Sports sector to be transformed with new policies: President

President Maithripala Sirisena says the county’s sports sector will be subjected to a wider transformation by introducing new policies.

Addressing the conclusion ceremony of 29th Mahaweli Sports Festival held in Galnewa Mahaweli Grounds on Sunday, the President said the Government was committed to provide opportunities for the youth to successfully face international competitions in the sports sector.

He noted that sports made a person healthy both physically and mentally and also built up discipline and restraint within individuals.

The President further said that the Government was committed to achieve justice to the general public based on past experiences. New policies and plans will be introduced to solve the problems of present communities, he added.

He promised to focus special attention on solving the problems faced by the residents in Mahaweli colonies. The President said he expected to meet the people in Mahaweli zones individually and discuss their burning issues.

During the ceremony, the President distributed certificates and awards for the winners of the sports festival.

Mahaweli “B” Zone won the President’s Championship awards with 93 points. “C” Zone became the runner up with 65 points and the “Walawa” Zone secured the 3rd place with 56 points.

Newly-appointed Minister of Sports Dayasiri Jayasekara and Minister Arjuna Ranatunga also participated in the occasion.