Ravunawa: Choose words that heal, not hands that harm

Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Penioni Ravunawa has urged parents and guardians to reject violence as a form of discipline, saying true love and guidance can never come through harm.

In a statement, Mr Ravunawa, a father of three, said that while love and discipline must go hand in hand, violence only leaves lasting scars.

“As a father of three adults and as Assistant Minister for Health, I believe that love and discipline must go hand in hand—but never through violence,” he said.
“Corporal punishment may seem to correct behaviour in the moment, but it leaves deeper wounds that affect a child’s confidence, emotional wellbeing, and trust.”

He said genuine discipline should nurture and empower rather than instill fear.

“True discipline builds, it doesn’t break. It teaches respect through understanding, not fear. As parents and guardians, our calling is to guide, nurture, and protect—so that our children grow not only obedient, but wise, compassionate, and whole.”

Mr Ravunawa concluded his message with a powerful reminder: “Let us choose words that heal, not hands that harm.”