Union Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Dr Win Myat Aye held a virtual meeting with leprosy sufferers on 6 October via videoconferencing on providing assistance to them. During the virtual meeting, the Union Minister said his ministry has put in a great deal of effort to work for social welfare of the people. He stressed that democracy and the rule of law is essential to protect rights of individuals and to promote democracy. He highlighted that appropriate policies, laws and strategies are needed to efficiently promote the welfare of children, women, elderly people and the disabled.

He said that leprosy sufferers and people from their environment need to increase mental strength of the leprosy sufferers. He continued that the Ministry will work for the welfare of leprosy sufferers and provide necessary support to them without discrimination.

Myanmar Leprosy Sufferers Association Chairperson U Soe Win expressed thanks to the officials for helping them and not discriminating against them. Currently, the association, in cooperation with the ministries concerned, has formed township branches. He said thanks to the officials and well-wishers for supporting them even amidst COVID-19 crisis. Deputy Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement U Soe Aung said that the next batch of support will also be provided for the needy sufferers who did not get the support this time amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

The virtual meeting was also participated by the Permanent Secretary of the Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement, the directors general of relevant departments, other relevant officials from the Ministry, and representatives from Public Health Department, the Leprosy Mission (Myanmar), Myanmar Leprosy Sufferers Association, and other relevant organizations.—MNA 

(Translated by Maung Maung Swe)