Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa is hosting Sri Lankan Leopard Day 2026 in Colombo to bring together government officials, scientists, conservationists and youth to discuss strategies for protecting the endangered endemic subspecies.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa is hosting a national forum dedicated to Sri Lankan leopard conservation on Saturday in Colombo 7, drawing together policymakers, researchers, government representatives and civil society organisations to address threats facing the species. The event, scheduled from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at his office, aims to strengthen collaborative efforts around protecting the endemic subspecies found only in Sri Lanka.
The forum will examine key conservation challenges confronting the Sri Lankan leopard, including habitat fragmentation, snaring, poisoning, road fatalities and other forms of wildlife crime. Discussions are expected to centre on scientific research approaches, policy development and enhanced stakeholder coordination to ensure the species' long-term survival and ecological role in maintaining environmental balance.
A significant component of the event will involve engaging students and young conservation leaders through interactions with wildlife experts and scientists, with organisers seeking to build greater youth participation in biodiversity protection efforts. Premadasa has characterised leopard conservation as a national responsibility that extends beyond wildlife management to encompass broader ecosystem protection and sustainable development objectives. The gathering is expected to attract representatives from government agencies, universities, research institutions, diplomatic missions, environmental organisations and the private sector.
