www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk MONDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2020

For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit Health THE WORLD 37,533,096 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 4,689 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 7,947,549 219,296 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 1,078,444 INDIA 7,053,806 108,371 BRAZIL 5,091,840 150,236 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 1,298,718 22,597 13 3,307 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 1,369 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 28,159,072 COLOMBIA 902,747 27,660 THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 7.10 P.M. ON 11 OCTOBER 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

NEW COVID-19 DETECTIONS COVID-19 TOTAL CASES

1,247* Stats updated as at 8.00 p.m. on 8 October J’pura uni students COVID-INFECTED PERSONS Can transmit virus up to 522 people: Army Chief not informed: IUSF BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA only after the media reported it. Management Studies and that she increase that risk. “The university administration had also attended a lecture at the Meanwhile, commenting on the The Inter University Students’ Federation (IUSF) alleged has confirmed that a sister of the university on 4 October. The said allegation levelled against the that the administration of the University of Jayewardenepura University has student had been staying with several university, USJ Vice Chancellor Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ) has not yet informed its contracted Covid-19, but no official other students in a boarding house Prof. Sudantha Liyanage said students about the recent discovery of a Covid-19- statement has been made yesterday,” near the university, he said. that two close associates of the positive student reported from the university. the Thera said. According to the Thera, there is a Covid-19-infected student have Speaking further, Ven. Jinaratana serious risk of the virus spreading been self-quarantined at home There have been instances of the IUSF Convener Ven. told the media that they got to know Thera said that the student is a third- further due to these facts, and while another 53 are undergoing Minuwangoda Covid-19 cluster Rathkarawwa Jinarathana Thera about the Covid-19-positive student year student in the Department of withholding information will further PCR testing. extending to the first and second contacts, Army Commander Lt. SECURITY DETAIL Gen. Shavendra Silva stated. DONE AND DUSTED He said that 26 out of the Covid- 19 cases reported last Saturday (10) More security were from Minuwangoda, while 23 were from Gampaha and 22 were sought for from Divulapitiya. HOSPITAL VISITS Opposition Public urged to Leader minimise visits z Defence Ministry yet to The Ministry of Health has urged act on request the general public to minimise visiting z Request should first be patients at hospitals, given the current sent to MSD Covid-19 situation in the country. In a notice issued last Saturday The request to improve Leader Attorney-at-Law Ravi (10), Acting Director General of the security detail afforded Jayawardana had submitted a letter Health Services Dr. S. Sridharan to Opposition Leader Sajith of request addressed to Defence requested the public to strictly Premadasa is yet to be attended Secretary Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Kamal adhere to the health guidelines to, The Morning learnt. Gunaratne, seeking to increase the issued by the authorities in order to On 30 September, Private current security detail. curtail the spread of the virus. Secretary to the Opposition Contd. on page 2 PCR TESTING Minuwangoda BATHIUDEEN’S RELEASE Brandix staff asked Minister of Education Prof. G.L. Peiris paid a visit to the D.S. Senanayake College, Colombo minutes after the Grade Five AG summons to test Scholarship exam concluded yesterday (11) PHOTO ESHAN DASANAYAKA All those who have come into Snr. police officers contact with the employees of CID officers the Brandix apparel factory in transferred The Attorney General (AG) has summoned Minuwangoda after 23 September Exams amid the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) and have been urged to undergo PCR tests. A group of senior police officers have been the Chief Investigating Officer (CIO) of the The announcement was made transferred with immediate effect on the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). by Army Commander Lt. Gen. approval of the National Police Commission This was over the release of Riyaj Bathiudeen, Shavendra Silva last Saturday (10). a pandemic (NPC). MP Rishad Bathiudeen’s brother, after being Sri Lanka Police stated the transfers were arrested in connection with the 2019 Easter COVID-19 z Education Ministry made based on service requirements. Sunday attacks. Contd. on page 2 to ensure all Contd. on page 2 Riyaj Bathiudeen DMT further precautions followed

suspends services BY SARAH HANNAN PCOI ON ETI The Department of Motor Traffic Adverse (DMT) has decided to further As the Grade Five Scholarship Illegal sale of property suspend its public services rendered examination successfully concluded weather by the Narahenpita and Werahera yesterday (11), adhering to all the offices due to the prevailing Covid- health guidelines and preventive amidst irregularities 19 situation. measures communicated by the Minister of Education Prof. G.L. Peiris The Presidential Commission illegally, it is reported. from today Ministry of Health, the Ministry of of Inquiry (PCoI) probing It was also found that money The weather forecast report for the next two SEE FULL STORIES ON PAGE 2 Education and the Department of Advanced Level (A/L) examination irregularities of Edirisinghe Trust laundering had taken place days by the Department of Meteorology indicates Examinations assured that the same that commences today (12). Investments (ETI) has found during the sale of the property. the occurrence of showers or thunderstorms at measures will be taken for the GCE Contd. on page 2 that the property has been sold Contd. on page 2 times in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, UNI ENTRANCE DELAYED and North Western Provinces and Galle and Matara Districts. PRESIDENTIAL SECRETARIAT Fairly heavy rainfalls exceeding 75 mm are likely at some places in the Sabaragamuwa and Access to Central Provinces and Galle and Matara Districts. Cut off marks yet services via Contd. on page 2 telephone, post COVID-19 Services from the Presidential Secretariat 2 villages in have now been made available via post and to be released telephone, the President’s Media Division Mannar isolated The students who sat for the GCE SSU National Organiser entrance or not. “This time, it has become more (PMD) announced. Advanced Level (A/L) examination Rangana Devapriya told The He further said that students who complicated. This is due to the fact As the number of staff at the Secretariat Two villages in Mannar have been in 2019 have been in a difficult Morning that although more than pass the A/L examination every that when the A/L results for the have been minimised based on guidelines declared isolated areas in an attempt to situation as the cut off marks for 13 months have passed since last year are facing this problem due year 2019 were released, all the and recommendations given by the health control the spread of Covid-19, Army admission to state universities in Sri year’s A/L examination, students to the failure of the educational streams were lined up under two authorities, the public have been requested Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva said. Lanka have not yet been announced, today are suffering without a authorities in the country, including categories as old and new syllabus to avoid visiting the Presidential Secretariat Accordingly, the Pattithottam and according to the Socialist Students’ confirmation as to whether they the ministers of education, to students,” he added. for their needs to avoid any inconvenience. Periyakadai areas have been isolated. Union (SSU). have qualified for university prepare a formal programme. Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 2 the morning NEWS Monday , October 12, 2020

QUALITY EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT Enhancing equitable access in Sri Lanka Sri Lanka, a lower middle- development standards used to income country, has a well- The plantation sector is managed by the guide the teaching-learning process Development Association (IDA) credit that will contribute to the project’s Choolani Silva – ECD teacher at established programme for Plantation Human Development Trust in centres throughout the country. of $ 50 million in order to support the sustainability. Despite changes in the Little Kids Preschools, Kalutara maternal and child health (MCH) (PHDT) and requires integrated early About 15,699 ECD teachers and ECD initiatives of the Government of government over the five years of The children attending my school childhood care and education services Sri Lanka. project implementation, the Government come from low-income families, and that is committed to improving teacher assistants have completed to permit parents, especially women, standardised short-term training of Sri Lanka has shown its continued their parents are not able to afford any access to quality ECD services. to continue with tea harvesting and tea between 2015 and 2020. The Partners commitment to the project and early of the safety equipment necessary to To this end, it has been pursuing curing activities. majority of teachers had not been The Government of Sri Lanka childhood development by setting up run the preschool. Therefore, I give a strategy of public-private In the non-plantation sector, early exposed to any form of ECD leveraged funds through the World Bank a special state ministry for child affairs my thanks for this valuable donation partnerships (PPPs) to expand childhood care and education are orientation/training programme to improve access to quality ECD services. with its own budget to administer ECD of wash basins and non-contactable access to ECD services. separate services. They are managed prior to this initiative. Parental Implementation was fostered through joint activities. infrared thermometers by the World and administered by two ministries and awareness programmes on ECD planning and implementation support, In addition, the government has Bank Early Childhood Development Challenge multiple agencies. Their needs differ with have also been conducted through mutually reinforcing the commitment allocated resources in the budget for Project to help us start the school and respect to financing, governance, and the project. to the project. Specifically, concerted nutritional support to expectant mothers run it with proper safety measures in While progress is being made, pre- service delivery solutions. A particularly yy ECD centres conducting annual support was provided by the following to help address issues related to early place. I send thanks again from the primary education is not yet universal, and innovative facet was the focus on brokering child development assessments: key stakeholders: childhood nutrition. The project has bottom of my heart to all the officials. the quality of ECD programmes remains discussions and agreements between the In 2020, about 3,249 centres yy The External Resources Department helped the government to institutionalise G. Sajith Udara de Silva – Estate a challenge. Before the project started, public and private sectors for the public (of which 305 were in the (ERD) with the National Planning some key reforms such as the revised Manager at Miriswatte Estate of ECD coverage was low and inequitable. financing of private ECD centres. plantations) were conducting Department (NPD) curriculum framework and child Namunukula Plantation Physical facilities, teaching and learning Results development standards for teaching and After months of the global pandemic child development assessments, yy The Children’s Secretariat of the materials, furniture, and other inputs were The project has had far-reaching results. learning. outbreak, we would like to thank compared to none in 2015. new State Ministry of Women and of poor quality; the teaching force was not About 1.35 million children between 2015 the Early Childhood Project for the Child Development, Preschools sufficiently trained; and national standards and 2020, half of whom were girls, have The recent Covid-19 pandemic has Beneficiaries generous support extended to our and Primary Education, School and systems for monitoring quality were benefited directly, along with teachers, increased poverty and vulnerability In the wake of the Covid-19 community. The hand washing units, Infrastructure, and Education inadequate. parents, members of the community (who among many families and ECD centres pandemic, a key concern of the Project sanitisers, thermometers, face masks, Services that houses the Project A national survey indicated that less were provided with ECD awareness and had to close temporarily. The project Management Unit was the design, etc. – all of which are non-commercial Management Unit, playing a leading than half of all ECD centres had facilities orientation programmes), government has responded through several ways, functionality, and availability of the distributions made to us – played a major role in project implementation that met the basic requirements for officials, and project management staff. including: hand washing units in ECD centres; role in preventing the transmission of yy The PHDT which is responsible for instructional quality. When the Covid- yy Enhancing equitable access to yy Financing personal protective the associated environmental aspects; Covid-19 in the plantation. In short, the implementing project activities in 19 pandemic struck in early 2020, the ECD services: 578,160 or 12.8% equipment (PPE) such as masks, demonstrating to parents that ECD Early Childhood Development Project the plantation sector Government’s efforts to improve access more children, half of them being sanitisers, handheld thermal and centres can be safe early learning places assisted and led this initiative well to to early childhood care and education girls, are now enrolled in 2020 in sensing thermometers as well as yy Provincial and district-level for their children; and providing infrared balance the uncertain situation in the were making good progress. ECD centres, compared to 512,620 hand washing basins in ECD centres administrations supporting the thermometers and hand sanitisers. long run, for which we are grateful. children in 2015. Some 4,498 for the health and safety of children Children Secretariat’s efforts to Ravi Nanayakkara – Project Dabodini – parent of Kovil Approach ECD centres are receiving facility and teachers ensure the Facilities Improvement Manager of World Bank Early Poraithevupattu Division in Batticaloa Responding to the Government’s Grants are received and well executed Childhood Development Project District improvement grants. Prior to the yy Expanding the tuition fee waiver request to help build Sri Lanka’s ECD A child-friendly wash basin unit and We usually see wash basins, project, private funding for private support to more children as a direct yy Teachers and administrators of system, the World Bank in 2015 financed a thermometer to identified preschools thermometers, and such facilities given ECD centres was the norm. About assistance to the families facing public and private ECD centres who the first-ever ECD project in the country (on need basis) as a Covid-19 disaster to privileged schools. Providing an 31,816 children receive tuition economic hardships in the face of provide timely and reliable care for and, more generally, in the South Asian immediate management activity was underserved school like ours these subsidies. the Covid-19 pandemic the children in their care region. World Bank harnessed technical commenced during the Covid lockdown essential wash basins and thermometers yy Improving quality of ECD services: yy assistance from leading ECD specialists yy Providing teaching learning Communities and parents lending period itself. We have covered all child so that our children can start their By July 2020, about 4,485 ECD and used cutting-edge research to inform materials and kits to more centres their support and commitment to development centres in plantations and schooling means so much to us. We centres were meeting national project design. to cater to a larger population of maintain and improve infrastructure 3,000 more preschools islandwide by as parents can now send our children quality standards, compared to The differing needs of the country’s children in need facilities now. The ECD project will extend this to school without the fear of the virus only 1,000 in 2015; this result plantation and non-plantation sectors support to a further 7,000 preschools spreading to our children. For ensuring considerably exceeds the original Moving forward were independently addressed, while World Bank Group in all districts…We intend to inculcate the safety of our children and helping to end target of 3,500 centres. The ensuring that solutions would lead to contribution The high level of government the good habit of hand washing among continue their education in these hard project also supported the revision coherent systemic improvements. Tea is The early childhood development commitment and the use of country children while we do our best to prevent times, we sincerely thank the Early of the curriculum and child a major export commodity for Sri Lanka. project is financed by an International systems and processes are key factors the spread of this global pandemic. Childhood Development Project. Contd. from page 1

its offices in Narahenpita and Werahera will Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) More security... Adverse weather... Exams amid... be temporarily closed to the public from 7-9 have been transferred. The request was made following an A few showers are predicted to Minister of Education Prof. G.L. Peiris, October following the resurgence of Covid- DIG Ajith Rohana has been appointed incident that occurred at the Mount Lavinia occur in the Northern Province and along with Commissioner General of 19 community infections on 4 September. as the Police Media Spokesman. SSP Police Division on 29 September where the Anuradhapura District. Showers or Examinations Sanath Poojitha and Media Jaliya Senaratne, who was Police Media Premadasa, who is the Leader of the Samagi thunderstorms may occur at a few places Secretary to the Minister Buddhika Spokesman and Director of Police Public Jana Balawegaya (SJB), and his team faced in the Uva Province as well as Ampara Wickramadara, had paid a personal visit Illegal sale... Relations Division, has been transferred to a stone pelting episode when they visited and Batticaloa Districts in the afternoon or yesterday to the D.S. Senanayake College in The Commission has further pointed out the Kankesanthurai Division. the area to address their party supporters and night. Colombo, minutes after the examination had that the property could be taken over by Reportedly, the SSP has been appointed announced their stand on the proposed draft Strong gusty winds of about 50-60 concluded, to observe the safety measures the Government and legal action could be as the Personal Assistant to the Senior DIG 20th Amendment to the Constitution. kmph can be expected across the island, that were in place. taken against the Edirisinghe family under in charge of the Northern Province due to Jayawardana had further noted that particularly in the Northern, North Central, criminal law. disciplinary reasons. given the Opposition Leader’s position and and North Western Provinces; Trincomalee “First of all, we would like to thank all The PCoI was appointed by President In addition, DIG in charge of Galle increasing frequency of public engagements, and Hambantota Districts; and the western the parents who have placed their trust in Gotabaya Rajapaksa in January to District K.N.J. Wedasinghe has been he will require a larger security detail than slopes of the Central Hills. the Government to send their children to the investigate whether there are any appointed as the Acting DIG of the North he is afforded. Wind speed can increase up to 60-70 examination. Parents called us and thanked irregularities in the sale of properties owned Division of the Western Province. When The Morning contacted the kmph at times in the deep and shallow sea the Government. We are happy about that,” by the group, through the intervention of the Ministry of Defence to inquire the action areas extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Prof. Peiris elaborated. Central Bank to pay the depositors of ETI. they are taking over the request, we were Matara and Hambantota. These sea areas He further noted that a majority of The Commission was headed by former Access to... informed that the request should go through can be rough or very rough at times. parents had sent requests to the Ministry of Supreme Court Judge K.T. Chithrasiri As a solution, however, the available staff the police Ministerial Security Division Fishermen are informed that it will be Education to not further delay the Grade and included former Solicitor General at the Secretariat is prepared to respond and (MSD) Unit which would then send it for dangerous to venture into these sea areas Five Scholarship and A/L examinations of Suhada Gamlath and senior banker D.M. facilitate public requirements via post or the approval of the Ministry of Defence, until 13 October 2020. 2020. Gunasekara. telephone. after assessing the situation and deciding Wind speed can increase up to 50-60 “The examinations were already The Commission was also tasked The public is urged to reach the Public on the actual requirement to increase the kmph at times in the sea areas off the postponed twice, and we did not want with investigating whether the sale of Relations Division, Ombudsman Office, and the security detail for the Opposition Leader. coasts extending from Negombo to to burden the children and the parents Swarnavahini’s media network to several President’s Fund of the Presidential Secretariat Mullativu via Puttalam, Mannar, and anymore. Therefore, as agreed upon over foreign companies was against Sri Lankan via following numbers. Kankesanturai. These sea areas will be the past weeks, we have now prepared all law. AG summons... rough at times. examination centres and halls to adhere to It is also reported that the President Public Relations Division The CID officers have also been directed to Gusty winds of up to 50-55 kmph can be the health and safety guidelines that were has instructed the relevant departments Tel: 011 4354550/2354550 bring all the investigative material related to the expected in the other sea areas around the issued by the health services authorities, the to take necessary action regarding the Fax: 011 2348855 matter, Co-ordinating Officer to the AG State island and will be fairly rough at times. Ministry of Defence, and the Ministry of recommendations of the Commission. Counsel Nishara Jayaratne said. Fishing and naval communities are Transport to facilitate the examinations that (MM) Ombudsman Office Accordingly, the two officers are to appear requested to be vigilant in this regard. will be held in the next four weeks,” Prof. Tel: 011 2338073 before the AG today (12). – Sarah Hannan Peiris added. All arrangements have been made to hold Can transmit... President’s Fund the A/L examination from 12 October to 6 In addition, one infected person from Tel: 011 2354354 (extensions – November. The Ministry of Education urged Panadura, two from Colombo, two from 4800/4814/4815/4818) parents and guardians to send all children Polonnaruwa, and one from Matale have Fax: 011 2331243 Cartoon of the day sitting for the exam without any hesitation. also been detected on Saturday. Accordingly, at least one person from different parts of the country has been identified so far. Public urged... The Army Commander said the virus can Accordingly, the public is advised to Cut off... be transmitted to as many as 522 people maintain social distancing, wash/sanitise Although the manner in which the results through a single infected person. hands frequently, and to wear the face were released was correct, students today However, he added that it cannot be mask at all times when visiting hospitals. have lost the ability to roughly predict how ascertained as yet that the virus has entered Health authorities have also requested many students will be enrolled from each society apart from the cluster. the public visiting hospitals to hand over district from each category (old and new), While it has not yet been possible to the supplies for patients via “appropriate Devapriya stressed. identify the origin case of the Minuwangoda methods without directly meeting the “Call for applications for the Advanced cluster, the authorities are currently focusing patients”. Diploma in Technology (NDT) and the on determining the possible infections Moreover, they have urged patients to National Diploma in Technology (NDT) through the cluster. visit the nearest hospitals for essential have already started, and even if you know Meanwhile, investigations so far revealed health services. you are eligible for university admission that several employees of the Minuwangoda after registering for these courses, you apparel factory had been reporting illnesses cannot cancel the registration and enter the to the facility’s sick bay since 21 September. university,” he added. Minuwangoda... – Maheesha Mudugamuwa Over 1,400 workers of the factory were referred to PCR testing after one of its Snr. police... employees tested positive for the virus on 4 DMT further... Accordingly, eight Deputy Inspector September. Accordingly, the two offices will remain Generals of Police (DIGs), a Senior As of last Saturday, the total number closed to the public from 12-16 October. Superintendent of Police (SSP), a of Covid-19 cases detected from the The DMT announced last Tuesday (6) that Superintendent of Police (SP), and three Minuwangoda cluster stood at 1,186. the morning Monday , October 12, 2020 3 business SL-China to review export basket to fix lopsided trade balance Sri Lanka and China have agreed in 2013. that the export basket of Sri Lanka Both parties also agreed on the need to offered to China needs to be resume negotiations on the stalled talks on reviewed in order to boost exports the Sri Lanka-China Free Trade Agreement to China and improve the trade (FTA). balance, which has long been in China is the world’s second largest favour of China. economy and an FTA with it has been coveted by Sri Lanka for many years. This was agreed in principle when Negotiations on this FTA finally President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and commenced in 2016, but had come to a Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa met virtual standstill by 2018. This was due to a high-level Chinese delegation on 9 Sri Lanka’s insistence on reviewing the October in Colombo, in the presence of agreement every 10 years, to which China Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, was strongly opposed due to its willingness Ministry Secretary Admiral Prof. Jayanath to have longer-term stability, according to Colombage, and other government ministers Sri Lanka’s then Chief Trade Negotiator and dignitaries. K.J. Weerasinghe, as reported by Reuters in The Chinese delegation consisted of a key May 2018. Communist Party political bureau member The massive difference in bargaining and diplomat Yang Jiechi, along with China power between the two nations also International Development Co-operation meant that China insisted on a zero-tariff Agency Chairman Wang Xiaotao and regime which would have overwhelmingly Chinese Foreign Ministry official Cheng benefited them due to the bilateral trade Song. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa with the high-level Chinese delegation relationship being dominated by China’s The Sri Lankan Government requested the exports to Sri Lanka. Chinese delegates to facilitate market access domestic market towards increasing the total export value from Sri Lanka to China same period was a much higher $ 4,189.8 Sri Lanka’s pushback on these proposals to some of Sri Lanka’s unique commodities trade turnover. In 2017, China was the sixth was just $ 414.7 million in 2017 and total million. However, Sri Lanka’s exports had is also believed to have contributed to the that could find demand in the Chinese largest export destination for Sri Lanka. The imports from China to Sri Lanka for the increased by that time from $ 121.4 million breakdown of talks in 2017. Local capital markets prove resilient Foreign to new wave: Asia Securities Investors must not react only 4% during that time. currency funding impulsively to the news of the The firm’s analysis argues that emergence of a new Covid-19 Sri Lanka is better positioned to cluster in Sri Lanka, leading withstand any risk of an uptick stockbroking firm Asia in new cases this time around an urgent need Securities (Pvt.) Ltd. said in due to the measures taken by a special report released on the Government and the private numbers, would have to make an Thursday, 8 October. sector following the April/May By attempt to capture all the value- The report explores the lockdown. The report further added services during the partially impact of Covid-19 resurgence voices optimism, noting that Jayampathy closed down months. Nevertheless, in several regional emerging positive economic and corporate it is expected that the second quarter economies as well as developed performance is likely, thanks to Molligoda GDP growth rate is in negative and economies, noting that equity the Government’s co-ordinated it could be a substantially higher markets have remained stable management of Covid-19 negative growth, say, in double through second waves of Covid- preparedness and response, the It was reported that the trade deficit digit. A large adverse GDP growth 19. In some emerging markets, strong public healthcare system, as at the end of August 2020 was $ estimate in Q2 could result in a large equity indices fell initially – like as well the measures taken by 3.8 billion compared with $ 4.8 billion negative growth during the year. the Colombo Stock Exchange corporates to ensure operational as at the end of August 2019. There It was reported recently in the (CSE) indices did on Monday, continuity. Sri Lanka’s mortality is no doubt that the current reforms prestigious Economist magazine 5 October – but have quickly rate, which is ranked 169 out of will provide solutions to some of the that except for China, all other rebounded. 216 countries, places it among the structural issues in the economy, yet countries have recorded negative “The sell down last Monday global top in terms of pandemic there is a need to address the country’s growth during the second quarter of (5 October) has unveiled more preparedness. The low mortality emerging macroeconomic vulnerabilities. 2020. This would mean that all the value on a large number of rates are attributed to strong While improving trade balance with socioeconomic ratios such as debt counters that are set for strong management of the pandemic increased focus on exports, import to GDP, government budget deficit, earnings this upcoming season. by the Government, effective substitution, and restricting non-essential current account deficit, per capita The current valuations in the point for investors to gain on main index on the Ho Chi Minh containment and quarantine imports will help to resolve the debt income, and GDP growth rate itself market do not reflect this and the bounce,” the report said. Stock Exchange is up 8% from strategy, efficient use of hospital service issue in the medium term, a will record huge adverse variances. provides an attractive entry In Vietnam, for example, the the point before the second capacity, and the relatively young failure to raise foreign currency funding The level of gross official foreign wave was detected in July, the population (only 11% of Sri in the near future may retard economic reserves coming down to below $ report highlights. Similarly, Lanka’s population are above growth prospects. Even the Government’s 6 billion by end-December 2020 in Malaysia, the main stock the age of 65, compared to medium-term development programme will create issues as it could be market index has bounced back developed markets like the US could get destabilised. The country equivalent to just four months of to pre-second wave levels in and EU which are 16% and 20%, would then be compelled to ask lending imports. early September. Similar trends respectively). institutions to restructure its debt portfolio The presentation of the 2020 have been observed in many Asia Securities is a in order to avoid Sovereign default. Budget will provide the Sri Lankan developed markets. In Australia, prominent investment firm in Government the best opportunity where the second wave has come Sri Lanka providing investment Macroeconomic vulnerabilities to spell out its strategies to and gone, the stock market index banking, research, equities, and The recent Sovereign rating downgrade address these key macroeconomic is up 2%. Even in Italy, where wealth management services is one example of how perceived and vulnerabilities, allay the fears the second wave is ongoing to local and international potential macroeconomic vulnerabilities of investors and creditors, and since mid-August, the index has corporate, institutional, and could provide opportunities for malicious decisively tackle adverse publicity recovered and is currently down individual clients. forces to destabilise the country’s spread. ongoing progress. The manufacturing and service sectors are badly affected Need to raise foreign and the agriculture subsector could only currency funding contribute 10% to the GDP, although Until international capital markets John Keells to build residential such revenues are getting tricked down to commence normal operations, the most vulnerable social groups in the it may not be that easy to raise bottom of the pyramid. international sovereign bonds. developments at Victoria Golf Resort It is essential that all efforts are taken Therefore, continuous engagement to ensure ground-level improvements with friendly countries and John Keells Properties (JKP) unveiled are reflected in GDP estimates, on multilateral agencies of which we plans for the development of exclusive which other key ratios of the economy are members is essential in order townhouses and bespoke luxury villas at the depend. GDP estimates of Sri Lanka have to raise required funding needed internationally renowned Victoria Golf and been constantly subject to criticism as for debt servicing and continue Country Resort (VGCR). being unable to capture new economic development activities. Alternatively, A total of 16 two-bedroomed townhouses activities, such as the digital economy, it is important to explore possibilities – designed to resort specifications and home gardening, and Port City-related of raising bilateral, government-to- managed year-round by VGCR – were developments. government loans. launched together with a limited number of Several indicators such as the budget The writer is of the view that villa plots. deficit and debt levels are monitored by along with the fiscal consolidation, “This project is a unique opportunity rating agencies and foreign investors as a there is an urgent need to provide for anyone who wants to own their own ratio of GDP. While rectifying anomalies fiscal stimulus packages which exclusive slice of tranquil, secluded, luxury in GDP compilation is critical, there is an would require funds even to meet in the heart of Sri Lanka’s scenic Hill increasing need to address these factors the upcoming significant foreign Country,” stated JKP Sector Head Nayana with a medium-term fiscal consolidation debt service repayments. In the Mawilmada. programme as envisaged in “Vistas of circumstances, it is prudent to take “In keeping with our ethos of ‘Creating Prosperity”. immediate measures to obtain at New Worlds’, we have developed a truly will be offered as a turnkey project, with In addition to offering premium land least $ 1 billion to enhance foreign hassle-free vacation home ownership option all maintenance and operating costs borne plots in the heart of the golf course and Importance of economic currency reserves. at VGCR, where you can be part of a very by VGCR. In addition to a complimentary the opportunity to design their own indicators to enhance special community without any of the five-year membership at the Club, owners bespoke vacation homes, the Peacock investor climate (The writer is the Chairman of the headaches of managing a second home.” will also have access to discounts on food Valley villas will be the only land plots in The Department of Census and Sri Lanka Tea Board and former Deputy Chairman of Bogawantalawa Designed by renowned architect Madhura and beverages, up to a 90-day free stay, and a the middle of the golf course surrounded Statistics, which calculates the GDP Tea Estates PLC) Prematilleke, the Sunrise Ridge townhouses percentage of room revenue. by golf views. the morning 4 Monday, October 12, 2020 brunch EVENT COLLABORATORS Event producer MISS SRI LANKA 2020 Venura Kavinda OFFICIAL SPONSORS Official nail care partner Beauty Nail Spa Official beauty care partner Salon Gayan Ransara Official print media partner Aruna, The Sunday Morning Official social media partner Ceylon Reach Me Media partner Music TV Official photography Dark Room, Danuka Lakshan

beachwear, and a number of other segments. Tharindu shared that while the event has been postponed, unfortunately, there is one last category that is still ongoing – the title of “Miss Popular”, which is a title based on audience votes. He said that voting has been opened for this title and all contestants’ photographs have been shared on the official Facebook page. Audiences are therefore encouraged to vote for their favourite contestant. Voting entails hitting an up-vote – a “like” – on your preferred contestant’s individual post, Tharindu said. Voting will be closed on 31 October and so there is only a VOTE FOR period of three weeks left to cast your vote for your favourite contestant. The ladies contesting are Nuwanthika Nanayakkara from Kadawatha, Hashela Harischandra from Kelaniya, Oshini Shanaya from Ja-Ela, Suwini Aloka from Negombo, Pragya Gamage from Thalawathugoda, Amizhthini Nakkeeran from Colombo, ‘MISS POPULAR’ Kamilini Kammi from Dehiwala, Shenya Wijerathne from Colombo, Ravini Perera from Kurunegala, Chathini Wickramasooriye from Kurunegala, Aarya Samarawickrama from Rajagiriya, Waruni Nisansala from Kalawana, and Shenya Wijerathne from Piliyandala. The Miss Sri Lanka 2020 competition, which is under the direction of Tharindu Lakshan, will be hosted by Tharindu. He shared that the primary reason why they chose to launch this initiative was in answer to some PHOTOS © THARUKA MAYADUNNE of the scrutiny the beauty pageant industry has been under in the past few years in Sri Lanka, stating that their goal is to somewhat reinvent the bad name the industry has got and give it BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE a fresh start. Keeping with their mission statement, the The grand finale of Miss Sri Lanka 2020, scheduled to be held in October this events they’ve held so far have been reflective year, was postponed until further notice due to the prevailing concerns of a of their efforts, with the most recent event, spike in Covid-19 cases in the island. the talent round held in August, coming to In light of this, Sky View Productions is currently in its final stages. The event’s fruition with great success, and the finalists (Pvt.) Ltd. National Director Tharindu preliminary audition rounds were initially who are representative of nearly all parts of Lakshan shared: “We regret to inform you held at Cinnamon Grand Colombo in earlier the island bringing to the Miss Sri Lanka stage that as per the notice issued by the Ministry of this year and the 12 finalists went on to a colorful array of talents. Health of Sri Lanka, to ensure public safety, participate in the mini pageants. Miss Sri Lanka 2020 is the second Miss Sri Lanka 2020 Grand Finale will be The mini pageants took place on 29 instalment of the Miss Sri Lankan title postponed until further notice. We thereby at Grand Mondo Hotel and showcased organised by Sky View Productions, where notify that the tickets that have already been the variety rounds where contestants 2019’s winner went on to take part in the purchased will be valid and the new date will showcased their skills, and at the event, the international pageant “Miss Tourism” held in be updated soon.” contestants took part in the talent rounds, China. The 2020 titleholder will be awarded However, the competition, which has having completed the other segments of this the opportunity of a lifetime to qualify for been in progress since February of 2020, round which included the cat walk round, Miss Asia Global to be held in Malaysia.

BY NAVEED ROZAIS

2020 has seen large-scale events become something of a work of What happens to the wonder. With the lockdown in March completely and utterly halting events of any kind for three months, the events industry took a severe blow at events industry now? a time when they were just recovering from other setbacks. communications (marcom) industries The recent surge of Covid-19 which encompasses marketing, infections has led to the Government communications, video production, and prohibiting the organisation, event management among a host of promotion, and conducting of any other skills and services. events including but not limited to “The marcom industry is a Rs. exhibitions, musical shows, outdoor 151 billion industry. It is 1% of our events, parties, and conferences until country’s GDP. We did a presentation further notice. to the Prime Minister and Finance The Morning Brunch reached Minister a couple of weeks ago, out to Event Productions (Pvt.) Ltd. with the view of the Government Hilton Colombo brings Founder/Managing Director and considering the marcom industry Event Management Association in their budget and coming up with The most recent Marians and Daddy concert the world to you (EMA) President Roshan Wijeyaratne PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM proposals like giving our clients to gain some insights into how the concessions on marcom spending so Cannot travel the rice, black pepper lamb events industry is handling and not geared to face another blow,” because we do all the groundwork. that clients are encouraged to hold world? Your favourite from the Orient, kung responding to this latest Wijeyaratne stressed. A lot of time goes into planning and events as opposed to cutting back due cuisine can now be pao chicken, the variety setback. With Covid-19 in there’s typically no cancellation fee. to taxes,” he said. savoured in the comfort of sushi rolls, goan fish particular, Colombo and the Hotels and vendors generally take an The EMA is also approaching the of your own home. curry and lamb shank Overall state of rest of Sri Lanka were just advance based on the relationship, and Government to revise entertainment Inspired menus by Hilton biryani prepared by Chef industry getting used to large events if it’s a postponement, they carry the taxation, proposing that entertainment Colombo’s Executive Chandan, whole pork taking place again, albeit in advance forward, but it all depends taxes be waived for a year in order to Chef Robert Mujagic knuckle, homemade Wijeyaratne explained scaled down versions. on the venue, the vendor, and the allow the events industry to bounce and his team for private artisanal sausages, and that the last one-and-a-half EMA President This came to a crashing relationship,” he said. back. family celebrations or a Hilton’s signature Rasa years or so have been a Roshan Wijeyaratne halt when the newest cluster simple treat during these Mulla and lamprais. very turbulent time for the of Covid-19 infections was Responding as an industry Taking events online trying times is only a call To enhance your industry. discovered on 4 October, with over “We launched the EMA in 2019 The pandemic has made online away. teatime cravings, the “This is our fourth big blow 1,000 infections and climbing being after Easter, and we now have over living and interaction the order of the The curated selection delectable array of cakes – the first was the political turmoil reported since. This, combined with 60 members. Immediately after Covid day. While going online is something of menus range from and French pastries from in October 2018, followed by the the Government’s directive to suspend happened, we started engaging with that is important, Wijeyaratne the all-time Sri Lankan Café Kai would make Easter attacks, and then Covid-19,” events in the interim while the threat the Government and met with the explained that going online is not favourites to Chinese, an ideal choice, not Wijeyaratne shared, adding that is dealt with, has led to many event Prime Minister that month itself. The something the events industry can Japanese, Indian, and forgetting the oven fresh following the Easter attacks in April cancellations. Prime Minister directed (us) to the sustain, particularly at the ground level. Thai as well as favourites breads to accompany your last year, some event companies ran Speaking on cancellations, Treasury Secretary. The EMA also “You can do events, but so many from the West, such as dinner. for up to five months with no income Wijeyaratne explained that in many consulted with the Government and people, especially those at the labour roasts, pizzas, pastas, Call the Hilton Colombo at all, draining their resources to keep cases, event companies don’t take the Ministry of Health to put together level, get nothing out of an online event. burgers, wraps, and hotline on 076-8002200 their companies going and their staff advances from clients, especially a set of guidelines as to how an event It can’t help the industry as a whole. desserts. A few dishes for contactless delivery. paid. clients with whom they have could be conducted mid-pandemic,” Sound equipment, lighting, LED screen from the menu worth Free delivery (Colombo The timing of the pandemic and longstanding relationships. Wijeyaratne elaborated. vendors lose out. What you earn off mentioning are Chef 1-15) available for the lockdown has been particularly “What happens when an event On a private level, the EMA has an online event is very small. It’s not Nathathai’s Thai sea bass orders above Rs. 2,500 hard for the events industry. “We had gets cancelled is that, basically for us, been working with Ernst & Young to enough to sustain your company in the green curry with steamed between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. already taken heavy losses and were as event managers, we lose out a lot do a study to protect the marketing and long term,” he pointed out. the morning 5 Monday , October 12, 2020 sports ‘I didn’t expect this’ Is Sunil chucking? Kusal is okay now! Just a week ago, Iga Swiatek was unsure whether Kolkata Knight Riders spinner Sunil Narine from West If you had ever thought Kusal Mendis would still be she would commit to tennis for the long term or go Indies has been reported for suspect bowling action after in a rude shock after “killing” an innocent man for his to university. Now the 19-year-old is a Grand Slam their Indian Premier League (IPL) encounter against Kings irresponsible driving some time ago, you are wrong. He champion – the lowest-ranked woman to ever win the XI Punjab in Abu Dhabi on Saturday (10). Narine bowled struck 113 runs in 66 balls, inclusive of five sixes and 11 French Open. “I wasn’t expecting to win this trophy,” the final over, where he defended 14 off six balls as Punjab fours, in one of the Army Commander’s T20 matches she said after her dominant 6/4, 6/1 win over American lost a thrilling encounter by a narrow margin of two runs. held at Army Grounds, Dombagoda on Saturday (10). fourth seed Sofia Kenin in Saturday’s (10) women’s He returned figures of 2/28 but will be suspended from In spite of his blitzkrieg, though, his team Eastern singles final. “I just feel like I kind of made history.” bowling in the IPL 2020 if he is reported once more. Warriors lost to Northern by two wickets in the match. z Main reason is his team In Brief losing an IPL LOCAL Dilantha Malagamuwa got Rape threats third place in his category of the round-robin Lamborghini Super Trofeo in Spain match last week. Malagamuwa thanked the Sri Lankan Govt. for the assistance given Security has been beefed up at to him this time for the participation of former Indian cricket Captain to Dhoni’s daughter the event Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s The Board of Control for Cricket in farmhouse in Ranchi after Days of pelting stones at India (BCCI) yesterday (11) announced “trolls” send rape threats to his players’ homes, burning squads and dates of the “Women’s five-year-old daughter Ziva, posters, and effigies while T20 Challenge” which is to be held shouting abuses are over. Now from 4-9 November in United Arab Dilantha Malagamuwa got third the Indian media reported the Indo fans are targeting place in his category of the yesterday (11). Emirates (UAE), alongside the men’s a daughter of a national Indian Premier League (IPL). There Lamborghini Super Trofeo in Spain “Police said that besides increasing cricketer are three teams; Supernovas (led by first international Test since the Covid-19 patrolling, some personnel in civil shouted abuses. However, targeting Harmanpreet Kaur), Trailblazers (Smriti restrictions, and the first for new All Blacks clothes have also been deployed near the daughter of a player in such a Mandhana), and Velocity (Mithali Raj). Coach Ian Foster and his Aussie counterpart his farmhouse to keep a close vigil on way has been unheard of before,” There will be four matches (on 4, 5, 7, Dave Rennie. The game was played suspicious elements,” reported New said The Times Now. and 9 November) including the final. Sri in front of a near-capacity 31,000 Indian Express. Lanka’s Chamari Atapattu and Shashikala mask-free spectators in Wellington Protests organised Siriwardene are playing for Supernovas with New Zealand having largely Losing to KKR by 10 runs Criticising the incident, the Former Sri Lanka cricketer Sajith contained the virus. Some of the social media users Jharkhand State Cricket Association Fernando has been named in the US’ Lewis Hamilton equalled the all-time have threatened Dhoni’s minor (JSCA) Vice President called it Men’s Youth Cricket Selection Panel, record for career Formula 1 victories daughter after Chennai Super Kings unfortunate and demanded strict it was reported on Saturday (10). by winning the Eifel Grand Prix in (CSK) lost an Indian Premier League action against anybody who has The five-member panel, headed by Germany yesterday (11). The Mercedes (IPL) match to Kolkata Knight Riders done it. US Men’s Selector Amer Afzaludin and driver’s win was the 91st of his career. He (KKR) by 10 runs on Wednesday (7) “Cricket should only be seen as a also featuring former West Indies legend is expected to break Michael Schumacher’s night. medium of entertainment, but people Alvin Kallicharran, will be responsible for record soon. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) Dhoni is the Captain of former are going beyond it, keeping others selecting all men’s youth teams of the US won second place while Daniel Ricciardo three-time champion CSK, which modesty on stake. This is really for the next three years (Renault) became third. has so far won only two games out unfortunate,” SCA Vice President INTERNATIONAL Radical proposals for the reform of seven in this year’s tournament to Ajay Nath Shahdeo said. of English football could have a be placed seventh in the eight-team Meanwhile, young cricketers of 2020 Bledisloe Cup, First Test: New “damaging impact” on the game, points table. Each team will have 14 Jharkhand have decided to stage Zealand drew with Australia 16/16. said BBC yesterday (11), quoting the matches before the play-offs to be a protest at Albert Ekka Chowk in Jordie Barrett’s 79th-minute penalty Premier League. Under the proposals, played among the eventual top four. Ranchi. salvaged the draw for New Zealand. “The led by Liverpool and Manchester United, On Wednesday, CSK chased Wallabies” were chasing a first win in New the English top flight would be cut to 18 168 runs to win but the renowned Where is India heading Zealand for 19 years. The game was the teams. “chaser” Dhoni got out for 11 runs, as a nation? reducing CSK to 129/4 in their 17th Actor-turned-politician Nagma over. tweeted: “Where are we headed as a Nation? It’s disgusting Dhoni’s five- Threats coming year-old daughter Ziva is getting Nadal wins French Open, on Instagram rape threats after CSK lost IPL Dhoni’s wife Sakshi and daughter Former India Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni with his little daughter Ziva match to KKR. Mr. PM what is this equals Federer record Ziva have been staying in their roped in to find out the person suspicious elements near the house. happening in our country?” farmhouse in Ranchi, capital of the who had posted the deplorable In addition to that, a squad has Sowmya Reddy from Jayanagara, Rafael Nadal produced one of eastern Indian State of Jharkhand. comments,” the above news item also been kept reserve at a certain Karnataka wrote on her timeline: his finest French Open displays The threats have been sent on the further added. distance from his farmhouse to “This is just nasty! What’s to stun Novak Djokovic and Instagram account of Dhoni’s wife deal with any exigency,” Rural happening to our country? Where equal Roger Federer’s record of Sakshi. Targeting daughter for Superintendent of Police Naushad are we heading?” 20 Grand Slam men’s titles in “According to the Police, besides the first time Alam has said. Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Paris yesterday (11). The Spanish deploying static force, regular “Frequency of patrolling near “Fans have often taken out their Chaturvedi tweeted: “This has to be second-seed outclassed World patrolling has also been increased Dhoni’s farmhouse has been ire on the players. In earlier days, the most disgusting example of how No. 1 Djokovic 6/0, 6/2, 7/5, around his farmhouse. Meanwhile, increased. We are keeping a they have even pelted stones at social media platforms are being clinching his record-extending the cyber cell department has been close watch on the movement of players’ homes, burnt posters, and misused.” 13th title at Roland Garros. When can we see int’l cricket back in SL? z SLC may quickly need to work on creating zones encompassing ‘biosecurity bubble’ SQUARE What are 'biosecure bubbles'? yy A biosecure bubble is an environment of a tournament. CUTS which is cut off from the outside yy Each event has its Standard Operating world. Everyone engaged in the given by Sudat Pasqual Procedures (SOPs) which are tailored tournament, including the players, to the requirements of the event, support staff, and match officials, will place, and the risk of contracting an be limited only to a few places. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) just doesn’t infection. seem to be able to get a break. All post- yy The individuals are tested for yy Biosecure bubbles worked flawlessly March 2020 international fixtures have coronavirus before entering the in the West Indies series in England. either been cancelled, postponed, or put on biosecure bubble. After a quarantine No cases of the virus were reported hold. period, they will be allowed to access from among the players. The 2020 T20 World Cup will not be the grounds and their hotels. played (the International Cricket Council yy English fast bowler Jofra Archer was yy The point is to minimise the risk of [ICC] says it is postponed to 2022, which penalised for breaching the bubble contracting the infection through means it will be 2022 T20 World Cup). when he paid a short visit home while limited contact from outside world. The Women’s 2021 World Cup too has travelling from one venue to another. been pushed back to 2022. Domestic yy A key element of the biosecure bubble The English Cricket Board came tournaments are on hold. The Lanka is that players will not be permitted down severely on him; Archer was Premier League (LPL) keeps getting to have access to families, visitors, dropped from the second Test and pushed back. England’s tour in early 2021 friends, and relatives for the duration quarantined. is in limbo – all due to the pandemic The Ageas Bowl biosecurity bubble in Hampshire, England during the England vs. West Indies Test series, the first international cricket series after the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic protocols in place in Sri Lanka. of cascading $$$s is not going to make that but broadcasters were unlikely to be lining in Sri Lanka (in UK nearly 600,000 cases be thinking of securing agreements with Merely bandying words come to fruition. up, for there aren’t any matches to broadcast and 43,000 deaths vs. about 4,250 cases hotels near international venues that could It is not reasonable or responsible to expect in the near horizon. Also, funds from team and 13 deaths in Sri Lanka by yesterday be turned into exclusive biosecurity zones the Government to ease the restrictions so No matches, no broadcasts sponsors are unlikely to start rolling in until [11] evening). during international tours. that SLC could host foreign teams to play SLC should be commended for not giving the teams start playing matches. games that will not be open to the public. up and also securing a few sponsorships A Sri Lankan biosecure bubble Seeking expert advice Still, the planners and dreamers at SLC during the pandemic, including those from ‘The England model’ After the ongoing spike in Covid-19 It will also mean that SLC work with keep floating more ideas to host new Sony Pictures Networks, Dialog, Namal England was able to host the West Indies, cases in the country is to come under some the government-sanctioned healthcare tournaments, the latest being a proposal Balachandra (Pvt.) Ltd., My Cola, and Red Pakistan, Australia, and Ireland in the midst control, hopefully, SLC will need to work professionals for technical advice to create to host a T10 franchise league with Bull. of a pandemic because they had access on a plan that will satisfy both local health the necessary arrangements and establish a “commercial” benefit. It is good to know On six occasions earlier, SLC was forced to venue hotels that could be turned into guidelines as well as concerns of visiting biosecure regime that is acceptable to the that SLC is brainstorming on ways to make to postpone broadcasting tenders due to “biosecure bubbles”. teams to get matches going again. ICC as well as individual teams. a buck to replenish dried up coffers, but the Covid-19 pandemic. As we know, This, in spite of England’s Covid-19 That means establishing biosecure This should be the SLC’s priority #1, merely bandying words that conjure images broadcasting rights bring in the big money, infections and deaths far surpassing those bubbles. The SLC management needs to priority #2, and priority #3.