The Hon. Rohitha Abeygunawardhana

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, we debate the Microfinance and Credit Regulatory Authority Bill. Such legislation is needed to regulate and to protect the most vulnerable, regardless of which government enacts it. But it must be implemented effectively; otherwise it becomes just another law. We have seen laws pass without real execution.

¶ 02 I also wish to note this is the Ramadan period for our Muslim citizens. While Muslims worldwide fast with devotion, we witnessed grievous developments abroad, including attacks in Iran during Ramadan, with many deaths, including children. The Government must state its position clearly—do we condemn such attacks?

¶ 03 There are serious risks to Sri Lanka if Middle East tensions escalate. Nearly a million Sri Lankan workers are in the region, supporting families back home. I received a call from a Qatar Airways staff member whose family feared for their lives amid uncertainties. We must be prepared to protect our citizens and, if necessary, repatriate them. Recall how during COVID‑19 our then‑Government evacuated students from Wuhan; a similar preparedness is needed now.

¶ 04 If this conflict widens, we could face shortages of fuel and gas, leading to electricity crises—the very triggers that can bring any government down. We must develop storage, pipelines, and Trincomalee oil facilities as the President mentioned, and prepare proactively.

¶ 05 Despite past opposition to projects like the Hambantota Port, today that very port can store imported gas. Likewise, Norochcholai, Colombo Port City and other infrastructure once opposed are now national assets. Let us avoid reducing our country to a mere enclave; instead, strengthen energy security and prepare for global shocks. We stand ready to support measures ensuring national resilience. Thank you.