Section 3 - Union, States and Local authority announcement for COVID-19 outbreak

Union Government of Myanmar

Date Location Key Description 1 May 2020 Nation-wide The Government of Myanmar confirmed the first batch of 96 Myanmar nationals returning from Incheon Airport in South Korea to Myanmar on a Myanmar Airways International (MAI) flight at 8:45 PM on 30 April 2020. The returnees will be in 21 days quarantine at a designated hotel.

3 May 2020 Nation-wide • The Union Government of Myanmar instructed to resume the express highway-bus services across different States and Regions by 17 May 2020. • The Union Government of Myanmar announced on 3 May 2020 the successful repatriation of 195 Myanmar citizens who were stranded in Japan.

4 May 2020 The Myanmar Embassy in Seoul, Korea announced on 4 May 2020 that repatriation of the second batch of 120 Myanmar people will be operated on 8 May 2020. 4 May 2020 The Central Committee of COVID-19 Prevention, Control and Treatment restated on 4 May 2020 that the Nay Pyi Taw based government officials returning from the COVID-19 impacted States and Regions must practice SWAB test and abide by the travel guidelines for government officials.

PRESIDENT OFFICE

Date Location Key Description 13 March 2020 President Office issued a statement of forming the National- level central committee for preventing and containing the COVID-19 led by State Counsellor. 13 March 2020 President Office announced the restriction of mass gatherings and public events including the traditional Thingyan water festival until the end of April.

26 March 2020 President office issued an internal letter to all Ministries, States and Regions government over the preparedness of COVID-19. The guidance is expected to include: 50% of the government workforce of all departments to work from home; work from home staff will be ready to take on new duties when necessary; reduce the number of outside visitor to the staff residences; avoid any travel outside the assigned areas; follow the instruction from MoHS. Confirmation of when those actions will apply across different Ministries and States and Regions government has yet to be received.

4 April 2020 Myanmar President Office announced that the government staff are not allowed ‘Domestic travel’ during Thingyan holidays, and urgent cases are the exceptional as of 4 April 2020. The government will compensate the leave days after the Covid-19 Pandemic.

28 April 2020 Nation-wide The Myanmar President Office announced on 28 April 2020 the formation of a Coordination Committee with the Ethnic- armed organizations on COVID-19 prevention, control and treatment, chaired by Dr. Tin Myo Win.

29 April 2020 The Myanmar President Office announced on 29 April 2020 the formation of an investigation committee regarding ‘the attack on the WHO Vehicle in Northern Rakhine State’ chaired by U Saw, Chairperson of the Pyithu Hlutaw Citizen Rights Parliamentary Committee.

1 May 2020 The Spokesperson for the Myanmar President Office confirmed that the Union Government instructed all government ministries to reallocate 200 million Kyats each into the ‘COVID-19 Response Fund’ in support of the Ministry of Health and Sports to fight against COVID-19.

Myanmar State Counselor Office

Date Location Key Description 24 March 2020 Requested people to remain calm and follow the advice from the health authorities on Covid-19.

30 March 2020 In line with Myanmar State Counselor Office’s instruction, Ministry of Health and Sports, Ministry of Transport and Communications and Techno-expert youth launched ‘Saw Saw Pyaw (Inform/Speak- out beforehand)’ mobile application(Android only) which is the ‘Self- Quarantine Information Platform’ for public. 1 April 2020 • The State Counselor reinforced that ’14 Days Quaratine’ are the important step to prevent the Covid-19 and to control the big outbreak in Myanmar as of 1 April 2020. • The State Counselor opened her Facebook account for the first time during the Covid-19 pandemic. Government spokesman U Zaw Htay shared that information on his Facebook account and said it was legitimate. 15 April 2020 The State Counsellor, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi participated in the video conferences of the Special ASEAN Summit and ASEAN +3 Summit on COVID-19. The Declaration and Joint Statement on COVID19 were adopted during each Special Summit. In the Declaration, among the agreed upon points were to provide appropriate assistance and support to the nationals of ASEAN Member States affected by the pandemic in each other’s country or in third countries; to take collective action in mitigating the economic and social impact from the pandemic; to remain committed to keeping ASEAN’s markets open for trade and investment and strengthening the resiliency and sustainability of regional supply chains, especially for food, commodities, medicines, medical and essential supplies.

23 April 2020 The National Central Committee on Prevention, Control and Treatment of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 had the 2nd meeting on 23 April 2020 and decided to extend the rules and directives issued by the Committee from 30 April 2020 to 15 May 2020.

5 May 2020 The Myanmar State Counsellor, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi had a video conference with the Chief Ministers for Kayin, Mon and Tanintharyii regarding the prevention of COVID-19 across the border areas and preparation of the quarantines centers those respective States and Region.

Yangon Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 17 March 2020 To all districts GAD Reinforce the restriction of mass gatherings and public at Yangon Region events including the traditional Thingyan water festival until the end of April. To close down all the cinema, KTV, message service, night club in Yangon region start from 17 March 2020.

24 March 2020 Yangon Region The High Court of Yangon Region announced that they will temporarily close all of the trials in prevention of the COVID- 19 as of 24 March.

25 March 2020 Yangon Region • Universities in Yangon Region announced the suspension of the ongoing exams due to the Covid- 19. • Shwe Dagon Pagoda’s Management Board announced that the opening hours will be reduced as 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM in Yangon Region. 27 March 2020 Yangon Region Yangon City Development Committee will close the ‘external visitors’ entry-permit’ to their headquarter office until further notice. However, one of their services ‘Construction Permits’ will operate online. 29 March 2020 Yangon Region Yangon Regional Government officially told that they won’t closed entry in/out to/from Yangon at the press conference of related matters regarding the Covid-19 as of 29 March.

Yangon International Airport (YIA) will restrict the public’s access to its terminal buildings in accordance with the Department of Civil Aviation and Ministry of Health and Sports. As of March 29 onwards, only air travelers with valid air tickets and staff on duty will be permitted to enter the airport premises, and those airport send-off or welcoming passengers will not be allowed to access the terminals.

Yangon Region • Eastern Yangon district-level authorities announced that 31 March all of the crowded markets including well-known Mingalar- 2020 Mon, Yuzana Plaza, Mingalar Zay, Shwe Mingalar Zay and Shwe Pyaesone Zay will be temporarily closed until 9 April 2020 to follow the instructions of MoHS to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

• Local administrators in Yangon Region announced that all hawkers and food stalls will be closed for an indefinite

period starting from 4 pm as of 31 March 2020.

1 April 2020 • The High Court of Yangon Region withdrew its 24 March 2020 announcement of temporarily close all of the trials to prevent the Covid-19. They will resume the trials as of 1 April 2020 to reduce the workload and trials. • Yangon Region Transport Authority announced that a six-day long Yangon-Coco Island round trip will 2 April 2020 temporarily suspend due to the Covid-19 as of 1 April 2020. • Head of Yangon Region Health Team under Ministry of Health and Sports requested to local people highlighting that ‘Please do not discriminate and behave negative manners for those who have been practicing either home or facility quarantines’ as they might run away due to the negative discriminatory actions. • One of the Housings in Mayangone Township, Yangon practiced the ‘Mini Lockdown’ with the local orders of their respective Ward Administrator. 3 April 2020 • Yangon Regional Working Committee for the Prevention and Controlling the Covid-19 requested an announcement to public to stay at home during the Water-Festival holidays will be in effect from 10 April to 19 April 2020. All of the Yangon Regional ‘General Administration Offices’ have to take action upon that announcement in their respective township-levels administration areas. • Yangon Chief Minister confirmed that the government will ensure that the food and safety for the Yangon residents through collaborative work with the ‘Yangon Police Forces’ and ‘Merchants Associations’ during the Thingyan periods ’10 Days Home Stay’. 17 April 2020 Yangon Region • The Yangon Regional Government issued an announcement on 17 April, stating that respective township authorities were instructed to impose a ‘Curfew’ order for people starting from 18 April not to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs to prevent COVID- 19 across the region. 22 April 2020 Yangon Region • The Yangon Region Minister for Social Affairs said the Phaunggyi Medical Centre in Hlegu Township has been prepared to treat up to 2000 COVID-19 positive patients. • The Yangon Regional Government has allowed the container trucks for daytime operation due to the curfew order in the region during the Covid-19 pandemic. 23 April 2020 Yangon Region The General Administration Department of the Yangon Region Government reinforced the ‘Curfew’ order in the region to be extended from 18 April 2020 to 18 June 2020, and people are not allowed to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs.

24 April 2020 Yangon • The Myanmar Department of Civil Aviation released International an announcement on 24 April 2020 notifying all Airport international airlines that its March 29 temporary measures which restricts the operation of all airlines operating international flight services to and from the Yangon International Airport have been extended until 15 May 2020. • The Myanmar Department of Civil Aviation said on 25 April 2020 that it will carry out relief flights in May for Myanmar citizens stranded in Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Bangkok, and India due to COVID-19.

Yangon Region The Yangon Economic University announced the temporary postponement for ‘Diplomas and Master Degrees Courses’ until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bago Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 24 March 2020 Bago Region Reinforce the Ministry of Health and Sport’s announcements regarding the COVID19. 20 April 2020 Bago Region The Bago Regional Government issued a ‘Curfew’ order on 18 April to prevent the COVID-19 across the region that people are not allowed to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs.

18 April 2020 • The Bago Regional Government announced on 18 April that all factories and offices will be closed until the end of April to control the spread of COVID-19. • Bago Region Industrial Zone Management Committee released a statement that the factories in the region will suspend its operation until 30 April.

4 May 2020 The Chair of the Pyay District level Vehicles Supervising Committee, Bago Region announced on 4 May 2020 the maximum capacity allowed for vehicles stating express highway buses for 25 individuals per vehicle, mini buses for 18 individuals per vehicle and light trucks for 7 individuals per vehicle to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Mandalay Regional Government

Date Location Key Description

25 March 2020 Mandalay Region • Reinforce the restriction of mass gatherings and public events including the traditional Thingyan water festival until the end of April. • Instructed tea houses and restaurants to switch Takeaway order only. • Temporarily will stop ‘Regional Hluttaw Meetings’, and close the Mandalay Palace, the largest jade market in Mandalay, and ceremonies including wedding, trainings and workshops until further notice.

27 March 2020 Mandalay Region Mandalay Regional Government announced that ‘National Kandawgyi Botanical Gardens and December Farm’ in Pyin-Oo- Lwin, Mandalay Region will close until further notice.

28 March 2020 Mandalay Region Mandalay City Development Committee confirmed that all markets in Mandalay will be closed except the essential foodstuffs and medicine shops as of 28 March.

29 March 2020 Mandalay Region Mandalay Regional Government announced that all different religious related buildings including Buddhism, Islam, Hindu, Christian, Chinese Temple entrances will strictly be approved only with the health certificate issued within 72 hr as of 29 March 2020. 2 April 2020 Mandalay Region The Chair of Myanmar Livestock Federation in Mandalay Region guaranteed that production of eggs and chickens will continue despite the pandemic. There will not be shortages of eggs or chickens due to the spread of COVID-19 in the country.

7 April 2020 Mandalay Region Mandalay Regional Government confirmed that the government will help raise K one billion for the grassroot-level public without regular income during its ‘restriction order’ periods. The government will collect and document the grassroot-level public lists who don’t have regular income to provide the basic essential food-kits per household as of 7 April 2020.

18 April 2020 Mandalay Region • The Mandalay Regional Government issued a ‘Curfew’ order to prevent COVID-19 across the region, stating as of 18 April 2020 until further notice, people are not allowed to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs. • The Mandalay Regional Government extended its order to close-down of all factories, hotels, motels, guest houses, clothing shops and express bus-services until the end of April.

21 April 2020 Mandalay Region The Mandalay Regional Covid-19 Control and Emergency Response Committee announced on 21 April that those who come from the Covid-19 impacted states and regions to the region must practice ’21 Days Quarantine’ and ‘one week stay at home’ to prevent the Covid-19.

Mandalay Region • The Mayor of the Mandalay Region introduced ‘Mandalay Smart Pay’ mobile wallet and online payment application in day-to-day shopping to avoid using cash in the Region in order to control the spread of COVID-19. The application can be downloaded for both Android & iOS at https://www.mandalaysmartpay.com/download/

29 April 2020 The Mandalay Regional Government announced a statement on 29 April 2020 regarding the extension of closing all types of public transportation, hotels, motels, guest houses, clothing shops and other industries until 15 May 2020. However, the essential food industries and manufacturers, drug stores, pharmaceutical industries, private hospitals, gas stations, electricity suppliers and banks are instructed to open. 30 April 2020 Mandalay Region • The Mandalay Regional Government confirmed on 30 April 2020 that Mandalay will start operating COVID-19 tests from the last week of May. • The Mandalay Regional Health Department alerted the public to be cautious of ‘Dengue’ since Myingyan township in Mandalay has got the highest rate of Dengue in the country.

Magway Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 21 April 2020 Magway Region The Magway Regional Government announced on 21 April alerting the immediate close of telephone sim card shops and betel nut shops across the region to prevent the Covid-19 spread.

5 May 2020 Magway Region The Magway Region Government gave permission to 200 factories out of over 1300 factories in the region to resume their operations after the inspection team has conducted the mandatory inspection work.

Ayeyarwaddy Regional Government

Date Location Key Description

24 March 2020 Ayeyarwaddy • Reinforce the restriction of mass gatherings and Region public events including the traditional Thingyan Water Festival until the end of April. To close down all the cinema, KTV, workshops, events and trainings until further notice. • Announce the public to follow the instructions and guidelines published by the Ministry of Health and Sport (MOHS). • Advised the returnees to practice the community- based facility quarantine in line with the MOHS’s advices.

25 March 2020 Ayeyarwaddy Closed all beaches, hotels, motels, guest houses and famous Region pagodas in line with the Regional Hluttaw’s decisions.

30 March 2020 Ayeyarwaddy Ayeywarwaddy Regional Government reinforced that those Region who refused/run-away to practice ‘community-based facility quarantine’ will face actions with the ‘Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases Law’ and ‘Natural Disasters Management Law’ as of 30 March 2020.

7 April 2020 Ayeyarwaddy The Chair of Ayeyarwaddy Regional Parliament announced Region the next term of ‘Ayeywarwaddy Regional Parliament Meetings’ will be temporarily suspended as of 7 April 2020.

8 April 2020 Ayeyareaddy The Ayeyarwaddy Regional Government announced all Region kinds of Thingyan Celebrations are now allowed during ‘Myanmar New Year Week’ including village and ward levels ‘Palm Leaves made Mandat’ and ‘Going around with Vehicles’ are also prohibited as of 8 April 2020.

19 April 2020 Ayeyarwaddy • The Ayeyarwaddy Regional Government issued a Region ‘Curfew’ order to prevent the COVID-19 across the region, stating that starting from 18 April people are not allowed to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs. • The Ayeyarwaddy Regional Government announced on 19 April that all express bus-services will be closed until the end of April. • The Ayeyarwaddy Regional Government announced on 19 April that all express bus-services and access to religious sites will remain closed until the end of April.

21 April 2020 Ayeyarwaddy The Ayeyarwaddy Regional Coivd-19 Control and Emergency Region Response Committee announced that ‘only five individuals per vehicle’ will be allowed to enter the region as of 21 April 2020.

23 April 2020 Ayeyarwaddy The General Administration Department of the Region Ayeyarwaddy Region Government reinforced the ‘Curfew’ order in the region to be extended from 18 April 2020 to 18 June 2020, and people are not allowed to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs.

Ayeyarwaddy The Ayeyarwaddy Regional Government alerted travelers Region coming from the COVID-19 impacted areas to bring travel and health clearance letters from respective authorities in order to get the entry permit to the region.

30 April 2020 Ayeyarwaddy • The Ayeyarwaddy Regional level Transport and Region Communications Department confirmed on 30 April 2020 that the schedule of the Railway Transport, To/From Pathein-Hinthada-KyanKhin will be temporarily suspended until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. • The Ayeywarwaddy Regional Committee on Prevention, Control and Treatment on COVID- 19 reinforced the extension of all the instructed local orders in the region until 15 May 2020 to prevent the spread of the disease.

Ayeyawaddy The Ayeyawady Region Government gave permission to 9 Region factories in Pathein Township to resume their operations after the inspection team has conducted the mandatory inspection work.

Sagaing Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 27 March 2020 Sagaing Region Sagaing Regional Government confirmed that they are going to arrange and practice the ‘Facility Quarantine’ for the returnees in the schools, universities, and institutes’ compound as they are not sure people will certainly follow the ‘Home Quarantine’ in Sagaing Regions as of 27 March 2020.

• Sagaing Regional Industry and Quality Control 31 March 2020 Department Director confirmed that the department are jointly cooperating with the businessmen from respective industry zones and food and basic necessities shortages will not be occurred. • Sagaing Regional Municipal Minister announced that the government will apply the budgets which firstly plan for Water Festival Celebrations into the Covid-19 prevention budgets. The Sagaing Regional Authorities will also submit about the budget’s relocation plan to the Union Government. • Sagaing Regional Authorities announced that those who spreading and posting fake news and announcements on Social Media will face actions in line with respective communications law as of 31 March 2020 to prevent the local instability due to the misinformation.

5 April 2020 Sagaing Regional Government announced that all of the highway express buses to be temporarily suspended to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 as of 5 April 2020. Only shops selling medicine and essential goods will be allowed to open. 8 April 2020 Sagaing Regional Government withdrew its Regional orders regarding to close-down all of the hotels, motels and guest houses and restrictions entry permit for the Highway Buses as of 8 April 2020.

18 April 2020 Sagaing Region The Sagaing Regional Government issued a ‘Curfew’ order on 18 April to prevent the COVID-19 across the region that people are not allowed to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs.

5 May 2020 Sagaing Region The Minister for Transport and Communications, Sagaing Region confirmed on 5 May 2020 that the ferries from Monywa City cruising in upper Chindwin River have been allowed to resume their services.

Mon Regional Government

Date Location Key Description

23 March 2020 Mon State • Announce the public to follow the instructions and guidelines published by the Ministry of Health and Sport (MOHS). • Advised the returnees to practice the community- based facility quarantine in line with the MOHS’s advices. • Reinforce the guidelines for ‘Quarantine Facility Centers’ by the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism. 30 March 2020 General Administrator in Mon State confirmed that lead- organizer who tried to celebrate religious ceremonies that intends to create a big crowd with around 100 people is being sued with the ‘Natural Disaster Management Law’ by the township-level police forces as of 30 March 2020.

26 April 2020 Mon State • The Mon State Government announced on 26 April 2020 that medical check-up process will be operated in Mawlamyaing, Thanphyuzayat and Kyite-Hto for those who enter the State. • The Administrator of Mawlamyaing confirmed the set-up of seven community based facility quarantine centres in capital city Mawlamyine of Mon State to keep returnees from Thailand in 21 days quarantine.

30 April 2020 Mon State The Mon State Government reinforced the extension of closing all shops apart from essential markets and food shops until 15 May 2020.

Chin Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 25 March 2020 Chin State - Restriction of mass gathering organized by government departments at different levels. - Suspension of all workshops, public events including religious events which planned to conduct at hotel, motels and guest house within the state until further notice. - Temporarily close down of private schools and hostel under the instruction of Ministry of Education. - The government’s university, basic education schools and nursery schools need to be followed in accordance with respective Ministries’ guidelines. - Close the religious related social events, karaoke centers, commercial events. - Temporarily suspend the daily/weekly Church Prayer Times and meetings with a big crowd until further notice. - To arrange the funereal ceremony with a very minimum amount of people. - To follow the awareness and preparation tips by the MOHS to prevent the COVID19. - To report and inform the health officers if you find out the people who recently came back from aboard.

Rakhine Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 26 March 2020 Rakhine State The Rakhine State-level Parliamentary meetings will stop as of 24 March 2020 until further notice. 6 April 2020 Rakhine State Rakhine State-level Hotels and Tourism Department confirmed that they have instructed to close all of the beaches located in Thandwe and Gwa districts including ‘Ngapali’ beach in Rakhine State until 30 April 2020 to prevent the Covid-19.

Shan Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 24 March 2020 Shan State - Restriction of mass gathering organized by government departments at different levels. - Suspension of all workshops, public events including religious events which planned to conduct at hotel, motels and guest house within the state until further notice. - Temporarily close the teashops, karaoke centers, Bar and Night Clubs, Night markets and commercial events. - Authorities of Muse in Northern Shan State announced that ‘weekly markets’ and ‘night markets’ will be closed until 30 April 2020 to help prevent the Covid-19 as those markets assembly large crowd who came from different areas of the northern Shan as of 31 March 2020. 27 March 2020 Southern Shan - Shan State Government confirmed that ‘Shan-State Close-down’ will not be initiated. - Local administrators in Southern Shan State confirmed that significant places and pagodas have been temporarily closed to prevent spreading of Covid-19 in Kalaw Township, Shan State (South) as of 27 March 2020.

1 April 2020 Shan State - Muse District-level Administrator in Northern Shan State confirmed that Chinese Government closed the ‘Entry Permit’ of all national/international people at the Muse Border Gate. Except Muse-licensed Trade- truck Drivers as of 1 April 2020. - Domestic airline Air Thanlwin announced that it will suspend flights to Myitkyina, Kachin State, and the cities of Tachileik, Kyaingtong and Lashio in the Shan State. The suspension will continue until April 16, the company said in an announcement.

24 April 2020 Shan State The Shan State Government announced on 24 April that the temporary closure of hotels, motels, inns and guests house in the State will be extended until 15 May 2020 to control the spread of COVID-19. 4 May 2020 The Muse District Officials in Northern Shan State said the authorities have discussed with the Hluttaw representatives, donors and businesspersons regarding the prevention of COVID-19 in Muse which include 21 days quarantine for returnees from China, transportation plan for them, negotiation with the Chinese officials for cargo in Muse border region and Myanmar-China trade situation.

Kachin Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 20 March 2020 Kachin State - Restriction of mass gathering organized by government departments - Suspension of all workshops, public events including religious events which planned to conduct at hotel, motels and guest house in the state - Close the cinema - Suspended all promotion activities - Close down of university, basic education schools, private schools and hostel under the instruction of Ministry of Education - Close the pre-school operate under the department of Social Welfare - Avoidance of spreading any rumors related to virus - Follow the instruction provided by the MoHS Contact to the closet GAD and health units if found suspected patient 18 April 2020 Kachin State The Kachin State Government issued a ‘Curfew’ order on 18 April to prevent the COVID-19 across the state that people are not allowed to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs. 29 April 2020 Kachin State The Kachin state government has allowed the entry of migrant workers who lost their jobs in China due to the COVID- 19 pandemic and 3000 people have returned as of 27 April 2020. The returnees are processed at the Lwegel and Kanpite Tee border gates.

1 May 2020 Kachin State The Kachin State Government announced that the government has received a total of 5000 returnees from China as of 2 May 2020.

Kayin Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 27 March 2020 Kayin State Kayin State Minister for Social Affairs requested public not to provide ‘social pressures’ to the returnees from Thailand, and they are investigating and testing in line with the MoHS’s instructions and guidelines to against the COVID-19. 18 April 2020 Kayin State The Kayin State Government issued a ‘Curfew’ order on 18 April to prevent the COVID-19 across the state that people are not allowed to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs. 27 April 2020 Kayin State The Karen State’s authorities confirmed the set-up of ten quarantine centers to to keep returnees from Thailand in 21 days quarantine.

3 May 2020 Kayin State The Myawaddy District Administrator announced on 3 May 2020 that a total of 54 Myanmar migrant workers from Thailand returned through the Myanmar-Thai Friendship Bridge (2).

Kayah Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 22 March 2020 Kayar State - Restriction of mass gathering organized by government departments - Suspension of all workshops, public events including religious events which planned to conduct at hotel, motels and guest house within the state. - Close the cinema - Suspended all promotion activities - Close down of university, basic education schools, private schools and hostel under the instruction of Ministry of Education - Close the pre-school operate under the department of Social Welfare - Avoidance of spreading any rumors related to virus - Follow the instruction provided by the MoHS - Contact to the closet GAD and health units if found suspected patient.

1 April 2020 Kayah State Kayah State Government announced all of the daily markets could open only 3 days per week as of 1 April 2020.

7 April 2020 Kayah State The Kayah State Government formed the State-level ‘Covid-19 Control and Emergency Response Committee’ to prevent and help control the spread of the Covid-19 in the Kayah State. The Chief Minister of the Kayah State is responsible as the Chair of that Committee.

8 April 2020 Kayah State Kayah State Government withdrew its Regional orders regarding to close-down all of the hotels, motels and guest houses and restrictions entry permit for the Highway Buses as of 8 April 2020.

19 April 2020 Kayah State The Kayah State Government announced on 19 April that ’21 Days Quarantine’ must practice for those who recently returned from other States and Regions.

Kayah State The Kayah State Government announced extending its curfew until 15 May 2020.

Tanintharyii Regional Government

Date Location Key Description 18 April 2020 Tanintharyii The Tanintharyii Regional Government issued a ‘Curfew’ order on 18 April to prevent the COVID-19 across the region that people are not allowed to leave home within 22:00-04:00 hrs.

21 April 2020 Tanintharyii The Spokesperson of Tanintharyi Region announced that as of 21 April 2020, those who enter the region must practice ’21 Days Quarantine’ and ‘one week stay at home’ to prevent the Covid- 19.

Naypyidaw Municipal Council

Date Location Key Description 18 March 2020 Naypyidaw - Restriction of mass gathering organized by government departments - Suspension of all workshops, public events including religious events which planned to conduct at hotel, motels and guest house within the municipal council area - Close the cinema - Suspended all promotion activities - Close down of university, basic education schools, private schools and hostel under the instruction of Ministry of Education - Close the pre-school operate under the department of Social Welfare - Avoidance of spreading any rumors related to virus - Follow the instruction provided by the MoHS - Contact to the closet GAD and health units if found suspected patient.

19 April 2020 Nay Pyi Taw The Nay Pyi Taw Council issued an order on 19 April 2020 Council alerting those coming to Nay Pyi Taw from other areas may, if necessary, require community based facility quarantine.

28 April 2020 Nay Pyi Taw The Nay Pyi Taw Municipal Council announced the entry Council permission to those who need to work and liaise with respective government officials and ministries to the Council area. Those entering the Council area need to submit recommendation letters from respective authorities and have to practice health check-up at the entrance gate starting from 30 April 2020.

Department of Social Welfare

Date Location Key Description 18 March Karen State- to Reinforce the restriction of mass gatherings and meeting, festival, 2020 all NGO and public events including the traditional Thingyan water festival until CSO the end of April

27 March Nation-wide Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement officially 2020 announced that those who failed to follow the directives of the authorities to practice the ‘community facility quarantine’ can face action under the Section-2 (b) of the ‘Natural Disaster Management Law’ as of 26 March. 7 April 2020 Nation-wide Director General from the Department of Social Welfare under Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement launched the ‘Counselling Call Centers’ across different States and Regions including Nay Pyi Taw Municipal Council to help support the mental health of the public under quarantine practices. The Social Welfare Department released the mobile numbers and the services will be available from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM as daily basics. 15 April 2020 • Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Dr Win Myat Aye had a video conference with Deputy Miniter and Director Generals to coordinate the protection, containment and response to COVID-19 concerning IDP camps across the nation.The Union Minister said they have prepared COVID- 19 response plans for IDP camps in Kachin State, Shan State, Rakhine State and Kayin State and they have approval from the National Central Committee on Protection, Containment and Treatment of COVID-19. The Minister also urged to give daily reports on COVID-19 measures in the IDP camps. • Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement announced the contact numbers for people in community based facility quarantine and other types of quarantine to seek motivation services. Information related with thoese who receive consolation will be kept confidential.

17 April 2020 • The Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement notified their action plans to prevent, contain and treat COVID-19 in IDP camps across the nation. (Announcement attached) • The Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, Dr. Win Myat Aye said the Ministry is cooperating with relevant departments and organizations to implement protection, containment and response towards COVID-19 in IDP camps across the nation, distributing soap bars and masks to IDP camps in Kachin, Kayin, Chin, Rakhine and Shan States and offering free counselling services through 4 telecom operators.

19 April 2020 The Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, Dr. Win Myat Aye had a video conference on 19 April with the Rakhine State Chief Minister, Deputy Minister and local government officials and discussed the prevention and response plans at the IDP camps, preparations for qurarantine sites and hopitals and coordination plans.

20 April 2020 The Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, Dr. Win Myat Aye attended the National Disaster Management Working Committee yesterday and discussed prevention, containment and response plans for COVID-19 in the upcoming monsoon season.

29 April 2020 • The Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement alerted the public to follow the COVID-19 guidelines, stated for the public, to avoid spreading fake news which can cause the public panic and to avoid increasing prices on essential goods and supplies. • The Myanmar Labour Attaché Office – Thailand introduced an online formhttps://forms.gle/kbxdZLLVbmDM7NYJ9 for the migrant workers in Thailand to submit the detailed personal information for returning to Myanmar.

1 May 2020 The Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement announced on 1 May 2020 that the temporary closure of all preschools and nurseries across the country will be extended until 15 May 2020 in order to protect children from COVID-19.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Date Location Key Description 25 April 2020 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on 25 April 2020 on extension of the precautionary restriction measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic regarding the temporary entry restrictions for visitors. (Announcement attached)

Department of Religious Affairs

Date Location Key Description 27 March 2020 Nation-wide The Department of Religious Affairs confirmed that ‘Annual monastic examinations’ will be postponed and closed all of the religious ceremonies across the country which decided by the State-level Sangha Maha Nayak Committee (a government-appointed body of high-ranking Buddhist monks) due to the COVID19 until further notice.

Ministry of Labor, Immigration and Population

Date Location Key Description 27 March 2020 Nation-wide Union Minister for Labor, Immigration and Population said who returned recently from other countries and failed to follow the guideline to practice ‘home facility quarantine’ by the MoHS will have to face actions in accordance with the ‘Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases Law’ as of 26 March.

19 April 2020 Nation wide • The Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population issued an announcement on 19 April informing the inspection of factories, workshops and departments at the respective areas from 20 to 30 April 2020 before they re-open with the approval of inspection team. (Announcement attached) • The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labor, Immigration and Population reinforced that factories and workplaces in respective industrial zones across the country will undergo mandatory inspection between 20 and 30 April to resume their operations, in line with the regulations and guidelines on Covid-19 issued by the Ministry of Health and Sports.

28 April 2020 The Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population announced on 28 April 2020 that the government will provide 40 percent of the social security benefits to insured workers from factories and workshops which have been temporarily suspended for inspection during the COVID- 19 pandemic.

29 April 2020 The Permanent Secretary for Labour, Immigration and Population said on 29 April 2020 that over 60,000 workers across the country have lost their jobs due to factory shutdowns in consequence of order cancellation and disruption of raw material supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

3 May 2020 The Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population released an announcement on 3 May 2020 announcing a list of services and businesses categorized as essential for the public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ministry of Transport and Communications

Date Location Key Description 27 March 2020 Some areas in Union Minister for Transport and Communications stated Northern Rakhine that they couldn’t confirmed yet when the restoration of the State internet access in Northern Rakhine State will be taken while responding to the CSOs’ and political parties’ request to restore the intent access during the COVID19 pandemic in Rakhie State.

13 April 2020 Department of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Transport and Communications issued an announcement on 11 April extending the air travel ban to Myanmar until 30 April 2020.

Ministry of Hotels and Tourism

Date Location Key Description 29 April 2020 Nation-wide The Director General of the Basic Education Department under the Ministry of Education confirmed that schools in Myanmar will be open in June if the COVID-19 situation in the country could be mitigated by May.

Ministry of Planning, Finance and Industry

Date Location Key Description 27 April 2020 The Ministry of Planning, Finance and Industry issued a comprehensive economic stimulus plan (CERP) on 27 April, 2020 that consists of 7 goals, 10 strategies, 36 action plans and 76 actions which cover a range of emergency fiscal and monetary measures to seek and fight against the economic impact by COVID-19.

The Financial Regulatory Department under the Ministry of Planning, Finance, and Industry has extended its instruction on the temporary suspension of microfinance institutions until 15 May 2020 as a precautionary measure against COVID-19.

Ministry of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations

Date Location Key Description 5 May 2020 The Union Minister for Investment and Foreign Economic Relations joined the 4th meeting of the Economic Working Committee on 5 May 2020 in Nay Pyi Taw which discussed to address the impacts of COVID-19 on Myanmar’s economy and situation of businesses in the post COVID-19.

Ministry of Commerce

Date Location Key Description 27 March 2020 Nation-wide The Department of Trade under the Ministry of Commerce will provide online services for export and import licenses as of 1 April, aiming to reduce person-to-person contacts to against the COVID-19. 1 April 2020 Nation-wide The Ministry of Commerce announced that it will fully adopt online procedures for issuing import and export permits for more than 100 types of goods as part of efforts to implement social distancing to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Myanmar as of 1 April 2020. companies will be able to fill in application forms at the website www.myanmartrade.com.mm.

8 April 2020 Ministry of Commerce announced that the all licensed rice exporters have to submit and sell to designated Rice-Storage Centers in order to reserve ‘Country Rice’ to ensure the domestic food security during the Covid-19 pandemic.

22 April 2020 The Union Minister for the Ministry of Commerce confirmed on 22 April that the government will spend 38 billion Myanmar Kyats for the State’s reserve rice and oil purchase plan during the Covid-19 pandemic.

27 April 2020 The Ministry of Commerce announced on 27 April 2020 that in view of the COVID-19 situation, online application process will be practiced until the end of July for extension of Exporter/Importer Registration Certificates.

Ministry of Hotels and Tourism

Date Location Key Description 21 April 2020 The Directorate of Hotels and Tourism under the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism has announced that it will defer collecting of rents of the leased hotels and joint venture hotels for six months beginning from 1 April to 30 September.

Township Municipal Unit

Date Location Key Description 18 March 2020 Lashio city On 13 March 2020, President Office announced the restriction of mass gatherings and public events including the traditional Thingyan water festival until the end of April. For this reason, suspension of all the mass gathering (including wedding ceremony) at the government owned and private own venue within the Larshio municipal area.

Township Level-GAD

Date Location Key Description 13 March 2020 South Okkalar Reiterate the president office statement on 13 March, and township, Yangon reinforce the restriction of mass gatherings, events and Region festival until the end of April. Further announcement will be make when necessary.

UN/ International Organizations

Date Location Key Description 20 April 2020 WHO Staff Killed: The World Health Organization confirmed the death of Mr Pyae Sone Win Maung and wounding of a health worker on 21 April. Mr Pyae Sone Win Maung was shot while driving a marked UN vehicle from Sittwe to Yangon transporting COVID19 surveillance samples in support of the Ministry of Health and Sports. The attack occurred in Minbya Township in Rakhine State on the evening of Monday, 20 April 2020. No investigation has been announced to determine who fired at the UN vehicle.

23 April 2020 • An urgent statement signed by 283 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) was released on 23 April urging the independent investigation for the attack on the WHO vehicle in Rakhine State and requesting the Tatmataw and Ethnic Armed Organizations to respect and follow the UN Secretary General’s appeal for an immediate global ceasefire. (Statement attached) • The United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary General for Children and Armed Conflict, Virginia Gamba, called on the ceasefire in Myanmar on 23 April 2020, requesting all parties to conflict in Myanmar to urgently implement all necessary measures to protect children from hostilities, as recent numbers show a deeply concerning increase in child casualties in the first months of 2020. The Special Representative urged all parties in Myanmar to act on the Secretary-General’s global call for ceasefire and put an effective halt to hostilities, as the world is facing a joint battle against Covid-19. • Unicef Myanmar launched a helpline for children and caregivers which provides mental health and psychosocial support services as some children may be feeling isolated in their confinement during school closures and social distancing measures in place. You could call 09 9611 40000 during Monday to Friday (9:00am to 9:00pm) to speak to a trained professional

29 April 2020 • The United Nations in Myanmar released a statement, welcoming the establishment of an investigation committee on the attack on a UN vehicle in Minbya Township in Rakhine state on 20 April, which resulted in the death of a World Health Organization employee. • The European Union in Myanmar announced on 29 April 2020 that its #MyanKu Emergency Fund will support factory workers in the garment, textile and footwear sector who have lost their jobs due to the economic effects of COVID-19. Myan Ku will disburse cash transfers through mobile payments to vulnerable workers. Applications are open and can be accessed at https://bit.ly/2Ykged5