In Mongolia with a population of 3.2 million, there are a total of 116 people who are aged 100 years or older.  Of these centenarians, 102 are female with the oldest woman having just turned 112, according to data released by the National Statistics Office.

This is five less, however, than the number recorded at the same time last year.

The census was conducted on the occasion of the upcoming Lunar New Year or Year of the Pig, which is known locally as the White Moon and symbolises the start of Spring and the end of Winter.

According to the lunar calendar, the White Moon this year begins on February 5^th and is also regarded as traditional holiday where people pay their respects to their elders.  During the holiday, the government traditionally sends gifts to people aged 100 years or older.