Empowering Change: Voice of the Plantation People Organization's Commitment to the Malaiyaha Community in Matara

In a recent field visit to the vulnerable plantation estates of the Matara District, the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP), under the leadership of Executive Director Mr. Anthony Jesudasan, engaged in a series of meaningful discussions with the Malaiyaha Tamil community. Accompanying him were Program Director Mrs. Lavina Hasanthi, National Program Officer Mr. Franzis Raajan, Field Manager Mr. Anton Wanaththaiya, and a group of dedicated volunteers.

This visit was more than a routine engagement—it was a vital opportunity to hear firsthand about the current challenges facing the Malaiyaha people, particularly concerning their living conditions, education, and health. The VOPP team’s primary focus was to understand the depth of these issues and to collaboratively explore solutions that align with the organization’s broader mission to advocate for the rights and well-being of this historically marginalized community.

During the discussions, community members expressed their overwhelming support for the efforts led by VOPP. Their solidarity and determination were clear, with a shared commitment to work together in advancing the rights of the Malaiyaha people. The visit not only deepened the connection between VOPP and the community but also strengthened the resolve to accelerate advocacy efforts and initiatives aimed at improving living standards, ensuring educational opportunities, and addressing critical health concerns.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in VOPP's ongoing campaign to uplift the Malaiyaha community, recognizing their unique identity and advocating for the systemic changes needed to ensure their rightful place in Sri Lanka's social and economic fabric. The unity and collective vision emerging from these discussions will serve as a powerful driving force behind future actions to promote justice, dignity, and equality for the plantation people.

The journey towards meaningful change continues, but with the unwavering support of the Malaiyaha people and the commitment of VOPP, a more equitable future is on the horizon.

Swiss Agricultural Journalist Ms. Susanne Sigrist Meets with Voice of the Plantation People Organization in Sri Lanka

We are excited to share that Ms. Susanne Sigrist, an esteemed agricultural journalist for the Swiss farmer newspaper Schweizer Bauer, is currently visiting Sri Lanka. During her visit, Ms. Sigrist met with key leaders of the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) on Friday, August 23, 2024, at the VOPP Coordination Office in Negombo.

Present at the meeting were Mr. Anthony Jesudasan, Executive Director, Mrs. Lavina Hasanthi, Program Director, and Mr. Francis Raajan, National Program Officer of VOPP. They were joined by Mr. Aruna Shantha, contributing to a comprehensive discussion on the current situation of the Malaiyaha Tamil community, a historically marginalized group in Sri Lanka.

The conversation centered on the life conditions of the Malaiyaha people, highlighting the challenges they face, especially in terms of wages and living standards. Ms. Sigrist, with her deep expertise in agriculture and rural communities, was particularly interested in understanding the socio-economic dynamics within the plantation sector and how VOPP's work is striving to address these critical issues.

The dialogue was insightful, shedding light on the persistent struggles of the Malaiyaha Tamil community while exploring avenues for greater international awareness and support. We are grateful to Ms. Sigrist for her interest in our work and the plight of the plantation workers in Sri Lanka.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to collaborate

and raise awareness on these crucial issues.

Empowering Plantation Communities: Focus Group Discussion by Voice of the Plantation People Organization in Matara District

On July 22, 2024, the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) successfully conducted a pivotal Focus Group Discussion at Halpanthenna Village and the EW Division of Ensalwatta Estate in the Matara District. The event, facilitated by Mr. Anton Wanaththaiya, Field Manager of VOPP, brought together community members to discuss key issues affecting their lives, including education, healthcare, and the vital role of women in leadership.

The meeting created a platform for plantation workers to openly express the challenges they face in their day-to-day lives. Participants shared insights into their living conditions, highlighting the need for improved educational opportunities and better access to healthcare services. These issues are particularly significant in plantation communities, whereaccess to essential services often remains limited.

One of the major focal points of the discussion was the importance of fostering women’s leadership in the community. The participants recognized the crucial role women play in the development of plantation communities, not only within their households but also as leaders advocating for social change. VOPP continues to encourage and support initiatives that promote gender equality and empower women to take on leadership roles in addressing local challenges.

This focus group discussion is part of VOPP's broader efforts to amplify the voices of plantation workers and create meaningful change through grassroots dialogue and action. By engaging directly with the community, VOPP is better able to understand their specific needs and work towards sustainable solutions that enhance the well-being of the Malaiyaha Tamil community.

As VOPP moves forward, these discussions will continue to inform the organization’s strategies in addressing the socio-economic disparities faced by plantation workers in Sri Lanka. Empowering these

communities through such dialogues is a crucial step in advocating for their rights and improving their quality of life.

Voice of the Plantation People Organization Conducts Photo voice Workshop on Malaiyaha Community Food Security in Deniyaya

The Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP), in collaboration with the Colombo Urban Lab, successfully conducted a Photovoice workshop to address the food security situation of the Malaiyaha (plantation) community in Deniyaya, located in the Matara District. This initiative, held on June 23, 2024, was a key step in raising awareness of the challenges faced by the Malaiyaha community in terms of food security, nutrition, and economic stability.

Research Background: Insights into Food Security

Before the workshop, a comprehensive research study was conducted from March to May 2024 in Deniyaya to examine food security, dietary patterns, and nutrition within the Malaiyaha community. The research highlighted critical issues such as limited access to nutritious food, fluctuating food prices, and the overall economic vulnerability of the plantation workers and their families.

Photovoice Workshop: Empowering the Community

The Photovoice workshop utilized photography as a powerful tool to capture and communicate the lived experiences of the Malaiyaha community in relation to food security. Participants, many of whom are plantation workers, were encouraged to use photography to document their daily challenges in securing adequate and nutritious food. This participatory approach not only gave a voice to the community but also created a visual narrative that underscores the economic hardships and health risks they face. 

The photographs taken during the workshop offer a vivid portrayal of the realities on the ground. They reveal the struggle for access to healthy food, the impact of fluctuating incomes, and the coping mechanisms the community employs to meet their nutritional needs. These images serve as a lens through which external audiences can better understand the deep-rooted socio-economic issues within the Malaiyaha community.

Addressing Economic Vulnerabilities

The photos and stories generated through this initiative provide valuable insights into the economic situation of the Malaiyaha people. They expose how low wages, seasonal employment, and lack of financial security exacerbate food insecurity. By bringing these challenges to light, the VOPP and its partners aim to push for actionable solutions that address both short-term needs and long-term sustainable development for the community.

A Step Towards Change

The Photovoice workshop held in Deniyaya is an important part of a larger effort to bring attention to the plight of the Malaiyaha Tamil community in Sri Lanka. Through this initiative, the Voice of the Plantation People Organization continues its commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of plantation workers, ensuring that their voices are heard in the national conversation on food security and socio-economic equity.

The findings and visuals from this project will be shared with policymakers, development agencies, and civil society organizations to drive collective action in support of the Malaiyaha community’s right to food security, economic stability, and improved living conditions.