Addressing the National Council for Disaster Management (NCDM) on 30 June 2026, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa urged Sri Lanka to adopt a unified, science-based and whole-of-government approach to climate change and disaster preparedness.

Speaking at a meeting chaired by the President, Premadasa stressed that climate resilience is a national priority that goes beyond political differences and requires collective action from all sectors.

He warned that Sri Lanka must prepare for increasing climate risks linked to the 2026–2027 El Niño cycle, which could bring severe droughts followed by heavy flooding described by scientists as “climate whiplash.” He said the country has a limited window to strengthen preparedness before these impacts occur.

Premadasa highlighted the need to shift from reacting to disasters to anticipatory governance, where decisions are guided by scientific forecasting, risk assessment, and early planning. He noted that recent disasters, including Cyclone Ditwah, show the importance of proactive preparation rather than post-disaster response.

He proposed several key priorities, including Strengthening water management and food security systems, Modernising early warning systems using impact-based forecasting, Improving disaster risk financing and emergency preparedness, Enhancing resilience in infrastructure, health, and energy systems, Establishing a possible National Climate Risk and Disaster Intelligence Centre

He also called for stronger coordination across government institutions, Parliament, the private sector, academia, and international partners, stating that climate resilience cannot be achieved by the government alone.

Premadasa further suggested the creation of a long-term Presidential White Paper on National Climate Resilience to ensure consistent policy direction across future governments.

Concluding his remarks, he emphasised that climate change affects all citizens equally, regardless of political affiliation, and called for unity in protecting lives and livelihoods.