading works at the Nay Pyi Taw Water Fountain Garden and greening projects at the Mingala Theikdhi Park are currently underway. During an inspection tour, U Kan Myi
A ceremony to mark the 12th International Day of Yoga was held on 21 June at the Thuwunna National Indoor Stadium in Yangon. Yoga practices can provide various health benefits, so the public should engage in them, stated
TO allow the public to pay homage to the Mandalay Mahamuni Buddha Image online, the pagoda trustee board provides daily 24-hour live streaming on its YouTube channel. Buddhist devotees in Myanmar and worldwide can worship the pagoda from various perspectives at https://youtube.com/@mahamunipagoda? si=8iqc8ZSDLJBlCYyZ. The number of pilgrims visiting the Mahamuni Buddha Image has increased again since the earthquake, according to local residents. Maintenance and repair work for earthquake damage is ongoing and is supported by public donations from various regions and states. Buddhist devotees in Myanmar and around the world can now worship at the pagoda from different perspectives by visiting https://youtube.com/@mahamunipagoda?
YANGON University of Education (YUOE) and the Chinese Embassy jointly held a cultural exhibition on 19 June at the YUOE Learning Hub to introduce students to the intangible cultural heritage of both nations. The event fe
PRESIDENT of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar U Min Aung Hlaing received a delegation led by Mr Indra Mani Pandey, Secretary-General of BIMSTEC, at the Presidential Palace Reception Hall in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morn
One missing during flooding in Kachin State Residents of Kachin State’s Mogaung Township told DVB that the Thahtaykone, Namkhamka, and Nanyang creeks have overflowed due to heavy rainfall since Sunday. Aid workers in Nam
It is known from the Myanmar Police Force that nearly 10 kilograms of heroin worth over 3 billion kyats, over 1 million WY pills, and ammunition were seized in Kalay City. Around 10 AM on June 7, based on information, th
It is known that PDFs attacked a school in Hoolong Village, Yechaung Township, Magway Region with drop bombs. On the afternoon of June 22, PDFs carried out attacks with drop bombs on the Hoolong Basic Education High Scho
It is reported that 59 individuals involved in online scams and gambling have been arrested along with business equipment within Muse Township, Shan State (North). Security forces conducted area clearance and search and
A large truck collided with the Kawnoe Bridge in the Kawkarait section of the new Asia Road, Myawaddy-Kawkarait, on the afternoon of June 22, causing damage to parts of the bridge and a temporary suspension of heavy truc
YANGON, June 22 The bodies of soldiers who were killed in clashes in southern Chin State have been buried in haphazardly dug large and small pits along the roadside, a local source told Khit Thit Media. Since May 11, mil
Yangon, June 22 Civilian casualties and thousands of displacements have occurred in Salin Township, Magway Region, and Hpa-an Township, Mon State, due to military column attacks, airstrikes, and heavy artillery shelling
In Mandalay Region, there is currently no plan to issue Matala motorcycle licenses for unregistered motorcycles, according to U Kyaw Moe Thet, the Minister for Electricity, Energy, Industry, and Transport of Mandalay Reg