PHNOM PENH: In Myanmar, where political and ethnic divides run deep, the people collectively cherish one common aspiration - to protect their forests at any cost.
Both past and present governments have consistently upheld their national commitment to increasing the country's green cover, turning it into a public endeavour and a source of pride for the people of Myanmar.
"Trees and forests help prevent global warming, climate change and natural disasters while contributing to water and soil conservation, and food security as ecosystem services," said State Administration Council Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, as reported by state media The Global New Light of Myanmar on Wednesday (Sept 17).
"As such, systematic growing and management of trees is sure to support greening the environment and sustainable development of the nation,” he added
Myanmar has the largest forest area in South-East Asia, making it home to diverse tropical flora, fauna and exotic wildlife, some of which face extinction globally.
The country is striving to ensure 50 per cent of its land is covered with forest, and is inching towards achieving this dream. At present, Myanmar’s forest cover stands at about 42 per cent.
Kuala Lumpur-based Climate Advisor for the Centre for Governance and Political Studies, Dr Renard Siew Yung Jhien, said tree planting as a national commitment is powerful because it unites people, culture and nature in a shared purpose.
"In Myanmar, it goes beyond restoring forests as carbon sinks; it also safeguards water, protects biodiversity and strengthens resilience against climate shocks.
"What makes it especially impactful is the people-centric approach, turning conservation into a collective responsibility rather than a government mandate.
"In this sense, forests become not only an environmental asset but also a social anchor supporting livelihoods, fostering pride and offering hope for a healthier and more sustainable future,” Siew told Bernama.
The government has established a zero net deforestation goal by 2023 and celebrated the 30th anniversary of World Ozone Day this year, all aimed at fostering a healthy environment.
Residents take advantage of the monsoon season, a suitable period for planting tree saplings, and government-led nationwide campaigns are popular during the rainy days that last from May to October.
Saplings of ferrea, neem, gum-kino and Mesua magnolia are some of the varieties planted during the wet season.
According to the Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation Ministry, nearly 22 million trees have been planted across the country this year.
A thick natural forest canopy is vital for Myanmar, which often faces environmental challenges from violent storms, typhoons and earthquakes that have a devastating impact on the people and its economy. - Bernama
