The Minister made these remarks while attending the national celebration of World No Tobacco Day 2026 as the chief guest at the Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo on June 15. The event was organized under the leadership of Dr. Ananda Ratnayake, Chairman of the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA).
Addressing the gathering, Minister Gamage emphasized that one of the foremost responsibilities of responsible adults is to show future generations a path free from tobacco and alcohol use.
“If society lacks discipline, we cannot guide our children in the right direction. Tobacco use destroys not only the life of the user but also the lives of loved ones who care for and trust them. If someone close to you is addicted to tobacco or alcohol, do not be afraid to speak out about the serious health risks and help them break free from this harmful habit,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni, who also attended the event, reaffirmed the Sri Lankan government's commitment to creating a “Tobacco-Free Generation.”
“Protecting young people from tobacco and emerging nicotine products is a national responsibility. Most tobacco users begin their addiction during adolescence. Therefore, preventing youth from taking up smoking at an early stage remains the most effective strategy for controlling non-communicable diseases such as cancer and heart disease,” he said.
Dr. Wijemuni added that the government is closely monitoring tobacco industry tactics and will continue expanding media literacy initiatives while strictly enforcing tobacco control laws.
The event was also attended by Dr. Memo Takeuchi, World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to Sri Lanka, along with senior ministry officials and representatives from the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol.
