The Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP), in collaboration with Prathiba Media Network and the HNRDF Organization, and with the support of VRIDDHI, is implementing a project aimed at promoting interfaith harmony within the Malaiyaha community. As part of this initiative, VOPP organized a training workshop on interfaith harmony for Malaiyaha Hindu, Christian (Catholic and other Christian denominations) Sunday school children, as well as Malaiyaha Muslim children, in the Kalutara District.
The workshop was held on 10 January 2026 at a private hotel in Mathugama. A total of 52 children, representing various estates, regions, and Sunday schools, participated in the programme. The event commenced in a traditional and respectful manner with the lighting of the oil lamp, followed by religious observances from Hinduism and Christianity and blessings offered by religious leaders.
The primary objective of the workshop was to promote unity and mutual respect among Hindu, Christian, and Malaiyaha Muslim children, who will play a vital role in shaping the future of the Malaiyaha community. The programme aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and values necessary to work collectively, foster peaceful coexistence, and address the social challenges faced by their community. Strengthening mutual understanding and encouraging cooperation and collective action were central themes throughout the sessions.
Through interactive activities and group discussions, the resource persons highlighted the importance of interfaith harmony within the Malaiyaha context, the need for unity among Hindu and Christian communities living side by side, the positive outcomes of such unity, and the responsibility of Sunday school children in nurturing harmony and peaceful relationships. The children participated actively and enthusiastically, demonstrating strong interest and engagement throughout the workshop.
The training sessions were facilitated by Mr. Jeewarathnam Suresh, Executive Director of IPEN, and Mr. Anthony Jesudasan, Executive Director of VOPP. The programme received strong organizational support from Ms. Lavina Hasanthi, Program Director; Mr. Fransis Rajan, National Program Coordinator; and Mr. Yogasuji, District Coordinator of VOPP. In addition, Hindu and Christian Sunday school teachers and VOPP volunteers provided valuable assistance, contributing significantly to the successful implementation of the workshop.
