Myanmar
Map:
Flag:
This flag has been used since 2010, after a new constitution was ratified.
Language:
Burmese
Religion:
Buddhism is the most prevalent religion with 89.2% of the population. The rest of the population identify as Christian or Islamic.
Population:
About 54.3 million
Unique Animals:
The lesser mouse-deer is the world’s smallest hoofed animal. Some scientist think it’s an ancient ancestor with whales and dolphins because, when threatened, it can dive into the water and stay there for up to four minutes!
The dugong is a relative of the manatee, it is similarly a gentle giant and distressed in population numbers.
The dhole is a wild dog found throughout Myanmar. They are pack animals and like to snack on deer. However, there are only about 2,000 known dhole left in the world.
Special Foods:
Lephet Thoke (tea leaf salad) is made with fermented tea leaves, which are usually eaten as a dessert. However, as a salad, the sour leaves are mixed with cabbage, tomatoes, deep fried beans, nuts and peas, with a splash of garlic or chili oil.
Mohinga is often called Myanmar’s national dish. It is round noodles in a hearty herbal, fish and shallot based broth.
Cool Geography:
The Irrawaddy River system is a very important feature in Myanmar. The delta and plains in this system are vital to the country.
Geographically, it’s divided into lower and upper Myanmar. The coastal areas are considered lower Myanmar, while the country’s interior is considered upper Myanmar.
To the far south is there’s Mergui Archipelago, which comprises of over 800 islands.
Fun things to do:
Shwedagon Pagoda is a Buddhist structure and is one of the many pagodas to see in Myanmar. Monasteries and temples are also numerous.
Nyaung Oo Phee island with its crystal blue waters
Prayer:
I pray for peace in Myanmar as the country faces political tensions. I also pray for peace specifically among the Rohingya people who continue to be persecuted. I pray for all who are affected by the genocide that is taking place against the Rohingya people. Myanmar is a country in transition, so I pray that we can be a guiding light in this time, directing people to the One who heals and reconciles.
