Aung Namaik mangrove forest declared protected area in Bago

THE Ministry of Natural Re­sources and Environmental Conservation has officially des­ignated the “Aung Namaik Pro­tected Mangrove Forest” under Sub-section(e) of the Section 6 of the 2018 Forest Law. This protected status was granted under Notification 42/2025, effec­tive from 30 April 2025 (4^th Wax­ing of Kason 1387 ME), covering a total area of 28,392 acres in Kawa Township, Bago District, Bago Region.

 

The designation aims to ensure the long-term sustaina­bility of mangrove ecosystems, protect biodiversity, act as a natural barrier against coastal erosion and cyclones, support the longevity of coastal areas and enable local communities to sustainably harvest marine resources such as fish, prawns and crabs. It will also help pre­vent saltwater intrusion into inland areas and enhance the effectiveness of mangrove forest management.

 

Through this designation, the Aung Namaik mangrove forest, which is home to tree species such as Bruguiera, Xy­locarpus, Avicennia, Sonneratia, Rhizophora and Excoecaria, will now be preserved. It also serves as a crucial breeding ground for various species of fish, prawns, molluscs and crabs and provides essential habitats for bird spe­cies such as herons, egrets, kingfishers, cormorants, terns and whimbrels.

 

The establishment of the protected area is expected to contribute to the socio-economic development of local communi­ties, enhance the stability of the marine ecosystem and provide natural protection against envi­ronmental hazards. — Ministry of Natural Resources and Envi­ronmental Conservation/KZL