Disaster Risk Reduction: Commemorative ceremony held in Sittwe Township

On 13th October, a commemorative ceremony to mark the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction was held in Sittwe Township with the attendance of Rakhine State Chief Minister U Htein Lin.

During the ceremony, Chief Minister U Htein Lin in his capacity as Chairman of the Rakhine State Disaster Management Committee stressed that commemorative ceremonies marking the international day for disaster risk reduction have been held annually as a state level ceremony in Myanmar since 2010 in accordance with the theme chosen by United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction – UNDRR.

The theme for this year celebration is “Empowering the Next Generation for a Resilient Future”. At present, several countries across the world including Myanmar are suffering the impacts of global warming and severe weather changes such as extremely severe cyclones and typhoons. Highlighting the the biggest challenges of natural disasters in nation’s development process, the Chief Minister called for effective precaution measures in order to reduce loss and damages.

In addition, he stressed to nurture the next generation to become qualified youths who can protect the lives and properties of the citizens by conducting disaster related trainings and knowledge sharing campaigns in schools.

The Chief Minister called for the concerted efforts of the relevant individuals to encourage the next generation to actively participate in disaster management activities, empowering them for a resilient future. It was followed by the screening of video massage of the United Nations Secretary General and a video clip commemorating International Disaster Risk Reduction Day.

Next, the Chief Minister and party oversaw the participation of the students in disaster awareness games, first aid performance and training conducted by Myanmar Red Cross Society and presented gifts to the students.