In recent days, a series of awareness meetings were successfully conducted across several estates in the Matara District to educate estate communities about:
* The current status of the Malaiyaha community’s land issues
* Possible legal and policy solutions
* The existing legal framework
* The active role community members can play in addressing these challenges.
11.02.2026 – Sambodi Watta, Kotapola.
12.02.2026 – Ensalwatta ST Division, Deniyaya.
15.02.2026 – Hendford Estate, Deniyaya.
Community members gathered to discuss land ownership challenges and the ongoing delay in receiving legal deeds for allocated lands. Participants raised serious concerns about overcrowded living conditions and the absence of secure land tenure, particularly for families allocated only seven perches of land without official permits. Discussions highlighted the social and family tensions caused by two or three families being forced to live together in old and extremely small line rooms, underscoring the urgent need for durable, rights-based housing solutions.
The meetings were conducted by Mr. Anton Wanatthiyya, Field Manager of the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP), together with volunteer activists.
During the discussions:
* Community members openly shared their land-related struggles.
* Particular concern was expressed regarding families who have received only seven perches of land without legal deeds or official documentation.
* Participants emphasized the urgent need for long-term, legally secure, and rights-based solutions.
