Centenary Milestone: Sri Lanka to Expedite Modern Mental Health Act as National Institute Hits 100 Years
By Lions Roar Aotearoa (Diyatha News New Zealand) Health Desk
MULLERIYAWA, SRI LANKA — Thursday, February 5, 2026 — Marking a historic turning point for healthcare in the country, Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni has announced that the government is fast-tracking the introduction of a new Mental Health Act.
The announcement was made during the centenary celebrations of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)—formerly known as the Angoda Mental Hospital—which today marked 100 years of service to the nation.
1. Moving Beyond a Century-Old Policy
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Wijemuni highlighted a stark reality: Sri Lanka’s current legal framework regarding mental health is significantly outdated.
“Our mental health policy is nearly a hundred years old. While it has served its purpose, the service is now at a critical turning point,” the Deputy Minister stated. He emphasized that the time has come to modernize laws to reflect contemporary scientific understanding and to protect the rights of patients.
2. The Legislative Process Underway
The Deputy Minister confirmed that the modernization process is already in motion. Despite the complexities involved in drafting such a comprehensive bill, the preliminary drafts have been completed.
- Cabinet Review: The initial draft has been submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers for approval.
- Parliamentary Procedure: Once cleared by the Cabinet, the bill will be presented to Parliament.
- Public Consultation: In a move toward transparency, Dr. Wijemuni assured that the draft will be opened for public opinion to ensure the new law meets the needs of the citizens.
3. A New Era for Mental Healthcare
The proposed Act is expected to shift the focus from institutionalized care to community-based support and patient autonomy. By updating the law, the government aims to:
- Reduce Stigma: Encourage more citizens to seek help without fear of discrimination.
- Modernize Treatment: Integrate new psychological and psychiatric standards into the public health system.
- Protect Rights: Ensure that patients are treated with dignity and that legal safeguards are in place for their welfare.
4. Honoring 100 Years of Service
The centenary celebration at NIMH was not just a look at the future but a tribute to the thousands of healthcare professionals who have served within its walls since 1926. From its beginnings as an asylum to its current status as a premier research and treatment institute, the NIMH remains the backbone of mental healthcare in Sri Lanka.
