Sajith Premadasa to be bestowed Malwatta Chapter's high honours
Recognising his service to the Sasana, country, culture and people
The Venerable Karaka Sangha Sabha of the Siyam Maha Nikaya's Malwatta Chapter, headed by the most Venerable Thibotuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangalabhidana Mahanayake Thera, will bestow today the prestigious title of "Sasana Deepana Abimani Sri Lanka Janaranjana" on Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Housing, Construction and Cultural Affairs, Member of Parliament for the Hambanthota District and Deputy Leader of the United National Party. This is in recognition of his dedication to the Buddha Sasana and the culture and heritage of our country and to his commitment to the people of Sri Lanka, especially to the poor and the disadvantaged.
The Malwatta Chapter, along with the Asigiriya Chapter, constitutes the apex of the largest and oldest Buddhist Nikaya in Sri Lanka, the Siyam Maha Nikaya. The legendary history of the Malwatta Viharaya goes back to the sixteenth century. The Malwatta Viharaya, referred to in ancient usage and resorted to even today in formal documents and ceremonial occasions as the "UposathaPushparamadvaya", rose in prominence with its association with the religious revival under King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe. Today, the Viharaya enjoys the highest veneration and esteem of all Buddhists. The bestowing of this prestigious title, therefore, is indeed a recognition that Mr. Premadasa, enjoys the trust of the highest echelons of the Maha Sangha.
Mr. Premadasa, leads a new brand of politicians in Sri Lanka, suave and confident, well educated in prestigious educational institutions both here and abroad, modern in thinking, objective in outlook and he has been able to raise hopes among the people, during his political career, since the demise of his venerated father, President Ranasinghe Premadasa.
Sajith Premadasa's achievements for the people, since his assumption of duties as a Cabinet Minister in January 2015 have been phenomenal. His all-embracing "Shelter for All" programme in its many facets has reached all parts of the country, ensuring a livable and safe shelter, a higher quality of living and sustainable settlements.
In addition, the "Sasunata Aruna" programme launched to mark the 94th birth anniversary of his late father, is building "Chaithyas in Buddhist temples, which do not have a "Chaithya" at present with no financial burden on the State. Most recently, after assuming the additional portfolio of Cultural Affairs, he launched an accelerated programme for the construction of " Dhamma" school buildings, in Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic and Christian places of worship to impart religious education, especially among the young.
Today, Mr. Premadasa is perceived as change and hope of the future. The moulding of a good politician is not easy. Only by understanding reality and the needs of the common people, will he be able to create policies and strategies that will make their lives truly better. Mr. Premadasa possesses this remarkable quality. He has shown during the past few years, that he has the courage and the vision to stand up for what is right. He has also shown that he has confidence in truth and the strength of a character that is needed in politics of today.
Further, he has proved himself to be both an optimist and a realist. Being an optimist, he looks at the good in every difficulty. Being a realist, he recognises the contradictions for what they truly are and acts accordingly. These traits, linked together, have enabled him to shine in difficult times, because of his impeccable and truthful spirit. In addition, he has a deep trust in the people whom he serves, and respects their values and traditions. But most important, he has invested his time and effort totally in order to create what is worthy for his country.
The prestigious title and honour being bestowed on Sajith Premadasa, today, is therefore a high recognition of the emergence of a courageous protector of the Buddha Sasana, a promoter of the culture and heritage of our country and a dauntless leader who can kindle the hopes and aspirations of the people.
The writer is Former Secretary to the Ministry of Urban Development, Housing & Construction