As the previous Myanmar calendar year: 1386 ME came to a close, the powerful earthquake that struck on 28 March caused tremendous devastation. The violent tremours in Mandalay brought severe damage and destruction to countless lives, homes and cherished possessions of many people across the region.
We feel deep sorrow and heartfelt sympathy for the people who were affected by this disaster. At the same time, we are encouraged to see how unitedly everyone worked together to carry out rescue and relief efforts. We are also informed that recovery and rebuilding efforts have already begun.
To those who had to face the hardship and danger of this natural disaster, we urge you to stay strong and not lose heart. May you hold firmly to the spirit of “If we fall, we rise again”, face the situation with courage and resilience and strive toward recovery. We sincerely hope you all rise again with strength and determination.
Therefore, as we now step into this auspicious early period of the new Myanmar year 1387 ME, we earnestly wish that throughout this coming year:
• All citizens of Myanmar may remain safe from all forms of danger, especially natural disasters. This is our foremost and heartfelt wish.
• May everyone be blessed with good physical health and peace of mind.
• May your sincere aspirations be fulfilled and may all your wishes be realised. This is our heartfelt prayer.
Furthermore, we express our wishes that the entire Republic of the Union of Myanmar will:
• Enjoy nationwide peace, stability and harmonious prosperity and continue progressing toward a modern and developed state.
• May the Union remain firm, enduring and everlasting.
On behalf of the Myanmar Press Council, we also wish to express that:
• We will continue striving to ensure that the media industry develops and grows more than ever before.
• Moreover, in service of the nation and the people, we will do our utmost within the media sector to carry out our responsibilities and duties to the best of our ability.
Dr Tin Tun Oo
Chairman
Myanmar Press Council