Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has stressed that a nation's true progress lies in the spiritual and moral values of its people rather than physical development alone, while reaffirming government commitment to preserving Sri Lanka's religious and cultural heritage.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has called for greater emphasis on spiritual development and moral values as essential drivers of national progress. Speaking at the unveiling of a newly constructed metal Samadhi Buddha Statue at Kongoda Sri Gangarama Purana Maha Viharaya in Remunagoda, Kalutara South, the Prime Minister argued that genuine advancement cannot be measured by infrastructure alone. She noted that modern society faces challenges requiring spiritual peace and restraint amid rapid social transformations.

The Prime Minister described the statue installation as a meaningful initiative for the local Buddhist community, highlighting that its construction was made possible through metal donations from residents. The project exemplifies collaborative efforts to strengthen spiritual infrastructure at grassroots level.

The government has committed to comprehensive heritage preservation efforts across the country. The Ministry of Buddhasasana and Central Cultural Fund are reportedly implementing conservation programmes targeting ancient murals, paintings, stone inscriptions and stupas in historic temples. Additionally, rural temples are receiving expanded financial and technical assistance for infrastructure improvements.

Dr. Amarasuriya emphasised that heritage preservation extends beyond maintaining physical structures to safeguarding Sri Lanka's national identity and moral foundation. She stressed the importance of educating younger generations about historical significance and protecting archaeological sites for posterity. According to the Prime Minister, the government's vision encompasses building an independent, fair and harmonious society anchored in strong spiritual values alongside economic and physical development.