The Prime Minister made these remarks today (26) while attending the ceremonial unveiling of the pinnacle (Kotha) of the newly constructed stupa and the opening of the new monks’ quarters at the Mahigarjanaramaya Temple.
Prior to the ceremony, the Prime Minister paid respects to senior members of the Maha Sangha, including Venerable Dr. Omalpe Sobitha Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Sri Bodhiraja Dharmayathanaya in Embilipitiya and the Bodhiraja Centres in Singapore and Malaysia. She also held discussions with the senior monks on environmental cleanliness, dengue prevention programmes being implemented in schools, and efforts to strengthen moral values among children.
The Prime Minister later unveiled the pinnacle of the newly built stupa and offered the first floral tribute.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Amarasuriya said she considered it a great privilege to participate in the meritorious event marking the dedication of the new monks’ quarters and the completion of the stupa.
She noted that developing religious institutions is not merely about constructing buildings but about creating spaces that bring people together, revive moral values, and strengthen the spiritual foundation of society. She stressed that preserving the close relationship between temples and communities is a shared responsibility.
The Prime Minister observed that although rapid technological advancement and increasingly busy lifestyles have weakened the traditional bond between people and religious institutions, individuals still turn to their faith during times of hardship. She emphasised that true national progress cannot be measured solely by economic growth, but also by the moral strength and values of its people.
She commended the Maha Sangha and religious institutions for their continued contribution to fostering ethical values and social harmony.
Dr. Amarasuriya also revealed that archaeological excavations have commenced in areas such as Anuradhapura, Tissamaharama, and Yapahuwa to further study Sri Lanka’s ancient Buddhist knowledge systems and the cultural heritage associated with them.
The event was attended by senior members of the Maha Sangha, including Venerable Gonaduwe Gunananda Thero, Venerable Yatawara Gnanasiri Thero, Venerable Bataduwe Siriwimala Thero, and the Chief Incumbent of Mahigarjanaramaya Temple.
Also present were Members of Parliament Nilanthi Kottahachchi and Nandana Padmakumara, representatives of the local council, devotees, and a large gathering of the public.
