OIC AGREES IN PRINCIPLE TO SUPPORT SL

RS. 70.00 PAGES 64 / SECTIONS 7 VOL. 02 – NO. 20 SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2021 BURIAL OF COVID-19 DEAD BURNING IN ‘MINORITY ISSUES ‘INDIA DOES NOT UNANSWERED CARE IF CONTROVERSY FOR OVER 7 DECADES’ HAS IMF’ »SEE PAGE 3 »SEE PAGE 11 »SEE BUSINESS PAGE 1 »SEE PAGES 8 & 9 GENERAL PREVENTIVE GUIDELINES For verified information on the coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any of the following authorities Suwasariya Ambulance Service 1999 Health Promotion Bureau Quarantine Unit 0112 112 705 1990 Epidemiology Unit 0112 695 112 Govt. coronavirus hotline 0113071073 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Wash hands with soap for 40-60 Wear a commercially available mask/ Maintain a minimum distance Use gloves when shopping, using Use traditional Sri Lankan greeting Always wear a mask, avoid crowded Hotline 0113456200-4 seconds, or rub hands with alcohol- cloth mask or a surgical mask at all of 1 metre from others, especially public transport, etc. and discard into at all times instead of handshaking, vehicles, maintain distance, and wash Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 based handrub for 20-30 seconds times in public places in public places a lidded bin lined with a bag hugging, and/or kissing hands before and after travelling Email [email protected] FAULTY HEALTH MINISTRY CIRCULAR ON COVISHIELD VACCINE 9K vaccine doses wasted BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Nearly 9,000 doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 z Ministry in talks over ‘extra dose’ vaccine have so far been wasted due to a circular issued by 6 ml Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 preservative, multi-dose vaccines of Morning that one vial contains 6 ml of the from the health staff engaged in the Health Ministry regarding guidelines for the COVISHIELD vaccine vial. 5 ml (10 doses). Shelf-life around six Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine. the COVISHIELD vaccination Covid-19 vaccination campaign, The Sunday Morning learnt. The guidelines attached to the months on production and expiry date However, when contacted, Sri programme that at least one dose of circular stated: “The vaccine is is available on the product label.” Lanka Association of Government the vaccine (0.5 ml) is being wasted, It is learnt that the Ministry’s Gunawardena on 28 January, has stored at over 20°C to +80°C (need National Medicines Regulatory Medical Laboratory Technologists as the Ministry had recommended circular, issued by the Director recommended using only 10 doses, to protect from freezing and direct Authority (NMRA) CEO Dr. Kamal (SLGMLT) President Ravi Kumudesh only 10 doses. General of Health Services Dr. Asela which is equivalent to 5 ml, out of the sunlight), in ready-to-use, liquid non- Jayasinghe confirmed to The Sunday said that there had been complaints Contd. on page 2 ENERGY PROJECTS IN PENINSULA ISLANDS Love renewed Easter Sunday PCoI India proposes report to Cabinet $ 12 m grant The final report of the It is also learnt that the contents Presidential Commission of Inquiry of the report will be discussed z Tender to be awarded to Chinese Co.; (PCoI) into the Easter Sunday at length by the Cabinet, after Cabinet approval pending terror attacks will be presented which it would be submitted to to the Cabinet of Ministers this Parliament. Sri Lanka is considering a for which it was decided that the week, The Sunday Morning learnt. Contd. on page 2 proposal received from India tenders would be awarded to a through its High Commission in Chinese company with funds to grant $ 12 million from the Asian Development to develop a hybrid renewable Bank (ADB), The Sunday energy system on three islands off Morning learnt. the coast of the , Contd. on page 2

PM’S REMARK ON COVID-19 BURIAL ‘Legalising only through Minister speaks with Prime Minister who declared open Gazette amendment’ the “Made in Sri Lanka” Trade Exhibition at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute in Colombo 7 yesterday (13) BY LAHIRU POTHMULLA burial of the bodies of Covid- PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE 19 victims cannot be done Notwithstanding the political without amending the Gazette PUBLIC OPINION SOUGHT decision recently expressed issued in this regard in April CANCELLING MOC ON ECT by Prime Minister Mahinda 2020, Foreign Minister Dinesh National Heritage Rajapaksa on behalf of the Gunawardena said. India, Japan Government, permitting the Contd. on page 2 Act in the making yet to be A national heritage act, which would, among other matters, define what constitutes a national heritage, the informed criteria for defining such, and set out the methods of their Despite a lapse of two weeks preservation, is in the pipeline, The Sunday Morning learnt. since the Cabinet of Ministers Contd. on page 2 decided to open the Colombo Port’s West Container Terminal COVID-19 UK VARIANT B.1.1.7 IN SL (WCT) for international development instead of the East Further research Container Terminal (ECT), as GAMA SAMAGA PILISANDARAK PROGRAMME promised previously to India on mutations and Japan, the Government is BY SARAH HANNAN was detected within the yet to officially communicate the Health authorities country, through the Prez still committed decision to India and Japan, The again urged the public to sequencing conducted z‘Programme will give z Claims no environmental Sunday Morning learnt. continue to adhere to the at the University of Sri meaning to people’s lives’ destruction Contd. on page 2 Covid-19 guidelines, as a Jayewardenepura. Despite what critics say on programme, as not even top more contagious variant Contd. on page 2 social media, President Gotabaya officials would visit these places Rajapaksa’s objective is to give otherwise, Principal Advisor to PRIME PORT REAL ESTATE FOR YACHT MARINA PROJECT meaning to the lives of the people the President Lalith Weeratunga in remote and rural areas through claimed. SLPA to lease to pvt. investor the “Gama Samaga Pilisandarak” Contd. on page 2 z Up for grabs for foreign/local proposals HOSTING 55TH ADB ANNUAL MEETING The Sri Lanka Ports Chief Valuer in September Chief Valuer to provide a Authority (SLPA) is planning 2020, SLPA Director complete lease assessment ADB to support SL effort to lease out a plot of land (Technical) Susantha report for the proposed plot The Asian Development Bank this year, also expressed its worth millions of rupees at Abeysiriwardena had stated of land of 2.5 hectares at (ADB), which has informed that support for the Government’s the Galle Port to a private that a plot of land at the Galle the Galle Port including the supporting the Government of effort to host the ADB’s 55th investor for a proposed yacht Port owned by the SLPA is already existing area of the Sri Lanka’s (GoSL) Covid-19 Annual Meeting in Colombo, marina project, The Sunday scheduled to be leased out yacht marina for the yacht vaccination programme would in May 2022. Morning learnt. for the yacht marina project. marina investment project. be among its top priorities for Contd. on page 2 In a letter written to the He has also requested the Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning Sunday, February 14, 2021 NEWS

Contd. from page 1

Sudarshini Fernandopulle. Furthermore, as exclusively reported by tourists. Also, the project aims to develop the villages and that relevant officials don’t get 9K vaccine... The Minister was responding to Premier The Morning last week, the final report of marina that is connected to bars, cafés, and to see the issues in these villages. He told The Sunday Morning that the Rajapaksa’s recent remarks made in Parliament the PCoI had recommended that criminal restaurants for socialising after boating as well “That is why the President visits these circular might have been issued based on the that the burial of Covid-19 dead would be charges be filed against the outspoken Bodu as some small-scale tourist retention activity. rural areas. When he makes a visit, what the recommendations of the manufacturer to keep allowed and on the subsequent statements Bala Sena (BBS) General Secretary Ven. The members’ yacht club, under this concept President says is that the objective of the visit an excess of 1 ml of the vaccine inside the vial made by foreign envoys welcoming it. Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera. However, plan, would also host its own members-only is not only to give a facelift to the village, but in case the doses are not correctly measured “The Prime Minister expressed a decision despite media reports to the contrary, it was dining and bar/café facilities while meeting also to improve the livelihoods of the people. to be an exact 0.5 ml. “But the local health on behalf of the Government. The announced learnt that the PCoI had not recommended rooms at the yacht club could also be rented “During the programme in Meemure, workers have the expertise on vaccination, decision is a political one which has to be that any charges be filed against then Prime for business functions and events. the President said that critics allege that as Sri Lanka has good infrastructure and legalised. The relevant Gazette should be Minister . Once completed, the marina will have a environmental destruction will take place knowledge of vaccination for many years. amended. How can we go ahead without – Maheesha Mudugamuwa space to wet and dry store a total of 95 boats. when he visits, but the President said that he Therefore, the circular should be issued in a amending the Gazette? The Gazette was issued However, the actual percentage of berths in the comes to preserve the environment and to give practical way,” he added. to all citizens,” he told The Sunday Morning. new marina will depend on the marina layout. meaning to the lives of people. There is no “Especially in a situation where there is a He further said that certain steps needed to National... When contacted, SLPA Chairman General point in simply focusing on forests without shortage, vaccine wastage cannot be accepted,” be taken in this regard after considering the The State Ministry of National Heritage, (Retd.) Daya Ratnayake told The Sunday giving meaning to the lives of the people. Kumudesh stressed. health instructions and orders and regulations Performing Arts, and Rural Arts Promotion Morning that the investors for the proposal There has to be a balance between the two,” When contacted by The Sunday Morning, issued through the Gazette. is currently seeking public views in order have not yet been finalised and that the project Weeratunga added. Secretary to the State Ministry of Primary “The relevant parties dealing with the matter to identify as to what constitutes national would be a small-scale project which would He said that the President helped find Healthcare, Epidemics, and Covid Disease will take action to come to a conclusion. State heritages, as Sri Lanka at present does cost around $ 50 million. solutions to issues in the education, health, Control Dr. Amal said that Minister Dr. Fernandopulle has explained not have anything that is defined as being When queried as to whether the investor and infrastructure sectors during his visits to the circular issued by the Ministry of Health is this. The law prevented the burial of Covid- a national heritage, State Minister Vidura would be a local or foreign investor, the rural areas. based on manufacturer recommendations, but 19 victims following a Gazette issued last Wickramanayaka claimed. Chairman noted that the RFP called for both “The people in Meemure got a bus for that there was no bar for the health workers year based on World Health Organisation The State Ministry published an local and international investors. Previously, the first time because of the programme. to use an extra dose if they feel that there is (WHO) instructions. According to what advertisement this week titled “Obtaining a Saudi Arabian investor, Hadi Al Hammam, Otherwise, they had to pay extra money for enough vaccine inside the vial. Dr. Fernandopulle has said, after having Public Opinion on the Procedure for Identifying stepped in to take on the proposed development three-wheelers to reach Ududumbara,” he said. He said the health experts have also informed consultations, the experts will make a the National Heritage of Sri Lanka”, thereby of the Galle marina through its Sri Lanka-based Speaking to the people during the the Health Ministry regarding the possibility decision,” he said. seeking public opinion on identifying national company three years ago, but the project did programme, President Rajapaksa said that of using an extra dose from a vial, and that the When queried as to whether the issue would heritages, especially in their own areas, and not take off. the objective of the programme is to upgrade Ministry is currently conducting discussions be discussed with the visiting Prime Minister also seeking views on the said initiative. Since the area is recognised the livelihoods of the people in remote areas. with the Epidemiology Unit to look into the of Pakistan Imran Khan, the Foreign Minister Speaking to The Sunday Morning, State as a Educational, Scientific, “When it was reported that I was about possibilities. said that no special discussion has been Minister Wickramanayaka claimed that while and Cultural Organisation World Heritage to visit Meemure, critics said that I would In January, Sri Lanka received 500,000 scheduled on the Covid-19 issue. “Whether national heritages can be found in any country, Site, all development would have to be done come to destroy the environment. This is doses of the COVISHIELD vaccine under he speaks about it or not, is something we Sri Lanka however does not have any identified safeguarding cultural interests. completely wrong. Meemure is a historical and the Government of India’s “Vaccine can only say after he comes,” he further said. national heritages. scenic village. We simply want to upgrade the Maithri” (Vaccine Friendship) initiative. The Commenting on the foreign envoys’ remarks “The people have their own interpretation livelihoods of the people in this beautiful village AstraZeneca-Oxford COVISHIELD vaccine on the matter, Minister Gunawardena said: and ideas as to what national heritages are. ADB to... as well. Much misinformation is being spread developed in the UK is manufactured by the “No one from overseas will come to discuss So many things, including those of a tangible On 18 October 2019, the ADB Board of and shared on social media these days,” he said. Serum Institute in India. these things.” or intangible nature, can be considered as Governors approved the GoSL’s offer to host He thanked State Minister According to the Epidemiology Unit, a total Meanwhile, when contacted for details national heritages.” the ADB’s 55th Annual Meeting in Colombo for solving one of the issues faced by the of 179,197 frontline workers have so far been about Premier Khan’s visit, the Pakistan “However, in Sri Lanka, where have they from 2-5 May 2022. residents by rehabilitating the entry road to vaccinated since 29 January. High Commission said that only the visit has been named?” he queried. “Where have they According to the ADB, Resolution Number the village, and for deploying a Sri Lanka Several attempts to contact Chief been confirmed as of yet. “The exact date or been legally recognised? What action has 402 was adopted on 20 November 2019, to Transport Board bus plying from Meemure Epidemiologist Dr. Sudath Samaraweera the time has not been finalised yet. No other been taken to preserve them for the future hold the 54th Annual Meeting of the Board of to Ududumbara. The road has been upgraded regarding the matter proved futile. information is available at the moment,” it said. generations? Is there any assurance to say that Governors this year in Tbilisi, Georgia, and and more work needs to be done to complete Meanwhile, All Ceylon Makkal Congress the future generations will be able to experience the 55th Annual Meeting to be held in 2022 it, the President had said, and he therefore (ACMC) Leader and Parliamentarian Rishad them at the rate things are progressing?” in Colombo. requested the Highways Ministry Secretary India proposes... Bathiudeen said that they have requested for Wickramanayaka also explained as to why Senior External Relations Officer at the ADB to complete it immediately. However, Cabinet approval is yet to be an appointment to meet the visiting Prime national heritages could not always be preserved Resident Mission Roshani Yogarajah told The President Rajapaksa also brought to the received for the tender being awarded to the Minister of Pakistan. along the lines of archaeology. According to Sunday Morning that, as the host country, the attention of Education Ministry Secretary Prof. Chinese company. “We have not been given a date as of yet, him, the issue was one of practicality. GoSL is taking a lead in preparing the ADB’s Kapila Perera, the issues faced by the students Considering the financial benefits that would but we hope that an appointment will be “If we take something valuable that Annual Meeting. at the Kaikawala Primary School, where he be enjoyed by the country, Minister of Power given. We are planning to meet him with came into being 50-75 years ago, it may She added that supporting the Government’s inaugurated a smart classroom. Prof. Perera said that the personal all the parties together, including the Sri not come under archaeology. Still, it can be Covid-19 vaccination programme is one of the assured that they would find solutions to these proposal he received, as the Minister of Power, Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), the Samagi considered a national heritage. An artefact top priorities for the ADB this year. issues faced by the students. The President from India was to offer the amount of $ 12 Jana Balawegaya (SJB), and the ruling party or an archaeological site can be a national “We trust that this effort will contribute also assured that the school playground would million as a grant or as part of the credit line Muslim MPs. At this moment, we cannot say heritage, but not all national heritages are to Sri Lanka’s recovery from the Covid-19 be constructed by the Army, and that a new worth $ 100 million offered by India. He as to what would be discussed,” he told The artefacts. National heritage includes both pandemic. The ADB stands ready to support building too would also be constructed. said the proposal would be submitted to the Sunday Morning. tangible and intangible elements and spans the Government in the vaccination programme, – Lahiru Pothmulla Cabinet soon. Meanwhile, SLMC Secretary Nizam different cultures and subcultures”. together with other development partners,” “If we think of our citizens, receiving a Kariapper said that he has not yet been Therefore, the Government, Wickramanayaka she said. grant is an advantage and it will also ease informed about a meeting through the Pakistan noted, has decided that since national heritages She further noted that the ADB ensures that Further... the burden on the Treasury, because if we High Commission or their Party Leader. have not been named in Sri Lanka, a programme both social inclusion and economic growth State Minister for Primary Healthcare, go ahead with ADB funds, the Treasury will should be implemented to preserve them. In are addressed through its interventions across Epidemics, and Covid Disease Control Dr. have to repay those in the future,” he told The this regard, the first step we should take is to many sectors. Sudharshini Fernandopulle, speaking to The Sunday Morning. Easter Sunday... identify what they are, he added. The overall active portfolio of the ADB’s Sunday Morning, said: “The variant was reported Also denying that he was being subjected As confirmed by a senior Cabinet Minister, State Minister Wickramanayaka also said assistance to Sri Lanka is $ 4.5 billion with 33 through our stringent healthcare surveillance to any diplomatic pressure due to the decision the contents of the report have not yet been that an expert committee comprising of vice projects in the energy, transport, agriculture, system that is in place. The team at the Department taken to award the contract to a Chinese revealed to anybody within the Government, chancellors of universities and experts in the natural resources, urban, finance, education, of Immunology and Molecular Medicine of company, Alahapperuma said that he was and are known only to the President. He further field including professors, had been appointed health, and private sectors. the University of Sri Jayewardenepura is now not pressured by anyone, adding that they added that nothing with regard to the report to identify national heritages. In early February, the Cabinet of Ministers conducting further research to find out whether decided to award the tender according to the was discussed at last week’s Cabinet meeting. “This is not a political committee. The experts approved a proposal to formulate necessary there are mutated variants.” necessary procedures. When contacted by The Sunday Morning, are the ones who decided on interpretation action to conduct the ADB’s Annual Summit Considering the detection of this variant “However, there might be concerns from Co-Cabinet Spokesman Dr. related matters. Then, we made a request from in Sri Lanka, in May 2022. Approximately, of Sars-CoV-2, Dr. Fernandopulle urged the other countries, which are not relevant to Sri also confirmed the possibility of the PCoI the people after putting forward a document. 4,000 participants are scheduled to attend the public to continue following the Covid-19 Lanka. Though we have decided to award the report being presented to the Cabinet this week. The public is encouraged to point out any summit, including 30 ministers of finance health guidelines at all instances to help prevent tender to the Chinese company, we are yet to The report was handed over to President shortcomings in that as well and to inform us from member countries. its spread. receive Cabinet approval,” he said. by PCoI Chairman about the things in their area that they think – Lahiru Pothmulla To understand the possible impact this He added that the people who live on the three Supreme Court Judge Justice Janak de Silva should be recognised as national heritages,” variant could have on the growing number islands – Delft, Analativu, and Nainativu – should at the Presidential Secretariat on 1 February. he further said. of Covid-19 cases in Sri Lanka, The Sunday benefit as well, while they should also receive It comprises 472 pages, 215 annexures, and After collecting the ideas, the Ministry will India, Japan... Morning contacted Prof. Neelika Malavige, uninterrupted power supply throughout the year. six volumes. The first and second interim name national heritages by approving an act Furthermore, the Government is yet to begin who heads the research team at the University “These islanders were supplied power reports were handed over to the President on on national heritage in Parliament. communications with the two countries for of Sri Jayewardenepura, focusing on the through generators for a long time by the 20 December 2019, and on 2 March 2020, When queried as to whether archaeological the renegotiation of the tripartite agreement immunopathogenesis of Covid-19, relevant Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). This is respectively. laws would also be reformed, the State Minister signed between Sri Lanka, India, and Japan correlates of protection, and virus strains. not a permanent solution. If we can give Former President said: “This is separate; Intangible things can’t on the ECT. Responding to the concerns, Prof. Malavige them a permanent solution and enhance their appointed the PCoI on 22 September 2019 to be considered as archaeology. These include The Government has not even communicated said: “These samples were obtained from those livelihoods, we would continue the project by investigate and report on the series of bombings aspects pertaining to indigenous medicine, the cabinet decision taken with regard to the who are at quarantine centres and Covid-19 considering their side,” the Minister noted. on Easter Sunday of 2019, and to recommend folk songs, and traditions. We know that Memorandum of Co-operation (MoC) signed treatment centres”. The energy deal won by the Chinese necessary action based on the findings. they are there, but they are not tangible. We between the three countries to their foreign “The UK variant that we are now detecting in company to set up three hybrid renewable The PCoI recorded evidence from 457 can name them as national heritages under a missions in Sri Lanka. The missions have Sri Lanka was already present in 80 countries, energy systems mixed with solar, wind, and persons over a period of 214 days. Among new criterion. We believe in democracy and since expressed their displeasure over the Sri and our neighbouring country, India, had other renewables on three Islands in the Jaffna them were political authorities and members of participatory development. People should Lankan Government’s decision and have had detected it about two and a half months ago. peninsula came to light amid creeping signs the security services, as well as those affected take part in the decision-making process and discussions with the Government pertaining Therefore, it was only a matter of time of deterioration in relations between India by the carnage and related activities. that is my belief.” to the matter. before it surfaced in Sri Lanka.” and Sri Lanka due to the cancellation of the Eight suicide terrorists carried out deadly – Lahiru Pothmulla Highly informed diplomatic sources told Prof. Malavige reiterated that the general long-awaited Colombo Port’s East Container attacks on 21 April 2019, targeting hotels and The Sunday Morning that the Government public need not be alarmed or attempt to draw Terminal (ECT) deal by the Cabinet recently. Christian churches. They exploded bombs at has not begun any sort of communications parallels with the situation in the UK, as Sri Meanwhile, CEB Chairman Eng. Vijitha the St. Anthony’s Shrine in Kochchikade, the SLPA to... with regard to the said tripartite agreement. Lanka has an efficient prevention and control Herath told The Sunday Morning that the St. Sebastian’s Church in Katuwapitiya, the In response to the SLPA’s letter, the Nevertheless, speaking to The Sunday protocol in place. decision to award such projects to develop a Zion Church in Batticaloa, and three hotels in Southern Regional Office of the Department Morning, Secretary to the Ministry of Ports and “That doesn’t however mean that we can be hybrid renewable energy system was taken Colombo; namely Shangri-La, the Kingsbury, of Government Valuation, in a letter written to Shipping U.D.C. Jayalal said that negotiations complacent in adhering to health guidelines. considering the success of a pilot project and Cinnamon Grand, while two terrorists the SLPA Director (Technical), had estimated would commence immediately with the two The public should act responsibly, given that conducted in Eluvaitivu, an island off the coast carried out suicide bomb attacks in Dematagoda the annual lease amount of the land proposed governments of India and Japan through a there are more variants in circulation,” she of the Jaffna peninsula, located approximately and Dehiwala. The series of attacks cost 270 to be leased out for the yacht marina project new negotiation committee. added. 22 km (14 miles) west of the town of Jaffna. lives and injured around 500. at Rs. 73,700,000. Two weeks ago, the Cabinet approved a The prevalence of the UK variant, belonging It has been decided to award the $ 12 The Opposition last week urged the As per the plan prepared by the Registered proposal made to develop the WCT as a to the sequence number B.1.1.7, was made million project to the MS/Sinosar-Etechwin Government to table the report of the PCoI Licensed Surveyor of the SLPA S.R. Public-private partnership (PPP) with India public on Friday (12) by University of Sri joint venture in China. Under the project, in Parliament. Leader of the House and Foreign Illeperumarachchi on 17 February 2020, the and Japan by cancelling the decision made by Jayewardenepura Department of Immunology international competitive bids were called Affairs Minister noted plot of land proposed to be leased out contains the previous United National Front (UNF)-led and Molecular Medicine Director Dr. Chandima to install hybrid renewable energy systems that the report could be tabled in Parliament, the port of the new quay, yacht marina quay Government to call for investments for the the Jeewandara. on the three islands utilising the accessible and that the Government would not interfere wall, the open waste land, the sea, and the development of the ECT. According to Dr. Jeewandara, 92 energy resources to improve the efficiency of with the process. However, Parliament Speaker yacht harbour. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa nasopharyngeal swab samples obtained the prevailing energy network. The project is informed Furthermore, as per the details provided between January and February this year for to be funded by the ADB, it is further learnt. Parliament that the report would be tabled in the request for proposals (RFP), the Galle PCR testing were subjected to a sequencing – Maheesha Mudugamuwa in Parliament after it is received from the marina concept plan includes the reservation Prez stil.. process. The samples were obtained from Presidential Secretariat. of green outdoor space for families including Taking part in the 10th such programme, Colombo, Avissawella, Ingiriya, Biyagama, Meanwhile, urging the Government the provision of public use picnic tables, which was held in Meemure, Ududumbara on Wattala, Mathugama, Mannar, and Vavuniya, as ‘Legalising only... to publicise the final report of the PCoI, shaded areas, barbeque areas, and a children’s Saturday (13), President Rajapaksa said that well as from those who returned from overseas. He further noted that in order for this Archbishop of Colombo Malcolm Cardinal playground. Onsite restaurants and other some people had criticised on social media A majority of these samples were from political decision that has been announced Ranjith stressed he was ready to seek hospitality at yacht marinas are expected to that the programme leads to environmental the virus variant under the sequence number by the Premier to be legalised, the relevant international assistance if the law is not add revenue potential and transform the site destruction. B.1.411, he said, adding however, that some Gazette in place must be amended as stated properly enforced against those responsible from a storage site to a tourism precinct for Weeratunga told The Sunday Morning that were detected as belonging to the sequence by State Minister of Primary Healthcare, for the attacks. both domestic and international land-based presidents usually don’t visit remote and rural number B.1.1.7 from the UK lineage. Epidemics, and Covid Disease Control Dr. the sunday morning 3 Sunday, February 14, 2021 SPOTLIGHT BURIAL OF COVID-19 DEAD Burning in controversy z PM’s statement exposes division between Govt. and health authorities

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA permissible under strict guidelines. The panel was requested to provide The panel consisted of Professor scientific evidence and expert opinion Despite the statement by Prime in Microbiology Neelika Malavige, on the behaviour of the SARS CoV-2 Minister (PM) Mahinda Rajapaksa consultant virologist Dr. Geethani virus remaining in a corpse of a Covid- in Parliament last week, saying that Galagoda, consultant virologist Dr. Janaki 19-infected person after death and also the country would permit the burial Abeynayake, consultant immunologist Dr. to provide recommendations on whether of Muslims who die of Covid-19, no Rajeeva de Silva, consultant vaccinologist burial can be used as an option for the safe concrete decision has yet been taken Dr. Kanthi Nanayakkara, consultant disposal of a corpse. by the health authorities regarding microbiologist Dr. Malika Karunaratne, Numerous national civil society the controversial issue that has been consultant virologist Dr. Saranga organisations, religious groups, and Sumathipala, consultant virologist Dr. activists have also written letters and ongoing for nearly a year. Health officials preparing Nadeeka Janage, consultant virologist signed petitions, calling for a change to the for the cremation of the In such a backdrop, the PM’s statement Dr. Rohitha Muthugala, and consultant policy by the Government. body of a Covid-19 victim has created confusion within the public virologist Dr. Dulmini Kumarasinghe. Contd. on page 12 PHOTO © NEW INDIAN EXPRESS regarding the validity of the PM’s statement, especially when there’s only a few weeks to go for Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan’s scheduled visit to Sri Lanka. Khan, on his Twitter account, last week had stated that he welcomed PM Rajapaksa’s assurance given in Parliament, which would allow Muslims to bury those who died of the virus. Pakistani PM’s visit is important to Sri Lanka, as it will be marked as the first visit of a Muslim leader since this Government came into power, while Khan also represents the second largest Muslim population in the region. Since the burial issue is affecting the Muslim population at large, questions have been raised by the local Muslim community as to which statement they can rely on regarding the burial issue and how long they would have to wait till they receive a green light from the authorities. A reliable source attached to the Ministry of Health told The Sunday Morning that the authorities had not taken a decision as yet and that there is no ongoing discussion regarding the burial of Muslims who die of Covid-19. The source also noted that the PM had not consulted the health authorities prior to the statement made in Parliament. However, the PM’s statement would be directed to the technical committee appointed by the Government, which would take an appropriate decision. In the meantime, State Minister of Primary Healthcare, Epidemics, and Covid Disease Control Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle said the Prime Minister’s proposal to allow the burial of the bodies of Covid-19 victims would have to be implemented with the agreement of the technical committee of the Health Ministry. Responding to a question raised by (SJB) MP Mujibur Rahman, she told Parliament that the Health Ministry was not taking decisions personally but through a technical committee. “This proposal has to be presented to the technical committee and we will have to act based on its agreement,” she said. Nevertheless, as learnt by The Sunday Morning, the PM’s proposal has not yet been submitted to the technical committee and neither has it directed the authorities to take action to revise the existing gazette notification issued, making it compulsory to cremate all those who die of Covid-19. When The Sunday Morning contacted PM’s Media Secretary Rohan Weliwita, he said the PM did not specifically mention Muslim Covid-19 deaths when he mentioned that burying would be allowed. However, when the newspaper specifically highlighted that the question asked from the PM was regarding Covid-19 deaths, Weliwita stressed that the PM had made the statement off hand. When further queried about the validity of the PM’s statement, his Media Secretary stated that to change the burial rules, there should be a gazette reversing the previously published gazette and the decision should be taken by the technical committee. He further said that there were no ongoing discussions chaired by the PM regarding the issue to his knowledge. Contradicting scientific evidence? Last month, Minister of Health said the country would continue to cremate all dead bodies irrespective of any ethnic or religious considerations. She told Parliament that the report by the experts recommended that cremations would be the ideal method for the deceased and therefore, the Ministry does not have an intention to deviate from the report based on any ethnic or religious considerations. However, the Minister’s statement made in Parliament actually contradicts what it recommended by the expert panel appointed by the Ministry last December. In its report submitted recently to the Health Ministry, the 11-member expert panel, which included virologists, microbiologists, and immunologists, stated that both cremation and burial are 4 the sunday morning Sunday, February 14, 2021 ROUND-UP

MR jumps the gun? sunny side up Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa last week made that they had no objections to by abilis a groundbreaking statement when he stated in the burial of the Covid-19 dead. Parliament that the Government will permit the Members of the Government burial of the Covid-19 dead. have continuously held a dialogue with leading Buddhist Cardinal to Rajapaksa’s statement implementing the move. monks to get their approval in Parliament gathered As soon as the Prime Minister for the burial of the Covid-19 commendations from the had made the statement, it was dead and almost all monks had meet SJB MPs international community the health authorities that had agreed to it. while Muslim political party first raised objections to the After hearing that the monks Cardinal Malcolm has been assigned to SJB MP leaders representing both the statement. A group of members had expressed no objections to Ranjith is to convene Kavinda Jayawardena. Government and the Opposition of the experts committee that the burial of the Covid-19 dead a meeting with The discussion is expected made their way to the Premier’s was appointed to study the since there was no scientific the Catholic MPs to focus on the report of the office in Parliament to thank issue of burying the Covid-19 impediment, a jubilant Prime representing the Presidential Commission of him for pushing the issue with dead, who have continuously Minister had been confident main Opposition Inquiry on Easter Sunday the Government. opposed the move, has informed that the Government could party, Samagi Jana attacks, and following up on the The Prime Minister has the health authorities that the now proceed with burying Balawegaya (SJB). findings and proposed action. continuously pushed for the final decision on permitting Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa the dead. However, it is learnt that the burial of the Covid-19 dead the burials was vested with the It is this mood that had The meeting is scheduled Cardinal has made a specific and even called on the health experts committee. The Prime Minister’s recommendations, given that resulted in Prime Minister to take place on 2 March. The request not to include MP Harin authorities to identify suitable The health authorities then Office was soon informed there were no longer any Rajapaksa making the positive co-ordination of the meeting Fernando in the discussion. lands in the country for the had to deliberate whether the of the objections raised by objections to the matter, had statement in Parliament. purpose. Prime Minister’s statement some sections of the health decided to keep silent on it. However, with the experts However, soon after the could be taken as final, given authorities. It is reliably learnt that Prime committee still vacillating to Prime Minister’s statement went that the experts committee Unable to backtrack, Prime Minister Rajapaksa’s statement make its recommendations, the viral, the Government had to appointed for the purpose Minister Rajapaksa, after in Parliament was mostly issue over burying the Covid- PCoI brings resort to damage control due has not yet made any such questioning why the experts propelled by the assurance 19 dead continues without any to the technical difficulties in recommendation. committee was delaying its received by the Buddhist clergy timeline for a solution in sight. Opposition together The report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry JVP (PCoI) on incidents of political victimisation and Wimal aligns with UPFA? the ensuing action initiated by the Government has resulted in Opposition political parties as well backtracks as a group of activists coming together to form an z Urgent meetings z Party leaders to meet alliance to fight against what is seen as an anti- requested with President again on 25 February democratic move by the Government. on India A meeting was convened last Hakeem, and have The Janatha Vimukthi National Freedom Front Tuesday (9) at the Opposition also participated at the meeting. Peramuna (JVP) last week took (NFF) Leader Minister Wimal Rajapaksa family meets Leader’s Office at No. 30, Sir Several senior lawyers and civil the spotlight in the Easter Weerawansa last week Members of the Rajapaksa family Marcus Fernando Mawatha, society members had also attended Sunday attacks probe when convened a meeting of party had last week met at President Colombo 7. Opposition and the meeting. leaders of the governing Sri Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s residence to Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) After a lengthy discussion, it former JVP MP Dr. Nalinda discuss the recent squabbles within Leader , together was decided to file a writ before Jayatissa had made a public Lanka Podujana Peramuna the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna with SJB General Secretary the Court of Appeal, fundamental comment to the effect that (SLPP) alliance. Interestingly, (SLPP) party. rights (FR) petitions before the there were suspicions about the party leaders who Prime Minister Mahinda and MPs , Eran Supreme Court, and hand over neighbouring India playing a participated at the meeting Rajapaksa and Cabinet Minister Wickremaratne, Patali Champika letters by Opposition members role in the 2019 terror attacks. convened at Weerawansa’s Namal Rajapaksa have also attended Ranawaka, and , to the Chief Justice requesting official residence in Minister Wimal Weerawansa the discussion. had attended the meeting. MPs action against two members of Dr. Jayatissa’s comments published in Colombo were a majority of matters discussed. The meeting had taken place on M.A. Sumanthiran, Rauff the PCoI. a foreign news agency story went viral. the members of the United However, it is learnt that key Tuesday (9) night, after National The Indian High Commission People’s Freedom Alliance among the issues discussed was Freedom Front (NFF) Leader in Colombo, it is learnt, had also (UPFA). the disrespectful stance adopted Minister Wimal Weerawansa Rajitha-Ranil meet communicated its displeasure to the by members of the SLPP towards claimed earlier in the day that if JVP over the party member’s comment The key coalition partner of coalition members who had played some in the SLPP wanted him to Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP made without any evidence. the UPFA alliance, the Sri Lanka a key role in ensuring victory at apologise for a statement made to Dr. Rajitha Senaratne last Monday (8) However, JVP Leader Anura Kumara Freedom Party (SLFP), was also elections. the media, he would also apologise had met with Dissanayake at a press conference on represented at last Thursday’s (11) Other issues discussed included for his support of the “Mahinda (UNP) Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe Thursday (11) retracted the statement meeting called by Weerawansa. the fast-dwindling popularity of the Sulanga” and bringing victory to to discuss the formation of a broad made by Dr. Jayatissa. The SLFP was represented by Party Government in the face of the masses the SLPP. Opposition alliance against the Dissanayake said the party did not Secretary State Minister Dayasiri and the need to take immediate action The senior Rajapaksa brothers Government’s move to implement have any evidence to point a finger at Jayasekara. to remedy the situation. had discussed at length about the recommendations of the PCoI on any country or organisation for the Easter Leaders of 12 political parties It had then been decided to request Weerawansa’s move to form a incidents of political victimisation. Sunday attacks. represented in the Government urgent meetings for the party leaders group with 10 political parties in Wickremesinghe, it is learnt, had agreed to be a part of the He explained that there have been attended the meeting that lasted with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the SLPP alliance. alliance initially to fight against the PCoI report. three probes on the attacks – the for over three hours. Two new requesting him to also invite Prime Namal Rajapaksa had also actively However, it is learnt that Wickremesinghe and Dr. Senaratne Parliamentary Select Committee, the party leaders, namely MPs A.L.M. Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa for participated in the discussion, and have also discussed the possibility of expanding this alliance Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Athaullah and , had the discussion that would be based spoken in Weerawansa’s defence. into an electoral alliance afterwards. and the Presidential Commission of joined the group of party leaders on the current political issues faced He had further explained the need Inquiry – and that there does not seem to at last week’s meeting. by the Government and its coalition to address the matter without letting be any fingers pointed at external forces Participants at the meeting have partners, as well as discuss a way it get out of hand. for the attack. so far been tight-lipped about the forward from the present situation. New forum blooms of the discussion, as most party leaders who had The first-time entrants Mahinda Rajapaksa. The Media given the slip attended the meeting had left the premises without to Parliament from the letter had requested the Prime making any comment to the media. governing Sri Lanka Minister to hold a discussion Sister to Media personnel flocked outside the entrance to Ministers and Udaya with backbench SLPP MPs when Podujana Peramuna Minister Wimal Weerawansa’s official residence in Gammanpila have told the media that the party (SLPP) last week met and the Government is in the process Colombo to get firsthand the outcome of the meeting leaders had discussed the current political situation decided to form a forum of reaching crucial decisions the fore of 12 governing party leaders. in the country and the governing party. They both that would engage with related to national interests. After hearing that a meeting of 12 party leaders gave the impression that it was a routine meeting. the Government when The backbench MPs had been called by Weerawansa at his residence at After the two ministers had left, the media had dealing with issues of had reached this decision Dulanjali 3 p.m. last Thursday (11), media personnel arrived asked security personnel at the residence whether following the controversy over Jayakody at the residence to get information about the details Weerawansa was in the premises and if he was national interest. the Government’s decisions discussed and decisions reached at the meeting. planning on leaving at any time. The media was then Around 30 backbench when addressing the issue of However, after spending three hours outside informed that Weerawansa together with several legislators of the SLPP had met the East Container Terminal Weerawansa’s residence, media personnel were other politicians had left the premises through on Wednesday (10) and formed (ECT) at the Colombo Port unable to get any solid information on the outcome another gateway. a new group, and have signed a with the Indian and Japanese letter addressed to Prime Minister Governments. Taking the wheel The rumour mill in Colombo Flowing French Parliamentarian is in full gear over Opposition Sivanesathurai Leader Sajith Premadasa’s The meeting of the governing party leaders last minister representing Chandrakanthan, alias sister Dulanjali’s move to week had turned quite colourful with several the SLPP had turned to “”, was last engage in a public role in the senior parliamentarians resorting to the use of Nanayakkara and addressed week seen driving a Colombo city area. language unbecoming for senior government him in filth, saying: “M***** bus of the Sri Lanka ministers. f*****, sit down.” Shocked Transport Board (SLTB) in Dulanjali has reportedly engaged at the outburst, Nanayakkara Batticaloa. in several social welfare programmes The meeting was convened While SLPP leaders had had also responded saying organised under the Sucharitha under the patronage of Prime expressed their displeasure that he had the right to speak. According to Tamil Movement, which was initiated by her Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa at Weerawansa’s comments, Finally, Minister Udaya newspapers, Pillayan, who late father R. Premadasa. and the discussion had turned they had said that he should Gammanpila had also was on his way to a village in Dulanjali’s mother, Hema Premadasa, into a heated argument when seek a public apology for the intervened and said it was Batticaloa, had seen a SLTB bus has also been seen supporting her the issue of the statement statement. not proper to discuss matters with people parked on the side daughter in public engagements. made by National Freedom However, Minister relating to Weerawansa of the road, as the driver was Given that the movement is based in Front (NFF) Leader Minister Vasudeva Nanayakkara had since he was not present at concerned over driving on the the Colombo city limits, rumours are Wimal Weerawansa, during tried to intervene to defend the meeting to make any road due to the poor condition rife that Dulanjali is likely to contest as a media interview, on the Weerawansa who had not statements in his defence. of the road. the Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s (SJB) need to make the President been present at the meeting The Prime Minister had However, the MP had then told mayoral candidate for the Colombo the Leader of the Sri Lanka since he had to appear before then intervened and tried the driver that he was prepared to Municipal Council (CMC) at the next Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) court for a case. to calm down those who drive the bus and had driven the local government election. was taken up. At that moment, a cabinet gathered. bus to the destination himself. Pillayan driving a SLTB bus the sunday morning 5 Sunday, February 14, 2021 SPOTLIGHT

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Sri Lanka and India have long- enjoyed mutually beneficial economic and diplomatic ties, but the strategic bilateral partnership is under pressure at present as China is further expanding its footprint on nation by securing yet another lucrative energy deal in outlying islands off the Jaffna peninsula. The energy deal won by the Chinese company to set up three hybrid renewable energy systems mixed with solar, wind, and other renewables in three islands in the Jaffna peninsula came to light amid creeping signs of deterioration in relations between India and Sri Lanka due to the cancelation of the long- Indian PM and awaited East Container Terminal Chinese President Xi Jinping (ECT) deal by the Sri Lankan Cabinet recently. mentioned as one such proposal Furthermore, with growing NORTHERN RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS received by the country,” he noted. tensions between India and China “But as a country, we have given over their disputed border in a commitment to India, as by the the Himalayan region, security time the Government decided to concerns have been raised by India cancel the Sampur project, the over the country’s recent decision, power purchasing agreements as the islands concerned – Delft, (PPA) between the two countries Analativu, and Nainativu – are in had also been signed,” the Minister close proximity to the Indian coast, Short-circuiting said, adding that therefore, there separated by the Palk Strait. The was a government pledge made for Delft island is only 48 km away the 300 MW LNG power plant to from the Indian coastal town of India. Rameshwaram. Meanwhile, a well-informed Responding to diplomatic concerns source attached to the Ministry raised, the Ceylon Electricity Board of Power said that several (CEB), the local partner of the diplomatic ties? rounds of discussions were held Chinese renewable energy projects, between the two parties under the claimed that the projects have been handled by Foreign Minister Dinesh China will facilitate the speedy “These islanders were supplied project is an agreement between the previous Government, but the new awarded to the Chinese company Gunawardena. implementation of the Kadawatha- power through generators for a Governments of Sri Lanka and India administration is yet to give its after following an internationally “This is not normal diplomacy. Mirigama section, ensuring the long time by the CEB, which is not in 2016. This is proposed instead of consent to the agreements reached approved bidding process. It is commercial diplomacy. This is connectivity of the expressway a firm energy. If we can give firm the Sampur Coal Power Project that between the two parties. As learnt by The Sunday Morning, happening all over the world with the network up to Kurunegala. energy and enhance their livelihood, was cancelled at the last moment “India was keen on funding an the Indian company that had new wave of economic development. When analysing the projects we would continue the project by in 2015,” he told The Sunday LNG power plant with a capacity submitted bids for the projects was International relations have now mooted from China and India, as well considering the side of the people,” Morning. of around 500 MW, but under not qualified, as it had not fulfilled become commercial international as Sri Lanka’s response over those the Minister further noted. When asked whether the the CEB’s Long-term Energy the bidding conditions. relations,” he said, adding that being projects in the past, it is highlighted Speaking to The Sunday Government would be going ahead Generation (Expansion) Plan, the “This is not anybody’s money and an island, everybody has concerns that when strong opposition came Morning on a previous occasion, with the proposal, the Minister said system could accommodate only we have not favoured a country when and that the country needs to manage from the masses against Indian Alahapperuma said the Indian no decision has been taken as yet. another 300 MW and therefore, choosing the right bidder to award the the situation. projects, such projects would end up proposal was included in a recent “We have included this in several rounds of discussions were project contracts,” CEB Chairman When asked whether any negative being cancelled while the opposition Cabinet proposal from the Ministry, a recent cabinet paper too as held,” the source said, adding that Eng. Vijitha Herath said. impact occurred due to the ongoing for Chinese projects did not end up in together with other proposals from a proposal. There are several at present, the negotiations were at He went on to say the projects rift between Sri Lanka and India, the same manner. Japan and Korea. other proposals from Korea and a standstill as the CEB has decided have been approved by a Cabinet- Rambukwella said Sri Lanka is Some examples are an extension “The 300 MW LNG power plant Japan, and the Indian one is also to go for project tendering. Appointed Standing Committee on maintaining constant relations with to the Chinese Norochcholai Coal Procurement and therefore, the entire its neighbours including India. Power Plant against the Sampur process was transparent. “We haven’t ignored any party. Power Station, the Hambantota Port Eng. Herath told The Sunday Being an island, a lot of commercial deal as against the Colombo Port’s Morning that the decision to award diplomacies are going around. Each ECT, and several others. such projects to develop a hybrid one wants to have a piece of the cake. When it comes to the Sampur deal, renewable energy system was taken So, we need to manage it,” he said. the Indian Government spent around considering the success of a pilot While maintaining the non-aligned 10 years to get the project going. But project conducted in Eluvaitivu, foreign policy, Rambukwella said the previous United National Front an island off the coast of Jaffna that Sri Lanka will manage the (UNP)-led Government cancelled peninsula, located approximately 22 current situation. the project, offering them a liquefied km west of the city of Jaffna. China is dominating foreign direct natural gas (LNG) project. Responding to the allegation that investments (FDIs) in Sri Lanka; Nevertheless, the Government has the project has been awarded to the according to statistics of the External not yet announced the final decision Chinese contractor whose bid was Resources Department (ERD) of on handing over the LNG power around Rs. 1 billion higher than the the Ministry of Finance, by 30 project to India, which was proposed lowest bidder, the CEB Chairman September 2018, Sri Lanka had by the then Government when denied the allegation, claiming it was obtained a total of $ 1,968.8 million cancelling the plans for a 500 MW impossible to award a contract to a by way of loans from China. The Indian-built coal-fired power plant higher bidder overlooking a lower next highest foreign loan provider at its strategic eastern port city of bidder and, in this case, such an is the ADB with a total of $ 1,696.8 Trincomalee in 2016. incident never occurred. million. Responding to a query by The “We have never awarded a bid According to statistics, at present, Sunday Morning, Minister of to a higher bidder ignoring the around 28 government projects Power Dullus Alahapperuma said lowest bidder. The sole purpose of are funded predominantly by he has received a proposal from the tendering process is to award Chinese loans worth more than India to offer the amount of $ 12 the contract to the lowest eligible $ 7 billion. The existing projects million as a grant or as part of the bidder,” he continued. are spread among the power and credit line worth $ 100 million The $ 12 million project has been energy, roads and transportation, offered by India. He said the awarded to MS/Sinosar-Etechwin telecommunication, airport and proposal would be submitted to the Joint Venture in China. Under the aviation, port, and irrigation and Cabinet soon. project, international competitive water sectors. They do not include “If we think of the side of our bids were called to install hybrid the Colombo Port City project citizens, receiving a grant is an renewable energy systems in the which, in contrast, does not depend advantage and it will also ease the three islands utilising the accessible on borrowed funds, but is a Chinese burden of the Treasury, because if energy resources to improve the investment. we go ahead with the ADB funds, efficiency of the prevailing energy Expanding its investments the Treasury will have to repay network. The project is to be funded further in Sri Lanka, China took those in the future,” he told The by the Asian Development Bank over operations of the Hambantota Sunday Morning. (ADB), it is learnt. Port last year on a 99-year lease Also denying him being Meanwhile, it is reported that agreement, while the Export Import subjected to any diplomatic India has lodged a strong protest Bank of China (EXIM Bank) pressure due to the decision taken with Sri Lanka on awarding a tender provided a concessional loan of $ to award the contract to a Chinese to a Chinese company. Quoting 989 million, covering 85% of the company, Alahapperuma said: “I diplomatic sources, a local newspaper contract price, for the first section was not pressured by anybody. We last week reported that India’s protest of the Central Expressway Project awarded the tender according to the was on the grounds that such a move – stretching from Kadawatha to necessary procedures. There might would raise security concerns for it. Mirigama – a few months ago. The be concerns from other countries India’s opposition was confirmed estimated cost of the project is $ which are not relevant to Sri to The Sunday Morning by a senior 1,164 million. This loan is the largest Lanka. Though we have decided cabinet minister who stressed that the loan approved by the EXIM Bank for to award the tender to the Chinese issue would be handled by diplomatic Sri Lanka. company, we are yet to receive the missions through the Foreign Since the implementation of Cabinet approval.” Ministry. the second section of the Central He went on to say that the people However, when contacted, Expressway – stretching from who live in the three islands – Delft Co-Cabinet Spokesman Minister Mirigama to Kurunegala – Island, Analativu, and Nainativu described commenced with financial assistance – should be benefitted and also the ongoing issue as a commercial from local commercial banks, this receive uninterrupted power supply diplomatic issue which would be loan facility from EXIM Bank of throughout the year. 6 the sunday morning Sunday, February 14, 2021 FOCUS

Tourists first started visiting the island in December last year, when a flight Hotels still struggling carrying 185 tourists from Ukraine landed TOURISM POST COVID-19 LOCKDOWN at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport Despite international tourists returning to the (MRIA) for the first time since March country, the Sri Lankan hotel sector is still struggling on 2020 for a pilot project carried out by its road to recovery. Hotels outside the 52 Level 1 hotels Sri Lanka Tourism, aiming to attract have reported difficulties running their properties due Recovery on track with international visitors. Following 11 more to the lack of both international and domestic tourists. similar flights, the country fully reopened Speaking to The Sunday Morning, two hotels its airports for tourists on 21 January 2021 located in Unawatuna and Ella, two prominent tourist to all its tourism markets, except the UK destinations in Sri Lanka, stated that the tourism due to its higher number of cases and the industry’s “bio-bubble” initiative has excluded many emergence of a deadlier variant of the of the smaller players and the restrictions put on local virus. tourists are cutting further into their revenue. In an earlier statement given to The They explained that due to the rules limiting Sunday Morning, the Sri Lanka Tourism gatherings and the cancellation of revenue-generating $ 1 b target Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) stated that events such as New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s Day while only 1,640 tourists came down as parties, the hotels are not able to make ends meet. a part of the pilot project, the project’s “We are not getting any international tourists since initial aim was to accommodate around we are not registered as a Level 1 hotel, and on top of 5,000 Russian and Ukrainian tourists to that, we are also not getting any local tourists since generate $ 10 million of tourism revenue most are afraid of random PCR testing,” one hotelier to Sri Lanka, with hotels offering an all- stated. inclusive package no less than $ 100 per Speaking to us, The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka day. These tourists were each expected (THASL) President Sanath Ukwatte shared these to spend $ 1,500 during their stay in the concerns and stated that many local tourists are country. reluctant to travel due to the ongoing travel restrictions “Our tourism is slowly picking up, in certain areas, adding that guests only patronise but the unstable nature of the current hotels on long weekends. He went on to state that the environment is making revenue cancellation of big-ticket events such as Valentine’s Day projections unpredictable,” said parties and dinners result in a further loss of revenue to SLTDA Director General Dhammika hotels that are exclusively catering to locals. Wijayasinghe, speaking to The Sunday Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) Morning. Director General Dhammika Wijayasinghe stated that She explained that Sri Lanka Tourism many of these hotels are refusing to become Level 1 aims to make at least one-fourth of its hotels due to those hotels not being able to entertain average yearly revenue in 2021, which domestic tourists. Another issue she pointed out was amounts to around 500,000 tourists and an that currently, after a guest leaves the hotel, the staff overall revenue of $ 1 billion. However, has to self-quarantine for 14 days before serving as of now, both monthly and quarterly another guest. revenue projections are unavailable. “According to the guidelines, whether a guest tests Wijayasinghe stated that the SLTDA positive or negative, the entire staff has to be under expects a slow pick-up in the first quarter quarantine for the next two weeks, which is not ideal of 2021, especially since the Sri Lanka for smaller stakeholders.” Tourism app is yet to be launched. She However, Wijayasinghe stated that this issue has went on to state that once the app is been discussed with Sri Lanka Tourism, and a request launched, it will act as a catalyst for has been put forward to local health authorities to Sri Lanka Tourism and accelerate its make the staff quarantine only if necessary, once a recovery. positive case has been confirmed. This request for a The introduction of the travel app change in the guidelines is currently being reviewed “Visit Sri Lanka” was announced by Sri by local health authorities. Lanka Tourism in June 2020, where they stated the app is being developed with the include the ability to buy tickets for aid of the United Nations Development government-run tourist destinations such Programme (UNDP) and the Information as Sigiriya; and access maps, registered BY UWIN LUGODA international tourists have graced the and Communication Technology Agency hotels, sports centres, tour guides; a island as of 11 February, with the (ICTA). review system, and will also aid local Two months since its reopening, Sri Lanka has managed to attract over month of December accounting for 393 The app is set to be an extension of health authorities to keep track of tourists 2,500 international tourists to its shores. The initial pilot project launched tourists, January 1,682 tourists, and 425 the online immigration form, where it entering each district. in December 2020 and the complete reopening of the airports in January tourists arriving in the first two weeks of will include more information relevant According to Sri Lanka Tourism, 2021 have resulted in tourists from markets such as Europe, Asia-Pacific, February, according to SLTDA data. to the present situation. Currently, online “Version Zero” (v0) of the app has been and the Americas arriving in the country. During this period, Europe became immigration forms only require basic ready and awaiting authorisation from the the largest source of tourist traffic to Sri information, such as the date of the flight, Immigration and Emigration Department However, according to the Sri Lanka unpredictable. Lanka, accounting for 93.66% (1,575) but Covid has made it paramount that to be linked with the online visa process Tourism Development Authority Since the launch of the tourism of the total traffic, while Asia-Pacific more information be shared by the tourists since August 2020. Wijayasinghe stated (SLTDA), the industry’s recovery is still pilot project by Sri Lanka Tourism accounted for 4.8% (80) and the Americas to control the spread. that they expect the app to be launched very slow, making revenue projections on 28 December last year, over 2,500 accounted for 1.6% (27). Future versions of the app will also within the next two weeks.

BY SARAH HANNAN at the last agreed upon amount, For companies that have gone for a as the Collective Agreement diversified plantation management The daily wage increment of was not amended. If the Wages structure, they are able to stay the plantation workers is yet Board decides to go ahead with afloat even if one crop fails to again delayed due to the trade the government-announced wage turn profits in a particular year,” unions (TUs) and the owners of structure, the plantation workers are Bulumulla noted. the regional plantation companies still going to face a loss in income, Should the State decide to take (RPCs) failing to come to an as the compounded wage would still over these companies, it would agreement on the wage model be Rs. 1,000,” Bulumulla explained. once again be the plantation that was proposed by the RPCs in When asked about heeding the worker that would suffer, as the January, just before the Collective demands of the activist groups i.e. State would struggle to sustain the Agreement ended on 28 January. that their basic wage be increased to industries, given its track record on The Labour Minister, as promised Rs. 1,000, Bulumulla informed that managing other state institutions in January, had to intervene, with if the RPCs are to increase the basic that involve larger workforces that the time period given for both wage, they will have to incur an are burdened with human resource parties ending, and had given annual cost of Rs. 10 billion. issues. directives to the Department of With the Government now “This is a sad situation that we Labour Wages Board to take over placing all the RPCs under close are facing, while we were looking the daily wage increment issue for scrutiny and issuing ultimatums to to ensure that the workers too feel the plantation workers in the tea and take over the plantations that are that they are responsible for the rubber industries. found to be underperforming, we growth of the business and are Although a date has not been Plantation sector workers took to the streets and held a protest marche in Haputale to demand their wage increments and point inquired from Bulumulla as to how afforded the chance to make an fixed to announce the daily wage out that the promises made to increase their basic wage to Rs. 1,000 has been ignored by the RPCs and the Government the RPCs would respond should extra amount when the yields are increment through the Wages Board, PHOTO ©️1000 MOVEMENT FACEBOOK PAGE the State decide to take over these better, the wage structure that is to it is learnt that no sooner the gazette plantations. be imposed by the Wages Board, is published, the wage increment DAILY WAGE INCREASE FOR ESTATE WORKERS “It is not entirely fair by the if approved, will only give the will take effect immediately. companies that have only invested plantation worker a stable wage “Since the TUs and the owners in sustaining a plantation such as that will be applied across the of the RPCs failed to reach an tea, as the market keeps fluctuating. board,” Bulumulla elaborated. agreement on the proposed wage increment model presented by the Govt. to take over plantation companies running at a loss? RPCs, the Ministry had to step in to end this stalemate. The RPCs With the RPCs expressing performance over the last 10 However, Minister of opposed our decision to increase the Stuck in a rut that they will not be in a years for the study. Plantation Industries Dr. daily wage to Rs. 900 and have the z Increments further delayed z RPCs concerned about the future position to foot the capital “We conducted a Ramesh Pathirana said that Government pay the additional Rs. with Govt. stepping in of the plantation sector to provide an increment on critical analysis of the the aim of the performance 100 from the budgetary allocations the basic wage for plantation primary expectations evaluative study conducted to make up the Rs. 1,000 daily wage workers, the Government of the State from RPCs with the SLTB is not to take that was promised to the workers,” to increase their daily basic wage in Haputale and Thalawakele to were not able to sign a new initiated a performance when the handover of the over the estates, but to Labour Minister Nimal Siripala de to Rs. 1,000 from the Rs. 700 they demand their wage increments and agreement over the wage model that evaluative study to assess plantations to the RPCs provide a means for the RPCs Silva told The Sunday Morning. were getting. The Government to point out that the promises made would be followed from 29 January the performance of the RPCs took place in 1995. At the to optimise the utilisation of After the RPCs had opposed the and the TUs have again misled the to increase their basic wage to Rs. onwards, the plantation workers will with the participation of the time of the handover, the the estates. decision, the Wages Board had public by saying that the daily wage 1,000 has been ignored by the RPCs be left with a broken promise. Plantation Ministry, the Sri RPCs were required to “The findings of the called for a vote over the decision, will be increased to Rs. 1,000.” as well as the Government. Lanka Tea Board (SLTB), and make investments and study will be taken into to which they had received 11 votes According to Rajapakse, the The revised wage proposal Unfavourable for plantation an independent audit firm. contribute to socioeconomic consideration, to decide in favour with seven RPCs voting decision that the Minister of Labour presented by the RPCs in January workers While the interim report wellbeing and environmental whether the RPCs had against the decision, approving the announced last week is not entirely stood at Rs. 1,108 which was a The Sunday Morning reached out had been submitted to sustainability, including managed to fulfil the wage model that was proposed by addressing the issue either, as the compound of the basic wage of Rs. to Planters’ Association of Ceylon the Plantation Ministry in the social wellbeing of the requirements and are at a the Minister of Labour. Rs. 900 daily wage that the Minister 725, a price share supplement of Chairman Bathiya Bulumulla, January, the final report is labourers. We did a financial capacity to continue holding announced is the compounded total Rs. 50, Employees’ Provident Fund/ to clarify the present wage that expected to be completed by and physical evaluation of these plantations under their Estate workers misled with the Government’s budgetary Employees’ Trust Fund (EPF/ETF) plantation workers are drawing, mid-March. these expectations with administrations, and their 1000 Movement Co-convenor pay increment of Rs. 100 added to of Rs. 108, and an attendance and given that discussions are still According to SLTB a private audit firm, and ability to ensure the social Chinthaka Rajapakse stated: “The it. productivity incentive of Rs. 225. ongoing on applying the announced Chairman Jayampathy handed over our report to the wellbeing of the workers by RPCs and the Government seem to Meanwhile, the plantation sector However, since the Planters’ wage structure that is to be passed Molligoda, 20 RPCs were subject ministry last month,” paying the agreed upon daily have conveniently disregarded the workers once again took to the Union had disagreed with the through the Wages Board. analysed based on their said Molligoda. wage,” Dr. Pathirana noted. demand of the plantation workers streets, holding protest marches payment structure and the parties “The wage structure still stands the sunday morning 7 Sunday, February 14, 2021 SPOTLIGHT

passes along the Outer Circular LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT PROJECT Expressway to the Kadawatha Multimodal Centre and reaches Fort Railway Station via Kiribathgoda, Kelaniya University, Peliyagoda, Panchikawatte, and Maradana. Thereafter, it proceeds to Kirulapone passing the Regal Cinema, Slave Island, Nawaloka Hospital, Altair, Colombo City Centre, Nawam Mawatha, and Kollupitiya. Then, along Back on track Duplication Road, it turns to Colombo University, and passes Thunmulla Junction and Havelock City, and meets the Green Line in Kirulapone. The Green Line will begin at the Moratuwa Railway Station and proceed to Piliyandala, passing Katubedda and Moratuwa withBY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA added costs University. Thereafter, it will take the 120 bus route and pass The controversial Colombo Werahera, Boralesgamuwa, and Light Rail Transit (LRT) Jayewardenepura University; then Project is back in the turn onto the Old Kesbewa Road spotlight following the to reach Nugegoda via Delkanda Government’s decision Junction. Then it reaches the to call for expressions of last station of the Red Line at interest (EOIs) from foreign Kirulapone. From there, it will consultants to review and proceed along Baseline Road refine its prefeasibility study via Narahenpita, Borella, and and to conduct a feasibility Dematagoda on its way to the end of the line at the Kelaniya Railway study for the extended Station. tracks from Malabe to The Blue Line begins at Kaduwela and Athurugiriya. the Makumbura (Kottawa) Multimodal Transport Hub. As learnt by The Sunday It passes along High Level Morning, by calling the new EOIs, Road to Pannipitiya and then the Government would have to along the 174 bus route, passes incur an additional cost of around Depanama, Thalawathugoda, and Rs. 400 million. Isurupaya; turns from the Three Further concerns have been Bridges Junction to the Denzil raised as to why the Government Kobbekaduwa Mawatha. Then is calling for EOIs and spending it passes the Road Development another colossal sum of money to Authority (RDA) Head Office, review and refine two feasibility Koswatta Multimodal Centre, studies that were conducted by Mulleriyawa, Angoda, and the a set of high-quality foreign Kelaniya Temple, and meets the consultants together with local new feasibility study, Dissanayake the project was offered on highly investors, sources said. be completed to receive the best Red Line and Kandy Road at Tyre partners. said it would cost only around Rs. concessional terms and conditions, “The feasibility studies of the advantage, as the system is a Junction, to end at the Hunupitiya However, the new decision is 50 million. “This is a small stretch including a 40-year repayment three projects have already been network of roads, he explained. Railway Station. backed by several transport sector and therefore, it won’t cost more,” period for funds obtained for completed,” Dissanayake added. According to the feasibility Attempts to reach State Minister experts who have worked closely he stressed. consultation services with a grace The construction of the three study, the WRLRTP will operate of Urban Development, Coast with the Japan International The new plans are being laid for period of 12 years, a 0.1% interest projects is important in solving three lines – Red, Blue, and Conservation, Waste Disposal, Co-operation Agency (JICA)- the much-talked-about LRT project rate per annum for civil work and the current traffic congestion in Green. The Red Line starts from and Community Cleanliness Dr. funded Colombo LRT Project, by spending millions of rupees equipment, and a 0.01% interest rate Colombo and all projects should the Ragama Railway Station and proved futile. the agreement with which was more in a backdrop where the for engineering services. scrapped by the Government Government cancelled the project Accordingly, in the project, the last year as an attempt to secure which was about to get finalised preliminary base cost estimated the consultancy service of one following an evaluation process. during the feasibility study was Korean-based company which had It is learnt that millions of rupees $ 1,374 million and including conducted the feasibility studies of have already been spent on the two price escalation, contingencies, the other three lines – Green, Red, feasibility studies conducted for and interest, Sri Lanka and JICA and Blue – of the Colombo Metro the same line and the JICA-funded estimated the loan amount as $ System (CMS). project was at the final stage of 1,850 million. As alleged by an expert who evaluations when the Government In the meantime, concerns have wished to remain anonymous, the decided to scrap it, claiming that the also been raised over the high feasibility studies conducted for project is a costly one. resettlement cost of the three lines the three lines of the CMS were of Western Region Light Rail completed without following the Transit Project (WRLRTP), which proper engineering approach. The as revealed in a recently released expert also raised questions over the environmental impact assessment accuracy of the cost and the design We have decided to extend the (EIA) report was estimated at $ 74.6 of those feasibility studies which, Colombo LRT up to Kaduwela million or Rs. 14.4 billion at the as alleged, were conducted without and Athurugiriya considering current exchange rate. proper professional consultants. the traffic demand in the new However, when asked, The advertisement published for route. The new consultancy WRLRTP Deputy Project Director the calling of EOIs stated that the firm that would be selected in Dissanayake stressed that the total Purple Metro Line is planned to be the near future would conduct amount is for the entire project. implemented from the Port City to a comprehensive feasibility “The amount was estimated by Kaduwela and Athurugriya with an study for the extended stretch calculating all expenditure that approximate length of 32 km. WRTDP Deputy Project Director it would have to incur during the Nevertheless, by calling EOIs, Eng. P. Dissanayake resettlement process,” he said, the State Ministry of Urban adding that the project is still at Development, Coast Conservation, As learnt by The Sunday an evaluation stage and no final Waste Disposal, and Community Morning, discussions on the decision has been taken as yet. Cleanliness, through its Consultants necessity of an LRT commenced According to Dissanayake, the Procurement Committee (CPC), in the mid-90s and proper planning Government would not spend a has invited eligible consultants to on the proposed project began in single cent for these projects, as all indicate their interest in providing 2015. After receiving the Cabinet’s were planned to be conducted as the services requested including approval in 2017, the planning of public-private partnerships (PPPs). reviewing and refining previous the project commenced in 2018. “The Government, if it wants, can studies for a part of the Purple Line The detailed design of the project contribute, otherwise those projects and performing the feasibility study was completed and the project will be conducted as BOOT (build- for the balance. It also states that was at the stage of calling for own-operate-transfer) projects,” he the consultants may form a joint tenders when the new Government added. venture/associate company with decided to cancel it. As learnt by When asked about the finalised national/other international firms The Sunday Morning, the detailed private partners, Dissanayake said to enhance their qualifications, design of the LRT project has that no final decision has been taken and a consultant will be selected in already been completed by local on the investors. accordance with the procedures set and international consultants, and Nevertheless, The Sunday out in the Guidelines for Selection based on the final engineering cost Morning reliably learnt that the and Employment of Consultants, estimated, the project cost has now Government had shortlisted six August 2007 published by the come down to $ 1 billion. Chinese firms for a deal worth National Procurement Agency While it was cancelled by the over $ 4 billion to construct the following CQS method. Cabinet last year, which claimed proposed LRT system under the When contacted by The Sunday that it was costly, transport experts Ministry of Megapolis and Western Morning, Western Region Transport claimed the total project would cost Development. Development Project (WRTDP) only around $ 1 billion, which, as A top government source, who Deputy Project Director Eng. P. per international cost estimates, is wished to remain anonymous, Dissanayake said the new EOIs the average cost for the construction said that during the procurement were called to review and refine the of an LRT. process, 10 proposals were received two already completed feasibility Furthermore, the proposed 15 km from the six Chinese firms that studies and to conduct a feasibility Colombo LRT was expected to save were shortlisted out of 17 foreign study for the stretch from Malabe to Rs. 38 billion per year in public bidders following the EOI called Kaduwela and Athurugiriya. funds from the time it commenced by the Megapolis and Western “We have decided to extend the operations. The project is expected Development Ministry in 2017 to Colombo LRT up to Kaduwela and to reduce travel time from Colombo construct three lines of the LRT Athurugiriya considering the traffic Fort to Malabe to approximately 30 project launched by the Government demand in the new route. The new minutes. in 2016. consultancy firm that would be The loan agreement on the The three Chinese investments selected in the near future would project was signed between Sri would be in the form of FDIs conduct a comprehensive feasibility Lanka and Japan in March 2019. (foreign direct investment) and PPPs study for the extended stretch,” he Accordingly, Japan had extended a in which the Government would stressed. loan of around Rs. 48 billion to Sri hold the majority shares, according When asked about the cost of the Lanka for the project. The loan for to the proposals received by the the sunday morning Sunday, February 14, 2021 EDITORIAL/POLITICS

Tale of two reports It is a well-known fact that whenever a party in power finds itself in a spot of bother, a guaranteed method of survival is to buy time by appointing a OIC agrees in principle to support SL commission of inquiry. Ask Ranil Wickremesinghe. The relevant provision for this political manoeuvre has been in the statute books ever since the time of Independence in 1948, under the Commission of Inquiry Act which has z Pakistan PM to push for z No consensual resolution; been resorted to at regular intervals for a variety of reasons by almost every leader since. Additionally, however, under the 1978 Constitution, the all-powerful Covid-19 burial issue again Core Groups to move forward Executive President, now further strengthened by the 20th Amendment, has been vested with authority to appoint special commissions of inquiry under With a little over a week presidential warrant to investigate and report to the president on any matter for the commencement deemed to be of importance. What is noteworthy, however, is that these of the 46th session of commissions, unlike those appointed under the Commission of Inquiry Act the UN Human Rights that do not have the right to exercise judicial power, have the authority to Council (UNHRC) sessions take away the civic rights of any person it finds guilty and more importantly, on Monday (22), the such action cannot be questioned in any court of law. Government of Sri Lanka More often than not, commissions of inquiry of either kind have been used is engaged in lobbying the and abused by various leaders to harass and victimise political opponents Council members in full force who they see as a threat to their domain, as well as to cover up acts of to face the resolution that commission and omission. It is well known that the special commissions of inquiry provision itself was included in the ‘78 Constitution for the sole is to be moved by the Core purpose of disenfranchising the first Executive President J.R. Jayewardene’s Group on Sri Lanka. main political foe, . However, The Black Box learnt In fact, the first special presidential commission of inquiry had to, as its that the Organisation of Islamic mandate, inquire and investigate the conduct of Bandaranaike during her tenure Co-operation (OIC), which is as Prime Minister from 1970 to 1977, and the commission, on completion known as the second-largest of its inquiry, proceeded to strip her of civic rights. As a consequence, the international organisation after motive for setting up this ad hoc, quasi-judicial mechanism remains shrouded the UN, with a membership of 57 in controversy ever since. states, has reached a decision in At the time, President Jayewardene’s political detractors termed the special principle to support Sri Lanka at commission of inquiry mechanism as a de facto “kangaroo court” and its findings the UNHRC. were looked upon with scepticism, owing to the nature of its formulation. It is learnt that diplomatic circles However, despite this shaky foundation, special presidential commissions of in Geneva were initially surprised inquiry have become a permanent feature in our political ecosystem, having that the largest Muslim organisation consolidated its place within the legal framework over the years. in the world had decided to support Notwithstanding all that, today, four decades after the first commission sat, Sri Lanka despite the controversy we hear the same kind of sentiment with regard to the latest special presidential surrounding the mandatory burial commissions appointed by the current President, especially the one mandated of the Covid-19 dead, disregarding President Gotabaya Rajapaksa will soon play host to Pakistan PM Imran Khan, who is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka on 22 February to inquire into alleged political victimisation during the previous regime. religious and fundamental rights. Allegations similar to those first heard four decades ago are rife these days However, it was later understood Group resolution. parties have canvassed Beijing’s session, including submitting a to the effect that the commission is being utilised to circumvent the regular that the Muslim countries had Interestingly, it is Pakistan willingness to stagger debt homegrown resolution by itself. court system. The question being asked is, if there is already a pending case decided to continuously express Prime Minister Imran Khan, payments, as opposed to lowering The Foreign Ministry is before a court of law, why should a special presidential commission short- their displeasure at the Sri Lankan scheduled to visit Sri Lanka this equity returns, the person said, reportedly looking at the option of circuit that process and exonerate an individual? The rationale being that Government over its failure to week, who was supposed to make requesting anonymity as the plan is taking the initiative to submit its the accused could plead innocence before the court itself and let the law permit the burial of Covid-19 the announcement on the Muslim private,” the report had added. own resolution at the session. take its course. dead without presenting any member states to the Sri Lankan It is in this backdrop that Meanwhile, the Core Group on It is in this light that executive action via a special commission is being sound scientific explanation. Government. opposition Muslim political party Sri Lanka last week confirmed it seen as interventionist and frowned upon. As far as the optics go, abstinence Nevertheless, it seemed a case of Khan was supposed to gain the leaders have met with the Pakistani will be submitting a Resolution on the part of the Executive will go a long way in building much-needed deciding between the Covid-19 credit for lobbying on behalf of High Commissioner in Sri Lanka to on Sri Lanka at the upcoming trust in the administration as well as the judicial process. After all, justice burial issue Sri Lanka at discuss in detail the impending visit UNHRC session in Geneva. must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done. and the long- the UNHRC of the Pakistani Prime Minister. British Ambassador and During the course of the past two months, two special presidential standing among the Leaders of the Sri Lanka Muslim Permanent Representative to the commissions of inquiry have completed investigations and submitted their issues between Muslim Congress (SLMC) and All Ceylon UN in Geneva Julian Braithwaite final reports to the President. One is the commission probing political the Muslim member states Makkal Congress (ACMC), informed the UNHRC on Monday victimisation while the other is the one that probed the Easter Sunday attacks. nations and and securing MPs and Rishad (8) of the decision to submit the Although both reports were submitted less than two months of each other, the Western their support Bathiudeen, respectively, last resolution. there seems to be a disparity in the manner in which action is being initiated world. the for the island. week met with the Pakistani High The confirmation was made based on the recommendations of the reports. Given the black box However, it Commissioner, and explained as the UNHRC met to discuss its The three-member Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) probing reports on the is learnt that the issues faced by the Muslim plans for its 46th Session, which incidents of political victimisation was appointed on 9 January 2020 and OIC, it seems by Capt. Vasabha the OIC had community in the country. will be held from 22 February to 23 submitted its final report on 8 December 2020. The Commission was mandated the Muslim decided not to It is learnt that the Pakistani March. to inquire into allegations of political victimisation of state officials, state countries have decided to clearly support the resolution on Sri Lanka envoy in Sri Lanka has assured the The Core Group on Sri Lanka employees, armed forces, and police personnel during the period between demarcate their opponent – the prior to Khan’s intervention. Muslim leaders that their concerns consists of Canada, Germany, 8 January 2015 and 16 November 16 2019, as a result of investigations by Western nations. It is also believed that Pakistan have been duly noted, and will be Montenegro, North Macedonia, state agencies such as the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery Therefore, the resolution on Sri has been requested to extend its conveyed to PM Khan. and the UK. or Corruption (CIABOC), Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID), Lanka moved by the Core Group, fullest support to Sri Lanka at the Braithwaite had said that a Criminal Investigation Department (CID), and the Special Investigation Unit which predominantly consists of UNHRC by China. No consensual resolution resolution will be submitted of the Police. Western nations, is unlikely to China and Russia have both The Government meanwhile to the Council on promoting Following a public call for complaints, 1,971 petitions had been submitted receive the support of the Muslim made public their decision to had decided not to agree to the reconciliation, accountability, and to the Commission for inquiry. On 31 January 2021, the President appointed member states at the Council. support Sri Lanka at the Council. presentation of a consensual human rights in Sri Lanka. another special presidential commission to implement the decisions and In the event the OIC decides to “Pakistan plans to ask China resolution along with the Core The resolution is a follow-up recommendations of the victimisation commission. move forward with the decision to for relief on payments for power Group to the UNHRC. to the one already co-sponsored The speed at which action has been initiated on the decisions and support Sri Lanka at the UNHRC, projects Beijing financed over A senior government minister by the former Government, from recommendations of the special commission, even though the full 2,000-plus- the votes in favour of Sri Lanka are the past eight years, the latest said that it would be politically which the current administration page report has not yet been made public, is what has got the grapevine buzzing, likely to increase to around 20. The developing nation that’s struggling disadvantageous to agree to a withdrew last year. with the parliamentary Opposition quick to capitalise on the opportunity. initial count on the votes that could to repay debt under President Xi consensual resolution. Citing Braithwaite had further noted The main bone of contention is that constitutional provisions better suited be cast in favour of Sri Lanka at the Jinping’s Belt and Road Initiative,” the protest faced by the previous that the resolution will be based on for more noble purposes are being used to exonerate those who even have Council, soon after the UNHRC a report in the Economic Times Yahapalana Government over its the recent damning report on Sri personal cases filed against them on the pretext of political victimisation. To High Commissioner’s report was stated. decision to submit a consensual Lanka by UN High Commissioner add fuel to the fire, the IGP is on record stating that around 75% of cases of released, stood at around seven. “In informal talks, Pakistan and resolution, the minister said the for Human Rights Michelle alleged victimisation filed by police rank and file have been found to be bogus. Nevertheless, Sri Lanka would China have discussed easing terms incumbent Government would not Bachelet. The underlying question in all this is, can an ad hoc special presidential have to be very cautious in its on the repayment of debt on about move in such a direction. The Government of Sri Lanka, commission override the country’s judicial system? If so, does it not render moves to ensure that it fully secures a dozen power plants, according The Government it is learnt is it is learnt, is expected to brief the legal system impotent in the face of executive action? Opposition parties the support of the OIC member to a person with knowledge of the considering several alternative the UNHRC during the high- have even gone to the extent of comparing the action recommended by the states, without pushing them to matter, who said Islamabad hasn’t options to a consensual resolution level segment of the 46th Session special commission in exonerating certain individuals from ongoing cases abstain during a vote on the Core made a formal request yet. The with the Core Group UNHRC when Foreign Minister Dinesh against them on the basis of victimisation in contrast to the ruling in the Gunawardena is scheduled to contempt case, citing unequal application of the law. address the council on Tuesday The answers to all these posers will probably materialise via litigation being (23). contemplated by Opposition parties on this matter. Sri Lanka is expected to assert its Be that as it may, there appears to be a distinct disparity in the manner in position on the human rights issue which the victimisation report is being implemented as opposed to the report and the decision by the Core Group submitted by the Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry that probed the to submit a fresh resolution on Sri Easter Sunday attacks. By any yardstick, it is this particular report, which not Lanka to the Council. only Sri Lankans but also the international community have been patiently Others scheduled to address waiting for, given the high number of foreign casualties in the multiple the high-level segment are Indian attacks, that warrants precedence. Minister for External Affairs But even two weeks after the report had been submitted, only bits and pieces of Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, US it have made its way to the media, prompting His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Secretary of State Anthony J. Ranjith to publicly vent his frustration. The outspoken Cardinal was among Blinken, and the People’s Republic the first to publicly request an unedited copy of the report but is yet to even of China State Councillor and receive an acknowledgement of his request, which is what understandably Minister for Foreign Affairs Wang made him hint at calling for an international investigation last week. Yi. The Cardinal’s not-so-subtle hint could not have come at a more crucial Meanwhile, a collective of civil time. Today, with the United Nations Human Rights Council breathing society organisations is to write down the neck of the administration, the actions of the Executive and the to the UNHRC regarding alleged Government have come under microscopic scrutiny. The reignited controversy human rights violations that are surrounding the burial of Covid-19 victims, following the Prime Minister’s currently taking place in the verbal assurance in Parliament followed by stoic denial from his own office country. hours later, is bound to cause further headaches for those heading to Geneva. “We will be writing to the Given the socioeconomic connotations of the impending parley, much more Council with our criticisms of the than meets the eye rides on the final outcome of the Swiss rendezvous that current situation in the country,” begins next week and stretches over 30 days. Centre for Policy Alternatives No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. (CPA) Executive Director Dr. Fax - 011 2 673 441 Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu had General - 011 5 200 900 told The Morning. Director Sales & Marketing - 077 3 866 143 US on UNHRC Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367620 E-mail - [email protected] The move by the US to rejoin 9 EDITORIAL/POLITICS OIC agrees in principle to support SL z No consensual resolution; z Votes in favour of SL could z Internal squabbles in Core Groups to move forward increase from seven to 20 Govt. weigh on stability

It is learnt that Basil had expressed his regret over the formation of a faction among the SLPP alliance partners led by Weerawansa. Basil had then requested the Protecting President to inform the group, including Weerawansa, to refrain from forming factions in the Government. The President had also been sovereignty cautioned that a Government with a two-thirds majority should always act in unison, and should not in any way allow moves to create factions main within it. Nevertheless, Weerawansa last week convened a meeting of 12 party leaders of the SLPP, who have now mandate requested a meeting with the President and Prime Minister to discuss the current political DINESH as well as alliance issues. The group of 12 party leaders have also decided to GUNAWARDENA meet frequently to discuss President Gotabaya Rajapaksa will soon play host to Pakistan PM Imran Khan, who is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka on 22 February political issues, as well as those related to governance, BY SARAH HANNAN with the technological know-how that and we are working within the UN the UNHRC, which was widely weaken the cordial link since the SLPP Party Leaders’ has helped the country to progress. network in all matters. expected following President between the President and MPs, meeting that used to be held With the 46th Session of the UN Therefore, reviewing these So, why are we being selected today Joe Biden’s assumption of Weerawansa had said that it weekly had not taken place for Human Rights Council (UNHRC) fast agreements has taken place among so to be targeted for various unreasonable office, was made official last would not be conducive to the many months. approaching, the Government of Sri many countries, not just the one or two resolutions, when even their whole week. social, economic, and political Accordingly, the group Lanka has been pushed to take crucial countries that you are focusing on. conclusion on figures is totally wrong? A Reuters news report stated wellbeing of the incumbent of 12 is to meet again on 25 decisions on how it plans to address the Let us not forget that the LTTE that US President Joe Biden’s Government as well as the February at the Communist human rights violation allegations that it The granting of a renewable energy is banned by all these countries. administration will re-engage country. Party headquarters. failed to investigate and present findings generation plant in the islands off The Commissioner’s report should with the UNHRC, three years The statement was viewed on under the HR Resolution 30/1, which the Jaffna peninsula to a Chinese remember that the LTTE is banned after former President Donald by the SLPP membership as an Tamil issues it withdrew from co-sponsoring last company has once again raised by all these countries, and the ban is Trump withdrew over what attempt by Weerawansa to oust The success of the P2P year. concerns in India. How does the renewed every year, because that terror his administration called bias Prime Minister Rajapaksa as march organised by the It is not only the matters of the Government plan to address this organisation was regarded as the most against Israel and a lack of the Party Leader. Tamil-speaking community UNHRC that the country has to deal issue? deadly terrorist organisation in the reform. Weerawansa’s statement in the Northern and Eastern with – its foreign policy is being The Delft Island project for renewable world. Secretary of State Antony to the media comes after he Provinces, based on several challenged due to several disagreements energy is a project that has gone through Getting back to development and Blinken announced on Monday convened a meeting of SLPP long-standing issues faced by surfacing over long-standing bilateral within the normal process of awarding better livelihoods, reconciliation, and that the US will return to the coalition party leaders on 30 the Tamil people, concluded relations with several countries that have the tender to the company. There are democracy right across the country is Geneva-based council as an January to discuss the action last week. helped Sri Lanka in its development aspects that need to be considered what we have committed ourselves to, observer. to be taken to prevent the process. when countries that have an agreement and we stand by that principle. “We intend to do so knowing allocation of the East Container Foreign Affairs Dinesh Gunawardena with us raise issues. But our Mannar that the most effective way Terminal (ECT) at the Colombo responded to some of our queries. offshore renewable energy project What progress has been made with to reform and improve the Port to India. Following are excerpts of the also went ahead amidst most of them the Core Group on Sri Lanka at the Council is to engage with it in Weerawansa had invited interview: doubting its success; in that sense, Sri UNHRC regarding the resolution to a principled fashion,” a senior the leaders of 10 political Lanka and India was able to go ahead be presented at the 46th session? State Department official was parties to the discussion: Sri Attempts to course-correct Sri with these projects, which are still to be There is a report by the quoted as saying. Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Lanka’s foreign policy that has completed. Sri Lanka too has to achieve Commissioner, to which we have “We know that the Council General Secretary Dayasiri undergone several changes due to certain targets that have been set for the answered and rejected most of the has the potential to be an Jayasekara, Pivithuru Hela regime changes seem to have reached projects. report’s substance. We responded, important forum for those Urumaya (PHU) Leader Udaya a deadlock, with Sri Lanka failing stating that we do not agree with it, fighting tyranny and injustice Gammanpila, New Democratic to hold its end of the agreement with Sri Lanka withdrew from its and point by point we have explained around the world. By being Left Front (NDLF) Leader long-standing bilateral relations with co-sponsorship during last year's this to the Commissioner’s office at the present at the table, we seek to Vasudeva Nanayakkara, Lanka India, China, and Japan. How does UNHRC session, promising to UNHRC. reform it and ensure it can live Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) your administration plan to ensure conduct the necessary inquiries We have also rejected the proposal, as up to that potential,” the official General Secretary Prof. Tissa that the foreign relations with these within the country. What is the the Commissioner’s recommendations Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi had added. Witharana, Communist Party MP M.A. Sumanthiran countries continue to stand? progress on this? were based on wrongful conclusions of Sri Lanka (CPSL) General Sri Lanka’s relations with our The Sri Lankan Government at that violated the structure of sovereignty, SLPP pot boils Secretary Dr. G. Weerasinghe, Soon after the protest neighbours India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the time, that is in 2015, went into not only of Sri Lanka, but it will give While the Government is Sri Lanka Mahajana Party march concluded, the Special and the rest of the SAARC countries, co-sponsorship of Resolution 30/1, by precedence to violating the sovereignty engaged in preparing strategy (SLMP) Leader Asanka Task Force (STF) security including the Maldives and Nepal, have going against our own country and our of all democratic sovereign states that to face the impending sessions Navaratne, United People’s detail provided to Illankai been very friendly and constructive. own military personnel, violating the have come together at the UN. of the UNHRC in Geneva, the Party (UPP) Leader Tiran Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) As you have mentioned, Japan has Constitution of Sri Lanka, for which we Therefore, the Core Group has been governing Sri Lanka Podujana Alles, and representatives of MP M.A. Sumanthiran was continued to maintain strong relations very clearly suggested that there will be given an explanation about Sri Lanka’s Peramuna (SLPP) was engaged the Eelam People’s Democratic withdrawn. with our country. There have been no provision for foreign judges. position. The Core Group is represented in an internal squabble that Party (EPDP). Soon after Sumanthiran said his STF issues that have come up on and off, but Lord Naseby of the House of by the ambassadors in Colombo to note has now caused a rift between Weerawansa’s comments security personnel were overall, Sri Lanka and India, Sri Lanka Commons has exposed confidential the correct situation in Sri Lanka. We the SLPP and a majority of its were published by the media, withdrawn without any reason and Japan, and other SAARC country papers of the British Government, have explained, and they are aware coalition partners. SLPP General Secretary MP given. “I don’t know the relationships, have been very positive which indicated that the figures were all that a commission has been appointed; , a Basil reason. I didn’t ask anyone because of our non-aligned neutral wrong when we went and co-sponsored thus, the domestic mechanism that is loyalist, immediately charged yet and I’m yet to decide what policy. and voted against our own country by established can be strengthened and that Weerawansa should make to do next,” the MP told The We think that we have been able participating in the 30/1 Resolution taken forward. a public apology over the Morning. to continue with them with the co-sponsorship. We need to question whether they comments. He said the special understanding of our future projects The mandate given to President are against Sri Lanka implementing Weerawansa shot back at his security was provided and in relation to specific matters, as Gotabaya Rajapaksa was very clear; the Sustainable Development Goals critics on Tuesday (9), stating following findings of a threat the President and the Government have he was to defend our sovereignty declared by the UN; are they not that he would apologise to the assessment, and that it was invited all our neighbouring countries, and Constitution, and to work within interested in seeing these legislations nation if his endeavours to continuously informed to him, as well as private investments, to the Constitution. Last February, on that they have been calling for review bring both Mahinda Rajapaksa even recently, that the threat participate in Sri Lanka’s development that mandate, as Minister of Foreign being attended to? and President Gotabaya level remained. work. Affairs, I went to Geneva and placed Sri Lanka is one of the oldest Rajapaksa into power – However, the police security before the Human Rights Commission, democratic countries in the world. We following the former’s defeat at provided to the MP has not Isn’t the Government worried about the key arguments of this matter, and have acted democratically, and having the 2015 Presidential Election – been withdrawn. the consequences it would face once said that we are withdrawing from the said that, we will go ahead with the were mistakes. He added that if Sumanthiran along with MP the terms change, should any of co-sponsorship, as we cannot violate our democratic process to support Sri Lanka Minister of Industries Wimal Weerawansa that were the case, he would be Shanakiyan Rasamanickam these countries discontinue their Constitution. in working with the UN. ready to apologise. spearheaded the five-day long-standing support towards the We agreed to have a programme of The squabble commenced Weerawansa also lashed Pottuvil to rally, development work being carried out action to protect our sovereignty by: Will the Government agree to a following a print media out at Kariyawasam, saying which concluded on 7 in several sectors of the country? Appointing a Supreme Court Judge consensual resolution, or look to interview by National Freedom that he (Kariyawasam) did February. We have had a very long history of to inquire into all these commission counter the resolution presented by Front (NFF) Leader Minister not comprehend the level According to projects and investments and trade reports and if there is any new evidence the Core Group? Wimal Weerawansa, where of responsibility an elected Rasamanickam, despite agreements with these countries. to be placed – who was appointed by Sri Lanka has not agreed to any he had said that President public representative feels, as attempts by certain sections of Most of the progress has been under President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. consensual resolution and Sri Lanka’s Gotabaya Rajapaksa should opposed to a parliamentarian society to portray the march as the leadership of our progressing The amendments to the PTA are position is very clear. be given the leadership of the appointed through the National one that promoted extremism governments and we always question under review, and the Justice Ministry Take, for instance, the British SLPP. Prime Minister Mahinda List. and targeted the UNHRC or criticise them. But overall, what Sri is studying them in relation to those in Government’s stance now, to bring in Rajapaksa is the Leader of the Meanwhile, the SLPP had session, it was mainly aimed Lanka has gained by these investments custody under the PTA, with the Justice laws to free members of their armed SLPP, while is stressed that factions should at drawing attention to long- has been very positive. We have now Minister making clear statements in forces who have been found guilty; is its Founder/National Organiser. not be permitted to develop standing issues of the Tamil- gone into new areas in our development the House that the process is being it a one-sided decision by the British Pointing out that it would within the Government, and speaking people. He noted that projects as a result of their investments reviewed. Government to grant these pardons, be inappropriate to isolate the Basil Rajapaksa had briefed some of these issues spanned and we must not forget the contribution In achieving the Sustainable while other countries should not even President to the Presidential President Rajapaksa in this over seven decades. from the private sector as well in terms Development Goals set up by the UN, inquire into whether they had an inquiry? Secretariat, as this would regard. Contd. on page 13 of attracting investment, contributing we are progressing in implementation, Contd. on page 13 10 the sunday morning Sunday, February 14, 2021 VIEWS

BY DINITHI GUNASEKERA What once seemed to catch public interest, from the destruction of Wilpattu to Sinharaja, now appears to be an everyday tale for the average Sri Lankan. Verité Research confirms that the country’s current forest coverage is at a feeble 29.2%, while 40% of Sri Lanka’s wetlands have already been lost due to the aftereffects of disorganised urbanisation. Uruwarige Wannila Aththo, a chief of the indigenous Vedda community, has filed a petition in the Court of Appeal challenging the rabid land clearance projects at Pallebedda-Rambakan Oya. Forest Conservation Assistant Divisional Officer Devani Jayathilaka, who was on the frontlines of securing a key mangrove patch in the Negombo lagoon, is reportedly under investigation for her “misconduct” of speaking out about the endangered Crudia Zeylanica tree without prior approval from the related department. Amidst long standing cries of masses of conservationists, environmentalists and wilderness enthusiasts, petitions and campaigns and all, seem to be discarded as “non-essential concerns” by the governing body, as noted with PHOTO© HORIZON LANKA regard to developments henceforth observed. Speaking to individuals SRI LANKA’S PLUMMETING ECOSYSTEM protected by state laws and international who hold the ecosystem near and accords! dear to their hearts, The Sunday No valid reasons are put forth as to why Morning uncovered diverse points these incidents occur and after two or of view on the current situation three days, the incidents are swept under with regard to the rampant state of the rug. If we look at the most recent deforestation and land grabbing in incident from the Gampaha district, if it wasn’t for the actions of the wildlife the island. A daily tale of official Devanee, those two Crudia Zeylanica trees would have been dozered without remorse. Investigation is In a global civilisation such as what we are experiencing right now, development required is needed if we’re to be on the same page Dominic Perera, Conservationist, deforestation as other nations, but looking at these Activist, and Justice to Animals selfish acts, we have to ask: at what and Nature Director cost? Sri Lanka is truly a land like no other, teeming with biodiversity, which Deforestation is is renowned the world over, but when the most critical everything is under control and people and concerning start travelling here, what can we show issue we’re faced and land grabs them with a smile on our face? Charred with today. As tree stumps? Rotting elephant carcasses? of 2000, 60% of Government in protecting the environment communities, has created an atmosphere Currently there are locals protesting Once-verdant hills, of beauty beyond par, Sri Lanka was of this island. From dumping waste, where illegal deforestation, illicit land against land grabbing all over the island, a smoldering mess? In this digital age, natural forest deforestation, contaminating waterways, grabbing, unsustainable agricultural Hambantota, Rambakan Oya, and we have the rights and the means to raise cover. From and now selling protected mangroves techniques, rampant poaching, and the Madampe, are few areas where locals awareness and save our natural resources 2001-2019, as well. Ministers who allow the recent onset of biopiracy, are being have been staging protests over illegal which are a privilege to us, the people. Sri Lanka lost implementation of such damaging projects accepted as legally appropriate. The land grabbing and sand mining. Natura non facit saltus (Latin for ‘nature 177kha of tree act as if they care by “inspecting” these consequence of this continued mentality There is no argument in the need of makes no leaps: In Nature, things change cover, equivalent damages in front of the media. has seen the destruction of vast swathes infrastructure development and fulfilling gradually’). to a 4.5% As people of this country, we watch and of wilderness lands, including within agricultural needs. But at a time, the decrease in tree allow these so-called leaders – with no Protected Areas (PAs) such as Dahaiyagala, world is already facing the results of cover since 2000, academic background in relation to their Kahalla-Pallekele, Sinharaja, Knuckles, climate change, we should pay better Long past according to the Global Forest Watch. respective ministries – control and destroy Kanneliya, Mahaweli Flood Plains, attention to conserving the unique and Post-independence, Sri Lanka had 67% our home. The priorities of this country Lahugala Kitulana, Bakmitiyawa rich biodiversity of the island. As an time to act forest coverage. The land grabbing too, is in regard to the environment should lie in Thibirigolla, Bogahapelessa, and island situated close to the equator with a Sethil Muhandiram, continuing at an unpredictable rate. What is promoting renewable energy production, Piduruthalagala, and Other State Forests developing economy, there is a chance of Conservationist the reason and who is really holding on the reducing pollution and awareness of the (OSFs) such as Nilgala, Pallegama- our coastal communities being one of the strings requires prompt investigation. public, children and adults alike. We need Laggala, and Erathna Gilimale. first to face the impacts of ocean warming Actually this should be a major concern, to stop letting a handful of individuals It is time we ask ourselves if this is the and sea level rise. since Sri Lanka has a limited amount of fill their pockets with illegal kickbacks future that we want – an island devoid of Unfortunately, there’s not much forest cover. And every day for a year, Wreaking at the cost of losing balance in a fragile wilderness areas and ecological diversity, research done on these areas to find out we are getting news and information ecosystem, which is equally important for or an island that has combined Sustainable the level of impact. Lack of research regarding encroachments, deforestation, irrevocable the survival of all living beings, including Development, Protected Areas (PAs), is one of the biggest problems with and land grabbing even from the Colombo us humans. and Other State Forests (OSFs), with conserving biodiversity and ecosystems District. As a society, it is our duty to damage an integrated agricultural component, of Sri Lanka, as without research and protect our nature, because our survival Anjali Watson, Wilderness & ensuring that our entire population has data, we are unable to speculate the exact depends on nature. Wildlife Conservation Trust Systemic flaws access to a future that is rich with natural impact of these damages. Sri Lanka lacks environmental literacy, (WWCT) Ecologist and Managing Anonymous, Field Guide and influence, strengthened food security, But we are seeing the results of short and therefore with bad political influence, Trustee University Postgraduate and replenishable water supplies for sighted decisions taken by other countries. misuse of power, and violating laws generations to come. Oxygen was being sold in India and China leads to many environmental issues This is an issue to be concerned about; It is an absolute shame that an island as not too long ago. The day our people will at the moment. Incidents like those once an area of forest or “abandoned land” privileged as Sri Lanka, with a globally- have to pay for basic commodities like at Anavilundawa, the Dahaiyagala as it is termed, when in actuality it is often unrivalled ecological diversity and a Plunging into fresh air and water might also not be too Elephant Corridor, Sinharaja, Pollebedda- scrub forest, is cleared, it is an immediate network of Protected Areas (PAs), Other far. Rambakan Oya, Floodplains National and irrevocable loss. Many parcels of such State Forests (OSFs), and State Forested a crisis We should learn lessons from them Park, and Muthurajawela, are eye-openers land across the country are undergoing this Lands (SFLs), has been subject to so much Representative of Climate Action and think of how our decisions and regarding the ongoing environmental “clearing” and in a small island like ours devastation. Government entities such as actions will impact our future, and other crisis. with limited land space, this is a definite the Department of Forest Conservation Now Sri Lanka (CAN SL) beings that we share this land with. It’s Conservationists observed many issue. It is poor agricultural productivity of (DFC), and the Department of Wildlife The vast amount of deforestation and absolutely necessary that we adopt a ecologically-sensitive places that have existing agricultural lands that is the issue – Conservation (DWC) are subject to land grabbing news that has been reported sustainable approach to development. vast biodiversity, but released for and not the lack of land for agri purposes. political interference, bureaucratic since late 2019 is undoubtedly concerning. Without trees, wildlife, and other natural development projects without consulting. Also, many of these lands are vital buffer malpractice, financial deprivation, and As a small island highly vulnerable to resources humanity won’t survive long Damaging ecosystems leads to eco- and connector areas to larger wilderness, manpower shortages by both the Central climate change (Sri Lanka was listed at either. imbalance, and it will impact many and/or are areas in and around waterways. Government and the Provincial Council number 2 in the Climate Risk Index 2018), species, including humans. Deforestation So their “clearing” results in a cascade of governance mechanism. However, they we should be taking measures to conserve brings climate change, and incidents like harmful scenarios to overall ecosystems. It continue to carry out their duties to the our natural ecosystems to build resilience Senseless unfortunate natural disasters will rise in is thus a counter-productive action to have wilderness lands under their authority, against climate change, but instead we coming years. such haphazard land clearing occuring. It management, and purview. are doing the opposite. Additionally, destruction Authorities should be more mindful is intact systems that allow for agriculture Furthermore, ministries such as the these destructions will worsen issues like Sachin Perera, 27, Travel when releasing lands to development to be productive because of the varied Ministry of Lands (MoL), the Ministry human-wildlife conflict, water resource Designer and Content Writer projects, and they should be able to work services they provide, such as water, micro of Agriculture (MoA), and the Ministry depletion, and higher chances of natural according to the environmental policies. climate stability, pollination, etc. We need of Irrigation (MoI) continue to exert disasters like landslides, floods, droughts, The current deforestation trend Violating acts like the Flora & Fauna to be aware of this and think on a larger unwanted pressure on both the DWC and and more. is definitely getting out of hand. As Protection Ordinance and the Forest landscape level. Small scale, and not large DFC, demanding the release of wilderness With the Government Circular concerned citizens we are left with Protection Act gives away precious scale, agriculture is what works here and lands (both within and outside the existing 2001/01 endangering previously semi- nothing but questions, which no one with biodiversity towards destruction. If they our ancestors knew this well. We must not Protected Area Network), to facilitate protected “Other State Forests”, which the authority is willing or capable of are unwilling to protect and unable to forget. large scale agricultural, irrigation, and host a number of endemic species and answering. carry out conservation programmes, this infrastructure development projects, acts as critical wildlife corridors, the I mean, what’s the reason for this issue, which is already out of control, will completely ignoring the guidelines and best natural forest cover of Sri Lanka was blatant destruction of the finite amount of be a major catastrophe that will create practices introduced concerning sustainable placed in a perilous position. Now, with natural resources that we have? It’s getting huge problems in the coming future. Myopic leaders development and the implementation of the the recent suggestions made by the senseless of late, and everyday you hear Environmental destruction has to stop. Ryan Wickramasinghe, Student United Nations Sustainable Development President to gazette elephant corridors that hundreds of acres of protected land Otherwise the requirements that we need Goals (SDGs). like Dahayyagala to allow cultivation, the have been put under the axe – and some to live will be gone and the entire human I am disappointed and frustrated about This, combined with the politicisation “Protected Areas” of the island are also at of these lands happen to be sanctuaries, race has to pay the price for the damage the sheer lack of responsibility by the of ground-level issues facing rural a great risk of being destroyed. national parks and wetlands that are being we have done. the sunday morning 11 Sunday, February 14, 2021 HOTSEAT/FOCUS

BY SARAH HANNAN burial for Covid-19 deaths, but MPs from his own party are defying his comments, The recently held protest walks from Pottuvil to Polikandy #P2P managed We will not be arranging any more protests of this saying that is not what he meant. to bring together Tamil-speaking communities in the North and the East to This is the state that the country has not only focus on the pressing issues that they have been facing for years, magnitude, because we come to, and there is a visible power but also the issues of the Tamil-speaking communities that are scattered have shown the world struggle that is going on within the across the country, marking a historic moment. While the motives behind that these issues are there. government parties and their alliances. the protest walks have turned into a hot topic of debate, The Sunday But we are working on a The only thing we can do is put pressure Morning spoke to Illankai Tamil Arasu Kadchi (ITAK) Batticaloa District mechanism, where we on the Government to attend to these Member of Parliament Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran Rasamanickam, who took could pressure the demands. part in the protest walk, to understand the thinking behind it and what Government on a On the demand of releasing Tamil they plan to do in the future. Following are excerpts of the interview: district level political prisoners, is there a specific group of people that you are looking at Many have viewed the Pottuvil to Even though the leaders of the Muslim getting released? Polikandy #P2P protest walk as a media Congress and the All Ceylon Makkal There are two groups that we are fiasco in light of the upcoming UNHRC Congress were not present, their party looking at; one group has been in sessions. What is your response? representatives joined in. detention since the 80s towards It is natural that people look at it with which various numbers are suspicion and that it would have been done Already, the Diaspora is seen to be using given, which is why I asked the just to draw attention at the upcoming this protest to further a different agenda Government as to how many UNHRC sessions. But if you look at on various social media platforms. What political prisoners were held in some of the slogans that we have taken up are your thoughts on that? custody. They responded saying during the walk, these requests have been In all communities there are different that there was nobody held as there for the past 70 or more years. These people, even if you take the Sinhalese political prisoners, which is not demands have not only been brought out community, there are extremist Sinhalese true. That was just a jab taken at to coincide with the UNHRC sessions. and there are moderate Sinhalese. our protest. It is fair that people tend to look at it Likewise, in the Muslim community also Some of the people who got with some suspicion, as that is the kind there are extremists and moderates. So, arrested, seem to have disappeared. of coverage that was given in the media the challenge is ours to project what we Some of these people surrendered in the South, to gain political mileage. wanted, rather than giving an extremist during the last stages of the war and Some extremist elements that voted for element the opportunity to use this for throughout various times. We consider this Government naturally were not very their mileage. them political prisoners and we can also pleased that the expected force was not But unfortunately, the media coverage consider them as missing people, as there used against the protestors such as the that was given in the South to this is no record of these people anywhere. STF and the Army. event sounded somewhat similar to the There is however a group of people These extremists tried to stop the protest sentiments that were projected by the that are still detained with whom we from happening, but after the first few Diaspora activities that were done online. are in touch. There are some that were hours, the Government also figured out arrested in 2015. There is one person that that they will be under much pressure, had surrendered to the Government from the they tried to stop us from conducting this Batticaloa District from Thoppigala. But peaceful protest walk. we do not know what exactly is going on Since the walk was allowed, it was and we do not know how they are going portrayed in a different way, saying it to classify them. Let’s say if they were was an internationally-funded scheme. actually convicted of some crime that they But all those assumptions are not true, Minority issues have been charged with, some of them as one of the 10 demands was to ensure have not even had a single hearing so far. that the plantation workers’ daily wage be Their cases have not even been filed. increased to Rs. 1,000. That is not a matter Hypothetically, if these cases were filed that has any correlation to the UNHRC. and if some of them were convicted with The 10 demands we had were issues unanswered certain charges, they could have served that have not been addressed for decades, five or ten times their sentences by now. and after 30-40 years, people in the North If they were part of any such illegal and the East including the estate sector activity and they were arrested due to have joined hands in requesting that these such charges, the maximum sentence they longstanding demands are met. would have gotten would be 5-10 years. for over 7 decades But in this case, some of them are in Muslim political leaders were not seen remand of over 30 years. at the P2P march. Why do you think The other group was a group of that is? SHANAKIYAN RAJAPUTHIRAN RASAMANICKAM youngsters that were arrested on 27 There was representation from all November 2020 for posting photos of parties and there were statements issued Even in one of the TV talk-shows, the because they needed only food and Prabhakaran and sharing poems in Tamil by the main political parties online as well Public Securities Minister was being led water. This protest showed that after about how the Tamil community needs to in support of the protest. Not everyone by the host of the show by feeding words This is the state that the 73 years of independence in Sri Lanka, rise up again to ask for our rights. That would be in the best of their health to to the Minister to get a reaction. At one country has come to, and these issues were still not addressed didn’t in any way say that the Tamil- participate in a walk of this nature. I point, he mentioned my name and asked there is a visible power and the people are still asking the speaking community wanted to start an was the only MP that walked all three the Minister whether he saw the way I Government to solve them. armed struggle. These youngsters are also days. But everyone joined in from their spoke to the Police. All they did was to struggle that is going on Going forward, we will not be still under arrest. We are requesting that respective areas. M.A. Sumanthiran try to get a reaction from the Sinhalese within the government parties arranging any more protests of this the justice system takes action in a fair participated in the walk on the first day extremist elements. and their alliances. The magnitude, because we have shown the and a sensitive manner. and came up to Trincomalee, but didn’t only thing we can do is put world that these issues are there. But MP Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan continue through , as he was advised What steps would you take to ensure pressure on the Government we are working on a mechanism, where was released recently and he was not against it. Local government political that the 10 points that you demand are we could pressure the Government on a a political prisoner. He was arrested representatives and council members addressed by the Government? to attend to these demands district level, by getting the intellectuals for murdering former MP Joseph representing Tamil and Muslim parties This walk was to display to the world together and exerting pressure to meet Pararajasingham during a Christmas joined in the protest. In addition to that, and the Sri Lankan Government that these demands. In a democratic country, Mass at a church. Minister Johnston former members of Parliament and former these demands are not just demands from present is food. Even a minister was seen that is all we can do. Fernando identified MP Chandrakanthan provincial council members too took part. a political party; that these were demands saying that the only problem that the If the Government was not aware of as a political prisoner that was released. Azath Sally joined in on the final day of the people. Since the incumbent Tamil-speaking community had was food this issue, then the Government can say The Sergeant Sunil Ratayake, who was of the protest walk; Imran Maharoof and President got elected, all we have seen is and water. that we need to bring out these issues to convicted of murder, inclusive of a child, an MP who is from Trincomalee too were that the media wanted to portray that the Nearly 500,000 people that create awareness. But in this case, the was released. We are questioning the participants at the protest. So, there were Tamil people do not have any problems, participated in these walks collectively Government is fully aware of these issues. Government’s double standards. members from Muslim parties as well. but the only issue that they have at on different days did not join the protests Even the Prime Minister agreed to allow Contd. on page 13

MISSING PERSONS AND AGGRIEVED FAMILIES CASE STUDY 2 Enforced Failure of successive governments disappearance CASE STUDY 1 Prisoners of war, journalists, and and demand to know what exactly was recorded from approximately 2,700 due to political military personnel top the list of persons happened to our loved ones.” persons who had submitted complaints that have been subjected to alleged Case of missing military persons in response to the “public notice” revenge enforced disappearances during the Visaka Dharmadasa’s second Kumaratunga’s tenure, the The Paranagama that was published in the print and Mauri Inoka Jayasinghe, 30-year civil war, and during the years son was reported missing in Rana Viru Seva Authority was Commission electronic media in all three languages. a mother of twins, has been following its end as well. action (MIA) on 27 September established, through which CoAs The Paranagama Commission Over the course of the hearings, it sent from pillar to post to The discussion around this 1998, when the LTTE attacked were issued, and families were recorded some 21,000 complaints and was evident to the Commission, from find out what happened humanitarian matter is getting much the military base in Kilinochchi. duly compensated and were held public hearings in the North and the families of missing persons, that to her husband Madushka too difficult to have an open discourse Even after two decades, able to carry out other legal East of Sri Lanka from 2013-2015 some of the complaints would have de Silva, a fruit vendor in about, as it has only brought anguish Dharmadasa is still waiting for paperwork to access pensions under two mandates, which were under to be further investigated by a special Anuradhapura, who has been and heartbreak to the surviving authorities to be held accountable and benefits they were owed on former President Mahinda Rajapaksa investigation team. On the issue of missing since 2 September members that have to deal with the for all the lives that went missing behalf of the soldiers that were and his successor, former President appointing an investigative team, the 2013. different regimes and the justice system without a trace. missing in action. Maithripala Sirisena. Commission had to ensure that credible De Silva, along with two of Sri Lanka. In the early years, Dharmadasa According to statistics provided The mandate of the Paranagama persons, acceptable to society as a other men, was abducted in After several commissions to had a lot of assistance from the by the Department of the Registrar Commission was expanded by gazette whole, had to be selected. Anuradhapura on that day. investigate these incidents have come military and the Government, General, only 645 CoAs had been notification on 14 July 2014 to look While the other two men had and gone, yet another commission of and during former President issued as of 30 June 2019. into allegations of war crimes and Reparations following OMP been released the next day, inquiry was appointed on 21 January Chandrika Bandaranaiake Contd. on page 12 other violations of international law interim report 2018 there was no sign of de Silva. by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. committed during the conflict in Sri In response to one of the His wife – seven months’ When The Sunday Morning Lanka (Second Mandate). recommendations made by the Office pregnant at the time – was contacted Minister of Foreign Affairs relevant parties will be updated on Morning, said: “It has been a difficult The time period for completion of on Missing Persons (OMP), the shocked to hear he had been Dinesh Gunawardena regarding the its progress.” 11 years as I continue my search for the Second Mandate was extended Government proposed the allocation abducted by a group that had progress that the said commission Over the years, there has been a Prageeth. While there was some to 15 August 2015 by then-President of Rs. 500 million in the 2019 Budget, arrived in a white van. had made thus far, he responded: “We growing number of accounts of progress in the search, there have Maithripala Sirisena, fresh after his to provide Rs. 6,000 monthly relief It was only after a week, will consider all reports that have missing persons, not only from the been enough and more occasions assumption of office on 9 January to families of the missing and on 10 September 2013, that been submitted so far, such as the North, but also from the South, and that I was shrouded in despair and 2015. By this extension, the Yahapalana disappeared, including members of the the Anuradhapura DIG at Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation elsewhere as well – from the well- disappointment.” Government added its support to the armed forces and Police identified as the time had taken down Commission (LLRC), the Paranagama known disappearance of Prageeth Sandya, during her years of seeking Paranagama Commission, and its missing in action, on condition of them Jayasinghe’s complaint under Report, all other relevant reports and Ekneligoda, to the less-talked-about justice, had the opportunity to meet role in answering the concerns of the of possessing a certificate of absence CIB (1)367/33, and had papers that can be called for, and any disappearances of the youth that went the mothers and wives whose sons international community, reflected in (CoA) issued under the authority of given her some hope that the new evidence that could be gathered. missing during the insurrections and and husbands went missing in the the First and Second Mandates. the Registrar General, according to Police would look into de The independent Supreme Court judge the post-war period. North and East. “Their heartache The Commission commenced public the provisions in the Registration of Silva’s disappearance. will chair and steer the commission Wife of Ekneligoda, Sandya is no different from mine, and we sittings in January 2014 in the North Deaths Act. Contd. on page 12 to conduct these inquiries, so that all Ekneligoda, speaking to The Sunday will together continue to seek justice and East of Sri Lanka. Oral evidence Contd. on page 12 12 the sunday morning Sunday, February 14, 2021 FOCUS

BY UWIN LUGODA ASSETS AND LIABILITIES DECLARATIONS Countries around the world have Burning in... introduced systems of asset Contd. from page 3 declarations for their respective public officials, and while each The Resident Co-ordinator of the system varies greatly, they all have United Nations (UN) Office in Sri the ultimate goal of preventing BATTLE FOR Lanka, UN special experts, and regional corruption. In Sri Lanka however, human rights groups have separately gaining transparency in this regard written to the Government, calling for has been a long and arduous battle. the policy to be changed to ensure that the Covid-19 dead are handled with Assets and liabilities declarations on TRANSPARENCY dignity and human rights of all are the part of the country’s parliamentarians protected. reclaimed the spotlight recently after the In the case of Covid-19, the pathogen Right to Information Commission (RTIC) novel coronavirus transmits from one directed Parliament to release details person to another through droplets. regarding the assets declaration of members This means it requires body fluid of Parliament (MPs) during 2010-2018, CONTINUES to keep finding new victims. Usually, following an appeal filed by a journalist burial takes seven to 10 days in the seeking the information. decomposition of a body. The body The RTIC stated that they made this retains fluid for three to four days. order based on an appeal made to them by However, scientists around the world journalist Chamara Sampath with regard have claimed that the novel coronavirus to his RTI request submitted to Parliament, can be transmitted while preparing the seeking the list of names of MPs who have body for burial or if the grave is shallow handed over their respective declarations of over the course of three to four days after assets and liabilities in 2018 as well as the the death of a Covid-19 victim. In the list of names of MPs who have handed over case of cremation, ashes don’t present their declarations from 2010 to date. that risk. Sampath had initially made an RTI Meanwhile, the College of Community request to the Information Officer (IO) of Physicians of Sri Lanka (CCPSL) said the Parliament on 21 June 2018 at which last week that there is no solid evidence point he was told that a request had to be indicating that the burial of dead bodies made to the Speaker of Parliament in terms of Covid-19 victims would increase the of the Declaration of Assets and Liabilities spread of the virus. Law (DALL) No. 01 of 1975. Following The CCPSL said: “With the available this, he later appealed to the designated scientific evidence and the impact of officer of Parliament on 30 August 2018. the decision on cremation on pandemic However, the officer then informed him control activities at large, CCPSL that except in the limited instances laid concludes that adhering to global down in the DALL No. 01 of 1975, in all guidelines, each citizen of Sri Lanka other instances the confidentiality of the should be allowed to be cremated or declarations of assets and liabilities must be buried as per his/her and the family’s protected and that in any event, the relevant desire within the strict guidelines authority in relation to the declarations of recommended by the Ministry of MPs is the Speaker and as such, any query Health.” vis-à-vis the same must be directed to the In the meantime, the Sri Lanka Speaker. He was also informed that in ensure that they do not unlawfully enrich according to the All-India Services independent organisations such as TISL Medical Council (SLMA) also said terms of Section 11 of the DALL No. 01 of themselves at the cost of the public purse. (Conduct) Rules, civil servants have to yielding no success. in a statement last week that based on 1975, when in conflict with any other given “We regret that TISL’s own request request permission before acquiring any This all changed in 2019, when a observations it has made and relying on law, the DALL would prevail over such for the former Prime Minister’s asset immovable property, and are expected to group of five Sri Lankan MPs from currently available scientific information, conflicting law. declaration is still stuck before the Court report transactions that excess INR 15,000. across party lines came together to the burial of the bodies of Covid-19 Following these two unsatisfactory of Appeal for nearly two years,” said Other countries like Pakistan also require publish their declarations of assets and victims could be permitted in Sri Lanka. responses, the journalist finally appealed Gunaratne, highlighting the fact that it is their MPs and civil servants to declare liabilities in the public domain. These MPs The Association noted that based on to the RTIC on 11 September 2018. After still very much an ongoing battle. their assets, and those of their spouses and included , Vasudeva the limited scientific evidence available a two-year long hearing, the issue finally In India, ministers, candidates for children; while the head of state, is not Nanayakkara, M.A. Sumanthiran, Vidura at the initial stages, a decision was concluded on 5 February 2021, with the election, MPs, and civil servants are required by the law to do so. Wickramanayaka, and then State Minister made by the Director General of Health RTI law prevailing over the DALL as the required to disclose their assets. Legally, These systems act as a powerful tool , who made their Services to cremate all dead bodies of information that has been requested is in the president is not obliged to disclose any to enhance transparency and integrity respective asset declarations for the years of Covid-19-positive patients. the public interest. information; however, presidents in the of public administration and people’s 2017/2018 and 2018/2019. Following this, “This has the potential to cause Speaking to us on the matter, the recent past have done so voluntarily. Indian representatives, and according to a other MPs including Dr. Harsha de Silva much civil unrest. As a result, it was Transparency International Sri Lanka MPs have to submit their asset declarations 2018 World Bank report, more than (2018/19), also found that people were generally (TISL) Deputy Executive Director upon taking office and upon change in 161 countries have already introduced (2018/19), Prof. Ashu Marasinghe reluctant to co-operate with the Covid Sankhitha Gunaratne stated that the assets. Civil servants are also required to asset disclosure requirements for their (2018/19), Syed Ali Zahir Moulana control measures implemented by the TISL welcomes this pro-disclosure declare information upon taking office, public officials. (2017/18), Ranjan Ramanayake (2017/18, Government. Many of them avoided order by the RTIC. She explained that but information on immovable properties Asset declaration regimes usually 2018/19, 2019/20), seeing doctors, and hence, there were as longstanding advocates for asset should be filled annually. In addition, identify illicit enrichment and other (2019), and Sivagnanam Sritharan (2021), several deaths occurring at home without declaration transparency, they are heartened related wrongdoings by monitoring made their asset declarations according to them seeking medical attention or that journalists and activists have taken up wealth variations of their politicians and TISL data. treatment,” SLMA said. this cause. civil servants. In order to be an effective Speaking to The Sunday Morning, MP However, as per the Government’s “There were originally five MPs who anti-corruption tool, these laws require Vidura Wickramanayaka stated that as Covid-19 regulations, the bodies of disclosed this information, and over time, that key government officials regularly public servants, MPs have accountability “all Covid-19 victims will be cremated we received more asset declarations, some disclose precise information about their as well as a responsibility to disclose their within 24 hours of the death”, despite the just posted to us. However, there are more assets, sources of income, liabilities, as assets and their liabilities to the public. “By guidelines issued by the World Health members and parties who need to commit well as interests. These declarations are opening up their asset disclosures to the Organisation (WHO) stating that the to this cause. We hope that Parliament will then reviewed by an independent and public, it also helps dispel the notion that victims could be “buried or cremated”. comply with the order forthwith, signalling autonomous government body. all politicians are corrupt,” he noted. its commitment to political accountability Public access to these declarations “If we do something like this annually Govt. urged towards the public.” further adds to their anti-corruption value, the public can see how our income Meanwhile, in January this year, the unaratne stated that it has taken years as civil society and journalists often play increased. We decided to do this in 2019 All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU), of sustained advocacy to get to the point a crucial role by uncovering irregularities because we see its potential to greatly in a letter written to the President, where asset declarations are publicly and triggering formal verification of reduce the corruption in the country, “ he requested permission to bury Muslims available at all. She explained that it is declarations by anti-corruption/asset further added. who die of Covid-19. one thing to ensure that asset declarations We regret that TISL’s own request declaration agencies. Speaking to us, EC Chairman Nimal G. In its letter, the ACJU had stated: “We are filed with the relevant authorities, but for the former Prime Minister’s In Sri Lanka, the Legislature passed Punchihewa further stated that all election are aware that many concerns have been pointed out that the bigger challenge was asset declaration is still stuck the Declaration of Assets and Liabilities candidates have to hand in their asset expressed, claiming that groundwater to entrench the idea that this information before the Court of Appeal for Law in 1975 to which amendments were declaration forms to the EC within the may be contaminated due to the burial should not be kept secret, and should be nearly two years made in 1985 and 1988. However, the first three months following the election. of Covid-19 victims, and various other available to voters, in order to build trust in TISL Deputy Executive Director law remained dormant and restricted He went on to state that this is the only issues have been cited as reasons to our politicians. Sankhitha Gunaratne to papers, with attempts made by the point in time the EC gets involved in asset mandate cremation as the only mode She explained that this is one key way to Election Commission (EC) and other declarations and as of the last election, of disposal of bodies of Covid-19 victims. However, it is significant to note that since the outbreak of this global Contd. from page 11 pandemic, almost all countries in the world have practised the burial of bodies of interim relief to families of the missing recorded that information regarding missing of Covid-19 victims without any reports and disappeared persons in the last quarter and disappeared persons from institutions Enforced... of any complications or issues arising Failure of... of 2019. According to information received such as the Sri Lanka Police and tri-forces due to this practice.” Further, the Government announced that by the OMP from the MNIR, payments had had also been gathered. A total of 5,472 On that day, a team from the It further noted that it has been families of the missing and disappeared been made to 153 beneficiaries up to a total entries from the Police, and multiple lists Anuradhapura Police Crimes Branch reported that the experts committee would be granted preferential access to the of approximately Rs. 11 million, up until 11 regarding members of the , arrived at de Silva’s house to collect appointed by the Ministry of Health relevant “Enterprise Sri Lanka” loan schemes November 2019. Navy, and Air Force who were missing in evidence. Following that, Jayasinghe on this matter has recommended both and would be required to join the livelihood action, containing 3,742 entries, had been had gone to the Human Rights burial and cremation. The committee programmes co-ordinated by the Office of Cases filed with the OMP submitted to the OMP. Commission of Sri Lanka office in also stated that there is no evidence to National Unity and Reconciliation. Since its establishment in 2018, the OMP In 2019, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Anuradhapura, and subsequently to prove the virus can transmit via water In October 2019, the proposal drafted by head office directly received 548 complaints, forwarded a total of 12,664 reports regarding its Head Office in Colombo to file a contamination after burial. the OMP was submitted to the Cabinet by while its regional offices received 530 files. disappeared persons to the OMP, which petition under HRC/3926/13. “According to Islamic teachings, the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Over the course of 2019, the OMP provided included 6,066 unclarified reports and 6,598 Jayasinghe is of the belief that her the burial of the body is one (of) the National Integration, Official Languages, training to its Victim and Family Support clarified reports. The OMP began the process husband’s abduction was an act of most important obligations due to the Social Progress, and Hindu Religious Affairs Officers on recording complaints from family of reviewing the reports by identifying political vengeance, since his family deceased person and thus, denial of (MNIR) of the time, in the form of a joint members and the general public. instances where the fate of the disappeared was closely associated with a few of this right is emotionally painful to the Cabinet memorandum. Cabinet approved In the OMP’s 2019 Annual Report, it is person had since been established, and by the area’s politicians, and de Silva Muslim community. Due to the immense the proposal, which allowed families that cross-checking individual files for duplication. was a very sociable person. concern regarding this matter, the obtained CoAs with respect to a missing or In total, the OMP received lists, reports, and Just a year after the abduction Muslim community is deeply grieved disappeared loved one to receive interim relief. complaints regarding missing and disappeared of her husband, Mauri Jayasinghe and psychologically distressed,” the This was a significant achievement in making Case of... persons, including members of the armed was also abducted on 1 November letter stated. interim relief accessible to a larger number of Dharmadasa opined that, had an forces reported missing in action, from the 2014, first by two people in a three- The ACJU urged the President to families of missing and disappeared persons. office to investigate and inquire about MNIR, tri-forces, Police, Working Group wheeler, who blindfolded her and intervene and instruct the relevant The OMP liaised with the Department of missing persons, regardless of their on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances then transferred into a van after a authorities to amend the relevant the Registrar General to obtain a verified affiliation and demography, been (WGEID), and directly from family members, short drive. With a pistol held to her procedures and to permit the burial of the list of persons from each District for whom set up after the insurgency in 1971, and was focused on processing 37,491 reports back, they threatened that she was bodies of Covid-19 victims. CoAs had been issued. The lists sent by the or during the JVP insurgencies of regarding missing and disappeared persons. being too vocal about her husband’s Attempts to contact Secretary to Department of the Registrar General were 1988/1989, the country would not As of 31 December 2019, the OMP has disappearance and if she wanted to the Ministry of Health Dr. Sanjeewa handed over to the MNIR to initiate the have such a large number of missing entered into its database 5,038 reports live, she had to cease the search for Munasinghe and Director General of application process for interim relief. persons that needed to be traced. regarding missing and disappeared persons. her missing husband. Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena The MNIR then began making payments – Sarah Hannan were futile. the sunday morning 13 Sunday, February 14, 2021 OPINION/POLITICS

BY DR. GEHAN GUNATILLEKE of ending the forced cremation policy. It would perhaps improve Why do Sri Lankan human rights advocates repeatedly the chances of ending land grabs, place their trust in an imperfect and highly politicised maintaining media freedom, and inter-state human rights mechanism year after year? For releasing human rights defenders many of us working in the domain of human rights, there HRC46: such as Hejaaz Hizbullah. In a is a long history to engaging the United Nations Human context where local advocacy Rights Council (UNHRC). Mine began in 2008, when I spent doesn’t seem to be working, it some time in Geneva learning about the (then) new body is forgivable for human rights established to protect and promote human rights around advocates to place their bets the world. What I observed then, and what I observe on an imperfect international Not for reform, mechanism. The calculation is now, is that, often (not always), the Council mutates into simple: The Government will theatre. The players play their part. “Good countries”, “bad be pressured into granting some countries”, and “neutral countries” play their respective respite. lead roles. A plethora of UN staff, INGOs (international It is not pleasant to think that nongovernmental organisations), and local human rights but for respite governments require external activists constitute the supporting cast – most of them pressure just to do the right genuinely committed to the human rights cause. Some on Sri Lanka, so its improved thing – respect human rights, others are not even invited to the play. Many of us have record coincided with the period in and treat citizens with dignity. grown extremely cynical of this process, because, at the which it came under the UNHRC’s Why should any civilised and end of the show, we question what tangible benefits have microscope. Even as I write this dignified community have to accrued to those we represent – the victims of human rights article, the Prime Minister, perhaps rely on external pressure to get one of the smartest politicians its government to do the right abuses. Sri Lanka has ever had, casually thing? The equation hints that the The 46th session of the UNHRC Lanka. Meanwhile, the UNHRC announced in Parliament that the majority in our society doesn’t (HRC46) is no different to its process has given us a string of Government would reverse its really care about these things. So, predecessors. We will once again broken promises. Even the small forced cremation policy (his office apathy is the greatest challenge witness on stage the various ones that were kept by the previous is now scrambling to backpedal). that confronts Sri Lanka. HRC46 actors. There will be smoke and administration have too easily been Shakthika Sathkumara, a writer is a stop gap to a deeper chasm there will be lights, and when the discarded. If its genuine reform we and poet unjustly targeted under within the country. What we curtains close, we risk returning seek, HRC46 is not the forum to the ICCPR (International Covenant really need is political leadership to our deteriorating human rights secure it. So, there is no point in on Civil and Political Rights) that is genuinely introspective, predicament. Those who strive this process, right? United Nations Human Rights Council Act, was discharged last week. and willing to build an internal for accountability in Sri Lanka Well, not quite. So long as we on stage, you must still perform in ones – respond to practical The timing of these gestures is no consensus on human rights – civil, for abuses of the past, have only a understand HRC46 for what it the open. And when the spotlight pressure, and governments run by coincidence. A looming HRC46 is political, economic, social, and slim chance of securing sustainable truly is, there are some concrete is upon you, you tend to present smart politicians tend to behave proving its worth. cultural – and on genuine human reform in Sri Lanka through benefits that those who care about your best performance. Although better when under scrutiny. We So, if nothing else, human development. If such leadership HRC46. Meaningful reform would human rights in Sri Lanka can HRC46 may not give us reform, it see evidence of that sad reality rights advocates will and should ever emerges, perhaps Sri Lanka require genuine political will to secure. HRC46 is about attention. may give us respite. all the time. Sri Lanka’s human continue to engage the potential can step off this stage once and reckon with the past and convince It is not just about the actors on Under the spotlight, Sri Lanka rights record between 2012 and theatrics of HRC46 to secure some for all. Until then, we can expect a largely indifferent majority stage, but about the spotlight shone is more likely (even marginally) 2018 improved. Any human rights respite from the abuses currently a cycle of theatrics, where respite community that reconciliation and on them, and the audience that to avoid the worst abuses. index will confirm that. In 2012, taking place in the country. The rather than reform is the only real accountability are crucial for Sri watches keenly. For when you’re Politicians – at least the smart the UNHRC adopted a resolution process has improved the chances item on the programme..

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obtaining views that are normally the grave human rights violations made the UN like all other countries. So Protecting... principle under which UN agents have over the past weeks? many countries are being picked and OIC agrees... The US left the UNHRC, and now worked with right along. We are moving into all aspects pinpointed at in this report, which Opposition alliance announced that they will join as an through the commission, which is is not fair. There has to be a clear observer. So, let us see whether our In January, your Secretary (Retd.) headed by a Supreme Court judge understanding, study, and review by Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP last long-standing relations with these Admiral Jayanath Colombage told us and others. We will also consider all all parties concerned. week stated that discussions between the party and UNP countries would progress for the that the proposed amendments to the reports that have been submitted so I must also add that we should are already underway to create a broader alliance working betterment of Sri Lanka and all its Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) far, such as the Lessons Learnt and not forget that the world is currently towards common goals. citizens, whom our Government is requested by the UN Human Rights Reconciliation Commission (LLRC), going through the Covid-19 “This is similar to what we are doing with the Grand committed to serve. Chief and the European Union were the Paranagama Report, all other pandemic. It is the last century’s worst Opposition Alliance, where all opposition parties will unite submitted to the Attorney General’s relevant reports and papers that can be period that the world has experienced, towards common goals. I have already spoken with UNP Members within the governing Department for consideration. Have called for, and any new evidence that and can be considered worse than (United National Party) Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe and side seem to be confused about the you received any feedback from could be gathered. war, because wars are fought in UNP Deputy Leader on this matter, stance that your administration will them? The independent Supreme Court different geographic locations and and they have been extremely supportive and enthusiastic,” take during the upcoming UNHRC Yes, we have had continued judge will chair and steer the affect the countries that were involved he told The Morning. session, with contradicting statements discussions and as I said before, it is commission to conduct these inquiries, in those countries. The pandemic, on He further stated that while the SJB and UNP will function made by Cabinet Ministers, Ministry under review. In 2019, there was a so that all relevant parties will be the other hand, is affecting everyone as two parties, this alliance will help them achieve goals for Secretaries, and then the Envoy for general agreement in Parliament when updated on its progress. in the world and still, the world is the betterment of the country that the SJB would not have Sri Lanka in New York. Have you we were in the Opposition; we even met battling to control the situation and been able to achieve on its own. all managed to arrive at a common the EU delegation and ambassadors, Will the comments made by Sri trying to get people vaccinated. It “While we function as two parties, we will create a understanding on the decision that and records were clear that what the Lanka's envoy at the UN on the is an important human right that the common platform with the same ideologies to address issues the Government has taken? governments at that time had presented UNHRC result in an adverse world body has to consider and all its in the country,” Fernando said. Yes, we have. Some proposals was very draconian, and that it had to situation where the country subsidiary agencies should consider. Meanwhile, UNP Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene had were made, and we have arrived be withdrawn. Even the civil society is included in the UN General Sri Lanka is still going through the noted that it was too early to determine whether the parties at a common understanding. We opposed it. Assembly agenda? pandemic like all the other countries, will function separately or whether there will be a merger. have submitted all our reports and Let us all not forget these things. We I think the Human Rights Council’s and these are not normal times for “We have aligned our common goals with the SJB and replies based on our conclusions. continue as political representatives position is based/biased on matters people to make generalisations our party leaders have held discussions. We have given very The Commission therefore has to be to the people, and we will bring about presented by various organisations, without proper study. That is why positive feedback to their proposals, and we are ironing out impartial in making conclusions. conscience within Sri Lanka on the limiting countries’ ability to act by we say that matters presented at the issues we have with regard to whether we will function It is very sad that this time, we will PTA, and it is our principle and goal moving resolutions, but this has to be the UNHRC need to be studied as a single platform or not,” Wijewardene told The Morning. not have the UN sessions with the towards which we are working to fast- done in relation to each country. Any and discussed; send teams to each Speaking further, he said: “Currently, there are too many participation of delegations as before, track the country’s development. report or reference has to be studied country to assess the ground reality players trying to buy in on the alliance, and we do not know as they would be virtual, and we will separately and assessed and debated, and understand the constitutions and who will eventually lead it. However, it is important to know face a very serious situation in relation What progress has the commission and conclusions reached only after democracies of each country and that neither party is interested in personal agendas, but rather to timely discussions and debates, recently appointed to fact-find into that in Geneva. We are members of move forward. the betterment of the country.” Contd. from page 11

the Sinhala majority who are not of the view. push the Government to address the There are a lot of Sinhalese that accept and issues of Tamil people given the present Minority issues unanswered... respect the fact that Tamil people’s rights diplomatic standoff between Sri Lanka should be protected. So, we have to unite and India? The families of the missing have Even the previous Yahapalana to those concerns that we raised. So, we with all of them. India has expressed their genuine been fighting a long battle to bring Government failed to address the issues are not getting on the streets to protest for concerns when it comes to the matters the wrongdoers to justice, various faced by the Tamil community. Why do no reason. The archaeological sites issues Are you satisfied with how the of the Tamils in the North and the East, commissions were appointed and reports you think that was? and the pasture land issue is currently Government has released lands for because India also has a lot of Tamils. I were published. Do you think there has The Yahapalana Government was driven to being discussed in the North and the East, internally displaced persons in the North think India will play a huge role in driving been any progress from thereon? failure after the former President Maithripala for which I personally met the President. and the East? ethnic relations in Sri Lanka. Geopolitics It is very disappointing, although the Sirisena decided to break away from the This was the last resort that we had – to get I don’t believe that the lands are being should not be thrown in that. However, Office on Missing Persons was established National Unity Government. If he had not on to the streets – because no discussions released, but there is more land grabbing we should not let ourselves be used as to register the details of the missing, which pulled that stunt, I do not think there would were initiated. Discussions with Tamil that is taking place. Now, under different scapegoats in geopolitical matters, but is almost a defunct entity. The problem with have been any actions that disappointed the political parties are not something that this programmes such as archaeological site it should be a genuine concern for us to these missing persons is that some of these Tamil community. Government is interested in. excavations, repurposing Mahaweli land reconcile and help our cause. parents want to know what happened to their At present, we are not just pointing fingers that is underutilised, a lot of land grabbing children and whether they are alive. There at any of the former governments or the Do the Tamil political parties have any is taking place. For people that do not have How will you make sure that the have also been instances where a person that present Government. The issues of the Tamil- dialogue or agreement with the Muslim land to do maize cultivation, land is being minority issues that you raised during was arrested in 1991, had made a phone call speaking people have been present for a political parties in demanding solutions for given under the Mahaweli Authority. If the protest would be represented at the to his wife in 2019, saying that he is well longer period. We are exerting pressure and issues faced by the Tamil-speaking people? you take people that live in the North and upcoming UNHRC sessions? and alive. But his whereabouts are yet to be trying to hold this Government to account, There are dialogues taking place and we the East, they do not have any land to do First of all, we should not be calling traced. In this case, the Government is saying as it is the government that is in power. We have been speaking with Muslim politicians, cultivation. The Government has settled ourselves a minority, as we are only that he must have been in hiding or would have a two-thirds majority and executive but we do not have any agreement. Minorities people from Hambantota, Ratnapura, and a minority in numbers. But we are a have disappeared. Maybe these are various presidency. They wanted the executive should unite and stand together, because Monaragala to strike a balance in diversity community. The word minority is being parties that are attempting to extort money powers to be with the President and the Tamils and Muslims were pitted against each and these families are being allocated land used a lot, but if you come towards the from these distraught families. 20th Amendment that has strengthened the other in the past. Divide and rule is a strategy to do maize cultivation, and are allowed to North and the East, we are a majority. The other issue is the people that were Executive of the country; I do not see why that the British used; our colonisers taught us encroach into the other lands for cultivation That is something that we all need to be arrested on 27 November last year; the they cannot sort these issues out. that, and very successfully our communities purposes, that is what we are opposed to. conscious of. But I think with the UNHRC, parents fear that those children will also face were divided. There are state institutions and schools that there are diplomatic missions and attaches a similar fate. There are similarities to the Do you think the Tamil political parties First of all, we used to call ourselves the are still under the military that have not in Sri Lanka that are aware of these matters. disappearances that took place in the 80s could engage in a positive discussion with Tamil-speaking communities of Sri Lanka been released. But we do not want to take a conscious and 90s along with the most recent arrests. the Government? Has the Government and later on, it got split into North East Without releasing the public access effort to take the matters to the UNHRC, as They are worried that in another 10 years, the shown any initiative towards it? Tamils and Estate Tamils, and Muslims. properties and returning the lands to this walk was not targeting the UNHRC. Government will say that they are not there. We are happy to engage in discussions Later, the North East Tamils were split as their original owners, the Government is I am sure that the diplomatic missions All they want is the peace of mind in if they are genuinely interested, but this North and East. So, divide and rule was a employing a different strategy to acquire took note of what the protestors had to wanting to know the fate of their missing Government has not initiated any dialogue strategy all successive governments used. more land using different entities. face at the beginning of the protests and children. If they are dead, they could at least so far. We need to change that for which we have the large number of people who joined in have some closure and they could grieve their We have written to the President over to all unite. In a way, I am not saying that we Do you think the Tamil political parties protest will get reported to the UNHRC, if dead. some issues but he has not even responded are minorities by race, we are minorities in could seek the support of India to that was something of interest to them. 14 the sunday morning Sunday, February 14, 2021 OPINION/PICTORIAL A hidden hand disrupting higher education BY PROF. LAKSHMAN RATNAYAKE have to be nimble and resilient when dealing now or has been from 2015? Only that of Colombo and Malabe as well as regional introduced pathways for foreign university with issues and practicalities of the real a lease agreement. Our Malabe campus campuses in Jaffna, Kurunegala, Matara, students now returning home to complete The Sri Lanka Institute of world. If 2020 taught us anything, it was that is built on land leased from the fund, for and Kandy. their degrees locally as much as offering Information Technology (SLIIT) is a we needed to change course from brick-and- which the institute pays an annual fee of GCE Advanced Level (A/L) students who rare model in the Sri Lankan higher mortar ventures to digital, and SLIIT was one Rs. 25 million to the trust. There is no Ensuring employability don’t get into state universities to get the education sphere. At the core, it is of the few institutes that were able to adapt other connection, and SLIIT remains a of graduates degree of their choice. a solution-based higher education to the new environment with relative ease guarantee company, which means it has One of SLIIT’s main priorities is to entity, primarily targeting Sri because we had already anticipated a digital no shareholders and, therefore, no profit- ensure employability, and in order to do this, Conclusion Lankan students who fall between future and started to shift. That’s what SLIIT taking by individuals. SLIIT is also an SLIIT works collaboratively with various Given the enormous value addition SLIIT the stools but also can take in any is about; we have always been innovative and entity that does not belong to the State and industries in order to shape and mould brings to the higher education sector of local or international students had a just-in-time approach, which has vastly therefore is not answerable to any state a curriculum that is both practical and this country and the work we do to provide benefited our students and stakeholders. organisation where governance, expansion, relevant for today, while complying with the best learning atmosphere for our desiring a quality education. Therefore, the question raised is: Is it or operational matters are concerned. standards required by foreign universities of students, this hidden agenda to undermine SLIIT, which is modelled after a not-for- our success that compels outside sources international repute. the institute is nothing short of a cowardly profit formula, like some top universities to continue this attempt to disrupt our Purpose of SLIIT Industry consultation in curriculum act that should be recognised for what it of the world, treads a middle path between operations? It has already begun this year, I would like to go back to when SLIIT development guarantees flexibility, which is. Meanwhile, SLIIT continues its work state and private sector higher education just as we began our new enrolments. We first started and the reasons behind it. is one of SLIIT’s most unique and pre- unphased, because we are committed to a offerings. Twenty years down the line, the find the hidden hand gradually surfacing, and The birth of SLIIT was solution-based, eminent qualities. If you take the IT sector, higher goal and it is our intention to give formula is a proven success, and if there little noises are being made here and there, i.e. there was a crying need in the IT every stage of the degree is fine tuned to the every student in this country the opportunity were any doubts as to the institute’s success trying to create doubt and smear the good industry and the founders came up with service requirements of the industry, which to gain the degree they desire. when it was first launched, they can safely name of a worthy institute that has put in a a higher education institute geared to means that after a student finishes one year (The writer is the Chairman of the Sri be laid to rest. lot of hard work and grit to bring it to the meet that need. Twenty years ago, local of coursework, they can leave and join the Lanka Institute of Information Technology. standard it is at today. resources for higher education were industry at entry level. He served the University of Moratuwa for Success and allegations An issue that continues to latch on to SLIIT miniscule and far from sufficient to Being a not-for-profit, non-state higher 40 years [1974-2014]. He was the Head Yet, despite SLIIT being an unmitigated is the Mahapola Trust Fund, even though meet the demand for more IT experts for education entity also allows us the unique of the Department of Civil Engineering success that has produced over 30,000 this was something that was done and dusted employment – that was why SLIIT was privilege of helping students of low-income from 1989-1994 and Dean of the Faculty employable professionals over the last 20 in 2015 when the fund severed financial set up, and we continue our efforts to families and supporting government goals in of Engineering from 1995-2001 at the years and enrols more than 3,000 students for connections with the institute. It was done add value not only to the IT industry, but the education sector by way of scholarships University of Moratuwa. He was a visiting 90 degree programmes annually, SLIIT has legally in the presence of the fund’s trustees also to several other sectors by producing and student loans. professor at the University of Calgary, to defend itself against various allegations which included the sitting Chief Justice at the smart, highly employable graduates Canada from 1985-1986 and a visiting levelled against it on an almost regular basis. time. But somehow, in the minds of certain every year. Keeping up demands of the time professor at Utah State University, USA What is more disturbing is that these attacks parties, possibly with vested interests, this is The SLIIT Board has more than met SLIIT continues to reinvent itself to suit from 1994-1995. He served as the Vice appear to be carefully orchestrated to set off still an ongoing issue. the mandate given to us to create an the demands of the time, bringing a sense of Chairman of UGC from 2001 to 2006 and just when the institute is about to embark on institute that produces thousands of IT certainty to students. Today, there are locals was seconded to the Ministry of Higher something new, like when our new intakes Relationship with Mahapola students – a venture that went on to earn who do not have the luxury of carrying out Education from 2006-2014 to lead higher take place. Trust Fund huge amounts in foreign exchange. We their higher education abroad, given travel education projects. In 2014, Prof. Ratnayake In today’s changed environment, owing to So, what is the status of SLIIT’s have since branched into several other restrictions, as much as those who don’t retired from the University of Moratuwa and the pandemic situation, education institutes association with the Mahapola Trust as of areas, developing two campuses in have access to local universities. SLIIT has was awarded the title Emeritus Professor)

University students staged a protest to voice their The ‘Cycling Sunday’ initiative complaints with the free kicked off last week with the education system at Temple President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, participation of Colombo Trees on Tuesday (9) along with State Minister Lasantha District MP Madhura Withanage Alagiyawanna and Minister of Trade Dr. Bandula Gunawardana, at the Prime Minister Mahinda launch of the ‘State Trust Centre’ Rajapaksa at the launch of the (Rajavasa) shopping complex in new manufacturing facility of Narahenpita on Thursday (11) seafood exporter Ceylon Catch week (Pvt.) Ltd. on Thursday (11) glanceat a

Unions representing school transport, commercial, and passenger vehicles staged a protest on Monday (8), demanding the benefits promised to them by the Government

The Sinhale National Joint Alliance organisation on Thursday (11) President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday (11) filed a complaint with the Attorney made his fourth visit to Parliament since last General over the violation of the August fundamental right to education

As the student The ‘Ranjan Wenuwen Api’ prostest progressed social media movement staged into its second day on a protest at the Colombo Fort Wednesday (10), with Railway Station last week protesters blocking the road near Temple Trees, Police lined the streets to ensure public safety

Rapid antigen testing being carried out in Bambalapitiya on Monday (8) PHOTOS LALITH PERERA, PRADEEP DAMBARAGE, SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA, KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM, ESHAN DASANAYAKA the sunday morning 15 Sunday, February 14, 2021 SPORTS

Shammi Silva: Ready to do changes in local cricket and make a return as Head of SLC PHOTO © PRADEEP DAMBARAGE

Yuri Averbakh, the oldest living Grandmaster PHOTO © TASS ARCHIVE The Averbakh files The year 1922 saw the formation of the You can show on a chessboard, any kind of Soviet Union, the establishment of the British play – drama, tragedy, comedy, ballet. All Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), the opening what is typical for art, you can represent on of the Wimbledon Centre Court, and the first a chessboard. That’s how children should be insulin injection to treat diabetes. It was also taught chess today.” the year Yuri Lvovich Averbakh, who celebrated Here’s how Averbakh explains drama and his 99th birthday this week, was born. tragedy on a chessboard: Defining Averbakh’s chess legacy is no easy matter. He has made significant contributions to chess in no fewer than four major areas – playing, coaching, writing, and governing. The whole timeline of Averbakh’s long and storied life makes for some unbelievable reading. He is quite possibly the only living person who personally knew the second World Champion Emanuel Lasker (who first won the title in 1894!). In the 1950s, he got his Grandmaster title and followed it up with the biggest victory of his career – the 1954 Soviet Championship. In the 1960s he worked as a trainer and a sparring partner for four White to play and win world champions: Botvinnik, Tal, Petrosian, White plays 1.Qc6+ Kb8 2.Kc2!! and and Spassky. all of a sudden, black is in a Zugzwang. The Ready to reduce In the 1970s, he served as President of the unexpected move by the king represents Soviet Chess Federation. Then he became an a dramatic twist while black’s strange arbiter, and officiated in the controversially predicament – he only loses because he abandoned 1984 Kasparov-Karpov World must make a move – is a tragedy. Championship match. The following position which arises at the He was an innovator as well. Averbakh is conclusion of a long study portrays “comedy”: number of first-class the eponym of several opening variations, most notably the new system he introduced against the King’s Indian Defence. 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 g6 3.Nc3 Bg7 4.e4 d6 5.Be2 O-O 6.Bg5 clubs: Shammi Silva z Ready to win z Jerome Jayaratne was appointed as z Not personally zRubbishes allegations May SLC Manager for his credentials, not because angry with Thilanga over his secret ‘Club election easily of his connection with Minister Rajapaksa Sumathipala link’ with Sports Minister

BY REVATHA S. SILVA blow on the democratic process of SLC. he knows all the players very closely White to play and draw What we are passing is, more or less, one of the most turbulent because he is the present Head of our The white rook just checks along the fifth Will you implement the High Performance Centre. rank and black is helpless to do anything times for Sri Lanka cricket administration. recommendations to be given by Why are we to deprive him of the about it. Following the change of Government as SLC President in February 2019). the new Cricket Committee? opportunity to serve the team the best 1.Re5+ Kd6 2.Rd5+ Kc6 (2...Kxd5 last year and a series of defeats the We beat South Africa in South Africa Yes. The number of first-class clubs way possible simply because he is related The Averbakh Variation 3.c4+) 3.Rc5+ Kb6 (3... Kxc5 4.cxb4+) national team suffered after international and won a good limited-over series in will be reduced. And the structure of to the Minister? Averbakh has made some significant 4.Rb5+ Ka6 (4...Kxb5 5. c4+) 5.Ra5+ cricket returned following pandemic Pakistan under Dasun Shanaka. our domestic tournament will also be contributions to the theory of the endgame. (5...Kxa5 6.cxb4+), and so on. It is difficult lockdowns and all, the Shammi Silva- Even without much preparation, we somewhat changed. We had previously You were once a close ally of His most enduring work, a monumental five- to hide one’s amusement after seeing this, led Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is now could have done better this time in South given first-class status to our Tier B so former SLC President Thilanga volume anthology titled Comprehensive Chess and the next. in the spotlight, with just over three Africa (where Sri Lanka lost a two-Test as to give an opportunity to our players Sumathipala. Are you angry with Endings – first written in Russian in the 1950s Here’s Averbakh’s “ballet”, along with a months to go for its next elections. series 2-0) had we not faced so much to have more overseas exposure by him now? They say you two have – is considered a true masterpiece even today. healthy dose of “comedy”: Here is Silva speaking to The Sunday of injuries. Over six players got injured using that as a qualification. parted ways. He also composed hundreds of endgame Morning Sports on those allegations suddenly in the first Test. Until some No. We are not angry with each studies. and, perhaps, misconceptions and stage of that match, we were actually There is an accusation that Sports other. But the thing is, being the Head All things considered, it is fair to say no organised mud-slinging on the body doing really well. Minister Namal Rajapaksa of SLC, I have to work myself for the one else now living has a greater firsthand he leads. But the players were irresponsible in has a ‘soft corner’ for your betterment of the game and take the knowledge of chess history. the way they played against England administration because you responsibility by myself and our team. Unsurprisingly, Averbakh is still very Tell us a bit through your in Galle (where they again lost a two- know him closely as a member of passionate about the intricacies of the game. cricketing background. Test series 2-0). There are no excuses CH&FC, the rugby arm of CCC? How about the forthcoming SLC He has characterised chess players based I captained Ananda College, Colombo for that loss. We are one of the few Again it is a misconception and election, coming up on 20 May? on six stylistic archetypes – killers, fighters, first-XI in 1980. Then I played first- Boards who didn’t cut contract fees of organised mud-slinging. I know the We will take more than 100 votes. sportsmen, gamblers, scientists, and artists, class cricket for Colombo Cricket Club any player during the pandemic. The Honourable Minister for a long time. Our victory is already assured. My and considers himself a hybrid of the last (CCC) and represented Sri Lanka at series showed lack of commitment on Yes, he played rugby for CH. But do candidate for the post of Secretary will two. Even at his advanced age, Averbakh truly the Board President’s (against visiting the part of our players. you think he won’t take any action be (incumbent SLC Secretary) Mohan enjoys explaining his philosophy by puzzling, countries) level. if we fail in our job because we were de Silva and my Vice Presidents will and then un-puzzling, the younger generation White to play and win I also played squash and won national Will the Sports Ministry intervene members of the same club? be Jayantha Dharmadasa and Ravin with endgame studies. 1.Rg2+ Kf8 the ballet starts. The black colours. Once, I was also the Manager and appoint an interim committee They say we appointed the Sports Wickramaratne. “Chess,” Averbakh says, “is not a fight king must dance to white rooks’ symphony of the Sri Lanka national squash team. to, say, stem the slide? Minister’s close relative Jerome We have worked closely with our anymore. At the beginning of chess, when because both the h-file (due to the checkmate There is no reason to appoint an Jayaratne as Sri Lanka’s Team Manager member clubs and looked after them the game was played only by royalty who threat) and the e-file (due to losing the queen) What is all about this sudden interim committee. Appointing an because of his connection with the during the Covid-19 situation through the tried to outmaneuver each other like on the are out of bounds. pandemonium over Sri Lanka’s interim (committee) is only a ploy Honourable Minister. No. We replaced entirety of the last year. Our opposition battlefield, the pieces on the board represented 2.Kg5+ Kg7 3.Kf4+ Kf6 4.Kg3+ Kg5 cricket? put forward by our opposition parties Jayaratne temporarily in that job because says that we are bribing the clubs. We echelons of the army. Now, When I look at 5.Kf2+ Kf4 6.Kg1+ and white wins. In fact we were playing decent cricket to enter power. They can’t win in any he was the best person we had for that don’t have to bribe the clubs. The chess, I try to represent games as theatre. before the pandemic (Silva took over election. Such a move will also be a job. He has held that position before and majority of them are with us.

Rohit Sharma in action But Rohit was joined by Ajinkya yesterday (13) Rohit Sharma’s 161 puts Rahane, who made a solid 67, for a PHOTO © BCCI stand of 162 that was ended when Rohit top-edged spinner Jack Leach hosts on top in Chennai to deep square leg. That sparked a fightback that England’s perseverance deserved England were given a stark hosts to 300/6 on an absorbing, pitch already showing sharp turn – the tourists took three wickets for reminder of the challenge of touring entertaining and occasionally bizarre and some uneven bounce. 36 runs in the final session. India by Rohit Sharma’s classy 161 day in Chennai, said BBC. Impressive pace bowler Olly Stone However, at some point they face on day one of the second Test on After a magnificent victory in had Shubnam Gill out on an lbw with the task of batting themselves back Saturday (13) in Chennai. the first Test, England suffered the the ninth ball of the day, and India into this match against a trio of India Opener Sharma displayed some disadvantage of losing the toss and were 86-3 when Moeen Ali bowled spinners that will be afforded plenty sparkling strokeplay to help the are in line to bat last, on a dusty a stunned Virat Kohli for a duck. of assistance. Tennis Australia CEO doubtful of Tokyo 2020 Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley has expressed doubts about whether Tokyo 2020 can be held in the current coronavirus pandemic, claiming they are not as “rigorous” as they have adopted for the Australian Open. The Aus Open started late in Melbourne because of the need to ship players in, from all over the world and ensure they met strict quarantine Stanley Jayasinghe turns “Nonagenarian” measures before its 8 February The veteran All Ceylon and Leicestershire cricketer, the famed Stanley Jayasinghe start. Tokyo 2020 is to see more entered the age of 90 on 19 January this year. Here is a young fan of the living legend than 11,000 athletes from 206 Myra Otwani feeding him a piece of cake on his birthday. Jayasinghe received a valuable countries competing in 339 events in birthday gift, the limited-edition “The History of Sri Lankan International Cricket 1882- 33 sports. 1982”, authored by Alston Mahadevan.

Sunday, February 14, 2021

stakeholders, and have proposed a sports tentative calendar Asia Rugby 2021 first-quarter schedule out for competitions to zPathway to return to normality in the international calendar is still uncertain: Asanga Seneviratne begin in the second quarter of this year,” Asia Rugby, working with its Competitions of the recommendations of the Asia Rugby of Asia Rugby, the following decisions have returning, and quite a few unions have begun he added. Committee, Player Welfare and Medical Covid-19 Working Group, which was set been taken leading to a further adjustment of training. Domestic competitions are scheduled Asian Rugby He also said, “The Committee, relevant stakeholders, and in up under the Player Welfare and Medical the scheduled games for Quarter 1 for 2021. to begin shortly. The pathway to return to Competitions continuing uncertain line with the “Return to Play” guidelines Committee. The Asia Rugby Division 2 was scheduled normality in the international calendar is Committee Chairman circumstances have led provided by World Rugby, has announced In sharing its recommendations, Asia Rugby to be held in Lahore, Pakistan, between still uncertain, with concerns over travel Asanga Seneviratne to a further adjustment its decision to adjust the competitions considered all factors related to holding China, Chinese Taipei, Thailand, and host restrictions and the possibility of teams of the schedule Games scheduled for the period 1 January 2021 competitions, including Asia Rugby’s “Return Pakistan. This has been moved to the Quarter being quarantined being major hurdles to of Quarter 1 for 2021.” to 31 March 2021. To Play” guidelines. However, in the best 4 competitions window. overcome.” World Rugby-published guidelines for the The Competitions Committee, under the interest of the welfare of everyone involved As reported by Asia Rugby on Thursday “We continue to monitor the situation safe return to rugby are available via http:// Chair of Asanga Seneviratne, was informed in the sanctioned tournaments and activities (11), Seneviratne had said: “Rugby is slowly closely with constant dialogue with our www.playerwelfare.worldrugby.org/covid-19

Kandy school cricket ready to go! DESPITE THE COVID FEARS…

BY HAFIZ MARIKAR IN KANDY All cricket-playing schools Sri Lanka likely to have in Kandy – Vidyartha, Trinity, Sri Rahula, Sri Sumangala, St. Sylvester’s, St. Anthony’s, Dharmaraja, and Kingswood – have now commenced training West Indies “full tour” for the 2021 season, following all health precautionary Kandy eagerly awaits the resumption of the school cricket season BY REVATHA S. SILVA measures due to the pandemic. after a long break School cricket had been were not held either. Cricket Association (SLSCA) Amid speculation that the scheduled West brought to a halt in Kandy, It is reported that this time, has confirmed the resumption Indies cricket tour would be either postponed probably for the first time it is going to be a limited-over of the season from mid-March. entirely or played in only the short formats, since World War II, due to tournament, and each school That will of course be after the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said on Friday (12) that the coronavirus. Last year, the will have to play five games completion of the postponed now the two boards are trying to have the “full much-awaited Big Matches each. The Sri Lanka Schools GCE O/L examination. tour”. “Yes. We are planning to for the West Indies tour could have a full tour. But we have have been infected with not finalised on the dates we the coronavirus after they SHOTGUN SHOOTING IN SRI LANKA are supposed to go. We are had attended a wedding in still having discussions with Colombo two weeks earlier. Mohan Gilbert aims to them (West Indies Cricket – The following day WIC),” Sri Lanka Cricket of the wedding, Lahiru attract more youngsters CEO Ashley de Silva told Thirimanne, one of the The Sunday Morning Sports players who attended the As the sport of The Clay Target Shooting on Friday. wedding, and Head Coach shooting makes a gradual Club of Colombo’s shotgun The prospects of having Mickey Arthur tested comeback following the range in Payagala, being the National Shooting Sport a full series, rather than positive prompting SLC Covid-19 pandemic, the only current facility in the Federation of Sri Lanka having a series without to informally postpone the National Shooting Sport country, will serve as the (NSSFSL) Vice President the scheduled two Tests, tour. Mohan Gilbert (right) Federation of Sri Lanka venue for these competitions. who is responsible for the heightened after the entire Now with the situation (NSSFSL) has initiated NSSFSL Vice President development of the shotgun squad passed another round improving, it is likely that the commencement of its Mohan Gilbert, who sports disciplines in the country of PCR tests for Covid-19 the entire series of two Tests “Trap and Skeet (Shotgun is responsible for the on Thursday. and three each of ODIs and events) competitions” in an development of the shotgun are needed to nourish this Sri Lanka There was great fear T20Is would be held at a enthusiastic and aggressive disciplines, highlighted discipline which draws high Cricket CEO that some members of the single venue, most probably Ashley de Silva manner. that more young shooters spectator participation. 35-player Sri Lanka squad Antigua.

yy Serve down the middle An introduction When serving, the player has to make Dinith A major drawback among the young Sri Lankan players sure the serve is placed down the is the fact that their tactical knowledge and nous is not middle or to the “T” most times. What Pathiraja up to the required standard. The only tactic most of the this would do is the fact that it would players have is the fact that they need to put one more deprive the opponent of the ability of ON COURT ball over the net. hitting angles in the return and force the In this multi-part series, it is hoped to discuss the opponent to come up with his own angle, tactics which can be used against specific types of which is the far more difficult thing to Today’s discussion will centre on how to players. Whilst the points mentioned here are by no do in a match. play against left-handers (for the purposes of means exhaustive, it is hoped that these points would this article, it is assumed that “the player” is form the basis of foundation for the players to flesh out yy Be ready for the short-angled shot to a right-handed one). their own tactics when confronted against such players. the backhand What are the “normal” (general) strengths In deciding on tactics against any player, the first and Following on from the same principle of this type of a player? the most important thing that needs to be understood is of the serve, the opponent will have the ability to hit the short-angled backhand y the fact that tactics should be devised with the strengths y Short-angled shot to the right-hander’s of the player who is devising them, being at the forefront to the player. Therefore, the player needs backhand of the mind at all times. For the purposes of this discussion, to make sure he/she is ready for that yy he serve out wide on the ad court it will be assumed that the player devising the tactics is particular tactic and to come up with the What would be the general weaknesses proficient in playing all the shots. Also for purposes of necessary shot to lessen its effect. One of this type of a tennis player? this article, the player against whom the tactics are being such shot would be to hit the ball high devised against will be referred to as the “opponent”. and deep down the middle of the court. yy Apart from the fact that the right- In previous weeks, we discussed about playing against yy Hit your backhand down the line hander’s forehand cross court would be The 105th Colombo Championship is now being held at the SLTA Playing Section clay courts in (i) taller players, (ii) shorter players, (iii) faster players, (iv) to the left-handed player’s backhand, Colombo. Here women’s open doubles pair of sisters Alana (left) and Anika Seneviratne on their way In most of the cases, the opponent to the event’s semi-finals last week slower players, (v) consistent players, (vi) serve-and-volley will be weaker on the backhand side. there is no general weakness for players, (vii) “the grinders”, (viii) “all-court” players, and (ix) “lefties”. But, of course, if there is PHOTO ISHAN WANNIARACHCHI Therefore, the player can make sure aggressive baseliners. Today’s discussion, the 10th part that the player uses that tactic and by a specific weakness of the player of the series, will centre on playing against left-handers. concerned, that would count as a ‘THE HOW TO PLAY’ SERIES CONTINUES… hitting the backhand down the line weakness. so that the player will be forcing the in hitting the short-angled crosscourt opponent to hit his backhand. This tactic With the above in mind, the tactics need to forehands, the player has to use that shot has its limitations and should be used be devised against this opponent. As always, Against left-handers and pull the opponent out of the court, judiciously. when devising the tactics, it is important to open the court up, and take the ball early understand that your strengths SHOULD BE any sport are right-handed, the players do be effectively used against the left-handed yy Adjust the return of serve for the next shot. maximised and given priority when coming not get the chance to play much against left- players. But these are general tactics which The player has to make sure the return up with those tactics (from here onwards, handed ones. As such, when the players go need to be adjusted against the particular type yy Protect the wide side of the ad court of the serve the player hits is adjusted this type of player will be referred to as “the to a match against this type of a player, they of opponent that the player is playing against. during the serve according to the opponent’s weaker side. opponent”). feel strange, essentially because of the fact that The biggest advantage the opponent This adjustment has to be made with yy Use the cross-court forehand they have not had the chance to play much has is the fact that the opponent is the above-mentioned ability of the left- One of the biggest advantages any right- Try to play with left-handers against them. Therefore, it is important for able to serve out wide to the backhand handed players to hit the angles in mind. handed player has against a left-handed An important aspect of this discussion that the players to make sure they practise against of the player on the “ad” court. The Different players will have different abilities. opponent, is the fact that the forehand needs to be heard is the fact as to why there left-handed players at every opportunity that player, therefore, has to make sure the Therefore, each tactic has to be adjusted cross court of the right-hander is to the should be specific tactics against a left-handed they get to do so. player is protecting that flank and also according to the opponent as well as the ability back hand of the opponent. The player player. This is simply because of the fact that Having said all of the above, given below making sure that the return is placed of the player. But these general tactics will has to use this advantage in any match. since the majority of the players who play are some of the most useful tactics that can appropriately. work with most of the players. Especially if the player is proficient

Printed & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 WHEN FLOOR TILES GO SKY HIGH »SEE PAGE 3

DEPARTING DOLLAR DISEASE: IS CSE ALONE? »SEE PAGE 5 Sunday, February 14, 2021 business‘India does not care if Sri Lanka has IMF’ z Treasury Secretary points at solar project credit from India

BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR economic challenges, high public debt, approved funds under this facility was $ Foolproof and parliamentary elections in August. 31 billion by end-September. The Treasury categorically denies that India ever wanted Sri Lanka We have sought but not reached (an) In mid-August last year, Central Bank to go for an International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme if Sri understanding yet on how to fulfil of Sri Lanka (CBSL) Governor Prof. W.D. alcohol sticker Lanka was to seek financial assistance from India to service its key requirements for the RFI, which Lakshman told The Sunday Morning upcoming external debt repayments. include policies to continue ensuring debt Business that Sri Lanka will obtain sustainability. The authorities have a range emergency financial support under the Treasury Secretary S.R. Attygalle SWAP line that it obtained last year from of options to ensure debt sustainability, RFI only if the support would be provided resurfaces told The Sunday Morning Business that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as and the IMF stands ready to discuss all with no conditionality. India never told Sri Lanka to go for the further extension of the repayment time options with the authorities.” Meanwhile, a Citi Research report in z Govt. still on board with crooked IMF programme, and that it is the rating necessitated Sri Lanka to go for an IMF Following the global outbreak of the December last year noted that Sri Lanka’s Indian company agencies that would like to see Sri Lanka agreement, according to an Indian High pandemic in the first quarter of last year, debt is on an unsustainable path, though reaching out to the IMF. Commission Spokesperson. the IMF received about 102 requests the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR foolproof stickers or digital print. According to Attygalle, despite being Meanwhile, Attygalle stated that it is from countries seeking RFI support. is in denial, and an IMF programme is The Sri Lankan Government pushed out of the Colombo Port’s East completely up to Sri Lanka to decide As of mid-September, about 76 out of essential to avoid a debt disaster. In its The implementation of a had repeatedly chosen to Container Terminal (ECT) deal by the whether the country should go to the IMF these 102 requests had been approved, report titled Sri Lanka Economics and foolproof sticker on alcohol continue working with this Sri Lankan Government, India is willing or not. Nevertheless, we learnt that Sri according to the IMF. This means that Strategy View, Citi noted that it cannot bottles and cans, which about company, which was initially to assist Sri Lanka financially at any Lanka’s request to the IMF for a Rapid Sri Lanka was among approximately see a credible strategy for achieving debt two years ago made leading awarded the tender in 2016 given time. Financing Instrument (RFI) was still 20 or 30 countries that were not granted sustainability and (external) repayment alcohol companies to threaten the without consulting industry “India has not rejected anything. The under review. Responding to an email sent RFI support as of September last year. capacity. former Government with closing stakeholders. MSP was primarily $ 100 million credit facility for solar by us, IMF Mission Chief of Sri Lanka The 76 approved countries include a “While officials continue to mention down operations if implemented, involved in two scandals in India energy or rooftop facility, which our Masahiro Nozaki stated the following. number of Asia Pacific countries such their willingness to pay, we cannot see has resurfaced this year, The and Kenya in 2017 and 2018, President requested from India, is ready “In April 2020, we received a request as Bangladesh, Mongolia, Myanmar, a credible strategy for achieving debt Sunday Morning Business learns. respectively. now. Within a week or two we are going from the Sri Lankan authorities for and Nepal. On 29 May, it approved the sustainability and (external) repayment The foolproof sticker is a MSP was awarded the project to sign the agreement. Even though it is emergency financial support under the provision of $ 488 million under the capacity beyond talking up their growth requirement initially introduced initially in 2017 and continues for a rooftop project, still, it is credit from Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI). RFI to Bangladesh, while on 26 June, it prospects and expecting this to attract by the then-Ministry of Finance to hold it despite the above India,” he added. Assessing relevant conditions for the approved $ 237.7 million for Myanmar. FDI (foreign direct investment) and and the Department of Excise scandals coming to light. In its However, local media reported that Sri RFI has taken longer than for other On 3 June, it approved $ 99 million under other portfolio equity inflows. a few years ago to curb the home country of India, MSP Lanka recently settled its $ 400 million countries, due to Sri Lanka’s daunting the RFI for Mongolia. The total figure of Contd. on page 2 mushrooming illicit liquor was awarded the Aadhaar card producers in the market and to project, along with other parties. reduce the loss in state revenue Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique caused by it. Nevertheless, it identification number that can Q420 GDP data on schedule has been repeatedly postponed be obtained voluntarily by the by the then Government due to residents of India, based on their z No repetition of previous quarter delays, assures DCS opposition from local alcohol biometric and demographic data. BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR manufacturers. The number is issued by the CRYPTOCURRENCY SCHEMES On 1 January this year, in a Unique Identification Authority With a month left for the Department letter to the Treasury, which was of India (UIDAI). of Census and Statistics (DCS) to issue Committee seen by The Sunday Morning Even though the number is its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Business, Excise Commissioner given by UIDAI, information rates as per the usual procedure for appointed to look M.J. Gunasiri had stated that as collection and biometric the quarter ended on 30 December per the Excise Notification No. capturing are done by enrolment 2020, it confirmed that the statistics into irregularities

01/2021, the implementation of agencies, most of which are for the quarter will be issued on time, BY YAKUTA DAWOOD the foolproof sticker could be private firms hired by the unlike in the previous three quarters. either in the form of a normal UIDAI. However, in 2017, DCS Additional Director General A committee has been appointed by the sticker or a digital print. The the UIDAI suspended six P.M.P. Anura Kumara told The Sunday Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to study Department of Excise has enrolment agencies, including Morning Business that the quarterly the prevailing issues regarding the rise of provided a grace period until 31 MSP, for taking bribes to submit surveys are being done at the moment, cryptocurrency users and the rise of reported June 2021 for alcohol companies information given by people, the results of which are expected to accounts of people being ambushed under to comply with the ban. although the Aadhaar programme be received by 15 March. cryptocurrency pyramid schemes, The Speaking to us, Deputy was supposed to be free of cost “Ideally, we should release the Sunday Morning Business learnt. Excise Commissioner Kapila to the public. statistics for the quarter by 15 March, Speaking to us, the official who wished to Kumarasinghe stated that MSP is also alleged to have but this time we will be releasing on remain anonymous stated that after the study it is mandatory for alcohol colluded with Kenya Bureau of 16 March after getting the quarterly is concluded by the committee appointed, manufacturers to comply with Standards (KEBS) and in June survey results. We are working day till the end of the election, which was GDP estimates are released within a decision to formulate new regulations or the requirement. He added 2018 counterfeited labels on and night and having discussions with on 5 August, so as to prevent any 75 days from the quarter’s end. For to not with regards to control the prevailing that taking into consideration thousands of bags of sugar in the relevant authorities often,” Anura political disadvantage. However, example, second-quarter GDP results issue will be taken. “We have not issued the grievances raised by the the local market which were Kumara noted. both the DCS and the Central Bank are generally released before 15 any regulations at the moment, the decision industry previously on pasting completely unfit for human The DCS significantly delayed the denied this allegation in August and September and fourth-quarter results will depend on the study conducted by the a “mundane” sticker on their consumption. issuance of quarterly GDP rates for attributed the delay purely to the are usually issued before 15 March committee”, the official noted. “appealing” packaging, the Soon after the illicit trade the first three quarters in 2020 citing pandemic. the following year. However, when further questioned Department has also given the came to light, the Consumers pandemic-driven delays in conducting In mid-October last year, issuing Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) regarding the committee, said official did option of a digital print. Federation of Kenya sought the required surveys. Even the first- a press statement, the DCS said that MP Dr. Harsha de Silva, in a tweet not wish to reveal any information. While appreciating the move the immediate cancellation of quarter GDP estimates were delayed second-quarter GDP data will be on 17 October 2020, charged that We also spoke to another official from the to provide an alternative option to the tender awarded to MSP to considerably, as it was issued only released on 15 December, along with this is the first time since quarterly Resolution and Enforcement Department comply with the requirement, the produce certification labels and hours before the General Election in GDP data of the third quarter of 2020. publishing where Sri Lanka’s GDP (RED) of CBSL, who also wished to remain industry is now concerned about also sacked senior officials of August. It showed that the economy The reason provided for the delay was figures have not been published by the anonymous, who said that according to the Madras Security Printers (MSP) KEBS. However, MSP denied had contracted by 1.6%. the seven-week-long curfew imposed Government; he termed it a “disgrace”. Banking ACT of CBSL, cryptocurrency of India, which is a company the allegations and noted that the As the data was released following through half of the second quarter, In its mid-October press release, is “prohibited”, which would mean that with a history of corruption, fake stickers had not originated a highly unusual delay, it led to which resulted in some economic the DCS also said that international nobody is allowed to participate or promote still remaining as the awardee from the company. intense speculation as to the reasons activities taking place in ways that consultants are required to achieve such activities. of the tender for printing these Contd. on page 2 for the said delay. Many opined that were different to the norm. accurate data. Contd. on page 2 data was being held back intentionally In any other year, the quarterly Contd. on page 2 EOIs for Kahatagaha Graphite Mine in March

BY KAREN HAPUARACHCHI under the Ministry that is handling this. The It is known that vein graphite is priced graphite monthly, sourced mainly from the survey is going on, and is to identify the between $ 1.2-1.8 per kg, while graphene Bogala, Ragedara, and Kahatagaha mines. Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for an area and the volume of the graphite mine, is sold at around $ 3,000 per kg. Also, the The Kahatagaha mine is in the Kurunegala investor to undertake value addition at the the profile of the mine, and other details, so capacity of the mine would be extended District. It exports about 65-70 metric tonnes state-owned Kahatagaha Graphite Mine as to get applications for investors. This has further, depending on the amount of of raw graphite per month. will be called in March, according to the been initiated by the Geological Survey and investment the graphite mine receives. Sri Lanka contributes 7% of the graphite Ministry of Industries and Supply Chain Mines Bureau, (and is to be completed) by According to Ceylon Graphene requirement in the global market. Mining Management. the end of March,” commented the ministry Technologies, Sri Lanka is the only place and quarrying activity contributed about Speaking to The Sunday Morning official. in the world where vein graphite is produced 2.7% to Sri Lanka’s GDP in 2017. In the Business, an official of the Ministry of Moreover, after the GSMB’s investigation in commercial quantities. The Kahatagaha first quarter of 2018, the output value of Industries and Supply Chain Management and survey is completed in March, the Graphite Mine is one of the leading producers mining and quarrying was an estimated $ who wished to remain anonymous, said committee will go forward with the plan of high-purity, natural vein graphite, where 625 million with a reported 0.6% growth that the Geological Survey and Mines to call for EOIs for the mine. the mined graphite contains over 99% of rate compared to the first quarter of 2017. Bureau (GSMB) is currently investigating Last year, the Ministry sought cabinet fully crystallised carbon. The mine is unique Graphene is a single sheet of carbon atoms the Kahatagaha Graphite Mine to create a approval to call for bids to find an investor in its low ash content and high-carbon, arranged in a hexagonal honeycomb pattern. profile for it that includes essential details to undertake value addition to Kahatagaha crystalline graphite. It is about 100 times stronger than the finest such as the volume, area, and capacity of graphite where the value addition will be In 2018, prices for Sri Lankan vein graphite steel and is flexible and transparent. It is the mine itself. to convert raw graphite into the highly averaged at $ 2,300 per metric tonne. Sri used to develop miniaturised and super-fast “There is a special project committee valuable graphene. Lanka is currently producing 300 tonnes of computers and transistors. 2 the sunday morning business TRADE/NEWS Sunday, February 14, 2021

BY YAKUTA DAWOOD Elaborating further, Lukmanjee explained that coconut, which used to be around Rs. From the business sector’s 70-80/kg, has now gone up to Rs. 135/kg in perspective, Covid-19 has had either Sri Lanka, whereas the major competitors – an adverse or beneficial impact namely Philippines and Indonesia – sell at on each and every sector of the Export target of Rs. 60-70/kg in their region. “Raw material industry. Right now, everyone is is generally 75% of total cost, so you can trying their best, to their utmost imagine the impact that it has had on the capacity, to rise up again after the final product we produce for exports.” second wave of Covid-19 which hit Due to this concern, Lukmanjee noted that in October 2020. In this backdrop, the company has held relevant discussions industries for 2021 with the Coconut Growers Association, and let's discuss how the export industry that they have come to understand that when of Sri Lanka will perform in the the prices of coconuts rise above Rs. 80-85/ year 2021 while competing with kg, Sri Lanka becomes uncompetitive in the international competitors. world market. Commenting on the export industry “For us to maintain a healthy and of Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Export sustainable export industry, the yield of Development Board (EDB) said that Sri coconut has to substantially improve, and in Lanka’s abundance of natural resources, the meantime, the Government must have a our historical position as a global trading policy where if the coconut prices go above centre, and the availability of knowledge a reasonable amount, then the importing and technology, place Sri Lankan exporters of such raw materials should be approved, in an enviable and unrivalled position which could serve as a re-export policy,” he in comparison to other manufacturers, added. suppliers, and exporters in the region. He concluded that, based on the “The sustained market for local performance in the financial year agricultural exports including Ceylon Tea, was why we couldn’t produce the expected the global monopoly for True Cinnamon 2020/2021, Sri Lanka will not even achieve natural rubber, and coconut-based products, volume.” (Cinnamomum zealanicum) widely known 50% of its export target for coconut-based and rising demand for Sri Lankan apparel, Meanwhile, while comparing 2020 and under the geographical indication of Ceylon products, whereas last year (2019/2020), knowledge services, and engineering 2021, Peiris said that in 2020, due to the Cinnamon, which contains smaller amounts the country achieved over 100% of its services, provide Sri Lankan exporters with Covid-19 pandemic, most advertising of coumarin compared to cassia cinnamon. target. “Either crops have to improve, or new potential to conquer new markets and campaigns highlighted that drinking hot “We have not done those calculations yet, In this light, speaking to The Sunday the Government has to allow raw material explore new horizons,” the EDB added. tea was a precautionary measure, which is as our deliveries have come down.” Morning Business, Impex Corporation imports for processing, value-addition, and Let’s discuss how the export sectors of Sri why we got a good demand for Ceylon Tea Adding to this, Cooray stated: “We are Director of Exports Yamuna Perera said that re-export.” Lanka have planned their export targets for during the pandemic. hoping to hear from the Government, as we Impex Corporation is expected to increase the upcoming year 2021. “We implemented social media have requested for them to give us priority turnover by 20% more than last year. IT industry campaigns in 12 countries promoting in terms of vaccinating our labour force.” Commenting on the obstacles which Speaking to The Sunday Morning Tea industry Ceylon Tea last December 2020 – that’s Meanwhile, speaking at the webinar could be faced in 2021 in terms of Business, 3ITeam International Partner According to the EDB, Sri Lanka why we are expecting more demand and held by the Institute of Policy Studies exporting spice, Perera stated that Parakrama Weerasinghe said that the target continues to remain among the top five tea- more exports during this year,” Peiris of Sri Lanka (IPS), JAAF Chairman A. presently, it is only the Covid-19 set by the company for this year is around $ producing countries in the world because concluded. Sukumaran had said that the demand for pandemic, adding: “This is due to our 100,000 to $ 1 million. Ceylon Tea is celebrated for its unique Meanwhile, speaking to The Sunday global apparel has dropped by 25-30%, and factories, warehouses, and everything When inquired about the obstacles the IT flavour, variety, and quality. Morning Business, a senior official of even before the pandemic, Sri Lanka was being situated in Colombo city, and (information technology) export industry “The country’s tea exports are governed Jafferjee Brothers (JB) who wished to in a situation where there was an excess sometimes we are short of workers.” could face this year, Weerasinghe said that by black tea and are yet to exploit the remain anonymous, stated that the export supply. Adding further, Perera noted that there there is an obstacle for reaching the market rising global demand for green tea, target for the year 2021 will depend on the “We are starting this year with demand is a big demand globally for cinnamon posed by the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic. organic tea versions, and herbal and market to which JB exports to. “70-80% going down by 30% on an already because only Sri Lanka has “True However, competing in the International fruit infusions to the fullest; although of our tea goes to the Middle East and oversupplied market, which means the Cinnamon”, and other countries only export market is not impossible. China, India, and Kenya are the largest to Russia, which have a lot of problems situation is going to be very difficult for cassia. “Cinnamon is mainly used in terms “We have to compete with India because tea exporters based on volume, Sri Lanka right now, from the oil price factor to us, and on top of that, what's happening of getting health benefits such as to manage that is the biggest market. It is not possible is the third largest tea exporter by USD experiencing economic and political right now is that we are taking orders cholesterol, in pharmaceuticals, and it is also to compete on size, but we can compete (US dollar) value, exporting $ 1.4 billion uncertainty,” the official said. from abroad three to four months prior, in used for drinking in the form of cinnamon on quality. This is the point on which we worth of Ceylon Tea to the world,” the Elaborating further, the official said: “The which we are required to deliver by four powder.” need to reach out to the market because we EDB noted. exports will all depend on how the global months’ time. However, due to various Concluding, she noted that Impex have to show them the value of the quality. Speaking to The Sunday Morning economy develops. Many countries that situations of closure, lockdown, etc., we are Corporation is trying to expand its portfolio The quality of the Indian product is not Business, Sri Lanka Tea Board (SLTB) import Ceylon Tea are mainly oil exporters, unable to fulfil our customer requirement,” to products like cinnamon powder and very good. Hence, we have to market our Director – Promotion (Overseas and Local) so if the global economy improves, the Sukumaran said. coriander, cinnamon powder and tea leaves, potential – high-quality products, the way Pavithri Peiris stated that the expected target price of oil potentially can go up; then, their “Sri Lanka is built on a pillar of a and also cinnamon powder and ginger. we approach the customers, things like for the year 2021 is a total volume of 295 economies can get stronger. A great deal of very reliable supplier. Right now, what's “These are the new adventures which we that,” Weerasinghe added. million. Sri Lanka fortunes of tea is based on prices happening is that this is under threat, so are hoping to embark on this year.” Inquired about the possible challenges of oil. Second of all, it depends on their unless something different happens right Rubber industry that could be faced by the tea industry, Peiris political situation. For instance, issues of now, we see more challenges in 2021. Give Coconut and coconut-based Speaking to The Sunday Morning stated that at the moment, the challengers sanctions in the US, the civil war in Syria, us our priority. We are 47% of Sri Lanka's industry Business, Rubber Research Institute of will depend on the economic environment the Libyan civil war, etc.” total exports; if exports do not function, if The Adamjee Lukmanjee Group of Sri Lanka Additional Director Dr. V.H.L. in international countries. However, the When inquired regarding the obstacles, our buyers start pulling out, and if we start Companies is a prominent export firm in Rodrigo said that the export target for the prevailing Covid-19 situation can be another the official said that “the only obstacle is the losing our orders, the impact is tremendous, Sri Lanka with a heritage of over 150 years year 2021 is above 90,000 metric tonnes problem, she stated. “For example, if a few economy”. for the company and the country,” as a manufacturer and processor, and is (MT) of rubber, produced in Sri Lanka. workers at one or two/three companies get Adding further, the official noted that the Sukumaran concluded. one of the largest exporters of desiccated “Last year, it was about 74-78,000, and infected with Covid-19, we would have to export industry was not adversely impacted According to the EDB, despite changing coconut, coconut oil, coconut by-products, by next year (2022), we are thinking of halt their operations, and that type of decline in the year 2020: “It was pretty much okay; trade trends and fashion demands, Sri and spices. achieving the target of 100,000 MT of is possible.” it was slightly behind 2019, and in terms Lankan apparel manufacturers have Speaking to The Sunday Morning rubber production in the country.” In relation to this, Peiris said the SLTB of value, Sri Lanka’s export tea value was continued to sustain the global interest Business, Adamjee Lukmanjee & Sons With regard to the challengers that they has advised the exporters to not take a large higher. We actually did better than most tea- in the industry, and reinvented Sri Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. Managing Director Murtaza may face in the year 2021, Rodrigo said that number of the workforce at once for an exporting countries. Our prices of tea went as an ethical, sustainable, and high-end Lukmanjee said that due to a shortage in at the moment, the main issue is the overall operation. “We advised to operate them on up – our quantity didn’t go up – and I don’t sourcing destination for apparel sourcing. storage facilities of raw materials, the raw productivity in the rubber land. “In Sri a roaster basis by separating the segments think the plantation industry did badly in the Although the lack of a high-quality fabric material prices have risen significantly, Lanka, the productivity is very much below and calling that particular segment at the year 2020. We had challenges, but it was manufacturing industry has hindered the from almost 70-80%, which has adversely par in comparison to other countries. Hence, individual level. We have already discussed okay,” the official concluded. potential of the industry’s rapid expansion, impacted the export industry. we are taking several steps to improve the this type of strategy with the exporters and the Sri Lanka apparel industry is slowly “During the last four months, from productivity of the existing land.” they are practising it,” Peiris added. Apparel and textile industry moving towards the manufacturing and October 2020, we have lost valuable foreign If the export industries of Sri Lanka Adding further, Peiris said that another Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) processing industry of textiles and fabrics. markets; we have lost buyers who have and the Government implement medium challenge could be “climate effect”, which Secretary General Tuli Cooray said that opted out of Sri Lankan-origin coconut and short-term measures and address the could affect production. “At the moment, we due to the current problems faced by the Spice industry products and switched to Philippines fundamental issues in the sectors, the export don’t have that type of forecast. However, industry to meet the delivery quotes, the Spices had been Sri Lanka’s trump card and Indonesia, as they offer cheaper revenue for the entire economy may rise in last year, there was a huge drought, which target for the year 2021 has not been set. since the 15th Century. The country has alternatives,” Lukmanjee said. comparison to 2020.

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of Information and Communication schemes and added that citizens should of virtual currencies is dependent that India, Thailand, and Vietnam had the Procurement Appeal Board at the ‘India... Technology Agency of Sri Lanka be paranoid of cryptocurrency. on speculation and is not backed by released their GDP estimates, she noted Presidential Secretariat, the tender was The ability of financial repression (ICTA) Prof. Lalith Gamage, who According to Meegasmulla, people an underlying asset or a regulatory that these countries have a statistical recalled in 2017. It was re-awarded to to contain domestic borrowing costs stated that in terms of cryptocurrency, in rural areas are more prone to be framework. Due to this, virtual business registry where businesses MSP without industry consultation on is limited by rising debt ratios, still ICTA is developing a new technology duped by these schemes as they are currencies may demonstrate major are registered. both occasions. Interestingly, on both expected to grow amid a pro-growth named “Blockchain Technology”. in situations of needing money and volatility. Similarly, there appears to be “With the statistical business registry, occasions, the Technical Evaluation 2021 Budget. We expect net FDI will “It is a new technology which can looking for ways to earn extra: “They a high probability of virtual currencies it is easy to capture GDP data. We have Committee (TEC) had recommended finance about 40% of the current open a ledger that could safely and are the ones needed for guidance as being used in illegal activities. Further, already prepared a cabinet paper to set MSP be awarded the project. MSP, account deficit in 2021 FY, and the secretly keep records of all transactions, people in urban areas have a bit more though unintentionally, their usage up a similar registry in Sri Lanka. We which bid $ 3.19 per 1,000 stickers rest will not be wholly covered by resulting in no dispute. Hence, we are exposure in this topic”. could amount to breaches of anti- are working on it,” Bandara had added. in the first tender, bid $ 2.80 higher in official multilateral and bilateral using technologies applying these for Giving the concluded remarks, money laundering and combating the Dr. de Silva also stated that internal the second tender, while another bidder lending, let alone commercial funding, safe and secure transitions, between Meegasmulla emphasised that: “Users financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) sources had informed him that the GDP proposed $ 4.57 per 1,000 stickers. The in the absence of an IMF policy reform government organisations, between have to be vigilant about these schemes, laws. Therefore, cryptocurrencies, in contraction for the second quarter is a second tender was also speculated to backstop.” Government and citizens, between there’s nothing in life that comes free the present form, may pose significant shocking -17%. As he noted, second- have been cancelled due to allegations Government and businesses and so and nothing in life gives you that kind risks in terms of financial, operational, quarter GDP shrunk by 16.3% while of a biased tender procedure. on in digital platforms,” Gamage said. of an advantage, so it is important to legal, customer protection, and it grew by 1.5% in the third quarter A Treasury official told us that while Committee... While emphasising ICTA’s be critical of these activities and be security-related risks to their users as of last year. no payments were ever made to MSP, “There are investigations going on, mandate to provide technology and paranoid. Do some research, check well as to the economy”. Meanwhile, In January this year, the Government is not in a position to but if people are caught promoting/ advice to people, Government, and whether it’s truly there!” the Central Bank downgraded the call off the tender as it has been four network marketing in these schemes, organisations in Sri Lanka, Gamage On 16 April 2018, CBSL officially growth forecast for the year 2020 to a years since the tender was awarded. they would be apprehended as it is said that: “We have digital services released a statement noting that CBSL Q420 GDP... negative 3.9% from its earlier projected Therefore, the Government may be considered as an offence; there have which provide consultancy services. is prohibiting license or authorisation In a second tweet in response to the contraction of 1.7%. forced to pay a penalty in case of been instances where people have been If there are any problems with regards to any entity or company to operate press release issued by the DCS, Dr. cancellation. subjected to rigorous imprisonment to cryptocurrency, then we can provide schemes involving virtual currencies, de Silva stated: “Come on DG! You The recent letter from the Department and fines,” the official added. how to mitigate, monitor or address including cryptocurrencies, and has not cannot give such lame excuses that you Foolproof... of Excise states that according to the Further, commenting on awareness these issues. We will be also using authorised any Initial Coin Offerings need a foreign consultant to calculate In addition to this, reliable sources agreement Sri Lanka entered into programs conducted by CBSL, the blockchain technologies to facilitate (ICOs). GDP. India, Thailand, Vietnam, and so pointed out an incident which took with MSP, the Department of Excise official noted that due to the prevailing transactions between parties”. Explaining the prohibition, CBSL many others have already published place in 2019, where two imported is bound to purchase stickers for a situation in the country such awareness Further, Gamage also noted that in the statement noted that: “Virtual 2020 2Q. You have now completely liquor bottles had stickers with the minimum of Rs. 33 million. A sticker programs were halted: “We usually ICTA’s role is to ensure how the currencies such as cryptocurrencies lost your credibility.” same pin number, the stickers of which is sold for local manufacturers at a conduct awareness programs all over Government can be more citizen- use decentralised peer-to-peer digital Responding to Dr. de Silva’s tweet, were printed by MSP. price of Rs. 2 per sticker. the country through our regional centric and also more business-friendly. networks to authorize transactions. Due then Director General of the DCS, Dr. Even though the initial announcement Industry sources told us that the officers. However, due to Covid-19, we We also spoke to the Information to the absence of a centralised authority I.R. Bandara, at that point, told us that to comply with the sticker requirement stickers selected by the Government couldn’t organise (these programmes) Security Engineer of Sri Lanka such as a Central Bank to guarantee it is not necessary for Sri Lanka to seek was made to the industry early 2019, were just normal paper stickers that hence, as an alternative method, Computer Emergency Readiness Team the value of the currency and regulate international consultation and that the the tender for sticker-printing was could easily be duplicated by anyone, we have issued paper notices and (SLCERT) Ravindu Meegasmulla, who transactions, there is no recourse in consultations so far have been merely initially floated in 2016 and was and the glue provided to paste the advertisements to the general public”. stated that CERT strongly believes the event of any user or transaction for knowledge-sharing purposes. awarded to MSP. However, due to sticker was also basic glue and certainly Further, we spoke to the Chairman in increasing the awareness of such related issues or disputes. The value In terms of Dr. de Silva’s latter claim several shortcomings pointed out by is not even worth the Rs. 2. the sunday morning business 3 Sunday, February 14, 2021 VIEWS/FINANCE

sales volumes. Some consumers are By of the opinion that the higher import Dhananath duties don’t affect them because only the prices of imported items Fernando are increasing and the prices of local manufactured products will remain I still remember some silly things the same. I too wish that the market I did when I was in school. It was acts the way we think. What happens an inter-house pre-selection race in the market is actually the same for 400 metres for the school sports thing I tried to do in the 400-metre meet. As you all may know, to race. match the equal distance for each When we obstruct the athlete, the most outer track athlete competitor’s imported products, is placed slightly ahead at the start we narrow the window of of the race and the most inner track competitiveness in the market and athlete is placed at the very behind limit the entry of similar products to at the start. So during this race, I the market. In other words, we limit got lane eight, the most outer track. the opportunity for the consumer Without realising that the starting to buy a reasonably priced product point placement was done to provide from the market by imposing a a level-playing field I thought I have higher tariff and making them some added advantage to start the uncompetitive. By doing that, like race well ahead. I obstructed the entire race which The race started and we were created an absolute disaster, all all accelerating to the finish line. other connected industries will be After a few metres, from the corner affected. It will affect the pricing of my eye I saw the athlete next to It does not affect only the small of apartments, roads, government my lane running faster and he was entrepreneurs, but rather creates a infrastructure, wages, and the getting closer to overtake me. So ripple effect across the economy. In aspirations of young professionals. I changed my track to lane seven the tourism industry, construction he tariff rates are extraordinarily and obstructed him. Just after a few When floor tiles materials such as wall tiles, floor high, not only with regard to tiles but seconds, I realised that the lane six tiles, and bathware are used for most in terms of most construction items. athlete was about to overtake me. I constructions. So as a result, their This obstruction of competition is changed my track to lane six. Then capital investment goes up and they not a recent phenomenon but it’s the athlete on lane seven overtook have to cover capital through the been there for decades in the tile me. Throughout the race I was trying room rate. As such, in the same room and bathware industry. However, to obstruct the other athletes without go sky high category, Sri Lanka’s hotel room even after a near tariff imposition of running my race in my own track. rates are higher than the competing over 80% on cost in some instances, I was disqualified from the race. destinations in the region. we have managed to fulfil only I was not only disqualified from z Sri Lanka can’t win by obstructing its competitors It is the same for luxury hotels as about 50%-60% of the local market the race because of my silly way well as medium and small leisure demand. As a result, Sri Lanka is of obstructing all athletes, but Total nominal tariff (as sector entrepreneurs. It is not just stagnated in the same place without General duty a percentage of the HS code Material VAT PAL Cess also because they had to redo the 2021 Budget value of the good) the leisure sector, but even the being competitive in industries, but race. I still remember what my post Budget Government has a big problem with rather complaining that our export house master in charge told me 73241010 Sinks 15% 8% 10.00% 30% 68.20% the cost of construction. If you list portfolio is not diversified. after disqualifying me from the 73241090 Sinks – other 15% 8% 10.00% 35.80% down requests from rural students Baths of cast iron, whether or How can we protect the race. “Son, you can’t win a race by 73242100 15% 8% 10.00% 25% 62.80% to the President in the programme obstructing your fellow competitors. not enamelled “Gama Samaga Pilisadarak”, they local industries? You have to work hard and practice 73242900 Baths – other 15% 8% 10.00% 25% 62.80% are all about a building to do their Local industries can only be to run faster than them. That is 73249000 Other, including parts 15% 8% 10.00% 15% 52% studies, toilet facilities, a laboratory, protected by being competitive and Baths, shower baths, sinks, 39221000 15% 8% 10.00% 50% 89.80% the only way you can become and wash basins or a playground. The cost of the definition of protecting local competitive and win a race.” 39222000 Lavatory seats and covers 15% 8% 10.00% 50% 89.80% construction is as high as the sky so industries should not be punishing When I saw headline news stories Waterless urinals using “key even the Government has a problem the fellow voiceless Sri Lankans. 39229010 0% 8% 10.00% 19.60% on the Sri Lankan floor tiles, wall valves” in allocating money for construction The only sustainable way of tiles, and bathware cess tax revisions 39229090 Other 15% 8% 10.00% 50% 89.80% capital expenditure. winning a game is hard work and and Customs import duties, and 69101010 Squatting pans 15% or 12 per kg 8% 10.0% 15% or 12 per unit 52%* Further, think about the young being competitive. Instead of being collective voices against obstructing 6910.10.90 Other 15% 8% 10.0% 15% 52%* professionals and all Sri Lankans competitive, if we lose our focus imports of these product categories *Calculated at 15% cess and general duty (Customs duty) who want to build a basic house and try to obstruct the competition, as per the new tax revisions, for a but consider it a dream house. They we will not be able to achieve moment I wondered whether we as a products on the next day itself. import tax formula is not as simple flushing systems; a basic commode take a bank loan with the greatest anything more than what we have country are trying to make the same It was reported after a few days as saying that it is the addition of one and even a squatting pan have difficulty and pay twice the price been experiencing so far. This was mistake I did as a schoolboy athlete on some news stories (gazette tax to another tax. There are taxes been taxed at a high rate as 52%. for wall tiles and floor tiles from the the same policy we adhered to for by trying to win a competition notification is not yet up on the on taxes (Value-Added Tax [VAT], This will not only impact the money they borrowed. decades and we have to question by obstructing our competitors Government website) that the Port and Airport Development Levy local consumers but also other ourselves as to why we haven’t without trying to be competitive by industry associations agreed to [PAL], etc.). So if the Customs local micro, small and medium Protecting local succeeded. We have to remind ourselves. increase the Customs import duty to duty doubles from 15% to 30%, enterprises (MSMEs) as well. manufacturers and ourselves what my house master The bathware story took the 30% from 15% and increase cess to the impact on the final tax on the When most of the MSMEs do industries? in charge said many years ago and limelight with a gazette notification a flat rate of Rs. 125. Currently for consumer can be larger than just their small constructions, they have The main argument that has been redefine the way we think as Sri allowing the importation of certain sanitary products cess is 0% adding 15% to the final tax rate. to spend twice as much for the put forward on increasing the tariff Lankans. bathware with a 180-day credit and some other product categories According to the current calculation bathware and tiles, which increases on bathware and tiles is that it is a “Son, you can’t win a race by period when the forward purchasing are charged at 15% or Rs. 40 per kg. revealed by Sri Lanka Customs, the the capital they require to start move to protect local manufacturers. obstructing your fellow competitors. of foreign currency was not Essentially, if the media report effective rate can go up as high as business. Most of them take loans As Sri Lankans, we unanimously You have to work hard and practice facilitated by banks. In simple is true, our Customs duty has 89.80% of the actual imported value. to start businesses. Ultimately, agree that local industries should be to run faster than them. That is terms, this is a condition where increased by twofold and our What does this mean for the local this high cost of tiles affects their protected, but we have to evaluate the only way you can become the importer has to negotiate with cess has increased by threefold. consumer? This means the local competitiveness in the business as how we are going to protect them competitive and win a race.” the supplier to give goods for a According to the same media report, consumer has to pay twice the price well. Think of a small clothing shop without punishing our consumers. (The writer is the Chief credit period of half a year and the even before 2015, cess was 25% or to buy a bathware set, floor tile, in your town. Most of the time the The only solution to protect them is Operating Officer of Advocata importer has to bear the cost of Rs. 75 per kg. So even after a good or wall tile. In other words, our floor is tiled and the shop requires a to become competitive and that is a Institute. He can be contacted exchange depreciation. So it was not seven years, we still want to obstruct fellow Sri Lankans have to pay the bathroom, so can we justify asking win-win for local manufacturers as via [email protected]. at all very favourable for importers. our competitors at a higher degree cost of two bathrooms to build one that entrepreneur to pay twice as well as the local consumers. The opinions expressed are the Even in that context, the Imports with the higher cess. Let’s try to bathroom. Needless to highlight, much for some of his construction Many policy-makers and, to author’s own views. They may not and Exports Commissioner General understand the overall impact the bathrooms constructed by items which is a main part of the an extent, Sri Lankans are of the necessarily reflect the views of instructed banks not to facilitate First, many people do not know Sri Lankans are not royal-class building when he is starting the opinion that when we allow imports, the Advocata Institute or anyone any imports of tile and bathware how the tax calculation is done. The gold-plated commodes and silver business? it will affect the local manufacturers’ affiliated with the institute) SLT Group operating profit grows 27% in 4Q20 Sri Lanka Telecom PLC (SLT) Group “During the pandemic, SLT Group offered stated it concluded financial year 2020 uninterrupted services to the community with a 25% year-on-year (YoY) growth in including concessionary education packages profit after tax to Rs. 7.9 billion, despite to students and for Work-from-Home many challenges arising from the Covid-19 arrangements. In response to business and pandemic. community needs, we have introduced Group revenue climbed to Rs. 91.1 many digital channels for customer services, billion for the year with a 6% YoY smart home solutions and a trading platform growth, underpinned by higher broadband for agriculture products. As a responsible revenue, propelled by the accelerated fibre corporate citizen, SLT-Mobitel powered the expansion programme and growth in mobile ‘Park & Ride’ city bus service by joining broadband services. Revenue for PEOTV hands with the Sri Lanka Transport Board, and carrier services also advanced during and was also involved in many corporate the year. social responsibility activities including SLT Group recorded an increase in distribution of dry rations to the needy. EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, “In addition to five submarine cables Depreciation and Amortisation) by 16% SLT Group Chairman Rohan Fernando SLT Group CEO Lalith Seneviratne SLT CEO Kiththi Perera Mobitel Acting CEO Chandika Vitharana through which we are presently connected YoY to Rs. 34.7 billion in FY 2020, leading to the world, we are proud to inform that we to a higher EBITDA margin of 38% profitable growth due to simultaneous announced: “Our financial results for 2020 remarked: “We commenced 2021 with the will invest in the upcoming SEA-ME-WE 6 compared to 35% in the previous year, growth in revenue and reduction in have yet again demonstrated that SLT brand unification of SLT-Mobitel, which is submarine cable system in 2021.” mainly achieved through successful cost operational expenditure. Mobitel’s revenue Group’s resilience and success in providing another milestone in SLT Group’s legacy. Mobitel Acting CEO Chandika Vitharana management measures. for FY 2020 stood at Rs. 43.2 billion, up essential telecommunication services to the The joined forces of SLT and Mobitel added: “2020 is marked by formidable and Group revenue for Q4 2020 rose by 4% by 8% compared to FY 2019. Backed by country and community, notwithstanding allows us to unify our capabilities and unexpected challenges which impacted quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) to Rs. 24.0 billion, the growth in revenue and aptly supported unprecedented challenges arising from enhance our market brand presence and the global economy as well as economies recording the highest quarterly revenue by operational efficiencies, Mobitel was the Covid-19 pandemic. I am grateful to trust in the marketplace. of individual countries and Sri Lanka was achieved for FY 2020. The operating profit able to record significant growth in all all our frontliners and staff for providing “In mid-2021, SLT-Mobitel aims to not spared. Yet Mobitel thrived in these for the quarter increased by 27% YoY to key profitability indicators. The company uninterrupted services to the country during launch a pre-commercial 5G service using trying conditions and recorded a vibrant reach Rs. 1.9 billion, although this was a recorded Rs. 3.1 billion improvement in challenging times. 3.5 GHz. Further, we have established performance recording the highest profits decline of 33% compared to 3Q 2020. The EBITDA, an increase of 23% YoY. EBIT “I am also very appreciative of the a research and development centre to ever in its 27-year history. Group profit after tax for the quarter was increased by Rs. 2.6 billion in FY 2020, strong support given by the Government, accelerate innovations in the Group and “In line with the Government’s vision of reported at Rs. 1.1 billion, a drop of 48% a 50% increase over FY 2019. Mobitel and will continue to work closely with maintain our edge in the market.” digitising Sri Lanka, Mobitel aggressively QoQ, mainly due to the higher operating recorded its highest-ever profit after tax of the Government to support the national SLT CEO Kiththi Perera stated: “Being embarked on implementing rural costs and adverse impact from fluctuation in Rs. 4.9 billion in FY 2020, a YoY increase digitalisation effort through many the national telecommunications provider in connectivity solutions in the rural areas of foreign currencies. of 54%. initiatives. In 2021, we will focus on Sri Lanka, we strive to provide our services the country. In a year, the vital importance Mobitel (Pvt.) Ltd., the mobile arm of the The Group paid a total of Rs. 17.1 billion enhancing quality in our services and nationwide by extending our footprint to of technology was felt by people of all SLT Group, managed to grow its revenue in direct and indirect taxes, including levies strengthening our strategy in fulfilling our rural areas, thereby reducing the digital walks of life, we made it our duty to extend despite adverse macroeconomic conditions to the Government, in FY 2020. customers’ needs.” divide between urban and rural areas with our superior technology solutions with more prevalent in 2020. Mobitel reported a strong SLT Group Chairman Rohan Fernando SLT Group CEO Lalith Seneviratne the support of the Government. vigour to all Sri Lankans.” 4 the sunday morning business EDITORIAL/SME Sunday, February 14, 2021 Communication of the inoculation With the first phase of Sri continue to function through a time frames – remember, these were who need it the most. While at any recently that Sri Lanka would Lanka’s Covid-19 vaccine combination of safety measures and mechanisms that functioned even other time this argument would aim to become the first country of rollout on frontline workers remote working arrangements to be in war-torn regions at the height of hold some merit, this time there is its size to achieve full coverage well underway, lobbying has prioritised ahead of more vulnerable conflict. It is important to note that no free-flowing supply of Covid-19 in its Covid-19 vaccination begun in earnest for priority sections of the population. an overwhelming majority of Sri vaccines. programme. While such ambitious in the public vaccination To counter such lobbying, the Lanka’s vaccines are delivered free The world is faced with severe goals provide great impetus, programme. The private Government must speak in one through the public health system: supply restrictions, which means the requirement now is that all voice with a clear plan that lays Private medical service providers the poorer countries in Asia and stakeholders come together to sector has raised funds for out the prioritisation for vaccines, are believed to administer less than Africa would probably be well into devise a central master plan for the purchase of vaccines identifying high-risk groups, and THE 5%, with higher rates only in urban 2023 when herd immunity has been vaccine rollout. and it is to be expected delivering the dual outcomes of Colombo. reached through vaccination. Richer Of concern, though, is that that industries would begin immunity and a restoration of HEADLIGHT Mid-pandemic, it is essential that countries like the US, the UK, there has been a lack of central lobbying at various levels normalcy. Rightfully, frontline governments retain control over the Canada, and Japan have already co-ordination in this particular of intensity to jump the health and support staff must million Covishield doses purchased Covid-19 vaccination programmes; laid claim to the first millions effort; we’ve experienced weeks inoculation queues. be covered to ensure minimal from the Serum Institute of India. commercialisation of immunisation of doses – adequate supplies to of cacophony from the various disruption to health and other Sri Lanka has a long history of by allowing the private sector to vaccinate their entire populations. officials engaged in the Covid While the acceleration of essential services. Public comments successful mass immunisation; purchase and carry out its own Vaccines are a collective prevention management effort, much of it economic activity is imperative, by health authorities have suggested it has achieved almost universal programme invites greater vaccine strategy and the WHO has already out of sync with each other. Such it is also necessary for the private that the entire cohort of 30-60-year- coverage of childhood vaccinations, inequality. The other side of this warned of deadly consequences inconsistencies allow alternative sector to be cognisant of the greater olds would then be included in the thanks to a well-structured public argument, however, is that those of this moment contributing to voices to be raised. That is why need – battling a public health rollout of vaccines received under health system. The experienced individuals and businesses that can widening inequality between the the Government must now be crisis that has killed nearly 400 the World Health Organisation human resources and well-oiled afford to pay for the vaccine would rich and the poor of the world. deliberate and convincing in its Sri Lankans. There cannot be a (WHO) Covax programme as well infrastructure is able to support then buy their own, leaving more There were encouraging vaccine rollout plan to balance the case made for industries that can as the first deliveries of the 18 islandwide deployment within short free vaccines available for those comments from some officials interests of all stakeholders.

BY NIYUSHI DANANJANI platform and develop an extensive national organisation, by empowering Small and Medium Enterprises the entrepreneurs with branding and (SMEs) are an integral part of any marketing to find the market, and to economy. The Sri Lankan economy is Aramuna to empower gain capital formation for the selected no exception, as when taken together entrepreneurs. These are the main with microenterprises, SMEs contribute objectives we currently have. to about 52% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In fact, SMEs young entrepreneurs What plans have you made to achieve are the backbone of the Sri Lankan these goals? economy, which often receives step- Government to build its own economy, As the first step before 2021 ends, we motherly treatment from successive and this is because of the people’s have planned to help out 100 minor and governments which have not only mentality, so our efforts are to include moderate entrepreneurs with branding, burdened the SME sector, but also the that mentality in people and to make Sri marketing, capital formation and help overall financial performance of the Lanka a country full of entrepreneurs in finding economic subscribers in the country. the future. market. We have also planned to gather A group of professionals have come all Sri Lankan entrepreneurs to give them together and taken a fresh lead in forming What is the concept behind this further knowledge about business and “Aramuna”, an organisation with a project? how to gain capital formation. vision to lead Sri Lankans towards an One of the main things in the Aramuna economically, socially, and intellectually project is to develop an entrepreneur’s What are the expectations of the secure future. reliability. We are looking forward to economic background from Aramuna? Launched on Independence Day (4), getting involved with various projects in Our aim is to create more entrepreneurs the key expectation of the organisation is the future, but for now our basic purpose in Sri Lanka, as there is a high demand to empower the young entrepreneurs by is to create entrepreneurs within the in the international and local markets the “Hithe Haiya” project. Accordingly, organisation itself. with regard to entrepreneur’s products. In the organisation will act as a bridge to addition, the Department of Imports and investors and entrepreneurs. What’s the constitution of this project? Exports supports the quality of packaging The organisation has listed not one The Aramuna organisation is very and branding of products. As of now a but four missions that are; to empower simple. According to the constitution, majority of entrepreneurs export their young Sri Lankans to understand, engage, there is an executive committee with the products to almost 15 countries, so that and respond creatively to national global Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer, and entrepreneurs are able to improve their needs, trends, and demands; to provide eight members have been appointed to economy. young Sri Lankan entrepreneurs with the committee so far. Chairman Dilith roadmaps and tools necessary to develop Jayaweera, Secretary Sanjeewa Alwis Does the project pose any key confidence, competence, resources, and (myself), Treasurer Sanoj Hewage, and challenges? professionalism to develop their own other members Dr. Thesara Jayawardane, Certainly. The first thing we see as a business; to inspire the “Sri Lanka First” Chamikara Sapuge, Ranjan Senevirathna, challenge is that most people are afraid philosophy and approach in shaping the Vagisha Gunasekara, and Thileepan of entrepreneurship, so they always try economy; and to serve as a think tank that Sivanantham make up the executive to get public and private sector jobs with provides constructive commentary and committee. a permanent monthly income and live evaluation on policies pertaining to public a relatively stress free and comfortable and private sector enterprises. life. Secondly, what we see as a challenge The organisation is headed by Sri is that people think capital is the most Lankan Entrepreneur Chairman Dilith important part in entrepreneurship. Jayaweera, while the rest of the Aramuna But, capital formation is not the main organisation comprises Department of thing, it is one out of several factors in Industrial Management Senior Lecturer entrepreneurship, and there are many and Technologist Sanjeewa Alwis, other ways of gaining capital. So far we University of Moratuwa Faculty of have found these two things as our main Business Business Research Unit Director challenges in the Aramuna think tank Dr. Thesara Jayawardane, Stockbroker project. Chamikara Sapuge, Attorney-at-Law Ranjan Seneviratne, Investment Advisor What are the outcomes that Aramuna and Corporate Manager Sanoj Hewage, has achieved for now? Political Economist Vagisha Gunasekara, When did the Aramuna think tank So far, we have helped quite a number and Senior Site Reliability Engineer project start? of entrepreneurs (with the above Thileepan Sivanantham. The Aramuna think tank project mentioned). And there are many efforts The organisation noted that Jayaweera Creating capital requires certain tools started in 2020. We started as a national taken to bring all the institutes and people has an innate bond with SMEs, perhaps that guide you on borrowing, investing organisation, with Chairman Dilith who are helping entrepreneurs into one because he also started off as one. In and reinvesting. And lastly, it needs Jayaweera, myself as the Secretary, an platform as a common objective on his experience as the Chairman of many discipline. A certain degree of self- executive committee, and other members. preserving their identities. successful businesses, Jayaweera states restraint and self-discipline offers great Our vision is to lead Sri Lankans that creating capital involves a three- clarity in the process of innovation towards an intellectually, socially, and Are there any expectations to provide pronged approach. Dilith Jayaweera economically driven future to provide special benefits for entrepreneurs? If “It needs creativity. An idea that sets developed entrepreneurs as a contribution so, can you elaborate? itself apart from others is the main asset to the organisation. In terms of benefits, we provide the you need as an entrepreneur, and there Morning Business. entrepreneurs with branding, marketing, isn’t any limit to what you can do with Alwis is a technologist by profession. What was the inspiration to start the capital formation and all the infrastructure your business and your life. Creating With a passion for technological Aramuna project? facilities. capital requires certain tools that innovation, he has ventured into Firstly, we believe that Sri Lanka should For example: we met a young guide you on borrowing, investing and the world of digital transformation, be an entrepreneurial state. The reason entrepreneur who is an expert in making reinvesting. And lastly, it needs discipline. software engineering, IT infrastructure is, as we know in the Fourth Industrial various vegetable seeds, but the issue was A certain degree of self-restraint and management, and IT operations. His Revolution, technology in the world Our aim is to create more that he doesn’t have a proper land to plant self-discipline offers great clarity in motivation for constant improvement has improved and due to automation in entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka, as there the seeds, therefore our mission was to the process of innovation,” explained made him the first AWS-certified Solution factories, around five million workers is a high demand in the international help him get a land. Jayaweera. Architect in Sri Lanka. After years of were unemployed in America. For and local markets with regard to Another entrepreneur we came across According to him, Aramuna is an hard work and perseverance, he has example, in America they are looking entrepreneur’s products...As of now a makes tasty biscuits, which are of a good initiative through which he wants to share been fortunate to be recognised as a forward to replacing courier services with majority of entrepreneurs export their quality, but there was no good logo and/or his insights on how to create wealth, global leader in the IT industry. He says drones. Therefore, there will be a decline products to almost 15 countries, so a brand, so we helped him in with a better how to innovate, and how to focus on the that he contributes to our economy as for job opportunities in the industry. that entrepreneurs are able to improve logo and a brand to continue his business. journey of being an entrepreneur, not its an entrepreneur in his own right. He is Due to this, our objective is to lead the their economy Another example is of another destination. also a writer and technology evangelist, entrepreneurs to build an entrepreneurial Sanjeewa Alwis entrepreneur, who makes yoghurts of a “It is also about embracing indigeneity, doing his best to inspire technological state. Because people blame the good quality, but the name was not catchy because it gives us an edge in innovation innovations and kindle the entrepreneurial politicians for 70 years in Sri Lanka for enough. Consumers will not buy products and offering something marvelous to the spirit in young Sri Lankans. He claims not doing things, but in reality it’s not What are the main objectives that like that because they demand branded world. Indigeneity should not be about that his life has always been guided by just the politicians who are at fault for not you’re expecting from the Aramuna products, so we helped him out by giving closing our doors to the world, but about patriotism, and he firmly believes in the doing things, even we as citizens have a think tank project? him a brand. fusing global processes with indigenous productive association between the market responsibility. As people, there were no The first thing we’re going to do These are the problems that knowledge and ideas,” he added. and . He is a part of Aramuna attempts made to build an entrepreneurial is to find various people to help Sri entrepreneurs are currently facing, and With a keen interest to know further because he believes that entrepreneurial state. Lankan entrepreneurs. There are a our committee gathered to help them about the objectives of their organisation nationalism is the way of the future. As the media says, there are only 4% lot of companies and organisations out in branding, marketing, and capital and how they are going to achieve their Following are excerpts of the interview of entrepreneurs left in Sri Lanka, but in who assist entrepreneurs, but we want formation to start and develop their own missions, we caught up with Sanjeewa we had with Alwis: developed countries there are about 15% to try to bring all the entrepreneurs, business and economy. This is the main Alwis in an exclusive interview with The entrepreneurs. Entrepreneurs rely on the companies and organisations into one objective in the project. the sunday morning business 5 Sunday, February 14, 2021 ECONOMY

BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR It is yet to be personally understood whether it is a human trait or a Sri Lankan trait to completely forget Departing dollar one incident when another more juicier and interesting incident pops up. It is like we are goldfish, who have a memory span of just three seconds. We, as Sri Lankans, conveniently let disease: Is CSE alone? go of burning economic issues when Parliamentarian According to Morningstar, Ranjan Ramanayake’s regardless of a net foreign outflow telephone conversation in September, the third quarter with a number of politicians witnessed $ 6.3 billion worth and “fashion models” net foreign inflows which is got leaked – God only significantly higher than the net knew intentionally or foreign inflows reported during unintentionally. People were the previous quarter which was $ 3.9 billion. As Morningstar more focused on the death reports, August was one of the best sentence’s resumption in months in terms of foreign flows mid-2019, while letting the with foreign institutional investors tragic Easter Sunday attacks pumping in net assets worth $ 6.2 slip away from their minds. billion, which is the highest net inflow after October 2010, when Similarly, the prevailing they invested net assets worth $ 6.4 spectacular boom led mainly by billion in Indian equities. local investors at the Colombo Meanwhile, CSE witnessed a net Stock Exchange (CSE) has foreign outflow of Rs. 19.16 billion completely overshadowed the ($ 97 million) during this quarter massive amounts of net foreign which is again incomparable with outflows from the stock exchange, the massive net foreign inflows yet most of the reports and posts India recorded during this period. were only about the new and fresh Vietnam boom at the CSE, conveniently or mistakenly letting go of the fact With no breakdown available, that dollars are being pulled out of Vietnam Briefing in late last year the country. billion net foreign outflows. This billion in net foreign outflows. 303 equities listed on the HOSE It should also be noted that CSE noted that as of September 2020, The response from the relevant indicated lost foreign confidence By the end of 2020, CSE had and HSX in Vietnam. It is a remained mostly closed during the the whole country attracted $ 21.20 officials to the question of as to in the Sri Lanka stock market. The recorded about Rs. 51.35 billion capitalisation-weighted index. The second quarter of last year due to billion or 81.1% compared to the why foreigners are pulling out of lost confidence was mainly due to net foreign outflows. VN-Index has a base value of 100 fears of potential bloodbaths with same period last year of total newly the exchange – when the CSE is foreign investors being deprived as of 28 July 2000. massive sell-offs while India’s registered capital, adjusted capital, the second-best performing stock of the opportunity to pull out their Fresh net foreign outflows of Vietnam reported its first Covid- main stock exchanges National and capital contribution or share market in the world according to investments when they originally Rs.10 b in 2021 19 case on 23 January last year. By Stock Exchange of India (NSE) purchase from foreign investors. Bloomberg, with its All Share Price wanted to, during the seven In January alone, foreign this point, most of the Asian stocks and Bombay Stock Exchange Bangladesh Index (ASPI) being one of the best week-long closure of the market institutional investors and were subdued owing to the rising (BSE) remained open despite performing market indexes in the throughout the island-wide curfew individuals sold stocks worth Rs. death toll in China. The benchmark the initial 21-day nationwide According to research by Asia world – is: “It is not only limited period. Nevertheless, there was 10 billion and Rs. 1.86 billion, VN-Index plunged 31.88 points, lockdown announced by India’s Frontier Capital, DSEX, the to Sri Lanka; foreign investors keen domestic buying interest from respectively, while they purchased or 3.22%, to 959.58 points on 30 Prime Minister Narendra Modi benchmark index of the Dhaka are pulling out from other Asian bargain hunters looking to snap up only Rs. 2.18 billion and Rs. 1.26 January, the biggest losing session in the wake of the coronavirus Stock Exchange (DSE), posted countries too.” Are they really? fundamentally sound stocks that billion, respectively. The month since November 2018. 274 stocks pandemic in late March. double-digit growth by 24.4% in The Market Mine of The Sunday were on offer at 10-year low prices. witnessed a net foreign outflow lost and just 80 gained on the Vietnam Q3 (July-September), of 2020, the Morning Business finds out. The following weeks were of Rs. 8.51 billion, which is HOSE, on which the benchmark highest gain in key index among savoury for domestic investors much higher than the net foreign VN-Index is based, as trading According to Vietnam Express, the world’s top performing stock Colombo Stock Exchange who were keen on the lookout for outflows reported during the first opened after a one-week Lunar with the Covid-19 situation exchanges. This is regardless of Rs. 5.42 b net foreign outflows bargains, with shares of the leading quarter of last year. In the first New Year break and it remained seemingly under control, with sustained selling off by foreign listed banks and premier blue chip week of February, foreign sales open since then. no new local transmissions since investors, which is closely similar in 1Q20 John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH) recorded as Rs. 1.93 billion while According to Vietnam Express, mid-April, by May-end the to that of CSE at the moment. According to the data from closing trading below the Rs. 100 the purchases were only Rs. 455 foreign investors continued to sell VN-Index became one of the CSE, foreign investors purchased mark for the first time since 2009. million, making the net foreign off, and by 24 March, after 30 best performing stock markets Fourth quarter of 2020 stocks worth Rs. 52.88 billion in Seasoned market watchers at that outflows as Rs. 1.48 billion. consecutive sessions of net selling, in the world. Between April and India 2020 compared to Rs. 56.53 billion point opined that the last occasion If other countries are also pulled a total of VND 8.5 trillion May it clawed back over 31% of While the breakdown of net the previous year. Meanwhile, all these stocks fell below Rs. 100 bleeding in terms of net foreign ($ 366 million) out of the market, its losses to finish at 864 points, foreign inflows/outflows recorded foreigners had sold stock worth an mark was back in 2008, when the outflows, is the phase of outflows more than their total investment in third only behind South Korea’s in the Indian equity markets during astonishing Rs. 104.16 billion last ASPI crashed 41% following the similar to that of Sri Lanka? 2019 ($ 315 million) while CSE Kospi index and the U.S.’ S&P the fourth quarter of last year was year compared to Rs. 68.27 billion, Seylan Bank and Sakvithi scandals lost just about $ 28 million (Rs. 500, which regained 39.2% and inaccessible, Reuters in January the previous year. and the 2007/2008 global financial Net foreign outflows 5.42 billion precisely). 36.1%, respectively, according this year reported that Indian In the first quarter of last year, crisis. They hovered around those from neighbour stock Bangladesh to data from Bloomberg. Trading equities lured $ 23 billion worth specifically in the second week price ranges till around the time volumes on HoSE rose sharply to of inflows last year, helped by a of March during when the virus the war ended. Stockbrokers markets Bangladesh is another frontier VND 6-7 trillion per session from flood of money arriving in the – which was limited to Wuhan – were racking in big bucks. In First quarter of 2020 market in the Asian region. the average of VND 4-5 trillion in fourth quarter and this is regardless began spreading all over the world, fact, earnings were so high that India The Government announced the previous three years, and VND of India being the second highest including to Sri Lanka, regular stockbroking companies rapidly general holidays from 29 March 3-4 trillion at the height of the first country of coronavirus patients. trading at CSE was halted for 30 made up the revenue they lost due India is an emerging market to 30 May to check the spread Covid-19 wave. This amidst Sri Lanka bleeding Rs. minutes on three days. This was to the prolonged closure of the while Sri Lanka is a frontier market. of coronavirus in the country, However, on the main bourse, 11.23 billion net foreign outflows. after the S&P SL20 index, which market. According to The Times of India, and the country’s two stock the Ho Chi Minh City Stock “Zhikai Chen, head of Asia includes the 20 largest companies Even though foreign selling foreign investors turned as net exchanges had kept trading shut Exchange (HOSE), foreign Equities at BNP Paribas Asset by total market capitalisation remained sustained during this sellers in the first quarter of last year in the period. Trading on the investors were net sellers during Management, said a growth listed on the CSE, fell by 5% on period, there had been high as they withdrew about $ 6.4 billion bourses resumed on 31 May. six of the first eight months last recovery in the fourth quarter and each day. The CSE continued interest from domestic high-net- from the Indian equity markets According to The Financial year with the cumulative outflows implementation of key long-term to be closed on 17 March due worth individual and institutional mainly driven by the Covid-19 Express of Bangladesh in mid last being worth over VND 4 trillion ($ policy reforms such as Production to the three-day public holiday investors who were picking up outbreak in India. According to year, net foreign investment in 173 million). Sri Lanka lost about Linked Incentive schemes, labour declared by the Government from fundamentally stable stocks at a the reports, foreigners were net the Dhaka bourse has been on a $ 110 million during the first half code and agricultural reforms led 17-19 March. This was to prevent bargain due to the departure of buyers in the months of January downward trend since mid-2019 of last year. to substantial inflows into Indian potential massive sell off. By the foreign investors. and February as they recorded a as the overseas investors continued Bangladesh equities,” Reuters quoted. In end of March, CSE announced that net foreign inflow of $ 1.71 billion to pull out their funds amid a mid-December, LiveMint stated: it would remain closed for trading Rs. 40 billion by the end of nine and $ 265 million respectively, and prolonged bearish market trend. As the market remained closed “Excess liquidity, attractive from 1 April until further notice. months the net selling of $ 8.4 billion was The Financial Express of until end May, full information for valuations and weakness in the US This “further notice” lasted for In the third quarter of last year, recorded only in March. Bangladesh noted that in January the second quarter of last year on dollar propelled foreign investors over a month, as the market opened which was the first quarter of 2020, the overseas investors bought Bangladesh stock exchange was to flock to the Indian stock market for trading on 11 May after the the year that was not subject to shares worth Tk 2.74 billion, while unavailable. However, a website in a big way with the highest-ever seven week-long island lockdown a prolonged lockdown, foreign they sold stocks worth Tk 4.02 stated that after the reopening of net inflow of ₹ 1.4 lakh crore in was lifted on the same day. institutions sold stocks worth Rs. billion, taking the net position of the market, the trade volume was 2020.” The same quarter witnessed 27.31 billion but they purchased Tk 1.28 billion in the negative. very low due to the floor price. Reuters noted that Asian equity foreign companies selling off only Rs. 8 billion worth stocks. The net foreign fund was Tk 1.75 Most buyers were not interested markets lured inflows of $ 26.8 Rs. 35.66 billion worth of shares Meanwhile, foreign individuals billion negative in February 2020, in buying stocks at the floor price billion in the fourth quarter of the while foreign individuals sold Rs. sold Rs. 821.71 million worth The Times of India stated that as they sold shares worth Tk 3.67 – which was higher within the year, the highest since March 2012. 179.38 million shares. Foreign stocks but their purchase was in comparison, Foreign Portfolio billion against purchasing of Tk previous week’s average price. Vietnam companies purchased Rs. 30 billion higher than the sales as it was Rs. Investors (FPIs) bought net assets 1.92 billion. This is pretty much similar to shares while foreign individuals 939 million. Overall, this quarter worth $ 6.3 billion in three months The phase of outflows is what happened at the CSE in the No public information on purchased Rs. 416.6 million shares witnessed a net foreign outflow of ending in December 2019. India’s somewhat similar to that of the second quarter as foreign interest the fourth quarter net foreign resulting in a net foreign outflow Rs. 19.16 billion marking a total net outflows during this period Colombo Stock Exchange. lackluster following the market performance of the Vietnam stock (both institutional and individuals) net foreign outflow of Rs. 40.12 is incomparable, with Sri Lanka reopening, however, there was a market was available. However, of a whopping Rs. 5.42 billion. billion for the first nine months of given the whopping amount of it. Second quarter of 2020 keen interest from domestic buyers. Reuters noted that cross-border 2020. However, it should be highlighted India investors sold a combined total Rs. 20.95 b net foreign outflows here that Sri Lanka was bleeding The Times of India, quoting Third quarter of 2020 of $ 49 billion in Indonesian, in 1H20 Rs. 51.35 billion by the end of net foreign outflows in the first Morningstar, stated that foreigners India Philippine, South Korean, Meanwhile, in the second quarter 2020 quarter of last year, even before the were net buyers during the quarter According to LiveMint, foreign Taiwanese, Thai, and Vietnamese of last year, which witnessed a Net foreign outflows continued pandemic began spreading locally ended on 30 June 2020 in the institutional investors (FIIs) in stocks last year, stock exchange prolonged lockdown and market in the fourth quarter of the year during when India was witnessing Indian stock markets. Equity India turned cautious in September data showed. closure, foreign companies’ share as well, as foreign institutional net foreign buyers. markets witnessed a net purchase ahead of the US presidential Bangladesh purchase was Rs. 7.24 billion, investors sold Rs. 15.42 billion Vietnam of $ 3.91 billion during the second election, dumping shares in the while they sold an astonishing worth of stocks while their quarter of last year, whereas we worst month for benchmark In early January this year, Dhaka Rs. 22.72 billion worth of shares. purchase stood at a mere Rs. Vietnam is a frontier market recorded a net foreign outflow of indexes since May, 2020. Tribune stated that DSEX, the Foreign individual purchases 4.61 billion. Meanwhile, foreign similar to Sri Lanka and has two Rs. 15.53 billion ($ 79 million). “FIIs were net sellers of Indian benchmark index of the Dhaka during this quarter stood at Rs. individual engagement at the stock exchanges namely the main This was due to the comeback shares worth $ 731.34 million Stock Exchange, gained 21.3%, the 275.96 million while their sales CSE was high during this period Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange made by foreigners during the in September after buying $ highest among its peers, despite the were Rs. 326.70 million. as their purchases and selling (HOSE), along with the smaller months of May and June as 11.14 billion in the previous four 66-day recess for the countrywide By the end of the second quarter exceeded the billion rupee mark Hanoi Stock Exchange (HSX). according to The Times of India, months, highlighting the markets’ general shutdown to slow the of 2020, CSE bled about Rs. 15.53 with them recording Rs. 1.37 HOSE is the largest stock exchange they pumped $ 1.93 billion and $ increasing dependence on foreign spread of coronavirus, according to billion in the form of net foreign billion and Rs. 1.74 billion in Vietnam. The Ho Chi Minh 2.89 billion, respectively. It stated money while domestic institutional LankaBangla Securities. However, outflows and in the first half of the respectively. Overall, in this VSE is a major stock market index that net inflows began stabilising investors (DIIs) stay away,” the outflow was not specified. year alone, CSE bled Rs. 20.95 quarter, CSE lost about Rs. 11.23 that tracks the performance of from April 2020 onwards. LiveMint noted. Contd. on page 7 6 the sunday morning business SUSTAINABILITY Sunday, February 14, 2021 Opportunity in adversity chains such as Cargills, Keells, By and Arpico. Currently, there Kumar is one company trying to roll out electric chargers, but given Kanagaratnam the lack of EVs and the cost of investment, they may not be as With the current import successful. As such, I propose restrictions in place, the that the Government ensure the outlook for the automotive creation of two separate charging industry looks extremely companies with the following bleak, since there does not shareholders: seem to be a change in the yy Company A – Cargills, total ban of automobiles into Glomark, SPAR, and LECO Sri Lanka. Why this is done is (government shareholding) obvious, since the Sri Lankan yy Company B – Keells, Arpico, economy is under a severe Laugfs, and CEB (government threat with our currency shareholding) inflows restricted due to The combined strength of the the Covid-19 pandemic. two companies, with government We are no better off than shareholding, will give any bank many economies around the confidence to offer long-term the world, but the import lending for the import of rapid restrictions can be used to chargers. Also, the Government popularise the use of electric can also offer duty-free facilities cars in Sri Lanka, thereby for rapid chargers for these two allowing for the importation in right-hand drive. Sadly, these When the vehicle ban is with the CMTA to confirm their meter will be called the “EV companies, only since this is part brands consider our market for extended, the Government should legitimacy. This body will assess meter”. of a larger initiative. It is always of EVs (electric vehicles) only. EVs to be small, and they would be invite the entire CMTA (Ceylon their application along with their Any householder can purchase important for the Sri Lankan As such, this is my six-step plan correct. Nonetheless, due to these Motor Traders’ Association) and facilities and award the import the EV meter from either the consumer to have a choice and as to use the current, albeit chaotic, brands having their distributors in give them a deadline to speak license. The Government cannot CEB (Ceylon Electricity Board) such, two companies are created situation and take the opportunity Sri Lanka, selling ICE models, they with their manufacturers and plan be policing every facet of this or LECO (Lanka Electricity where they can and will operate to bring about the fast adoption may allow the EVs to follow as for the deployment of EVs in Sri initiative; hence, involving the Company) by paying a fee. independently and compete on of EVs, which would have not part of their total brand portfolio. Lanka within the next three to CMTA, allows for legitimate Obviously, you must own the service and price, along with happened in Sri Lanka since we It must be mentioned that the five years. The involvement of monitoring of the products being location you want this meter the rest of the private sector. will continue to buy cheaper, premium brands will not allow any CMTA must happen before the imported and the Sri Lankan affixed, but this process is already Government involvement is to internal combustion engine (ICE) of the EVs to come into Sri Lanka announcement, but only after the consumer is not cheated. With in place. This meter comes with a ensure that the bureaucratic delays vehicles irrespective of the long- without extensive investment decision to proceed is made. CMTA being made up of legal very different tariff since it’s time- are avoided, as is bribing, in getting term damage to the environment from the dealer on appropriate businesses, some with over a based. From 7 a.m. till 10 p.m. high-capacity lines for supermarket and our people. infrastructure in terms of service, Step 2: Allow self-regulation few decades of experience under every day, the cost per kWh from operations and chargers. These spares, and battery disposal. All distributors of brand new, their belt, the Government makes this meter is Rs. 75. If a household companies will then liaise with Background Similar requirements for service warrantied vehicles have formed the industry responsible for self- wishes to use this meter during this CMTA to specify the rapid charger As we all know, many Western and parts would be followed by an association – the CMTA. It regulation and fair play whilst period, that is at their discretion, types and chargers that will fit the countries have taken a pledge to every other manufacturer. Given must be mentioned that to be ensuring that no under-invoicing, but the cost per kWh applies. currently available EVs. do away with ICE vehicles within the current market closure, these eligible for membership at CMTA, unsafe, or un-warrantied EVs The EV meter can be useful for Finally, will the supermarkets the next decade or so. Sri Lanka distributors would be hard-pressed the company must be the legally enter the Sri Lankan market apartment dwellers as well. willingly enter such an investment? has many other priorities on its to make additional investments. appointed distributor of a said and jeopardise the Sri Lankan From 10 p.m. till 7 a.m. daily, The simple answer is no. As such, plate, so this is not something this As such, the first step of the brand. Whilst all the brand new consumer. the cost per kWh of this second the Government must encourage, Government (or any government) Government would be to extend importers are clearly differentiated This allows CMTA to manage meter would be Rs. 10 or less. If a by offering an appropriate tax would consider a priority. Sri the ban on the import of passenger by being legal entities where they their operations and self-regulate household wishes to connect their break, and compel with Executive Lankans are people who never vehicles (petrol and diesel) until 31 pay all the appropriate import by issuing the import license for ACs or other implements, this is intervention. If not, internal really accept change happily. We December 2025. This ban should taxes, income taxes, etc., the grey the EVs to enter the country. If also at their discretion, but I am analysis and discussions will prefer to remain with what we be rolled out as follows: market or reconditioned vehicle there is no proper import license, recommending this for the purpose paralyse this initiative and bring know. importers have also formed their then this EV cannot be imported of EV charging. By using a simple the entire government effort to no yy Import of three-wheelers (petrol Whilst the small car market in own association/s. These importers since it must conform to the and cheap timer, an EV user can avail. and diesel) until 31 December Sri Lanka has grown, and most of should not factor in any way or standards that CMTA will create programme the car to charge from 2025 the volumes going to a well-known form with the Government’s idea with other stakeholders. the second meter at 10.30 p.m. Step 5: Financial incentives brand of Indian manufacture as yy Import of all cars and SUVs of electrification of Sri Lankan daily for eight hours. Usually, a for EVs well as used or preowned cars (petrol and diesel) until 31 passenger transport. Step 3: Allow for second normal EV needs around eight from Japan, there was a sudden, December 2025 hours to charge on a domestic line Around the world, the use of Why should the Government electricity meter at home short burst of EV sales, which yy and the second meter allows for EVs are being popularised by immediately abated. The reason Import of semi-knockdown differentiate? Let us understand the usage households to charge their EVs for governments, and to this end, they was the rapid reduction of the parts for local assembly of I am extremely candid about pattern of an EV user. Unlike an cheaper than using their normal offer various financial incentives import duty on EVs, which made passenger vehicles (petrol and my opinion of “reconditioned” car ICE vehicle, where one needs line. The most important thing this to reduce the prices at the time of many used Japanese EVs very diesel) until 31 December 2025 dealers. They are a menace to the to spend money in your hand to system would deliver to the CEB purchase. Sadly, with our penchant cheap. This increased sales, but it There will have to be a partial automotive industry in Sri Lanka. pump petrol, this makes the user is the use of their power plants for cheating, no government can immediately reduced due to some ban on the import of following They do not invest in any proper judicious in his choice of travel. during late nights. blindly offer incentives of this of the following reasons. vehicle, on “brand new” basis only, service and showroom facilities. The EV is charged at home and Before lockdown, the peak nature for EVs in Sri Lanka. One was the sudden rise in as explained below: Almost all their showrooms are then used without paying any demand for electricity in Sri By limiting the import of EVs electricity bills of these users. Also, yy Import of passenger cars, SUVs, just bare land with a shed. They money immediately, and the nasty Lanka was between 7 p.m. till 11 to brand new, and by appointing another reason was range anxiety and SKD/CKD vehicles in do every known illegal, unethical surprise comes at the end of the pm. After which time, our usage CMTA as the managing authority, where, unlike an ICE car, users are Hybrid engines until 2023 only skull-drudgery imaginable to month. Our domestic electricity decreases exponentially, and this the Government is now able to not able to travel long distances. import used, substandard (at rates increase upon usage and after results in many of our plants ensure compliance and fair play in Given our need to visit family in yy Import of double cabs and vans times), old vehicles by paying less 181 units or kWh per month, I having to deload since there is the use of incentives. After all, any other parts of Sri Lanka, this was a (petrol, hybrid, and diesel) until duties, under-invoicing, etc., and believe the per unit or kWh cost insufficient demand to run these misuse will have to be answered big disadvantage. The last, but by the forex situation normalises if there is a proper forensic audit rises to almost Rs. 45. On average, plants. Of course, this may have by CMTA, since they manage no means the least, reason was the yy Import of trucks (petrol, hybrid, done, it will reveal that they may an EV needs around 10-15 units changed over the last few years, the process of issuing the import lack of proper service and spare and diesel) until the forex not be paying any income taxes per charge, and based on your but this was the case before Covid- license and for the incentives parts support. There are no proper situation normalises as well. Given that they can make running, this would mean a full 19 and I invite anyone with better granted. The current import duties manufacturer-warrantied EVs in massive margins, they are able to charge every two days. Therefore, information to correct me here. on EVs, which is a cost-per-kW Sri Lanka. There was an attempt yy Import of buses (petrol, hybrid, “purchase” political patronage. I you are looking at an average of CMTA will work with the CEB based on the size of the motor, by an Indian manufacturer, but and diesel) until the forex would aver that politically; these 15 chargers per month or an extra and LECO to ensure the correct remain unchanged. the product was never comparable situation normalises importers are far more powerful 150-225 units per month. On top charging specifications are passed What is the incentive? with the superior Japanese imports. yy Import of two-wheelers until the than any other lobby in Sri Lanka. of your domestic consumption, we to new consumers of this meter, As such, without proper service forex situation normalises Nonetheless, a government are looking at a very expensive so that they can create their plug The Government will offer a and spare part support for an EV, cannot formally encourage used electricity bill. points in a safe and responsible rebate on the CIF value based on the buyer is placed under the Based on the state of our forex EVs to enter Sri Lanka without Of course, the cost of the manner to facilitate nighttime the size of the motor: position of caveat emptor (let the reserves, the import of spare the proper support from the electricity will still be cheaper charging of their EVs. yy 50% of CIF price for electric buyer beware). As such, after the parts must be allowed to continue manufacturer. If this can happen, than petrol, but the difference is motors below 100 kW initial flurry of purchases, the sales unabated. the result will be the same as that it comes mixed with your Step 4: Create a nationwide slowed down to a few units per By banning the total import today. Everyone imports anything domestic usage and this becomes rapid charging infrastructure yy 30% of CIF price for electric month and remained so for a very of petrol and diesel passenger and sells it without taking any a problem in trying to separate one motors above 101 kW and long time. vehicles, whilst protecting our responsibility. The consumer has from the other. Many households If EVs are to be popularised in below 200 kW There were a few Teslas sold in foreign currency reserves, the no rights of recourse or support. are now converting many of their Sri Lanka, the development of yy 15% of CIF price for electric Sri Lanka, directly imported from Government is also creating A government cannot encourage residences into solar power, using a rapid charging infrastructure motors above 201 kW the UK, which were bought by the a demand for new vehicles. such irresponsibility as a part of a net metering, which is assisting in is absolutely a must. As I stated rich, but these users are well off Lifting the ban is only for brand national initiative. the reduction of their electricity before, with a market as miniscule The rebate will be offered at the enough to import whatever parts new vehicles, whilst used or Yet, for there to be a balanced, bills, but do not feel that there as is today, making commercial time of sale to the end consumer, they need and get the car repaired reconditioned vehicles will honest rollout of EVs in Sri Lanka, is any savings in using an EV. sense of such an investment is but the importer may claim this through their contacts. Sadly, for never be allowed into Sri Lanka. CMTA must be appointed to check Sadly, the penetration of solar on difficult. In this context, as with from duties payable from other the mass-market purchaser, the Nonetheless, the Government and confirm the import of EVs residential rooftops are still very everything proposed in this prose, a vehicles they import. If a company EV remains a fantasy purchase for may consider the import of hybrid to ensure the vehicles coming to low as one’s domestic bill must be different approach must be adopted has more than one brand or type reasons explained above. vehicles in due course, but the ban Sri Lanka are properly covered of a certain size to enjoy the benefit to ensure a successful rollout. of vehicle they import, they can As such, given below is a of petrol and diesel will remain by warranty and spare parts. This of solar, since many users look for For there to be a nationwide claim the rebate by setting it off at step-by-step plan to electrify our unchanged. Nonetheless, there will will stop “fly by night” traders a five-year repayment as it is the rapid charging infrastructure, there the time of paying the duties. The passenger vehicles and bring about be a significant short-term benefit, from creating new companies and maximum term allowed for a solar must be the following: CMTA will be tasked to work with a much-needed change to our which is that the number of three- importing unknown brands from all loan. the Ministry of Finance and the yy Large-enough locations roads. There will be complaints wheelers on the road will remain over the world. This is also a waste Department of Customs to arrive adjoining main roads and a multitude of reasons as to the same and will reduce over a of our foreign currency reserves. So what solution is available? at a system that is workable and nationwide with facilities for why the status quo should not be five-year period. CMTA will be tasked with liaising What I have thought of, feasible for everyone. parking and waiting changed, but as if this President with the Government on licensing and what I can propose, is a The objective behind this rebate (and he is the only one who can) Is it unfair? Yes, it is! the existing importers or members very simple solution, which yy Ability to have high-capacity is to ensure there is a lower price takes the stance that this is what The entire purpose of this as being the legally appointed may not be possible presently electricity connections EV available for the mass market will be done, then this can be done. prose is to use chaos to create distributor of said brand. They will due to bureaucracy but is still yy and these users are offered the an opportunity for the long-term also confirm the availability of technically feasible as well as Financial strength or positive highest incentive. If a person, due Step 1: Create a partially benefit of this country and its service support, including software, easy and cheap to implement. financial history to facilitate to his/her income, wants a more closed market people. It is estimated that the grey and finally, the availability of spare This is the purchase of a second long-term investment/lending powerful EV, that import may market or reconditioned dealers parts. electricity meter for your from banks happen and the appropriate duties Globally, there are many reputed have enough stocks to cater for Any brand wishing to sell EVs residence that comes with a All of the above are available and rebate will occur. auto brands offering EVs and another few years of demand. to Sri Lanka must first register different tariff altogether. This with our large supermarket Contd. on page 7 the sunday morning business 7 Sunday, February 14, 2021 ECONOMY/SUSTAINABILITY Singer delivers Q3 performance with Rs. 869 m PAT Property buyers The Singer Group announced a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs. 869.38 million for the third quarter Q3 for FY20. flock back to market: On a cumulative basis, Singer reported a substantial increase in consolidated profit-after- tax for the nine-month LankaPropertyWeb period ended December 2020 at Rs. 1.76 billion, Sri Lankan property portal compared to Rs. 366.43 LankaPropertyWeb (LPW) million in FY19. At a Singer Chairman Mohan Pandithage and Co-Chairman released a report recently noting company level, Singer (Sri Dhammika Perera that after the turn of the year, Lanka) PLC recorded a profit margin narrowed are extremely pleased to there has been an increase in real cumulative profit of Rs. to 7.1% in Q3 FY21, have delivered a resilient estate activity by property buyers 1.17 billion, compared compared to 8.6% in the performance amidst and sellers. to Rs. 102.97 million the corresponding quarter a challenging market previous year. of last year. However, environment. Despite the The company stated that a comparison This performance on a cumulative basis outbreak of the second between the number of visits to its reflects Singer’s effective operating profit recorded wave of infections website during the month of January in implementation of the an increase of 8% to Rs. in October 2020, the 2020 and 2021 showed an increase of group’s operating strategy, 3.48 billion. To stem group has performed 23% while leads generated to advertisers focus on driving targeted rising impairments, the exceptionally well, driven on the site increased by 20%. sales, and continued company has strategically by buoyant demand for LPW also saw acceleration in visitors demand for IT products, focused on implementing key product categories by 22% and leads by 20% when its management of product proactive collection and and a timely strategy comparing December 2020 and January margins, cost structure, monitoring measures. which has enabled it 2021. According to the site, January 2021 and the lower finance cost. The group continued to capture emerging saw the highest number of visitors to the Contributing to these to pursue a sales drive, opportunities thus site since the start of the pandemic. results was Singer’s leveraging its extensive consolidated its market This trend was declared to be industry consolidated revenue branch and dealer network leadership position. wide, as another property site, House.lk, stay positive and hopeful that this will online versus traditional methods. It is a growth, which for Q3 and digital capabilities. “With the expected reported a 26% jump in its visits during create a positive mindset in the minds of significant improvement considering that increased by 20% to Rs. Demand for IT products successful roll-out of January in comparison with December the investors, motivating them to invest January 2020 saw very little restrictions 18.66 billion. Cumulative remained strong during the vaccination in Sri 2020. Moreover, House.lk also reported further in the property market.” and impact because of Covid-19 when revenues for year-to-date the quarter reflecting Lanka raising hopes of an all-time high number of visits to the A study on people’s search trends compared to the last month. Q3 amounted to 16% to increased digital adoption an economic recovery site in January of this year. revealed that last year Colombo ranked According to the company, based on reach Rs. 49.4 billion. due to remote working and near-normalcy, With restrictions around Covid-19 as the number one ity in rental property the feedback they have received from Timely price revisions and online education Singer remains extremely easing and confidence returning to the searches. This was followed by Kandy agents and property sellers, the market facilitated improved arrangements. optimistic and is well market, property buyers are increasingly and Dehiwala that ranked second and is seeing a significantly higher number profitability margins Overall profitability positioned to drive positive over closing sales since the third, respectively. of sales being closed since last month. with consolidated gross continues to be supported sustainable growth.” start of this year. In fact, the recently While in 2019, Colombo ranked first, Therefore, it stated that this would be profit increasing by 8% to by the sustained reduction The company has published data by LPW revealed that only Dehiwala ranked second, Nugegoda was the ideal time for buyers to finalise their Rs.4.91 billion during the in the group’s borrowing announced a subdivision 8% of its 63,250 advertisers had reduced third, and Kandy was in fourth place in sales and take advantage of the lower quarter and also rising by costs. A sharp decline of its ordinary shares, advertised prices during 2020, with an rental searches ranking. This shows that prices before they increase. 8% on a cumulative basis. in finance costs during where each ordinary share average reduction of 11%. In some cases, metropolitan areas are yet in demand in According to LPW’s market report, As a result of pursuing the period under review will be split into three these reductions result from the seller’s renting, irrespective of the pandemic. during this period, it has specifically a strong sales drive, the was due to the gradual shares, increasing shares urgency to sell and further discounts In the 2020 sales property searches, increased investor confidence when company’s selling and decrease in market interest in issue from 375,628,830 being offered to buyers when closing a Colombo ranked number one again, compared with other investment options administrative expenses rates, extension of supplier to 1,126,886,490. sale. maintaining its 2019 position for the that have been generating low returns or for Q3 increased by 8% credit periods, as well as The Board of Directors 88% of property advertisers did not same criteria. Kandy and Negombo were seen as volatile. Sri Lanka Overall House to Rs. 3.28 billion. Due continued rationalisation of Singer (Sri Lanka) change their initial advertised price, while placed second and third, respectively, Sale price has grown by 91% in the last to continued pressure on of borrowings, thereby PLC comprises Chairman 4% of the advertisers increased their in the sales property search, while the five years, and 20% when compared repayment capabilities complementing the Mohan Pandithage, initial tagged price by 12%. This denotes ranking in land searches revealed that to Q4 2019 and Q4 2020, while the reflecting the economic improvement in core Co-Chairman Dhammika that despite the pandemic, the real estate Kandy, Kurunegala, and Nuwara Eliya Weighted Average New Fixed Deposit toll of the pandemic, profitability to drive net Perera, Group CEO market in Sri Lanka has remained stable were placed first, second, and third, Rates of commercial banks in December costs on trade and other earnings growth. Mahesh Wijewardene, last year. respectively. 2020 were at 5.07%. receivables increased by Commenting on Deepal Sooriyaarachchi, Meanwhile, high reductions in Overall, since January 2021, the Also, lower home loan rates could 51% during the quarter. the group’s quarter Dumith Fernando, commercial property were seen by positive sentiment towards real estate has be attributed as another factor for the While operating profits performance, Singer M.H. Jamaldeen, Sarath advertisers who reduced their property been rising consistently among sellers buoyancy of the market. Obtaining declined by 1% to Rs. Group Chief Executive Ganegoda, Dilip de S. prices by 13% in the last year. This is and buyers. This was especially seen a loan currently for Rs. 5 million for 1.32 billion during the Officer (CEO) Mahesh Wijeyeratne, and Gayani mainly credited to the price fluctuations with the number of properties advertised five years would save consumers an quarter, the operating Wijewardene said: “We De Alwis. and the shift to work from home (WFH) on the site increasing by 54% in January interest payment of about Rs. 0.4 million policies that many businesses have 2021 when compared to January 2020. when compared to January last year. In adopted now. This is a 21% growth from December last addition, consumers would also be saving Commenting on the market, Menavid year to this January, bearing evidence to about Rs. 0.6 million when compared to Realtors Director Naveed Zaveer said: the rising trend of advertising property January 2019. This is because of the low Clarification “There has been an improvement in the online. interest rates offered in a decade. In our story titled “Another episode of the plastic ban?” which was published in property market since December 2020, There was also a rise recorded in land With many banks extending housing the 7 February 2021 edition, the section titled “Consumers” reads as if attributed with inquiries being made. The opening searches amounting to 55.8% in January loans from 7%, according to the to Unilever Sri Lanka Spokesperson Johann Munaweera, when it should have of the Sri Lankan airport on 21 January 2021, when compared to January last Government’s directive, home buyers been attributed to Hemas Holdings Ltd. FMCG Managing Director Sriyan de 2021 to tourists is also a positive step year. This shows an increasing trend of have shown a keen interest to take Silva. We regret any confusion this may have caused. towards revitalising the economy. We people shifting to searching property advantage of the current low rates.

Contd. from page 5 Contd. from page 6

this prose is very radical and yy New job opportunities created Departing dollar... Opportunity in... will raise many eyebrows whilst in maintaining these EVs the pundits will sneer with So far in 2021 back into select stocks, that is Square Step 6: Cheap loans for green and imported under the aegis of derision. It must be understood One of the biggest advantages India Pharma and BATBC, in the last couple transport the CMTA. The banks/leasing that one cannot make an omelet this country can have is foreign of months and they expect this trend to companies will then sell these without breaking a few eggs. direct investments (FDIs) from In late January this year, The continue in blue chip shares. At present, due to the import loans at a maximum of 5% and no Nonetheless, the benefits of this global firms like Tesla which is Economic Times of India stated that the restrictions, our banks are facing more. These funds cannot be used strategy to this country are: always looking for EV-centric highest quantum net selling by foreign Are we alone? a situation of excess liquidity. for any other loans/leases at any yy Possibility of foreign markets. The overall national institutional investors was reported at Emerging market India has been This situation will ease itself out point. This lending company will investment by EV brands as benefit is that Sri Lanka becomes that point in more than 10 months due on full-performance despite having as the trading borders open in ONLY be a wholesale lender and well as charging infrastructure established as a country that is to investors being cautious ahead of coronavirus patients in hundreds a phased manner. Nonetheless, will not engage in the retail side companies forward-thinking and, being an India’s Budget Day. Foreign investors of thousands. While comparison one of the biggest impediments of the business, since this will add island, very concerned about yy Significant reduction in the reportedly sold stocks worth ₹ 5,930.7 between an emerging market and a of rolling out cheap financing unnecessary costs. rising sea levels. purchase of crude oil/fuel crore ($ 814.5 million). During this frontier market (Sri Lanka) might not for green initiatives has been our Based on the performance of Many consider Lee Kwan period, we were also bleeding in portray the full picture, yet it indicates inability to borrow from lenders the first $ 100 million investment, yy Significant reduction in the Yew a giant amongst men who billions of Sri Lankan Rupees, yet we improved confidence in their economy. who specialise in green loans. the investors can then decide to purchase of spare parts, since changed the course of a small did not provide a reason for foreign In the meantime, while necessarily Due to hedging our foreign reinvest more funds and/or the EVs have fewer moving parts island, even smaller than Sri investors to be cautious, like India did we are not really alone in terms of net currency loans for repayment, the profits of the loans. Nonetheless, yy Lanka, to make Singapore what with its Budget Day. foreign outflows from the stock market cost of funds increases, and when as part of the overall national Reuse of old EV batteries it is today. As such, I will end for other purposes, including Vietnam after comparing us with Bangladesh one adds the local cost of funds/ initiative, the Government will this prose with a quote from this and Vietnam, reports show that foreign profit, etc., the ostensible green offer a tax holiday of 15 years storage of solar energy esteemed man, which sums up According to Vietnam Express, investors have been returning to loan may almost be the cost of the for this lending company, and yy Less environmental pollution what I think we should be doing. foreign investors seem to be taking the the Vietnam stock market this year conventional loan. this company will go public in since EVs do not use engine “I ignore polling as a method opportunity to bottom fish, scooping while Bangladesh’s stock exchange As such, what I propose is this. five to seven years so that the oil, oil, air, and fuel filters of government. I think that up VND 482 billion worth of shares, regulators are contemplating ways to Since the rapid popularisation of initial investors may recover their which are usually disposed of shows a certain weakness of the biggest net buy they have made get back foreigners. Sri Lanka is not EVs is a government initiative, investment with a sizable profit. during regular services mind – an inability to chart a in nearly two weeks. Foreigners have in an economically viable position the Government can invite Again, all capital gains from this y course whichever way the wind been returning to Vietnam stock where it could shrug away colossal green entrepreneurs to create a company will also be tax-free for y Significant reduction of air blows, whichever way the media exchanges while in terms of Sri net foreign outflows from the CSE wholesale lending company with the investors. pollution encourages the people to go, you Lanka, foreigners continue to pull their merely by saying “other countries too a fund of $ 100 million. Please As always, CMTA will be yy Current level of traffic will follow. If you can’t force or are investments. are losing and we cannot do anything”, note that this is not a loan, but tasked to work with this company remain the same or will reduce unwilling to force your people Bangladesh steps might have to be taken to regain more an investment. To ensure and the banks/leasing industry to follow you, with or without foreign investor confidence. there is no one person in control, to arrive at a workable solution yy Will stop the growth of petrol threats, you are not a leader.” According to the Daily Star, Dhaka After all, a country, especially a the investment to this company where only the legitimate EVs stations – Lee Kuan Yew stocks are soaring like other major developing country like Sri Lanka would be spread amongst many are offered this financing. As yy Will stop the import of unsafe, (The writer is a business markets which are hovering around all- cannot sustain merely from domestic investors and this will also be before, the Government is used cars without proper development professional/trainer time highs. investors as foreign investors feasible for these investors since outsourcing the management to service support who has 25 years of experience The reason, analysts said, is a global in an exchange ensure market no one is taking the entire risk. the appropriate authority to ensure in FMCG, advertising, global availability of liquidity, including in competitiveness, accurate pricing, This company will lend to proper compliance. yy Will allow our youth to logistics, automotive, projects, Bangladesh. Bangladesh Securities increased foreign confidence on an banks and leasing companies be exposed to the latest and engineering solutions and and Exchange Commission (BSEC) economy, increased Foreign Direct at 2.5% per annum for the sole Overall benefits of the strategy technology and for this has worked with global brands had told the Daily Star that they see Investments (FDIs) and many more purpose of funding loans/leasing Of course, one understands technology to go to the village such as Mahindra, Volvo, some foreign portfolio investment benefits. for EVs that have been warrantied that what is being proposed in level Herman Miller, and UPS) 8 the sunday morning business ADVERTORIAL Sunday, February 14, 2021 Sarvodaya Development Finance renews MoU with DIMO Accelerating post-Covid-19 The renewed agreement between purchase under this scheme and will economic recovery, SDF and DIMO has expanded the offer an attractive down payment from Sarvodaya Development product range that can be leased the total tractor value during the Yala Finance (SDF) renewed through SDF. SDF’s latest financing season. its Memorandum of scheme is now applicable for all tractor In addition, customers will receive Understanding (MoU) with models of Mahindra and Swaraj which a free farmers’ kit, free oil filters for Diesel & Motor Engineering are offered with DIMO trust. CLAAS two years, three free services for all PLC (DIMO), covering a range harvesters and Lovol harvesters from Mahindra and Swaraj tractors, and of agriculture machinery DIMO are other products covered three free services for CLAAS and products through its leasing through this leasing agreement. Lovol combine harvesters from solutions to support local Under this scheme, DIMO and SDF DIMO. DIMO will also provide a farming communities. SDF CEO Nilantha Jayanetti and the SDF team (left) with DIMO Group CEO Gahanath Pandithage and the DIMO team will provide an array of attractive comprehensive two-year warranty reach of farmers. in 2020, despite Covid-19 containment Mahindra tractors from DIMO. This benefits for customers. SDF will extend for all Mahindra and Swaraj tractors, As a majority of Sri Lankan farmers The initial agreement paved the way restrictions across the island. intervention by SDF ensured continued an attractive special repayment scheme a comprehensive one-year warranty cannot afford to outright purchase for Sri Lankan farmers to acquire high- SDF noted that many farmers in the livelihoods for farming communities for customers who purchase Mahindra for the CLAAS harvesters, and a six- modern agricultural equipment, SDF quality Mahindra tractors from DIMO country’s main agricultural regions of during the pandemic year of 2020, as tractors, Swaraj tractors, CLAAS month warranty for Lovol harvesters. developed a lease financing scheme through a concessionary leasing scheme Anuradhapura and Ampara took this a result helping maintain continuous harvesters, and Lovol harvesters. For further information regarding in partnership with DIMO to bring of SDF. The scheme was an immediate opportunity to benefit from SDF’s supply of essential food products for SDF will also provide a unique set the SDF-DIMO financing scheme, call agricultural equipment within the success, with strong demand maintained leasing arrangement when purchasing the rest of the country. of benefits to all new customers who Dharshana on 0762963194. SDB and DIMO Eco-Spindles launches MoU on agricultural sector extended polyester yarn facility By extending their previous offers leasing facilities with a Sri Lankan plastic bottle recycler Memorandum of Understanding minimum down payment from and manufacturer of polyester yarn (MoU) , Sanasa Development the total invoice value, carrying and monofilaments, Eco-Spindles Bank PLC (SDB) is geared to offer a maximum tenor of four years (Pvt.) Ltd. commenced Phase II of leasing solutions on agricultural involving eight seasonal payments its expansion strategy to add 20,000 equipment sold by Diesel & Motor and five years spread across 10 sq. ft. of production space at its Engineering PLC (DIMO). seasonal payments, respectively. state-of-the-art facility in Horana. DIMO joined hands with SDB’s leasing solutions provide Already one of only two such SDB as part of the SDB/DIMO farmers numerous benefits facilities in the entire world, lease promotion in an effort to SDB Head of including hassle-free registration once completed, the expanded Leasing Rajeev offer convenience to farming Beadle documentation, competitive facility will double the polyester communities and boost the pricing, and the lowest down yarn production capacity at Eco- agriculture sector islandwide. payments marketwide. Spindles. From left: BOI Horana Export Processing Zone Senior Deputy Director Sujeewa Thilakumara, Ministry of The two-year MoU offers the lowest The SDB-DIMO partnership is set to The foundation stone was laid Mahaweli Development and Environment – Environmental Pollution Control and Chemical Management Division down payments in the market along boost the aspirations of both small and large- by Secretary to the Ministry Director S.M. Werahera, Ministry of Environment Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe, BPPL Holdings MD/CEO Dr. Anush with competitive pricing, and promises a scale farmers islandwide, allowing them to of Environment Dr. Anil Amarasinghe, CEA Director General P.B. Hemantha Jayasinghe, and Eco-Spindles DGM Manoj Udawatte significant rise in productivity across both obtain the latest agricultural machinery and Jasinghe, together with Central terephthalate (PET) waste local mills every year. This demand Eco-Spindles plays a substantial small-scale and industrial farms through the equipment at the lowest rates in the market, Environmental Authority (CEA) bottles in Sri Lanka, and is on a will inevitably continue to rise as role in influencing the collection of use of state-of-the-art agricultural machinery ensuring they can improve their farming Director General P.B. Hemantha mission to reverse the island’s sustainability is becoming a topic of waste PET bottles, recycling and and equipment. operations, grow profits, and comfortably Jayasinghe, Board of Investment environmental degradation by utmost importance in all countries. creating value-added products out For both harvesters and tractors, SDB meet their leasing payments. of Sri Lanka (BOI) Horana Export converting PET bottle waste, that Eco-Spindles is equipped with the of them. During the year 2019/20, Processing Zone Senior Deputy would otherwise end up polluting resources to generate 700 tonnes of Eco-Spindles had recycled over 81 Director Sujeewa Thilakumara, sensitive ecosystems, into export recycled polyester yarn per annum. million PET bottles, amounting to Ministry of Mahaweli Development quality products that have since With the completion of its expanded around 2.3 million kilogrammes People’s Bank offers and Environment – Environmental captured extensive market share production facilities, this capacity is of PET. Pollution Control and Chemical across the globe. targeted to increase by a further 900 The company sources its PET Management Division Director “As the only other entity in the tonnes in the annual production. bottle waste through its 400-strong laptop loans for students S.M. Werahera, BPPL Holdings world that is capable of directly This represents more than double network of registered recyclable In accordance with the Government’s Managing Director (MD) and Chief manufacturing polyester yarn its current capabilities. waste collectors and 19 baling “Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour” Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Anush out of recycled PET flakes, we Dr. Amarasinghe noted that sites, and the company is also programme, People’s Bank, in partnership Amarasinghe, and Eco-Spindles are extremely well-positioned while it is still acutely evident that actively involved in sustainability- with the University Grants Commission Deputy General Manager (DGM) to capture the rapidly increasing current supply is nowhere near the focused public initiatives such as (UGC), announced its decision to distribute Manoj Udawatte, in the presence of demand for such products. In this demand, he expressed confidence the Sri Pada and Kataragama Waste laptops on an easy payment scheme to other senior representatives from manner we are able to generate vital that the Eco-Spindles strategy for Management Project, the Coastal students who qualified for university in 2019 A student receiving the loan from President Eco-Spindles at a special ceremony foreign exchange for the national expansion will promote substantial Plastic Recycling Project and the and 2020. The programme was initiated Gotabaya Rajapaksa held on 8 February 2021. economy, while at the same time, direct and indirect opportunities Expressway Projects, to name under the auspices of President Gotabaya “We are excited to be laying the helping to reverse one of the most for all stakeholders, while raising a few. Founded in 1984, BPPL Rajapaksa. foundation for the continued growth serious environmental threats of awareness on the immense potential Holdings PLC has established two People’s Bank has allocated a sum of Rs. of Eco-Spindles, and the greater our time using a raw material that that the local recycling sector still wholly owned subsidiaries under 3 billion for this programme under which sustainability of our nation. All over we had all considered to have has to offer for investors looking its wing, namely, Eco-Spindles a loan up to Rs.100,000 can be obtained the world, people are waking up to only one use. These are exactly to make a difference. (Pvt) Ltd. and Beira Brush (Pvt) with a maximum repayment period of six the urgent need to create and enter the kind of solutions that hold the PET plastics are currently the Ltd. The Group exports recycled years, including a four-year grace period. A a circular economy. The expansion key to a sustainable future for Sri most recycled plastic in the world, polyester yarn, monofilaments unique benefit offered under this scheme is of our Horana facility is another Lankans today, and for all future amounting to over 57% of the and professional and household to enable students to pay only the interest vital step in this direction,” stated generations,” Dr. Amarasinghe global recycled plastics market. cleaning tools to international portion of the loan instalment during the Official during the discussion BPPL Holdings Managing Director noted. According to the Commonwealth markets in USA, Canada, UK, grace period. Chairman senior Prof. Sampath Amaratunge, and CEO Dr. Anush Amarasinghe. Globally, demand for recycled Scientific and Industrial Research Australia and New Zealand with a Minister of Education Prof. G.L. People’s Bank Chairman Sujeewa A wholly owned subsidiary yarn is on the rise, with leading Organisation (2017), the recycled considerable market share in each Peiris, Secretary to the President Dr. P.B. Rajapakse, and Chief Executive Officer of BPPL Holdings PLC, Eco- international fashion brands now PET (rPET) market is anticipated region. The group also produces Jayasundara, Secretary to the Minister (CEO)/General Manager (GM) Ranjith Spindles is Sri Lanka’s only value- utilising large quantities of yarn in to be worth around $ 66.9 billion household cleaning brushes retailed of Education Prof. Kapila Perera, UGC Kodituwakku were also present at this event. added exporter of polyethylene different product families through by the end of 2025. locally, under the brand ‘Tip Top’. iPay supports LANKAQR islandwide campaign

Real-time payment platform iPay with the main event. The multiple that allows easy integration with any e-commerce purchases, and bill extended its support to the Central Bank events were held at the LOLC Finance system and has been designed with presentment. iPay users can register of Sri Lanka (CBSL) in its initiative head office, city office, and Kollupitiya, a host of features, giving the user a for the bill presentment service and to promote cashless digital payments Rajagiriya, Dehiwala, Homagama, unique, one-of-a-kind transaction receive a bill notification on the due across the country through the national Kohuwala, Maharagama, Mount experience. The vibrant and well- amount and pay simply by one touch.” quick response (QR) code platform – Lavinia, and Wellawatta branches. organised graphical user interface of Commenting on iPay’s efforts and LANKAQR. Extending its fullest support to iPay promises a unique experience CBSL’s initiative of driving cashless The main event was held recently the CBSL initiative, iPay accepts whilst carrying out payments. LOLC payments in Sri Lanka, LOLC Finance at the Boardwalk, Diyatha Uyana and payments made via the national QR Finance currently operates as iPay’s Director/CEO Dias noted: “Contactless attended by State Minister of Money, code which was introduced by the merchant acquiring partner. payments play a huge role in the new Capital Markets, and State Enterprise regulator in order to champion a “iPay is an easy-to-use payment normal that people are adapting to. It is Reforms , CBSL digitalised national payments system platform that can be used by anyone also an essential solution for all types Director of Payments and Settlements and to streamline financial inclusivity, with any bank account,” said iPay of businesses as it ensures optimum D. Kumaratunge, Deputy Governor encouraging a cashless society. The Head Jayasingha. “iPay users can speed and safety. iPay continues State Minister of Money, Capital Markets and State Enterprise Reforms Ajith Nivard T.M.J.Y.P. Fernando, and other senior Cabraal and Central Bank Deputy Governor T. M. J. Y. P. Fernando purchasing goods nationwide campaign to promote digital conveniently plan and pay their to play a leading role in this rapid officials of CBSL. LOLC Finance from the appointed iPay Merchant. LOLC Finance PLC Director/CEO Conrad Dias and transactions through a QR code system everyday bills such as reloads, utility adoption of cashless payments as we PLC Director/CEO Conrad Dias and Head of iPay Charitha Jayasingha are also present was ceremonially launched in the town bill payments, bank transfers, and much have introduced some groundbreaking iPay Head Charitha Jayasingha also During the event, iPay acquired promotional activities in multiple of Matale in 2020. more. Other unique features include features that facilitate both merchants participated at the event. over 1,200 merchants carrying out locations across Colombo, coinciding iPay has been built on an architecture doctor channelling, iPay marketplace, and customers.”

Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 ‘SLOW FASHION’ BUYING LESS CLOTHES TO SAVE THE PLANET? »SEE PAGE 5

CELEBRATING SRI LANKA’S FIRST FEMALE PROFESSOR IN AYURVEDA »SEE PAGE 4 Sunday,brunch February 14, 2021 ‘Everything about music is fun-oriented’ Sunil Perera of The Gypsies on celebrating 50 years of music

BY NAVEED ROZAIS The Gypsies need no introduction. They are one of Sri Lanka’s best-loved and most famous bands. 2020 saw the iconic group celebrating 50 years of music, having started their journey together back in 1970. Initially a family affair, The Gypsies consisted of the Perera brothers – Sunil, Nihal, Nimal, Lal – and three of their cousins. Today, the group includes brothers Sunil and Piyal Perera with Gordon Athula, Dushan Jayathilake, Monique Pallegama, Kamal Perera, and Shezri Shirajudeen. Needless to say, the last 50 years have ÄÄ How did you get interested in been a time of great change, across all levels, music? with our most recent upheaval taking place As a family, music was a big part of our in 2020. Through it all, The Gypsies have lives. My father, my mother, my relatives, entertained us with their music. their friends, we were partying all the time. The Gypsies lead singer Sunil Perera My dad was a great dancer, and they were is at the core of The Gypsies, and is one of into ballroom dancing. They used to bring Sri Lanka’s best-known entertainers. The records home all the time to play. We Sunday Morning Brunch chatted with Perera, had a radiogram. Every occasion reflecting on how The Gypsies came to be was like a party for us. We were and how the music industry has grown since really party animals. they started out. Below are excerpts from the interview: ││Contd. on page 2

Happy Valentine’s Day, PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM but only to him and her BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE couples other than those considered “straight”; this kind of marketing Valentine’s Day is possibly one excludes non-traditional families and, of the most commercialised holidays to many, seems to be subtly endorsing that isn’t even an actual holiday. opposite-sex relationships while It receives a great deal of media marginalising same-sex commitments. attention – press outlets share stories There’s no doubt that of couples proclaiming their love and Valentine’s Day has historically commitment for one another, and the been a heteronormative holiday that loudest of them all are advertising exploits human intimacy in order to Is going viral campaigns making it their mission sell commodities, and amongst both to ensure that anyone who is not straight and non-straight couples, there celebrating 14 February the way that are those who actively oppose what they deem is acceptable feels as if it stands for. Speaking to Brandon the way to save they are somehow failing in life or Ingram, cast in Deepa Mehta’s Funny missing out. Boy, as someone who identifies as It’s sort of ingrained in However, upon shaming anyone part of the LGBTQIA community, who may be single, another group he shared with us that he falls into me even as an out person, the category that does not celebrate our wildlife? of society that V Day marketing that I could be attacked tends to exclude are the lesbian, gay, Valentine’s Day on principle. for showing that affection. bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, Brandon said: “I don’t celebrate A look at viral content, travel, Also, I don’t think that on and asexual and/or ally (LGBTQIA) Valentine’s Day. I think it’s a bunch and wildlife conservation a day of celebrating your couples, as they are noticeably omitted of commercialised propaganda from Valentine's Day media coverage. that teaches youth to romanticise BY NAVEED ROZAIS of a viral moment recently courtesy love in whatever shape or While Sri Lankan society is already everything without actually spending of a somewhat rambunctious young form it may be, a threat discriminatory towards LGBTQIA any time searching for the meaning The only good kind of “viral” male leopard named “Julius”. A persons, Valentine’s Day can serve as of love.” is viral content. That magical resident of Yala National Park, Julius to your safety should be on However, referring to the LGBTQ your mind a reminder of the status allocated to picture or video that captures the was caught on film stalking a herd of those in the community in our society. community in general, he added: “I hearts of thousands, if not more, buffalo before attempting to capture Prabhashana Considering the marketing don’t think the LGBTQIA community and is shared incessantly all over a young calf from the herd, drawing language used to describe couples celebrates it any differently than the world. It’s not always easy to the ire of the adults in the herd. Hasthidhara in Valentine’s Day promotions, everyone else who is caught up tell which piece of content will These moments, caught on where it is assumed that all couples with the idea – there are dates and go the distance – become viral film by a group of visitors to the are heterosexual and does not at all chocolates and candles and kisses. – and sometimes what does go park, went viral. Videos captured acknowledge even the existence Perhaps it’s time to look past a ‘them viral, intentionally or otherwise, by author and 2019 Gratiaen Prize of LGBTQIA couples, it is clear and us’ way of doing things and see can be truly surprising. Take winner Andrew Fidel Fernando that these relationships are largely that it’s all pretty much the same. I Bernie Sanders at the presidential and his tracker Ravindiu Sahimal excluded. Certain promotions/ think the hashtag is #loveislove.” inauguration, for instance. garnered 13,500 views on Twitter. programmes even prohibit entry to ││Contd. on page 2 Sri Lanka had its own version ││Contd. on page 3 2 the sunday morning brunch PEOPLE/TRENDS Sunday, February 14, 2021 ‘Everything... Sangamaya and Amma Amma, were Contd. on page 1 released in 1973, and from there on, we Music is such a wonderful thing, it had our eyes on Sinhala music. brings you so much happiness. Everything Sinhala music has a bigger impact than about music is fun-oriented because it English music because English music only entertains people and, as a job, playing has an impact and audience in Colombo music for people is something you really and other major towns. Sinhala was the enjoy, unlike other jobs. big thing, and to date, we still do a lot of English music for dances and all that, but ÄÄ Tell us a little bit about how our main concern is to write and create The Gypsies came to be. Sinhala music. It happened just after my Ordinary Levels (O/Ls). My father had wanted me to pursue higher studies and eventually become a doctor, but I didn't have the right results to move beyond O/Ls. He was devastated and put me through the rigorous task of resitting privately, but I got the same results. Realising that I didn’t have the right results to go through to higher studies, he then asked me what I wanted to do with my life. I was 15 at the time and I didn’t have any plans, although I was interested in music. So he then said that if I was interested in music, he’d support us 100%. He was adamant in helping us after machinery that is now available, and soul. As a performer, the excitement of that and built a studio for us to practise the style of music has also changed playing to a crowd is not there. In the case in. Initially, The Gypsies was a group a lot. Today’s youngsters are doing of The Gypsies, we’re trying to find ways of of seven – three of my brothers, three of quite interesting music, especially with making it more exciting. It’s very difficult to my cousins on my father’s side, and me. the change in styles. We have a huge create the same kind of atmosphere virtually. We played and learned at the same time. number of young artists who are very I myself studied guitar under Winston talented and have come up with a lot of ÄÄ What is your favourite song Jayawardena and we had a teacher, Joy new material and are having an amazing by The Gypsies to perform Ferdinando, who came to the studio impact on the industry with the new and why? almost every day to train my younger styles and trends they’re exploring. That’s a difficult question. There is no brother on the keyboard and get us We have some new songs that we’ve favourite song as such for me; any song together musically and groom us. been working on…We’ve done ÄÄ What would you say were that the audience likes, we will play. It all most of it, but we still need to do the your biggest highs and ÄÄ How did The Gypsies decide depends on what the audience’s reaction is. final touches and finish it off. This biggest lows over your 50 Any song that the audience reacts to in a on what kind of music to years in music? big way, we react to very well too, and we make? is our priority at the moment Sunil Perera Around 1980, we put out a have more enthusiasm when playing it. Initially, as a group, we did only cassette that had songs like Kurumitto western music, but after a few years, and None Mage Sudu None, and from We haven’t set a date for the concert ÄÄ What’s happening next with around 1973 or so, we got interested in ÄÄ The Gypsies are celebrating that, we got into doing a lot of outdoor The Gypsies? Sinhala music because of the significant yet, but we are very keen on doing their golden jubilee this events. From 1980 to about 2000 we something to celebrate this milestone We have some new songs that we’ve impact Sinhala music has. Clarence were doing a lot of outdoor concerts been working on. We somehow need to Wijewardena’s music, for example, was year. How would you say the with our fans music industry has changed and released a lot of music. Those 20 see that they are completed. We’ve done everywhere. We decided to do our own years were really good. From 2000 Sunil Perera most of it, but we still need to do the final Sinhala music to go islandwide and create since The Gypsies started out in 1970? onwards we did only one album, I touches and finish it off. This is our priority that kind of impact with our music. Our Don’t Know Why, which we released ÄÄ What are your thoughts on at the moment. The title song for the new It has changed quite a bit with regard first two Sinhala songs, Linda Langa in 2004 and it was a peak for us as album is to be Gallu Para. to technology, with all the new recording the pandemic as a musician well. Koththamalli was released, but and the shift musicians ÄÄ Looking back on The this wasn’t a full album. are making to performing As a low, I had a court case in 1989 Gypsies’ journey, who would virtually? you say has had the most or 1990 – a particular party filed an action The pandemic has affected us all very against me for saying something on badly. All events have been cancelled and impact on the group? stage during a concert. I said something I we’re not allowed to do any major events My father, Anton Perera. If not for shouldn’t have said that offended people. or anything with more than 150 people. It’s my father, there wouldn’t be any Gypsies The court case was against me personally, been a major setback, but we have been able at all. It was his brainchild. Even the not the entire band, and we later on to sort of go through with things and sustain name The Gypsies was chosen by him somehow managed to come out of it, ourselves. I have had some work with radio because gypsies are people who travel but it was a moment where I said certain jingles and commercials and stuff like from place to place and make a living off things that I now regret. that, but for the rest of the band, it wasn’t music by entertaining people. He went through the encyclopedia a couple of times ÄÄ How are The Gypsies that good. Let’s hope things this year turn around and that all these things settle and the before coming up with the name. He did planning on celebrating music industry comes back to normalcy. everything for The Gypsies, and I am their golden jubilee? For the industry as a whole, I feel things extremely thankful to him. We are planning a virtual concert. will be okay. I know a lot of young people A few other people who had a major We’re not completely sure yet how we’re are doing concerts and there is always lots impact on our journey were Vijaya Corea, going to plan it, but we are working with of new talent coming into the scene. who very graciously gave us a 15-minute partners who are very thorough and will In terms of performing virtually, radio show on the SLBC (Sri Lanka work on the concept and the technical the biggest problem is you don’t see an Broadcasting Corporation) once a week when side of things. We haven’t set a date for audience. I sang some concerts with some we were a young band, giving us much- the concert yet, but we are very keen other bands where you’re in a room and needed publicity and allowing us to reach a on doing something to celebrate this you’re performing, but there’s not a single bigger audience, and of course, our teachers, milestone with our fans. Joy Ferdinando and Winston Jayawardena.

shared that their policy is that love is for everyone, and that they do not bar you Happy Valentine’s Day... from coming in with your siblings, your Contd. on page 1 Because of this exclusion, celebrating parents, or your friends. Noticeably, they Valentine’s Day for the LGBTQIA refrained to mention “same-sex couples”. We spoke to several other LGBTQIA community here is something that doesn’t However, there was an implication that it is community members, who also shared happen. He said that from personal not only for a man and woman involved in their thoughts on the matter, with many of experience, he can assure that it is largely a romantic relationship. them stating that while it’s become almost a very private celebration and not at all The nervousness as a reaction to our a tradition for most straight people to whine done in this commercialised way. He also questions about LGBTQIA persons and and moan about not having a Valentine, or added that “this day tends to be a constant their love was palpable, and led to service being single on 14 February, the obnoxious reminder of how we are treated as the other providers informing us that they are not marketing, advertising, and incessant or how we are put in a different bracket of available for specific comment. However, touting of “acceptable” forms of love are yet love; how we cannot even celebrate this at least in some places, there is a general another reminder for those who do not fall one day that is dedicated to love but realise understanding that if you wish to celebrate within those categories that they are “other”. it is dedicated to only a socially acceptable a “different” kind of love, you are welcome Aasif Faiz shared that when it comes form of love, and this fact is put on display You always see these marketing I don’t think the LGBTQIA to do so. to Valentine’s Day celebrations, it is an through the marketing, advertising, and Valentine’s Day can be especially entirely different topic for the LGBTQIA promotions; i.e. how unacceptable society materials where people advertise these community celebrates it any difficult for certain people, and while some community in Sri Lanka, considering how deems you and your existence, in a way, it offers for getaways, dinners, buffets, differently than everyone else who is may not even notice its passing, society acceptable it is to be in public with a person is not the happiest of thoughts.” gifts, his-and-hers this and that; you caught up with the idea…Perhaps demands you pay attention to the day, and of the same gender, i.e. your partner or your Adding to the conversation, will be tasked to hear anything that it’s time to look past a ‘them and us’ while, within the confines of our social and significant other, and whether you want Prabhashana Hasthidhara, another member suggests otherwise or is even slightly way of doing things and see that it’s economic order, Valentine’s Day has given to subject yourself to stares and looks and of the community, shared that while they supportive of same-sex couples all pretty much the same joy to many couples, for other couples who judgmental eyes. “You always see these do enjoy all of the offers that are available, have to live in the closet, those who are marketing materials where people advertise even the offers that are accessible and Aasif Faiz Brandon Ingram not permitted to openly celebrate without these offers for getaways, dinners, buffets, aren’t exclusively geared towards “normal” fears of repercussions, it stands to be an gifts, his-and-hers this and that; you will be couples, Prabhashana mentioned that it all this is not limited to Valentine’s Day, would have been something that’ll get unpleasant experience. hard tasked to hear anything that suggests really is not a great feeling to be excluded the day itself serves as a glaring reminder me in trouble. So it’s sort of ingrained in Love, romantic or otherwise, is an otherwise or is even slightly supportive of the way that they are. more than usual. me even as an out person, that I could be incredible force in our world, and it same-sex couples,” he said. “It kind of sucks. Unless you’re well “The inability to hold your partner’s attacked for showing that affection,” they is unfortunate that for those in certain He said that in his experience, people off financially, queer-friendly date places hand in public or show affection like said, adding: “Also, I don’t think that on a minorities expressing love on a day are generally not willing to be seen in aren’t as abundant as you may think. But any other straight person without getting day of celebrating your love in whatever dedicated to love’s celebration is still a public with a same-sex partner because of I feel as though we’ve learnt to make the death stares of judgment from aunties and shape or form it may be, a threat to your distant dream. Perhaps as time moves the surrounding stigma. And when it comes most of it; we still kind of celebrate it with uncles, is just sad to me. And this sort of safety should be on your mind.” forward things may change, but for now, to the design of certain offers, goodies, the aspects of gift giving and whatnot, goes both ways. Even in ‘queer-friendly’ With regards to the availability of irrespective of it being wrapped up in gifts, etc., they are not geared towards but the fact that PDA (public displays places, I sometimes have a hard time neutral or more inclusive offers, we consumerism, we wish you a Happy same-sex partners, as they are exclusively of affection) is a big no is an upsetting showing physical affection or ‘visible did speak to several outlets about their Valentine’s Day, regardless of whom you “his and hers”-type offers, he reiterated. situation,” they said, adding also that while affection’, because most of my life, that Valentine’s Day promotions and they choose to love.

the sunday morning brunch editorial [email protected] 011 5200900 the sunday morning brunch 3 Sunday, February 14, 2021 TRAVEL/WILDLIFE Contd. from page 1 Is going viral...

Reposted on the Wildlife and Nature animals being hounded when spotted, with been a normal pre- main thing, and more Protection Society of Sri Lanka tour guides often racing across the pandemic day in the awareness in a positive (WNPS) Instagram page, the park after receiving a phone park because there way can definitely video went on to gain over call from other personnel would have been make a huge impact 3,000 views in the space that an animal has been many more vehicles on Sri Lankan of an hour. spotted. This racing observing Julius and tourism”. The virality of across the park causes the buffaloes, which De Silva shared this moment, which its own damage, could have made the how she saw a group of was seen online and not just in terms of hunt more difficult for monkeys playing with shared by thousands animals being run over Julius on a tactical level, polythene bags during her across the world, and injured or killed, even to the point where he last visit to a national park to from Sri Lanka to but also in terms of the could have been hemmed in by create content – a sight which the US and the UK surrounding vegetation vehicles and unable to hunt. was heartbreaking because to Australia and New being compromised. Curated travel experience it illustrated how careless Zealand, to name a The increased number provider Sensory Indulgences Anytime you see something human beings can be when few, shows the power Sri of visitors also disrupts the also agreed that during the that captures your it comes to littering. Topics Lanka’s wildlife resources animals’ daily activities and pandemic and following the attention, you’re more like this can also be covered have to inspire people on both sometimes forces them to hide. lockdown, there was a massive likely to think about it. when creating content, with local and international scales. Environmental Foundation increase of sightings reported. What people take away is De Silva explaining that while Following a year Ltd. (EFL) Director and “These are some of the that it is worth protecting it is always good to focus on It’s good if we can use Andrew Fidel Fernando that has seen wildlife and it (Sri Lanka’s wildlife conservationist Rukshan good things. The pandemic has the positives while making nature conservation take a potential) to promote Sri Jayawardene explained that the cleaned the playground a bit content, we should also focus major hit with the human- Lanka because that is our drop in visitors to our parks and made nature come back. Previously, on the not-so-positives because we need to Young male leopard named “Julius”, a resident of Yala elephant conflict escalating main thing, and more over 2020 has led to a dramatic 400 to 500 jeeps used to visit the park each protect animals and the environment. National Park, caught on film stalking a herd of buffalo awareness in a positive before attempting to capture a young calf from the to unprecedented levels, increase in quality wildlife day. Now, the amount of visitors locally as On creating content on wildlife, De herd, drawing the ire of the adults in the herd large parcels of protected way can definitely make a sightings. well as globally has reduced and animals Silva explained that creating content with a land being reclaimed for huge impact on “Definitely, you’ll have are freer to roam around; there seem to living resource like wildlife comes with its not only increase the number of tourists, development, and the highest Sri Lankan tourism better quality sightings because be a lot of great sightings as compared own challenges. “There’s not a lot we can but will also raise awareness about the number of reported leopard Travel and lifestyle the disturbance level of to before the pandemic. I’ve seen some do actually, because when we go and plight of leopards and help increase influencer Nicky De Silva deaths in years, it begs the animals is low,” Jayawardene crazy footage and captures, from leopards travel, we rarely see creatures publicity for campaigners and question: Is it not high time said. In the case of leopards, he to sloths to serpents – everything, which like leopards. I’ve gone national parks, while creating we appreciated the power of our wildlife said: “Animals that don’t tolerate human has been fabulous,” Sensory Indulgences many times and have only major awareness about resources and were more mindful in presence too well will get inhibited and Managing Director (MD) Udaya seen a leopard twice. As how important it is to protecting it? will abandon their hunt.” Wickramage noted. creators, we can only keep these rare animals Commenting on over-visitation create a little, but we safe.” Seeing the remarkable moment up Is Julius’ hunt a case study for within parks, Wickramage noted that can try our best. In Weighing in on close and personal reducing park visitation in while on a personal level he would like our captions, we can conservation and The Sunday Morning Brunch spoke to see Yala and other parks lower their talk a bit more about virality, Wickramage the long term? visitor numbers, there are other factors to the experience and noted that while to Andrew Fidel Fernando, who shared Commenting on Julius’ now famously that despite visiting Yala many times in consider, such as jeep drivers and their the message.” viral content was documented hunt, Jayawardene shared that livelihoods. Wickramage explained that Wickramage not likely to directly the past, he had never been able to witness Julius is a leopard that is relatively a leopard stalking its prey in such close there were ongoing discussions also spoke about the aid conservation comfortable around humans. looking into using the different potential of viral content, efforts, indirectly, viral quarters before and had never before seen “This particular situation a leopard attack, which is a very rare blocks of Yala to cater to explaining that encounters content could go a long way happened on the main different visitors, with, like the one with Julius are towards creating an interest occurrence, particularly within the park. road of Yala, about a Speaking on being able to witness for example, Block 1 unstaged and that unstaged in wildlife, especially in kilometre from the of the park being used natural encounters have a very those who wish to deepdive something so rare and seeing it go viral, gate. Julius is possibly Fernando shared that moments like this by the jeep drivers for good chance of going viral Julius is possibly one of the into research. Viral content one of the most mass-market wildlife abroad, catching the eye of most habituated leopards could also potentially allow “show wildlife at its most raw, even being habituated leopards in in the park, and this hunt kind of brutal. It shows what we have tourism and Block 2 people who want to travel to conservation stakeholders the park, and this hunt being used by luxury Sri Lanka. An issue that needs could have happened like the Department of going on in our forests and jungles, and at any time because he could have happened tour operators for attention, though, is making Wildlife Conservation to more anytime you see something that captures at any time because doesn’t really care your attention, you’re more likely to think more quality wildlife sure our virality is global and EFL Director effectively look after wildlife he doesn’t really care. tourism experiences at a not limited to local audiences in parks. Using the example about it. What people take away is that it is In fact, he often sits on a Rukshan Jayawardene worth protecting.” premium rate. and our diaspora. of Julius’ hunt, Wickramage tree overhanging the road.” “For something to go noted that both Julius and Much has been said in 2020 about An interesting the issue of over-visitation in national Taking wildlife viral: viral, we need to spread it; how and the buffalo calf were injured – the calf by development, Jayawardene where we do that and ensuring it reaches Julius’ attack and Julius in the resulting parks. The pandemic, with its lockdown noted, was that as a young New frontier for tourism and complete halt to foreign visitors, saw the global market is important. Viral scuffle with adult buffaloes when he was adult, no one until now has and conservation? videos can easily help promote tourism,” trying to drag his prey away. Viral content a drastic drop in visitors to our national seen Julius hunt, and it is It’s high time to see if With the potential for Sri parks. Combined with our three-month- we’re going to continue in Wickramage said. like that of Julius’ hunt provides the clear from the footage that he Lanka’s wildlife to go viral In aiding conservation, viral content opportunity for conservationists to keep an long national lockdown, this meant is inexperienced with actual this destructive pattern, being discovered, now comes or if we are going to take also has a huge part to play, and one eye on the area in question for any distress. visitors and casual human involvement hunting. the next step: How can we use at parks were at an all-time low. Many a conservative approach that content creators should treat as a Wickramage also stressed the need for Julius’ hunt was not the and preserve this resource this potential? responsibility. “While sharing positive responsibility and mindfulness on the part conservationists noticed a drastic change in most successful, given that Travel and lifestyle animal behaviour within the parks. for our future viral content, I believe we should also of all citizens when it comes to Sri Lanka’s several buffaloes were chasing Sensory Indulgences MD influencer Nicky De Silva (@ Over-visitation in parks creates a good create more awareness with regard to diverse and bountiful wildlife. “It’s high after him as he ran off-camera, Udaya Wickramage nickizzle) noted that since keeping our animals safe. We have seen time to see if we’re going to continue deal of disturbance to the animals and dragging his (still living) prey wildlife’s potential is now their environments. The increased number how so many leopards have been killed in in this destructive pattern, or if we are with him. Jayawardene noted that the firmly established, “it’s good if we can use Sri Lanka over the past year, and putting going to take a conservative approach and of visitors increases the need for quality hunt could have gone differently, had it it to promote Sri Lanka because that is our animal sightings, which in turn leads to beautiful, rare footage like this out will preserve this resource for our future.” 4 the sunday morning brunch ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE Sunday, February 14, 2021 Celebrating Sri Lanka’s first female professor of Ayurveda Senior Prof. E.R.H. Sujatha Silva Ediriweera

as an assistant lecturer, where she won a commonwealth scholarship to complete her postgraduate studies. She then went on to obtain her Doctorate of ON UNSPLASH HANLON © KATHERINE Medicine – Ayurveda in Kayachikitsa with specialisation in Panchakarma from PHOTO Banaras Hindu University as well as her BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE PhD from the University of Peradeniya. Ediriweera something that is often debated family experiences. Some of them The accolades and qualifications amongst laypeople, with the occasional use medicines prepared with plants E.R.H. Sujatha Silva Ediriweera, solidified her long-spanning career and hipster claiming to know more about using endemic to Sri Lanka and not mentioned Prof. Ediriweera was promoted to the post herbs instead of “real medicine”: What is medicine, she said: “Almost all ailments in Ayurveda texts. Even though they have who became Sri Lanka’s first female of professor in 2009 and then to the post are treatable or controllable with Ayurveda professor of Ayurveda in 2009, the actual difference between the Ayurveda good knowledge about this medicine, they of senior professor in 2017, making her practice and western medical practice? medicines and treatment methods. pass this knowledge only to their close and currently is a senior professor the first female in Sri Lanka to be awarded Addressing the specifics of the However, to manage some emergencies, family members (son, daughter, etc.), of Ayurveda and consultant both achievements in the island. practice, she shared its most rudimentary we need the help of western medicine.” and she said that the Government should physician in “panchakarma” and Sharing her knowledge and doing definition. “According to Ayurveda, implement some methods to gather and “kayachikitsa” at the Borella her part in encouraging students to Why is Ayurveda so popular now? preserve this knowledge. Ayurveda Teaching Hospital, is pursue and evolve her chosen field has Surely, we’ve all noticed that She said that Ayurveda and the Sri taking her victory lap and bowing remained Prof. Ediriweera’s goal in life. alternative remedies and the talk of Lankan traditional system of medicine out of the service this year, retiring She shared that she has supervised more According to Ayurveda, diseases Ayurvedic remedies has become far more have very potent medicines, efficacy of after a lifetime of contribution. than 15 postgraduate students studying occur due to an imbalance of the commonplace as of recent times. We asked some herbs, and minerals, but there is for their MD, MPhil, and postgraduate if there is any real reasoning for the recent a lot to be proven scientifically, adding The Sunday Morning Brunch reached three dosha, sapta dhatu, and three diploma in Ayurveda, and she herself resurgence in popularity of this traditional that government authorities hold the out to Prof. Ediriweera to have a chat with mala. Ayurveda treats the root cause has made efforts to present and publish practice, to which Prof. Ediriweera said responsibility to develop the Sri Lankan the first woman who paved the way for more than 170 abstracts in international of the disease. Ayurveda physicians she wouldn’t say it is a resurgence, but traditional system of medicine as well as young girls across the island to pursue their and national seminars. Additionally, she use medicines prepared out of rather a realisation due to discovery. Ayurveda. dreams, showing them the way to practise has also published 80 clinical, animal, herbal, mineral, and animal sources She said that Ayurveda medicines are She said that raw materials and a career in alternative medicine that is true and parasitological bodies of research made out of natural substances and side prepared medicines should be freely to our roots. to treat diseases in local and international peer-reviewed effects are minimal. Panchakarma such available, while providing advanced The origin story indexed journals, many of which were diseases occur due to an imbalance of as “vamana karma” (therapeutic emesis), research facilities to both universities. clinical research based on the field of the three dosha, sapta dhatu, and three “virechana karma” (purgation), vasti According to Prof. Ediriweera, there is an Educated at Visakha Vidyalaya, “panchakarma”; in doing so, she as an mala. Ayurveda treats the root cause of karma (therapeutic enemata), nasya karma unbelievable amount of research potential Colombo, Prof. Ediriweera entered then educator and researcher is currently serving the disease. Ayurveda physicians use (errhine therapy), and raktamokshana available, provided there is sufficient Government Ayurveda College – presently as the chief editor and member of editorial medicines prepared out of herbal, mineral, (bloodletting therapy) helps to eliminate backing. Also, effective medicinal known as the Institute of Indigenous boards in several international and local and animal sources to treat diseases. vitiated dosha and toxins from the body. preparations should be made by the Medicine (IIM) – in 1976 and obtained the journals. Adverse side effects are minimal with She shared that therapeutic procedures Government and patent rights should be Diploma in Alternative Medical System Ayurvedic medicines...in western medical like “shirodhara” (dripping oil on to given to traditional physicians. (DAMS) qualification with a class pass Ayurveda vs. western medicine practice, most of the medicines are the head) and “shirovasti” (keeping from the University of Colombo in 1981. Considering her years of experience in synthesised. Generally, side effects are oil on head) give physical and mental Covid-19 and the hack Having always wanted to pursue a practice and having researched extensively more with western medicine.” relaxation and reduce stress. “Abhyanga” claims on cures career in medicine to become a medical on the subject, for which she received the With regard to the cohabitation of (rubbing down the body with oil) and Immediately addressing the controversy doctor, Prof. Ediriweera shared with us that “Vice Chancellor’s Award for Research these two practices and figuring out “pichizhil” (pouring oil on body using over the “anti-Covid-19 tonic”, popularly this was a moment of revelation – a time in Excellence” and the “Senate Award for whether certain illnesses and certain types special techniques) relax the body and known as the “Dhammika paniya”, Prof. her life when everything began to present Research Excellence”, we asked Prof. of people are better suited for Ayurveda reduce fatigue. “Akshitarpana” (keeping themselves as real possibilities. She shared medicated ghee on eyes) reduces eye Ediriweera shared that the Ayurveda with us about her interest in the medical fatigue. community rejects these claims and that field as a young girl. These and other Ayurveda treatment there is no end-all to the virus, at least “One of my close relatives was a methods are highly effective and give fast from their field, as there is much research ‘veda archchi’. He was a highly respected and long-lasting relief. Along with the to be done. She said that in the arena of Ayurvedic physician in the region. He used lack of side effects and having a deeper Ayurvedic medicine, there are medicines to spout ‘Sanskrit Shlokas’ all the time understanding of natural healing methods, for any and all ailments, but no one as of yet whenever he visited us. I used to think that Ayurveda is becoming more and more can confirm an all-encompassing solution, someday I would be a more learned person popular worldwide. because the research is simply not yet than him,” she said, and that was how the available. seeds were sown, leading to her many Potential talent pool However, Prof. Ediriweera did achievements along the way. and the future say that prevention is better than cure, Prof. Ediriweera joined the and what anyone can do beyond the Department of Ayurveda as a medical Prof. Ediriweera said that despite the safety precautions recommended by the officer in 1984, and just two years down enormous potential of the practice, there is State is drink medicated water prepared the line, she was awarded a World Health an unfortunately low number of students, with coriander, ginger, weniwelgeta, Organisation (WHO) fellowship to study adding that she hopes that in the coming maduruthala, heen binkohomba, and garlic. quality control of Ayurveda drugs at times, the number of graduates passing out Furthermore, people can consume food that Banaras Hindu University, India, which annually would be increased, especially promotes immunity, such as gooseberries was a turning point she would cherish in considering that Ayurveda physicians who and other fruits, vegetables, and nuts. years to come. graduated from universities not only have Houses, working places, etc. should be knowledge on Ayurveda, but also some sterilised by fumigation using kohomba A passion for teaching level of knowledge on other systems of leaves, guggulu, mustard seeds, and Discovering her passion for sharing medicines. asafoetida. The hands, face, and body can be knowledge with young minds, she joined She also said that something that needs sterilised by washing with medicated water the Institute of Indigenous Medicine to be looked into is the traditional medical prepared with turmeric and panchavalkala practitioners (veda mahaththayas) who are of the University of Colombo in 1990 Prof. E.R.H. Sujatha Silva Ediriweera kashaya. Beyond that, we must simply lay well versed in traditional medicine and low until science comes through. the sunday morning brunch 5 Sunday, February 14, 2021 ENVIRONMENT

BY DINITHI GUNASEKERA The Chakre Shop Co-founders distributing We’ve all seen and heard the buzz masks to the around “fast fashion” and the homeless threats it imposes on a potentially sustainable future. 75% of fashion supply chain material ends up in landfills, amounting to “the equivalent of one garbage truck of textiles per second”, according to the Pulse of the Fashion Industry 2018 report. Fast fashion is designing, manufacturing, and marketing, focused on rapid production and high volumes of clothing. It replicates popular trends using low-quality material minus the hefty price tag, encouraging mass consumption at the cost of harmful impacts on the environment, garment workers, and, ultimately, their own wallets. The sustainable lifestyle Sustainability advocate and model for sustainable, conscious businesses Alina stores and thrifting, as she has always Why should you care? Fernando (@ecoconscious.warrior) defined doubted how their clothes will turn out. Not only is the apparel industry one sustainability in terms of business practices University undergraduate Dunali of the biggest contributors to Sri Lanka’s taking into account what is famously Wanasinghe (20), who mostly shops economy, studies show that a considerable known as the three pillars of sustainability: online and buys once a month or so (one portion of our apparel workers are social, economic, and environmental, or two items), shared: “For Sri Lankans, responsible for making the very clothing otherwise known as the triple bottom line. the resistance to deviate from their routines brands fast fashion thrive on. As much Sustainability is not just around fast fashion is far as we wear Sri Lanka’s environmentalism; it also concerns social greater than their sense of internationally recognised equity and economic development, she ethical responsibility,” she apparel employee standard as a noted. shared. badge of honour, the suffering University undergraduate endured by them is unheard The fast fashion problem: Ranuli Palipane (20), who and unknown by many. A two-way street shops every six to eight months “There are enough clothes only when an item needs The widespread chain of fast fashion at the moment in the world to be bought, believes that is fed through unsustainable and unethical to sustain everybody, but it is fast fashion should never be practices undertaken by fashion companies not being circulated enough,” encouraged. and prolific customer buying behaviour. concluded Paulis, adding that “Influencers who promote Speaking to writer and sustainability rampant awareness of this these brands should be aware Raghee Founder Aishi Ragawan advocate Nadeesha Paulis (@nadeepaws), subject is vital. of the damage they cause to we learnt that there is considerable positive Instagram handles as their environment because change that could be made through recommended by Fernando I think a lot of people’s observing consumer purchasing behaviour. that are great in educating shopping habits are based She noted that Sri Lankans are often very ourselves on the much on what influencers buy. fixated on buying new things and not so neglected issue are @ Fashion companies should be keen on concepts such as reusing. whomadeyourclothes, @ more transparent about their “The amount of people flocking at cleanclothescampaign, and activities.” clothing stores is massive, especially @labourbehindthelabel. The Sonal Randeny, a student during the festive seasons. However, if we True Cost on Netflix, The (17), claimed that he is lucky go back 50 years, we as a country reused Next Black, Bitter Seeds, enough to be informed on quite a lot. Maybe it was fuelled by the and Riverblue are some the unethical practices in the closed economy at the time, as sanctions Alina Fernando recommended documentaries garment industry, in both fast on material were imposed. I remember my to stay up to date. ‘Slow fashion and high-end apparel. grandmother used to make underskirts out He said he asks himself of my old school uniforms. Rather than The Chakre Shop: the following questions buying something new, we made do with before he purchases any item Be a part of the cycle what we had. Siblings wore each other's of clothing: “Do I like the To introduce our clothes and hand-me-downs. There were piece, or is it only fulfilling a readership to a prime example not many readymade clothes and everyone temporary trend? Can I work it of aiding the slow fashion had to sew what they needed – which meant into my closet? Can I wear this revolution, The Sunday less waste through mass production,” Paulis for at least seven years? What Morning Brunch spoke to two explained. fashion’ is its quality? What do I know young entrepreneurs Kumarini To meet customer demand, companies about the producers?” Pathirana and Tiffahny Hoole, would introduce seasonal and even monthly “Some people cannot Co-founders of The Chakre clothing line collections. As much as it is Buying less clothes Nadeesha Paulis Shop (@chakre.shop on IG), a afford sustainable or higher important for companies to be mindful of quality brands and resort to fast semi-profitable retail business their production practices, the very top- fashion. We cannot judge or working towards reducing down goal of a company in the consumerist condemn anyone who has no the demand for fast fashion society is making profit. This is noted as the to save the planet? choice, but those of us that are through the sale of second- biggest reason why sustainability advocates privileged enough and have hand clothing. It incorporates place more emphasis on cultivating mindful accessibility to sustainable various other elements lifestyles within customer bases than urging brands always have the choice distinguishing it from your the mammoth fast fashion industry, which environmental damage it causes, and noted growing demand for ethically sourced to make better decisions,” everyday online clothing store. requires systemic tackling. that most Sri Lankans aren't aware of the sustainable fashion.” stated sustainability advocate As true believers of the “The most influential thing you can do consequences. University undergraduate Gethmi Fernando. mantra “you get what you to help people and the planet is to vote with “Sustainable and ethical clothing is Adikari (20) noted that she shops when give”, Pathirana and Hoole your wallet. When you give your money a privilege to indulge in, when, in reality, there's a special event coming up or due to The slow fashion Deepthi Jayasinghe created a business model that to a certain business, you are essentially it shouldn't be. Such clothing tends to be social media. is able to generate profit and supporting them and their practices,” added more high end and expensive and out of the revolution channel it back to the community. Fernando. spending bracket of the middle class. I think As much as it is important Slow fashion is the counterfeit to “Upon realising we had more clothes “We should all be moving towards this is the reason why people find it easier for companies to be fast fashion, bringing forth an argument than we knew what to do with, our conscious consumption. It’s not about to buy from places like Shein and call it a mindful of their production for reducing excessive production, wardrobe was the starting point of our quitting fast fashion, it’s about buying less; day,” explained Perera. practices, the very top- overcomplicated supply chains, and venture. Additionally, in an effort to give it’s not against a handful of brands, it’s the She suggested that donating, buying at down goal of a company in mindless consumption. It is quality-based back to the community, we decided that entire system that’s flawed; it’s not about thrift shops, or even sharing clothes as better the consumerist society is rather than quantity-based, and combines manufacturing masks for those who may completely boycotting, it’s about purchasing alternatives to the fixation on sustainable making profit. This is noted a brand’s practices with a customer’s be unable to afford them was a good way to more mindfully. It’s not about being perfect, fashion which is unrealistic in terms of the shopping habits thus forth, inculcating a start,” explained the Co-founders. as the biggest reason why holistic solution. The movement works it’s about trying our best.” economic brackets of most people in Sri sustainability advocates place The name “chakre”, as derived from Lanka. towards creating an industry that benefits the Sinhalese language, means “cycle”. Corresponding with fashion Ragawan, however, expressed that more emphasis on cultivating everyone and the ecosystem. mindful lifestyles within This symbolises recycling the clothes the enthusiasts’ opinions she does not think that it is difficult for Sri In addition to more popular sustainable shop receives and reselling it to customers, local brands such as House of Lonali, In conversation with multiple fashion Lankans to embrace ethical purchasing customer bases than urging the through which a portion of the profit earned Selyn, and Buddhi Batiks, second-hand enthusiasts, The Sunday Morning Brunch practices. mammoth fast fashion industry, is used to manufacture cloth-based products buying and thrifting are some slow fashion uncovered diverse clothing purchase habits “We are an island with boundless which requires systemic (essentially the cycle of cloth). favourites that make sustainable fashion and other related concerns that reflect the environmental resources, natural yarns, tackling. Upon a two-stage approval process, the accessible. It aids in lowering demand to societal perception of fashion, and whether and traditional weaving styles. We have shop accepts clothes from third parties and buy new clothes and pushing fast fashion or not they are aware of the concept of “fast amazing local designers who can and who She believes that consumers are not through each sale, the initial owner will be brands to change their course. fashion” and it’s detriments. already have amalgamated these elements familiar with the concept of purchasing paid a nominal commission. Furthermore, Through the numerous exchanges “I have always loved shopping. My into producing creative, innovative, and sustainable clothing and that she has hardly a portion of the pool of profit earned will The Sunday Morning Brunch had with shopping habits range from that of a unique fashion – I most certainly see a ever seen a local fashion chain promoting be allocated towards a charitable cause. individuals from a diverse range of window shopper to a compulsive shopper the concept. She added that she is not The Chakre Shop’s current project is backgrounds, it was noted that most of almost instantaneously. I love to have familiar with shopping in second-hand manufacturing protective facemasks for those in urban Colombo were also unaware variety in my wardrobe, so shopping is homeless people who may not have the of the realities of the world of “pre-loved” something I'd consider a part of my self- necessary means to buy themselves a new clothing. care routine,” shared custom clothing store mask as often as they need. The Chakre “There’s a taboo surrounding thrifting. Raghee Founder Aishi Ragawan (25). Shop also employs a zero-waste form of It’s not a ‘poor people thing’. If you take Being a fashion entrepreneur herself, packaging, where newspapers are utilised, the time to look around in thrift stores, Ragawan expressed that she aspires to Upon realising we had more with the aim of removing the stigma that you can find some really unique designs,” take her designs to a wider clientele clothes than we knew what using newspapers is a “cheap” and “lazy” Paulis, who works closely with thrift store who sees value in clothes that are to do with, our wardrobe form of packaging, redefining it as “cost initiatives such as “Thrift and Thrive” (@ locally made and not mass-produced. was the starting point of our effective”, “trendy”, and “appealing”. thriftandthrivelk on IG), remarked. “In my opinion, the future of venture. Additionally, in Pathirana and Hoole shared that German language teacher and fashion and trends relies on how an effort to give back to the the response from the public has been screenwriter Deepthi Jayasinghe (38), with sustainable it is environmentally and community, we decided that overwhelmingly positive. her experience in living in Europe, shared ethically. With this realisation, there manufacturing masks for “We make sure the clothes fit perfectly that she is a fan of thrifting. is an increase in demand for locally those who may be unable to for each customer, we make sure all “In Europe, second-hand shops don't sourced, natural-based, eco-friendly afford them was a good way commissions are paid promptly, and the look run down and unappealing. They brands,” she added. to start clothes are as affordable as possible to build look trendy and it's very popular amongst University undergraduate Himaya trust with our consumers. Any suggestions The Chakre Shop Co-founders western countries,” she pointed out as Perera (20), who shops once a month for our future venture are welcome and can Kumarini Pathirana and something thrift stores in Sri Lanka can or once in two months, shared that she Tiffahny Hoole be sent to us via email at chakre.shop@ consider. is familiar with fast fashion and the gmail.com.” 6 the sunday morning brunch HEALTH Sunday, February 14, 2021

provide islandwide community-based palliative care services. The attached table contains the NGOs that provide palliative care supportive services in the country. Role of caregivers The caregivers play a critical role in What’s the role of the providing palliative care. The patients must be able to trust the carer. The primary caregiver is normally the nearest person who usually provides physical, psychological, social, and spiritual care, aiming to promote the wellbeing of the patient, and their relatives and friends, allowing the patient to be cared for at home. caregiver in Duties of a caregiver Help the patient physically for day- to-day activities – eg. bathing, cleaning, feeding, getting dressed, etc. Help in the treatment process – eg. giving medicine, being alert for the side effects of medication, patient’s condition, informing the healthcare team of such changes, and assisting the team when needed. However, the caregiver should not palliative care? at any point force the patients to share their feelings and problems when they don’t want to, and if the patient wants to be left alone, provide them the opportunity to do so. Responsibilities of the caregiver yy Assist the patient in day-to-day life activities yy Cleaning the house yy Maintaining a daily routine yy Assisting in child care yy Providing transport yy Supporting the needs of other members of the family yy Providing psychosocial support The caregiver must make sure their health and wellbeing are also taken care of. Taking care of a loved one can often become quite strenuous with added burdens such as financial issues, loss of income, issues with child care, etc. Hence, it’s important to make small changes such as allocating time to spend on yourself by engaging in activities that make you happy e.g – gardening, dancing, exercising, singing, watching a movie, walking, etc. Some caregivers need psychological support. How to identify “caregiver burnout” or when they need psychological support: yy When they have lost hope or they're physically ill yy When a caregiver is harming themselves and the others yy When a caregiver is addicted to alcohol or other psychoactive substances BY DR. DINESHANI HETTIARACHCHI SIRISENA yy When a caregiver constantly fights with Organisation Services their spouse, children, or other members Palliative care has now become an integral part of modern medicine, and of the family this was made even more topical with the recent launch of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University Hospital’s palliative care services Sri Lanka Cancer Society yy When the caregiver stops caring for unit. For those who are suffering from incurable diseases, relieving their Shantha Sevana Hospice In-patient hospice service themselves suffering is the fundamental principle of palliative care, be it physical, Maharagama psychological, social, or spiritual. The World Health Organisation (WHO) How to care for a caregiver thus describes palliative care as “care that leaves no one behind, whether yy Through palliative care units Cancer Care Association Supportive care services for cancer the cause of suffering is cancer or major organ failure, drug-resistant yy Through mental health units Head Office Maharagama patients and their families tuberculosis or severe burns, end-stage chronic illness or acute trauma, y extreme birth prematurity or extreme frailty of old age. Palliative care may y Through counselling centres Cancer Care Hospice be needed and integrated at all levels of care.” Currently, fewer than 10% In-patient hospice service Taking time off from caregiver duties of patients who need palliative care in low and middle-income countries Anuradhapura will improve the mental and physical receive it. Hence, to gain more insight on the matter we spoke to National wellbeing of caregivers. In these instances, Cancer Control Programme consultant community physician Dr. Irosha Home-based palliative care services, another person can act as a temporary Nilaweera. cancer community centre for caregiver (respite care). Cancer Care Association It's important to understand that the rehabilitation of cancer patients, cancer Palliative care is an approach that Galle Branch caregiver alone can’t care for the patient improves the quality of life of patients day care centre, and other supportive on their own. They should be encouraged (adults and children) and their families who care services to ask for help when they feel the need; be are facing the problems associated with a informed about supportive services, such life-threatening illness. Achieved through Institute of Palliative Care as hospice in the area and NGOs providing the prevention and relief of suffering by In-patient hospice service palliative care; be knowledgeable about means of early identification, impeccable Matara other institutions or state agencies providing assessment, treatment of pain, and other services for caregivers – eg. officers at the Sathya Sai Suwasevana problems such as physical, psychological, In-patient hospice service Divisional Secretariat. and spiritual needs (WHO, 2016). Cancer Hospice Hanwella Encourage caregivers to share their The need for palliative care in Sri experiences with other caregivers. In most Lanka continues to grow owing to the CANE Hospice Jaffna In-patient hospice service instances, caregivers can find solace in rising prevalence of non-communicable their religion or faith; engage in religious diseases and ageing of the population. It is activities for mental wellbeing. Through also important to note that this form of care Home-based palliative care services meditation, being close to the environment Consultant community physician Sahana Suwa Community will neither hasten nor prolong death. Dr. Irosha Nilaweera and supportive care services can help them reduce mental stress. If a Thus, the main aims of palliative care Palliative Care, Colombo caregiver has children, don’t forget to look are to; the patient and their families. after their wellbeing. A child can also get yy Control pain and other symptoms to This type of care is personalised affected by a stressful family atmosphere. minimise suffering according to the individual needs of University Hospital, General Sir John When the attention and care for children the patients and it's not based on the Multidisciplinary, collaborative are reduced, it can affect their behaviour. yy Support the patient to look at life Kotelawala Defence palliative care prognosis of the underlying condition. designated palliative care services Hence, while providing palliative care, it’s optimistically and experience dying as a Thus, it can be given at any age and services also important to empower and look after normal process any stage in a serious illness, and it the wellbeing of the caregivers. yy Care for the psychological and spiritual can be provided simultaneously with common goal and best interest to provide department) settings/family practices/ aspects of the patient curative treatment. Hence, the main optimum care. etc. Apeksha hospital has a fully fledged yy focus is to improve the quality of life. outpatient palliative care service that Provide supportive care so they have an This is achieved through relieving Palliative care facilities available in About the writer active and productive life until death operates six days of the week. In addition, The writer, symptoms associated with serious hospitals that provide formal palliative care Sri Lanka Dr. Dineshani illnesses. Symptoms may include pain, are TH (Teaching Hospital)-Karapitiya, Palliative care is delivered both Hettiarachchi Fundamentals of palliative care depression, shortness of breath, fatigue, at the hospital and community setting, TH-Ratnapura, and DGHs (District General Dr. Nilaweera stated the main goal Sirisena, is a family constipation, nausea, loss of appetite, stated Dr. Nilaweera. The Ministry of Hospital) in Nuwara Eliya and Monaragala. of palliative care is to improve quality physician with a difficulty sleeping, and anxiety to name Health recognises the need to integrate TH-Karapitiya provides palliative care of life for both the patient and the special interest in a few.The team will also help the patient palliative care as an essential component of services through a palliative care centre on family. This is provided by a specially- rare genetic diseases gain strength to carry on with daily life. comprehensive healthcare services. location. trained team of doctors, nurses, and and regenerative It also empowers patients by giving them In the hospital setting, this can be Home-based care is provided by other specialists who work together medicine currently working as a lecturer more control over the type of care they provided through tertiary and secondary Public Health Nursing Officers (PHNOs) to provide an extra layer of support. at the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of expect. The palliative care team also care hospitals with consultants who are attached to primary care institutions and This encompasses physical, emotional, Medicine, University of Colombo, communicates with all the doctors taking specialists in palliative care and primary hospices managed by non-governmental spiritual, social, and economic support to Sri Lanka. care of the patient so everyone has a healthcare institutions/OPD (outpatient organisations (NGOs). Together, they the sunday morning brunch 7 Sunday, February 14, 2021 GAMES/TOONS 15 Elec. units 76 Continental travel pass 16 Greek “i” 80 “... the truth more first than SOLUTION FOR 31 JANUARY Crossword 17 Cake topping sun, more last than star” CROSSWORD CLUES 18 Childcare employee 83 Limelight Across 60 German coal valley 110 Congeal 19 Place to putt 84 Salon cuts 1 Honshu high pt. 61 Author Rand 112 Pitch-raising guitar device 25 Top medal 85 Warned one’s master, 7 King of Maine 62 Suffix with salt 114 Payroll service co. 28 Orders from on high perhaps 115 Agnus __ 14 Alpine Olympics event 63 “Yes!” 32 Way more cool 86 Line above the equator: 20 Playground denial 64 Med. office titles 116 Response to overhearing? 33 “By Jove!” Abbr. 21 Former SAG president 65 WWI Belgian battle site 119 “... eternal, infinite ... equal 34 Bonnie Blue’s dad Gilbert 67 Very big and pure” 36 Place to have a meal 87 “Sing it, Sam” speaker 22 Like many garages 70 “... an irresistible desire to 123 Hostile advance 38 Queen of the Nile, familiarly 88 DA’s aide 23 Discipline involving be irresistibly desired” 125 Bad way to be led 39 Campus mil. unit 90 “Xanadu” rock gp. slow movement 74 Inner: Pref. 126 Oakley skill 40 Screenwriter James 91 Suffix with Catholic 24 “... the beauty of the soul” 75 Sky blue 127 Model railroad scale 43 Horn of Africa country: Abbr. 92 Jargon 26 Equivalent wd. 77 Audio units: Abbr. 128 Ideal partner 44 Pirate’s cry 95 Very small role 27 22.5 deg. 78 Word with cut or pin 129 Swears to 47 “Burnt” pigment 98 Starring role 29 Spam-spreading program 79 Dripping __ 130 Password partner 48 Oregon’s highest point 99 Ad astra per __: Kansas 30 Games gp. that added a 81 TD scorers 50 Absorb in class motto “P” to its initials in 2019 82 High style Down 51 “... __ to come” 102 Phased-out Apple 31 Frank behind a bookcase 84 Dish put away with a spoon 1 Yoga needs 52 Kid’s assertion messaging tool 2 Cafeteria convenience 32 Colosseum warrior 85 Two-year periods 54 Road to the Forum 103 Wade noisily 3 Sinn __ 35 Sommer of cinema 89 “... an act of endless 56 Goof or gaffe 104 Florence’s __ Vecchio 37 Literally, the sci. of women forgiveness” 4 Auntie’s hubby 57 Tamblyn of “West Side 5 “... a flower, you got to let 107 Pixar title robot 38 Origami bird 92 Bleachers critiques Story” (1961) 108 Wood shapers 41 Manhattan, e.g.: Abbr. 93 First U.S. space station it grow” 59 Iowa State city 109 Half-serious sequence? 42 Progress 94 Court conference the jury 6 Rock memoir 63 Monastery VIP 111 Spanish bull 45 Airport not far from doesn’t hear 7 Texting format, briefly 64 Sign of a slow leak the Common 96 Bay State sch. 8 Perforated orb holding 66 Honey and Sugar 113 Final notice 46 Native ceremonial pipe 97 Source of emergency leaves 67 80-pound concert 116 Sightseeing trip 49 Emphatic type light 9 “Cats” poet instruments 117 Christmas trio 53 Forever, with “an” 100 Tats 10 Spotted horse 68 Turkic native 118 Fingered 55 “... a fruit in season at 101 Used for a tryst 11 Post-WWII pres. 69 Like winds in storms 120 Operated all times” 102 AOL, e.g. 12 Genesis twin 71 Gambler’s calculation 121 Back at sea 58 Leopardlike cats 105 Makes stuff up 13 Whale-watching woe 72 Raoul Dufy, stylistically 122 Hall of Famer Young et al. Entries should be written clearly and addressed to: The Features Editor, The Sunday Morning, 59 Touch 106 Elite tactical units 14 Wouldn’t go back on 73 Silly goose 124 Issa of “Insecure” No. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 to reach us on or before 12 noon on 24 February, 2021. Write “The Sunday Morning Brunch”, on the top left hand corner of the envelope. Name: ...... Address: ...... Contact No: ...... Bank account details: ...... (Account number, bank name, branch name, and name as per bank account)

CROSSWORD WINNERS OF 31 JANUARY First prize (Rs. 5,000) Consolation prize winners E U Amaratunga, 1. Munisamy Raghu Nathan, Mathugama Nittambuwa Pannipitiya 2. Sriyani Pushpalatha, 3. Jude Machado, Ethul Kotte Second prize (Rs. 3,000) 4. Ahad Shemal, Anuradhapura Naline Dayarathne, 5. D.A. Jayathilake, Malabe Kotte This week’s winners will be announced on 28 February

Sudoku LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku. org.uk. Distributed by Tribune Content

Agency. All (Answers next week) rights reserved. (Last week’s) 8 the sunday morning brunch PEOPLE/EVENTS Sunday, February 14, 2021

BY ROHITHA PERERA COLOMBO CONFESSIONS: Colombo Confessions is all about having a laugh. I’ve had the misfortune of associating with a wide cross section of Colombo The Original Money Boy denizens. This column is a look at males) decides to knock a few more of the lighter side of Lankans in the his brain cells from the cricket ground capital of Sri Lanka. straight to Neanderthal Land with a few What do you call that man who arrack shots, there’s change in the air. boasts that he’s a fabulous engineer to Because Duwa elsewhere in Colombo 7 all and sundry, but has to marry a belle has decided enough is enough, has chosen from Colombo 7 to put a roof over his to educate her brain cells, and avoid a life head? Ladies and gentlemen, I present of servitude and milk rice. to you “The Original Money Boy”. He It’s fantastic to live in an era typically brags about his Govigama caste, where women are doing far more than his extended family, his Catholic faith, cooking and rearing children. With an and thinks the world owes him. There are entrepreneurial spirit propelling them plenty of lawyers, doctors, and engineers, to innovate and create, they are solving and what are they but another number a vast plethora of global problems. ready to serve the economy. Companies are noticing and embracing a The poor Colombo 7 belle ends up new workforce; one that is progressive, in the kitchen kneading dough, and no diverse, and inclusive. doubt knocking her head on the almirah As women around the world echo a door. I, for one, am thrilled about women sigh of relief and segue into a Beyoncé- being emancipated and finding their inspired dance because Duwa had the rightful place in society by embracing on Kiri Putha’s Amma and Thaththa. Poor – can Duwa make milk rice? the Ada Bonda Set Wemuda gang who common sense to not Put A Ring On It, their independence. While the patriarchy Amma is slaving away in the kitchen to What a familiar scenario, don’t you are looking for their next Somiya, and the unspoilt man from the West would whimpers on its last legs, women are cook milk rice for Putha while Thaththa is think? Putha doesn’t care much about a chance to check out Instagram Reels; like to extend one piece of advice to Putha becoming a serious force to be reckoned happily looking at the marriage proposals. Duwa – after all, that is what Amma and the content which he posts with his bros – learn how to make your own milk rice. with (much to the chagrin of the gold Caste matters. Religion too. Location has Thaththa are there for. They will find will send all the hot chicks reeling. Or, so (Rohitha Perera is a writer, blogger, diggers from far and wide). to be Colombo 7. But what matters more the right Duwa with a dowry the size of he hopes, with the only result being that and content marketer from Colombo, I apologise. We shouldn’t be too is that all-important dowry. Thaththa his XL sarong. Putha has better things the Instagram algorithm has the sense to Sri Lanka. He used to be an editor at a harsh on Amma’s Kiri Putha, who could shows Amma the prospective list he has to do, that, on a grand scale, matters ignore him. lifestyle magazine, and now works in the possibly do no wrong. Instead, let’s focus curated, and Amma only has one question so much more to the universe. There’s As Putha (like most entitled Lankan IT industry) In appreciation: Malathi Blissful romance at de Alwis (1963 -2021) Amaya Resorts & Spas St. Valentine’s Day is when with complimentary cookies restaurant terrace. and ended at the Lionel correspondence with love is celebrated the world and chocolates, high tea in the Amaya Lake in Dambulla Wendt. Along the way, Mala, I quickly realised over, where you make that garden, breakfast in bed, and will feature a five-course Mala provided fascinating how much she valued extra special effort to show that a five-course candlelit dinner candlelit dinner with a choice of commentary and rich and appreciated being in special someone in your life with a choice of wines will be a red/white wines on the shores historical detail on the the serenity of rural Sri how much they mean to you. truly romantic getaway for you of the Kandalama Lake. Both monuments, memorials, Lanka, enjoying nature This year, you can spend and your loved one. Amaya Hills and Amaya Lake and famous buildings we in all its profusion. Next it in the cooler climes of On 14 February, Amaya have special offers on overnight encountered. to swimming, I cannot Nuwara Eliya, at Langdale Hills in Kandy will host a stays as well. Second, her think of another pursuit Boutique Hotel and Oliphant Valentine’s-inspired high tea as Visit www.amayaresorts. deep empathy and she may have enjoyed Boutique Villa. Pre-dinner well as a candlelit dinner with com or follow @amayaresort on compassion for others, more than camping by cocktails, a decorated room a choice of red/white wines at Instagram for further details. particularly those scarred the Kumbuk River in in innumerable ways Kumana National Park. by the decades-long There will be so civil war in Sri Lanka. many people who will She opened her heart, miss Mala terribly: particularly to women Pradeep, her parents, and children, and she was her sisters, family involved in a number of members, and the legions initiatives to lift these of friends whose lives individuals up from the she touched in such a depths of misery. One meaningful way. Then, BY SUJIT CANAGARETNA cultural anthropologist such initiative Mala was there are the professional in Sri Lanka. Mala passionate about was colleagues who relied Safer Internet Day: Why not up your game? Even though was truly a pioneer in the Ezhuval (“She Will on her trailblazing health-related fears and anxieties of be sure that the crooks are regularly our parents had been her field, researching, Rise!”) programme in the work to stimulate their all of us – as home users, employees “testing” your server, even if you friends going back to the writing, and speaking Eastern Province. This own research and to By and employers – to lure us into their are not.) 1950s and we had met so eloquently about programme provides whom she was such criminal traps. If you are running a website sporadically as children, nationalism, militarism, traumatised girls and an inspiration. Then, Paul Ducklin With all this in mind, why not via HTTP only, perhaps because my friendship with Mala humanitarianism, gender young women in the there are all those young take advantage of Safer Internet Day the information you’re providing is only blossomed in the issues, and feminism in Eastern Province a range women in organisations 2021 to check your online security public anyway and you don’t think last five years or so. As is Sri Lanka. Her original of support (material and like Ezhuval, to whom Usually, when Safer practices and make sure you, your it needs encrypting, please upgrade typical with so many Sri research in the area emotional) in preparation she was not only a Internet Day comes around, the family, and your friends are as safe to HTTPS for the greater good of Lankans, we had multiple of militarised sexual for higher education motivational figure but, cybersecurity situation hasn’t as possible? all. overlapping social violence, particularly opportunities, including often, the only source changed much from the year before, connections – Pradeep as it related to women, scholarships to study at of advancement to a so it doesn’t feel like much of a If you own a website, make Educate your friends and being my dear school brought a level of universities in India and purposeful life. Mala, we reason to do anything special. intellectual rigor to Bangladesh. Mala was realise that you are free sure it’s secure family mate, Mala’s mother and But that’s not the case in 2021, For many small businesses Lots of occasional web users a topic that very few ardent about helping from the excruciating my aunt being cousins, thanks to the lifestyle changes in countries with strict lockdown, have become heavy consumers researchers in Sri these young women pain and the suffering Mala being close friends that the coronavirus pandemic has online sales are the only way to keep almost overnight. Many people who Lanka had explored. and worked tirelessly to of recent years. No with my cousins in brought around the world. trade alive at all, due to “click-and- previously just used the internet to Then, Mala’s skill in ensure that funds were more prodding, poking, England, Mala and her In the US, for example, the collect” regulations. read the news or check emails are navigating between art raised from all corners of and jabbing; no more friends staying at my Wall Street Journal reported that As a result, many small now using it in multiple ways every and anthropology was the globe to facilitate this. treatments or infusions brother’s camping site internet usage increased by 25% in businesses have enabled online day, including for meeting up for demonstrated when Notwithstanding all the that may or may not in Kumana – so it was just a few days in mid-March 2020. purchasing for the first time over chats with groups of people they she collaborated on a discomfort and pain she bring relief; no more almost inevitable that On the other side of the the last year, with web developers don’t know well, if at all. landmark photography was experiencing related medications that set off our paths would cross. Atlantic, Ofcom, the UK’s reporting a rush to implement online Talk with your friends and exhibition on the to her illness, Mala still waves of nausea and Thankfully, our paths did communication services regulator, payment mechanisms in the first family about good online security goddess Pattini. I was had the desire to focus on queasiness; no more cross and my life was reported that internet usage hit an months of the pandemic. practices. Advise them on how to also fortunate to join a these young women and earthly worries. Only enriched significantly all-time high in the year. By June If your business has a website, spot scams no matter how they 90-minute walking tour work on plans to improve that eternal, blissful because of my 2020, Britons were, on average, even if it’s only a modest one, go arrive. in 2018 that Mala created their situation. sleep, sleep that cannot interactions with Mala. spending more than a quarter of back and review the security of the Cybercriminals are taking and entitled “Monuments Third, her profound be disturbed. To those When I think their waking hours online. For site and any payment collection advantage of people being at and Memorials”. The love for spending time in of us left behind, let’s about my interactions most of us, the internet has been services you work with or connect home to make predatory phone tour began at the the wilds of Sri Lanka, strive to memorialise with Mala, three facets a godsend over the last year. It’s to. calls; abusing home deliveries to Isipathanaramaya enjoying the fauna and Mala by focusing on the immediately leap to enabled us to continue working, If you can afford it, get a third send scams via SMS; and taking Viharaya, wandered flora found in such things that mattered to the forefront. First, studying, shopping, socialising, and party to do the review so you get advantage of people trying to through my childhood abundance across the her such as the Ezhuval her searing intellect being entertained when we couldn’t an independent opinion of what has download health advice or set up neighbourhood resplendent isle. From programme and the and stellar record as do it in person. been set up well, which parts could vaccine appointments. (Thimbirigasyaya), my conversations and environment. a ground-breaking At the same time, however, the be improved, and which parts, if (The writer is the Principal crooks have regularly exploited the any, need urgent attention. (You can Research Scientist at Sophos)

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