on 31 October 2025, A special discussion was organized by Mr. Rajendran, Principal of Galle / Thalangaha Saraswathi Tamil Vidyalaya, to explore the key issues faced by the Malaiyaha community in the Galle District and to welcome the Hon. Pradeepan Sundralingam, Deputy Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure, to the Malaiyaha areas of Galle District.
The discussion was by Hon. Pradeepan Sundralingam, Deputy Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure and Member of Parliament for Galle District, Mr. Thilanga, another Member of Parliament for Galle District, along with Mr. Sivanesan, Assistant Secretary to the Deputy Minister, Mr. Ajith Kumar, Media Secretary, local political representatives, and civil society members.
Representatives from the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) were specially invited to participate in this important event. The VOPP delegation included:
Mr. Anthony Jesudasan – Executive Director, Mrs. Lavina Hasanthi – Program Director, Mr. Dilan – District Action Committee Chairperson
Ms. P. Jeyamary – District Action Committee Secretary, Mr. Kawishka – Chairperson, Malaiyaha Youth Coalition, Selected youth and community representatives. In addition, Mr. Manuel represented Caritas SED Galle, and several civil society representatives also participated in the discussion.
The dialogue focused on the educational challenges faced by Malaiyaha children, as well as land, housing, and infrastructure issues affecting the community in Galle and the Southern Province.
Speaking on behalf of VOPP, Mr. Kawishka presented the realities and difficulties faced by Malaiyaha families in the Galle District — particularly on education, land ownership, housing, and social issues. Other estate representatives also shared their personal experiences and the struggles of their communities.
Hon. Deputy Minister Pradeepan Sundralingam listened carefully to all the issues raised and expressed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by the Malaiyaha people living in Galle and the Southern Province, noting that their situation is distinct from that of Malaiyaha communities in other regions. The Minister promised to work toward sustainable solutions for problems related to education, land, and housing, as well as to address the growing issue of drug addiction among youth.
As part of the event, VOPP also took the opportunity to recognize the creative talents of Malaiyaha students. Following the Leadership Training Programs organized for Malaiyaha school students last year and earlier this year, VOPP compiled students’ writings into a special publication.
Among the contributors were five students from Thalangaha Saraswathi Tamil Vidyalaya.
During the program, these students were presented with a copy of the publication through the hands of the Hon. Deputy Minister, marking a proud and inspiring moment for the students and their school.
The Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) extends heartfelt appreciation to Principal Mr. Rajendran, Hon. Deputy Minister Pradeepan Sundralingam, Mr. Thilanga MP, and all the officials, partners, and participants who contributed to this meaningful discussion and continue to support the empowerment of the Malaiyaha community.
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