Mr. Arkam Ilyas, recently sworn in as the Deputy Minister of Energy, assumed duties today (24) at the Ministry of Energy.
Deputy Minister Arkam Ilyas is a graduate of the University of Moratuwa with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in Civil Engineering. He completed his primary education at Ilma College, Matara, and his higher education at Rahula College, Matara. Being an engineer by profession, he is a member of the Sri Lanka Institute of Engineers and the Society of Structural Engineers Sri Lanka. He is also the first Muslim MP elected to Parliament from the Matara District through a public vote. In addition, he serves as the Weligama Electoral Organizer of the National People’s Power party.
Energy Minister Eng. Kumara Jayakody congratulated the Deputy Minister, wishing him courage and strength to achieve common goals of the government, which go beyond personal ambitions or objectives in relation to the energy sector. The Minister highlighted that the Ministry of Energy plays important role in both the lives of the people of the country and the development of the country, and praised the Deputy Minister, an engineer, a young MP, and a young man with a good understanding of the energy sector- its needs, challenges, goals and especially the government’s energy policies- for being entrusted with this important responsibility.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister Arkam Ilyas appreciated the work carried out by the Minister of Energy so far and expressed that he looks forward to supporting him to the best of his capacities in the future. He also mentioned he is ready to work dedicatedly for the development of the Ministry of Energy.
Matara District MPs Lal Premanath, Ajantha Gammaddage, Gampaha District MP Ruwan Mapalagama, Secretary to the Ministry of Energy Prof. Udayanga Hemapala, senior officials of the Ministry and senior officials from the institutions under its purview were present at this event.