The government has announced a Rs. 10 million allocation for the development of mosques in Gampaha District as part of the 42nd National Milad-un-Nabi celebrations, alongside a public engagement initiative aimed at fostering interfaith dialogue.
The Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs has announced a Rs. 10 million fund dedicated to improving Muslim places of worship across the Gampaha District. The development programme is being carried out jointly with the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs and forms part of the broader 42nd National Milad-un-Nabi State Festival celebrations.
Beyond infrastructure development, the government has introduced a complementary initiative called "Welcome to Our Mosque," designed to promote interfaith understanding and community cohesion. Under this programme, members of other religious communities are invited to visit mosques to gain firsthand knowledge of their cultural heritage, historical significance, and religious practices.
Minister Vijitha Herath has publicly endorsed both initiatives, framing them as efforts to strengthen mutual respect and goodwill among Sri Lanka's diverse population. According to reports, select mosques including the Periyamulla Jumma Masjid and Negombo Mosque will open their doors to the public starting from August 24, beginning at 9:30 a.m., to facilitate community participation in the reconciliation programme.
