Govt committed to protecting religious & cultural heritage – PM

May 22, 2025 at 1:27 PM

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya says the government is committed to safeguarding religious and cultural heritage.

The PM made these remarks while attending a ceremony of donating tablet computers containing electronic versions of the Tripitaka and printed Tripitaka texts to 60 university Bhikkhus.

According to the PM’s Office, the event was organized by the Buddha Sravaka Caring Centre in Padukka under the concept of Venerable Kurupita Dhammananda Thera at the premises of Temple Trees yesterday. 

During the occasion, PM Harini Amarasuriya presented the tablets with the electronic Tripitaka to the Maha Sangha.

Addressing the event, the PM said that the initiatives such as this are profoundly timely and essential for the preservation of the Dhamma.

“The current rapid technological advancements pose a challenge to the safeguarding of spiritual traditions. However, this initiative clearly demonstrates how technology and innovation can be meaningfully utilized to teach, preserve, and promote Buddhist philosophy.

“The Tripitaka is not merely a collection of religious texts, it forms the ethical, philosophical, and spiritual foundation of Buddhist discipline. Granting young Bhikkhus quicker access to the sacred texts strengthens intergenerational bonds within the monastic order. Moreover, it provides opportunities for studying, internalizing, and integrating the Dhamma into life while aligning with today’s world,” she said.

PM Amarasuriya further said that the government is committed to supporting such projects and to protecting religious and cultural heritage, adding that supporting institutions like the Buddha Shravaka Caring Centre is considered essential for the ethical and spiritual well-being of our society.

“The care, rest, protection, respect, and service provided by the Buddha Shravaka Caring Centre to ailing Bhikkhus is a prime example of the highest ideals of our nation. I extend my gratitude to everyone who contributed to this meritorious endeavour. Whether in material form or through spiritual encouragement, the support offered reflects the generosity and collective spirit of our community,” she added. 

The event was graced by Venerable Kutawatte Saranankara in Malaysia, Venerable Kadahingala Dhammarakkhita Thera, and the Maha Sangha and devotees from Malaysia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. (Newswire)