Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa told the 2026 Asian Cultural Public Welfare Forum in Hong Kong on Friday that Asia must pursue modernisation without surrendering its civilizational identity, calling for technology and economic growth to be anchored in shared moral and cultural traditions.
Speaking at a forum drawing delegates from across the region, the former Sports Minister highlighted Asia’s growing weight in the global economy — projected to contribute about 60% of global GDP growth by 2030 — and posed what he described as “civilizational questions” about whether modernisation might erode identity, weaken values or damage the natural environment.
Drawing on Sri Lanka’s heritage, Rajapaksa pointed to the ancient “Tank, Stupa, Village and Temple” model of integrated rural development, which he said embodied a 2,000-year-old approach to sustainability and public welfare predating modern terminology. He credited his father, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, with translating that civilizational balance into modern policy during his administration.
“Mindful action is the way to endure. Carelessness is the road to failure,” he quoted from the Dhammapada, arguing that political leaders had a duty to protect “irreplaceable traditions and ecosystems” while embracing technological innovation.
The MP backed what he called “Public Welfare Innovation” through artificial intelligence, telemedicine and renewable energy, but cautioned that “technology without morality risks inequality and division.” He urged Asian nations to lead the next phase of global development “not only economically but also morally and culturally.”
The intervention is one of a series of overseas engagements Rajapaksa has used to reposition the SLPP’s voice in international forums while the party regroups domestically following its 2024 election defeat. His Hong Kong address coincides with recurring CIABOC, judicial and parliamentary scrutiny of Rajapaksa-era decisions back in Colombo, including the Yoshitha Rajapaksa money laundering trial and the Krrish project hearing scheduled for 29 May.
Source: Newswire.
