Work with dedication says official

All Sri Lankans must perform duties and responsibilities with dedication, Parliamentary Affairs President's Secretary Kumarasiri Hettige said.

“If we want to be a debt free person to the country, we should perform duties and responsibilities with dedication. We are in a country where a leader proved this by fulfilling his duties and responsibilities,” he said.

Speaking as the Chief Guest at an event to launch the second phase of the renovation of the 400 - year - old Maraba Rajamahavihara in Akuressa, Hettige said: “We can see an awakening in Buddhism after the end of terrorism in the country. We should pave this to a meaningful path.”

He also emphasised the importance of unity among the Buddhist community.

Hettige said the present is the mirror of the prehistoric people.

“We should protect our ancient heritage. When ancient heritage becomes lively, it brightens the present as well,” he said.

Hettige said religious places have been developed on the President's instructions.

“We should commend the support of the private sector and donors for this task. It is the duty of everyone to protect our ancient history. A wicked person cannot understand the value of a valuable thing . He knows only its price. We need a country where people can understand the price and value of ancient things. We should protect our heritage by joining these people,” he said.

“We would have not been able to discuss these things if President Mahinda Rajapaksa did not protect the country from terrorism. We should not forget that terrorists killed monks, attacked religious places and tried to wipe out the country's Buddhist heritage. The President gave the political leadership to end terrorism and safeguard this country,” Hettige said.

“We should not forget that some leaders ruled this country while betraying the nation. Our heroes, soldiers, police and all other military forces sacrificed their lives. The encouragement of monks was immense,” he said.

Businessman Jayarathne Hettiarachchi who also attended the event said it is the duty of all to protect viharayas.

“There have been many challenges to the survival of Buddhism. Some NGOs are trying to convert Buddhists in rural areas. For this, they use financial and other means. We should be aware of these. We also need a programme to protect bhikkus, viharayas and others who associate with temples. We should commend the Maha Sanghas efforts to create a better society,” he said.

Chief incumbent of the Maraba Raja Maha Vihara Ven Bengamuwe Chandraloka Thera, Viharaya Development Committee chairman and Sri Jayawardenapura Hospital former chairperson N W E Wijewatte, Pradeshiya Sabha member and the Viharaya's Dayaka Sabha president Anura Wijesinghe also spoke.

The Chief Guests laid foundation stones to erect a fence around the over four centuries old bo tree on the invitation of the Viharaya's Development Committee and Maraba Wijewantha Foundation patron S W E Wijewantha.