“Economic Benefits Must Reach the People”: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake Launches National Restoration Program in Matale

By Lions Roar Aotearoa Political Bureau

MATALE, SRI LANKA (Wednesday, January 28, 2026) — President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that the country’s economic dividends flow directly to the citizens, stating that the primary responsibility of any government is the welfare of its people.

The President made these remarks yesterday afternoon (January 27) at the Kawatayamuna Purana Rajamaha Viharaya in Matale, while inaugurating the district-level phase of the ‘Godanagamu Adhishtanaye Sanhinda’ (Rebuilding in the Spirit of Harmony) national program.

🏛️ Rebuilding After Cyclone Ditva

The national program is dedicated to reconstructing religious shrines and places of worship across the island that were devastated by the recent Cyclone Ditva.

State Responsibility: The President emphasized that the government holds the ultimate responsibility for protecting and restoring all religious sites, regardless of faith.
Village-Temple Synergy: He highlighted the need to re-establish the historic bond between the village and its religious institutions, which he described as the moral compass of the community.
Targeted Support: Beyond disaster recovery, a new initiative was announced to develop selected religious sites in rural areas that face significant economic and logistical hardships.

🌟 A “New Renaissance” for Values

President Dissanayake spoke passionately about the need for a holistic national development that transcends mere economic statistics.

“We must build a country that is not only economically advanced but also socially and culturally enriched. To bring back the moral values that are fading from our society, we need a ‘New Renaissance’ across all sectors.”

👥 Notable Attendees

The ceremony was attended by a high-level delegation of religious and political leaders, including:

Venerable Clergy: Chief Prelates from the Malwathu and Asgiri chapters representing the Matale district.
Cabinet Members: Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi (Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs) and Gamagedara Dissanayake (Deputy Minister).
Provincial Leadership: Professor S.B.S. Abayakoon (Governor of the Central Province).
Local Representatives: MPs Sunil Biyanwila, Dinesh Hemantha, and Deepthi Wasalage.

📊 Summary: ‘Godanagamu Adhishtanaye Sanhinda’ Program

Feature	Details
Primary Goal	Restore religious sites damaged by Cyclone Ditva.
Secondary Goal	Support underdeveloped rural shrines with state funds.
National Vision	Foster a “New Renaissance” of social and moral values.
Implementation	Collaborative effort between the Ministry of Buddhasasana and local authorities.