On 18th and 19th September 2025, the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) carried out a field visit to meet the Malaiyaha community living in several estates in the Kalutara District. The two-day visit covered Muhammadi Estate, Kudagaga Private Estate, Arambahena Estate, Pelanda Estate, and Askaweli Estate, where the team directly engaged with families and observed their day-to-day struggles.
The program was organized by Mr. K. Yogasuji, VOPP’s Kalutara District Coordinator, and led by Anthony Jesudasan, Executive Director of VOPP. The visiting team also included Ms. Lavina Hasanthi (Program Director), Mr. Franzis Raajna (National Program Officer), Mr. Anton Wanaththaiyaa (Field Manager), Ms. Nanda Gowry (Teaching Advisor / volunteer of VOPP)
Challenges Faced by the Community
The team witnessed the harsh realities of life in these estates. Many families still live in old and cramped line rooms, lacking safety and dignity. Residents highlighted ongoing challenges such as:
Housing insecurity – dilapidated living spaces without long-term guarantees of land or housing rights.
Poor transport facilities – limiting access to schools, hospitals, and workplaces.
Educational barriers – children face significant obstacles in accessing quality education.
Poverty and lack of opportunities – leaving families vulnerable and struggling for basic needs.
For many residents, this visit was a historic moment. Numerous people shared that this was the first time a team had come to listen to their voices and difficulties directly. They expressed both their pain over current conditions and their strong hope for a better future.
VOPP’s Commitment : The VOPP team expressed deep solidarity with the Malaiyaha people of Kalutara. As an organization working to secure land rights, social justice, and equal opportunities for the Malaiyaha community, VOPP reaffirmed its dedication to amplifying their voices at district, national, and international levels.
This visit is not only a fact-finding mission but also a promise of partnership. VOPP will continue to work hand in hand with the people of these estates to develop housing, improve infrastructure, strengthen education, and uphold human dignity.
The Kalutara visit stands as a powerful reminder that listening to the people is the first step toward meaningful change — and VOPP remains committed to ensuring that the hopes of the Malaiyaha community become a reality.
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