Disaster resilience essential to achieving sustainable development

21 Jan


THE COVID-19 crisis demonstrates the need to integrate the Myanmar Sustainable Development Plan (2018-2030) the Union Government is implementing as part of efforts to build a democratic federal Union. 


The pandemic has alerted us to make our sustainable development targets more attainable. 


In this regard, disaster risk reduction will be playing a crucial role in delivering sustainable development goals


I encourage local authorities and investors to pursue risk-informed development and invest in resilience. 


As the Union Government continues to provide a better situation, to develop policy and legal frameworks for investments, the projects need to be in line with the rules and regulations of government policies. 


When it comes to planning projects, the budget should also take into consideration the benefits of the local people.


Besides, we need to fully understand the importance of disaster-proofing critical infrastructure and it is essential to avoid the disruption to important public services during disasters including extreme weather events. 


Our commitment is clear and straightforward. We are confident that we will succeed in integrated disaster risks management and disaster resilience in the post-COVID-19 era through cooperation and coordination with all partners. 


Now, the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement has laid down policies focusing on building a human society which are resilient to disasters.


Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Committee has carried out disaster reduction tasks after drawing a plan, and out of 32 priorities of the plan, 28 have been implemented. 


For economic recovery in the post-COVID-19 period, the Union Government has been implementing the COVID-19 Economic Relief Plan and is drawing the Myanmar Economic Resilience and Reform Plan-MERRP. 


As COVID-19 batters the world and its economy, and our economy as well, it’s time to rethink sustainable pathways for our country.


As the Union Government is cooperating with international and local non-governmental organizations with transparency, we believe that we can overcome the challenges in the post-COVID era. 


We would like to call on them to provide important inputs for future policy roadmaps to facilitate sustainable development by enhancing disaster resilience.