Energy saving calls must be matched by action: Chamith Wijesundera

Colombo, March 27 (Daily Mirror) - Following recent calls by Minister Sunil Handunnetti urging the public to conserve energy, Kotte Municipal Councillor Chamith Wijesundera said that such appeals must be matched by personal examples to be truly effective.

Commenting on recent remarks by Sunil Handunnetti, Wijesundera said such appeals are both timely and necessary amid rising fuel costs and ongoing financial challenges.

However, he said that consistency in public life is equally important. He pointed out that the use of high-fuel-consuming vehicles, such as a Toyota Land Cruiser Sahara V8, raises questions about whether public messaging on conservation is being reinforced by personal conduct.

"In periods of national difficulty, leadership is not only about policy direction but also about example. Public confidence is strengthened when those in positions of authority demonstrate the same discipline and responsibility they ask of citizens. Aligning words with actions helps build trust and reinforces the credibility of important national messages.

"As Sri Lanka continues to encourage energy efficiency and sustainability, it is essential that all stakeholders, particularly public figures, reflect these values in both speech and practice," the councillor said.