The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing the centenary celebration of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Angoda, Sri Lanka’s premier institution in the field of mental health held on February 3 at the institute’s auditorium.
At the commencement of the event, the Prime Minister also viewed a special photographic exhibition organized to mark the centenary, as well as an exhibition showcasing creative works by recipients of mental health services.
Addressing the event, the Prime Minister emphasized that while appreciating the institute’s century-long commitment and service, it is vital to further expand community-based mental health services in the future.
Mental health is not a field that can be confined solely to medical treatment. We must build a broader and more humane system of care by integrating multiple external sectors. In particular, we carry a responsibility to change the stigmatizing attitudes with which society carries on the recipients of mental health services.
Commending the exceptional dedication of hospital staff, the Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of acting with greater sensitivity and compassion towards patients.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Hansaka Wijayamuni stated that the Government has taken steps to update Sri Lanka’s Mental Health Act, which is over one hundred years old, to suit contemporary needs.
He noted that the initial draft of the proposed legislation has already been submitted to relevant institutions, as well as to the Cabinet and Parliament, and that public consultations will be conducted in the future regarding the new Act.
The Deputy Minister further explained that the proposed legislation places special emphasis on protecting patient rights while incorporating modern medical and scientific practices into the legal framework.
The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Urban Development Eranga Gunasekara, Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media Dr. Anil Jasinghe, World Health Organization Representative in Sri Lanka Dr. Rajesh Sambhajirao Pandav, Director of the National Institute of Mental Health Dr. Dhammika Alahapperuma, along with invited guests, medical professionals, artists, and civil society representatives.
