COLOMBO : Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya on Saturday,July 18 commended the Ceylon Moor Ladies Union (CMLU) for its remarkable 90 years of dedicated service to Sri Lanka, describing the organisation as a shining example of compassion, women’s empowerment, and community leadership that has transformed countless lives across generations.
The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing the 90th Anniversary Celebration of the Ceylon Moor Ladies Union, held on Saturday ,July (18) at the Hotel Ramada, Colombo.
Congratulating the Ceylon Moor Ladies Union on reaching this significant milestone, the Prime Minister noted that few voluntary organisations have sustained nine decades of continuous service while remaining true to their founding mission and adapting to the changing needs of society. She said the occasion was not merely a celebration of an institution’s history, but a tribute to the children whose lives have been transformed, the women whose dedication has sustained the organisation, and the communities that have been strengthened through its work.
Emphasising that the progress of a nation is closely linked to the meaningful participation of women, Dr. Amarasuriya stated that empowering women to participate equally in education, the economy, community leadership, and public life is fundamental to sustainable development, stronger families, and a more resilient society. She reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to realise her full potential through equal access to quality education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and leadership.
The Prime Minister further highlighted that effective welfare extends beyond immediate assistance and must empower individuals through education, skills development, protection, and opportunities that enable them to build secure and dignified lives. She reiterated the Government’s commitment to strengthening welfare systems that protect vulnerable communities while creating pathways for empowerment and independence.
Recognising the invaluable role of civil society, Dr. Amarasuriya observed that while governments formulate policies and deliver public services, many social challenges require the compassion, commitment, and volunteer spirit of community organisations. She noted that partnerships between government institutions and organisations such as the Ceylon Moor Ladies Union contribute significantly to improving child protection, strengthening families, and building more resilient communities.
Paying tribute to generations of members of the Ceylon Moor Ladies Union, the Prime Minister praised their unwavering commitment to nurturing young women of character, instilling resilience and confidence, and fostering leadership grounded in compassion and responsibility. She observed that these qualities are essential as Sri Lanka continues its journey towards sustainable development, inclusive growth, and national reconciliation.
During the event, the commemorative souvenir marking the 90th Anniversary of the Ceylon Moor Ladies Union was officially launched and presented to Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya. Commemorative gifts were also exchanged to mark the occasion.The event was attended by Deputy Speaker Dr. Rizvie Salih, Minister of Women and Child Affairs Ms. Saroja Savithri Paulraj, Governor of the Western Province Hanif Yousuf, Mayor of Colombo Vraie Cally Balthazar, ambassadors, office-bearers and members of the Ceylon Moor Ladies Union, distinguished guests, children, and invitees.
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