by Hafizur Rahman
The Chief Minister of Rakhine State, Htain Lin, met with Islamic religious leaders on 15 January in Man Zi Village of Sittwe Township, according to state authorities.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister said religious leaders hold respected positions within their communities and asked them to guide residents on issues related to daily life. He encouraged religious leaders to promote children’s education, raise awareness about health, and support cleanliness in villages and internally displaced persons camps.
With the dry season underway, he also urged religious leaders to speak about fire safety during gatherings at religious schools and community events, warning of increased risks of fire accidents during this period.
Government activities and assistance
State authorities informed the religious leaders that the Rakhine State Government is working to improve education, healthcare, and transportation in the area. Following the meeting, food items were distributed to community members as donations.
Later the same day, the Chief Minister met members of the auxiliary fire brigade in Man Zi Village. He encouraged them, distributed food items, and observed healthcare services provided by doctors and nurses from the State Public Health Department.
Medical services were offered to residents of Man Zi Village, nearby villages, and internally displaced persons camps. Officials said the Chief Minister spoke with patients who came to receive treatment.
Visit to IDP camp
The Chief Minister also visited the Say Tha Mar Gyi internally displaced persons camp in Sittwe Township to inspect ongoing construction work. According to officials, the project includes the construction of 18 single houses, each measuring 45 feet by 30 feet, built with wooden posts, bamboo walls, and zinc sheet roofs.
He also inspected the installation of 18 tube wells intended to provide access to clean drinking water for displaced families living in the camp.
As of the latest update, no further details were provided regarding timelines for completion of the housing and water projects.
