Coastal Resources Management : National-Level Central Committee's meeting

The National-Level Coastal Resources Management Central Committee held its first meeting at the Ingyin Hall of the Forest Department in Nay Pyi Taw on Friday. Central Committee Chairman Vice President U Nyo Saw attended the meeting and delivered a speech.

In his opening speech, the Vice President said coastal resources are essential for food security, economic growth and the country's long-term development, stressing the need to balance development with environmental conservation and ensure their sustainable use for future generations.

He highlighted ongoing initiatives, including the use of the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) to combat illegal fishing, the designation of fishing seasons and grounds, the establishment of the Myanmar Coast Guard, the drafting of a water pollution law, the promotion of research and education, and efforts in plastic and waste management as well as mangrove conservation.

Referring to the Myanmar Integrated Coastal Management (ICM) framework approved in 2024, the Vice President called for integrating the Green Economy, Blue Economy and Circular Economy concepts to support sustainable environmental, economic and social development, while urging committee members to strengthen cooperation and coordinate current and future coastal and marine resource management programmes.

An awareness video on coastal area conservation was then screened. Director-General of the Forest Department U Kyaw Zeya presented a report on the committee's duties and progress in implementing coastal resource management activities.

The central committee members then reviewed the implementation and progress of national-level coastal resource management programmes by relevant departments and regions. They also discussed current activities and future plans. The Vice President then reviewed the discussions and coordinated the needs.