Myanmar Declares Khokyun Mangrove Area as Protected Forest to Safeguard Biodiversity and Boost Disaster Resilience
Naypyidaw, The Gulf Today: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation (MoNREC) of Myanmar has officially declared 23,370 acres of land in Kyunsu Township, Myeik District, Taninthayi Region, as the Khokyun Protected Public Mangrove Forest, according to Notification 71/2025 issued on July 22, 2025. The declaration was made under the authority granted by Section 6(e) of the Forest Law enacted in 2018.
This move underscores the government’s commitment to conserving mangrove forest ecosystems, which are crucial for maintaining biodiversity, enhancing marine life, and acting as natural buffers against natural disasters such as cyclones and tidal surges.
MoNREC stated that the protected designation will help improve the overall management of mangrove areas by safeguarding vital habitats for bird species, supporting sustainable fishery ecosystems, and ensuring long-term access to seafood resources for local communities.
The Khokyun mangrove forest plays a key role in stabilizing coastal environments, preventing erosion, and serving as a carbon sink, thereby contributing to both climate mitigation and adaptation strategies. Its protection will also provide a strong foundation for ecological education and sustainable tourism development in the Taninthayi Region.
This designation marks a significant step forward in Myanmar’s environmental conservation efforts, reinforcing the nation’s pledge to protect its rich natural heritage and promote resilience in the face of growing environmental challenges.
