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For verified information on the GENERAL PREVENTIVE GUIDELINES COVID-19 LOCAL CASES COVID-19 CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any of the IN THE WORLD following authorities ACTIVE CASES TOTAL CASES 1999 TOTAL CASES Health Promotion Bureau 2,927 Suwasariya Quarantine Unit 0112 112 705 22,922,330 Ambulance Service Epidemiology Unit 0112 695 112 DEATHS RECOVERED Govt. coronavirus hotline 0113071073 Wash hands with soap Wear a commercially Maintain a minimum Use gloves when shopping, Use traditional Sri Lankan Always wear a mask, avoid DEATHS RECOVERD 1990 for 40-60 seconds, or rub available mask/cloth mask distance of 1 metre using public transport, etc. greeting at all times crowded vehicles, maintain 2,789 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES hands with alcohol-based or a surgical mask if showing from others, especially in and discard into a lidded instead of handshaking, distance, and wash hands 11 798,182 15,570,088 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 handrub for 20-30 seconds respiratory symptoms public places bin lined with a bag hugging, and/or kissing before and after travelling 127 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 9.00 P.M. ON 21 AUGUST 2020 MORE YAHAPALANA BUNGLING UNCOVERED UDA targets casino land BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA approve any further development local partner of the abandoned casino The Rs. 330 million had been waived Entertainment Holdings Ltd. and on the land, UDA Director General project of Australian billionaire James off by former UDA Chairman Jagath subsequently got the name changed The Urban Development Authority (UDA) has directed Rank N.P.K. Ranaweera told The Sunday Packer’s casino group Crown Resorts, Munasinghe in 2017 when signing to Rank Car Park Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. Holdings to settle a total of Rs. 330 million it owes the UDA Morning. with the land in question earmarked the agreement with Lake Leisure Munasinghe had signed a 50-year as accumulated interest payments for a land which was “The company will definitely have to be the venue for the planned casino Holdings (Pvt.) Ltd. to lease out the lease agreement for a mixed famously earmarked for a failed casino development project. to pay the Rs. 330 million waived and resort. land adjoining D.R. Wijewardena development project, giving the off by the previous Government,” The project was abandoned several Mawatha and Sir Chittampalam A. concession of Rs. 330 million to The UDA has already notified should be settled as soon as possible, he reiterated. years ago amidst stiff opposition from Gardiner Mawatha, 2. Lake the lessee. the company that the due amount failing which the UDA would not Rank Holdings was set to be the various quarters. Leisure was earlier known as Rank Contd. on page 2 AIRPORT REOPENING AG’S LETTER TO MCC EMISSION TESTING CORRUPTION Delayed by repatriation MCC confirms authenticity Dilum to clear the air The Government’s plan to General (Retd.) G.A. Chandarasiri The Government is looking Automotive Industries Dilum reopen Bandaranaike International told The Sunday Morning on BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA Jayasuriya’s letter in 2018, do not want to speak further on to streamline the vehicle license Amunugama said: “Several Airport (BIA) early next month Friday (21) that the most recent which resurfaced recently this to the press,” Edelman told issuance process to end the complaints have been forwarded has been postponed in order to discussion with stakeholders The Millennium Challenge causing fresh controversy. The Sunday Morning on Friday corruption within the process. regarding corruption during the conclude the repatriation process. resulted in a decision to give Corporation’s (MCC) Sri MCC Country Director (21). The letter by the then State Minister of Vehicle issuance of vehicle emission Airport and Aviation Services priority to the repatriation process. Lankan office confirmed Jenner Edleman affirmed that AG appeared to be in favour Regulation, Bus Transport testing (VET) reports every year.” () Chairman Major Contd. on page 2 to The Sunday Morning the such a letter was received by of the MCC Compact being Services, Carriages, and Contd. on page 2 authenticity of then Attorney the MCC. implemented in Sri Lanka. CAPITAL HEIGHTS General (AG) Jayantha “The letter is legitimate but I Contd. on page 2 RS. 34 MILLION CAPITAL HEIGHTS POWER CUTS UPWARDSRS. 34 MILLION VoA delayed UPWARDS by a week CAPITAL HEIGHTSThe tabling of the Vote on Account (VOA), Electrical which was scheduled to be tabled in Parliament RS. 34 MILLIONon Friday (21), has been delayed by one week VISIT OUR and is to be taken up for debate this Thursday operator UPWARDSWEBSITE (27), The Sunday Morning learnt. CAPITALVISIT HEIGHTS+94 OUR 763112233 The VOA, while not being included in Friday’s RS.35SHOW APARTMENT MILLIONWEBSITE UPWARDSRS. 34 MILLION Order Paper, had been included in the Order READY FOR INSPECTION UPWARDS Book after sittings had concluded. blamed Contd. on page 2 Last Monday’s (17) massive blackout, PROJECT NEARING+94 763112233 COMPLETION VISIT OUR caused by a technical fault at the SHOW APARTMENT WEBSITE Kerawalapitiya Grid Substation and which VISIT OUR later crippled the entire Norochcholai +94 763112233WEBSITE No decision Coal Power Plant by forcing the country READY FOR INSPECTION SHOW APARTMENT www.capitalheights.lk SHOW APARTMENT +94 763112233 to go for intermittent power cuts, was READY FORREADY INSPECTION FOR INSPECTION said to have been caused by a human PROJECT NEARING COMPLETION on PC polls error, according to the Ceylon Electricity PROJECT NEARINGPROJECT NEARING COMPLETION COMPLETION The Government is yet to make a decision Board (CEB). on holding the long-delayed provincial council CEB Chairman Eng. told (PC) elections, The Sunday Morning learnt. The Sunday Morning that the blackout Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Keheliya was experienced due to a mistake by an Rambukwella said the Government has not yet electrical operator during maintenance discussed the PC elections, adding that there work at the Kerawalapitiya Grid are certain legislations that have to be brought Substation. in before holding the elections. Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 Booze goes green z 300 million bottles, 160 million cans BY SARAH HANNAN “The retailers will be environmental activists,” encouraged to buy back Deputy Excise Commissioner The Excise Department is empty bottles and cans and and Departmental Spokesman to collaborate with the Central prompt consumers to return Kapila Kumarasinghe said. Environmental Authority them for a higher deposit The CEA observed that about (CEA), distilleries and instead of tossing them 300 million empty bottles of brewery companies, and local with their garbage. The various sizes and 160 million retailers to introduce a recycling mechanism to collect and metal cans are discarded into project to collect discarded recycle empty bottles was the environment annually, bottles and cans that are causing considered following the without a proper dumping severe environmental pollution many complaints directed mechanism. every year. at us from the public and Contd. on page 2 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 2 the sunday morning PICTORIAL/NEWS Sunday, August 23, 2020

Chamal Rajapaksa engaged in pirith on the day of assuming duties as seeking blessings from Buddhist leaders as he Namal Rajapaksa joined a seth pirith on the day of assuming Ali Sabry PC assuming duties as Minister of State Minister of Defence assumed duties as Minister of Energy duties as Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Justice at the Ministry premises

Minister A group of individuals staged a protest in front congratulating on his state of the US Embassy, demanding the US to stop (SJB) Leader Sajith ministerial appointment interfering with the freedom of speech Premadasa thanking his supporters in Borella

Government Spokesperson Keheliya State Minister congratulating The construction of the New Mutwal Tunnel, one of the two main underground tunnels, was Rambukwella and Co-Cabinet Spokesperson newly appointed Minister of Industries Wimal completed last Friday (21) Udaya Gammanpila at the Cabinet media briefing Weerawansa

Minister of Plantations Dr. congratulating as he assumes duties as a state minister

MP Madura Vithanage arriving at the Parliament Complex for the The first 50 days of the Sinhala film The Newspaper, directed by and , was celebrated with much fanfare with the participation of its directors, production team, film industry veterans, and key political figures A snake charmer entertaining the crowd at inaugural session of the Ninth Parliament via a different mode of Face Green transport PHOTOS LALITH PERERA, PRADEEP DAMBARAGE, SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA, KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM, ESHAN DASANAYAKA

Contd. from page 1

emissions testing system, as instances pass the vehicle and policemen get bribes not error, Kerawalapitiya went off and it then UDA... of corruption are continuously reported, to search for those polluting vehicles. VoA delayed... affected Norochcholai. In a letter written to former Minister including at the testing centres operated by – Sarah Hannan Parliamentary sources said that “When Norochcholai shut down, it took a of Megapolis and Western Development three main companies. subsequently the VOA will be sent to all few days to restart,” Herath added. Patali by Ministry The State Minister said many complaints MPs to scrutinise before it is tabled and He also noted that the system has now Consultant (Investigation) M.A.R.D. have been received on bribes being offered Delayed by... taken up for debate on Thursday (27). been fully restored and that there will be no Jayathillaka, dated 27 March 2017, it is to staff members to bypass the regulatory He said that a date for the reopening of Minister of Mass Media and Cabinet more power cuts from Friday (21) onwards stated that the land has been leased on a requirements and on untrained testing staff the airport has therefore not been scheduled. Spokesman said as the Norochcholai plant is up and running. 50-year basis at the Government Chief working at the centres. “It depends on the Foreign Ministry and that party leaders may have had to postpone As learnt by The Sunday Morning, Valuer’s valuation of Rs. 2,785 million and Meanwhile, President Gotabaya the Ministry of Health. They have to get all the tabling to finalise the allocations. Monday’s restoration efforts after the the physical possession of the land had been Rajapaksa too had earlier expressed his the people down to Sri Lanka first. They “It wasn’t tabled on Friday, but I’m sure blackout had failed more than five times handed over on 18 February 2010 on the concern on permitting vehicles with carbon have to work out a flight plan. If the flight they’ll table it on Thursday and take it up and that was the reason for the stoppage of payment of Rs. 577 million which was paid emissions to run on roads, causing increased plan can be concluded in one month and for debate on the same day. They may have machines in Norochcholai. in instalments. environmental pollution even after making there are no Covid-19 patients, then we can been discussing the final aspects of the A sudden power outage occurred Due to reasons beyond the control of the vehicle emission testing compulsory. reopen the airport. There are 56,000-odd Sri VoA,” he said. islandwide on Monday, plunging the the developers, the project got delayed Meanwhile, Centre for Environmental Lankans to be repatriated.” He said the VoA was mainly for recurrent entire country into darkness and disrupting and since then, the Cabinet Committee Justice (CEJ) Executive Director Hemantha However, earlier last week, Maj. Gen. expenditure. people’s daily functions, businesses, as well on Economic Management (CCEM) had Withanage, recalling one of the lawsuits on Chandrasiri told The Sunday Morning “There are four months of recurrent as government operations. decided to allocate the land at the present air pollution in 2010, in which he supported that authorities hoped to reopen the expenditure for the year, so a bulk of the Due to the hours-long power outage, market value as decided by the Chief Lawyer Lalanath de Silva, said it unearthed airport within the first or second week of allocations will be for that purpose.” heavy traffic congestion was also Valuer, which is at Rs. 3,620 million. In the various levels of corruption from testing September. A two-day debate on the VoA is to be experienced on several roads in the capital meantime, the former UDA Chairman had personnel to the Police. – Skandha Gunasekara held on 27 and 28 August. It is set to city of Colombo due to the non-functioning made a decision to deduct from the balance “During the hearing, Lalanath de allocate around Rs. 1 trillion for various road signals. due from the developer, the interest that Silva urged the Supreme Court to rule expenses. A committee was appointed by could have been earned by the developer that citizens have a fundamental right MCC... – Skandha Gunasekara Minister of Power on the advance payment made, the letter to a healthy environment. Sri Lanka’s “Having gleaned through the proposed to investigate the root cause for the stated. Constitution guarantees a right to life, but Millennium Challenge (Corporation) countrywide outage. The Consultant Investigator, in his letter, Colombo’s air is so polluted that breathing Compact, the draft Programme No decision... – Maheesha Mudugamuwa had stressed that the former UDA Chairman damages peoples’ lungs,” he said. Implementation Agreement (PIA), as well as However, in February, Minister Nimal had no authority to approve the deduction “Lalanath asserted that Sri Lanka`s the Points of Discussion (without prejudice) Siripala de Silva said the PC elections of an amount of this magnitude and that this Government, by failing to implement between the negotiating parties which has will be held two months after the general Booze goes... should have been approved by the Board of adequate air quality standards, was violating been made available to me, I wish at the election. The liquor regulatory authority initiated Directors. Sri Lankans’ right to life.” very onset (to) opine that no existing laws When asked about the speculations that the project to find a solution to reduce the The Cabinet Subcommittee on Investment Explaining that while a well-tuned engine of Sri Lanka’s inhibits the Compact and the 13th Amendment to the Constitution will pollution caused by the millions of empty Facilitation had given its approval to the can save the environment, fuel, and money, the PIA (from) being implemented in Sri also be amended by repealing the PC system alcohol bottles and cans being discarded UDA on 23 March 2007 to hand over a the current vehicle emissions test procedure Lanka,” the letter sent by the department with the impending new constitutional irresponsibly. two-acre, one rood, and 21.4-perch land does not resolve the problems. said. reforms, Minister Rambukwella noted that Kumarasinghe said that discussions were at D.R. Wijewardena Mawatha to Rank Adding from his experience, Withanage However, one amendment to the there was no decision taken on 13A as of held between the CEA, Excise Department, Entertainment Holdings, owned by Ravi noted: “My vehicle once failed four agreement had been requested by the former yet. as well as liquor industry stakeholders Wijeratne, for a multi-storey car park, hotel, times, but someone was able to obtain the AG in the letter. At present, none of the nine PCs are following the observations, and at present, and shopping complex. emissions report after paying an extra Rs. “Thus, I am of the view that the passage functioning as their term of office has a deposit is retained for a selected set of Later on, the name of the company 500. This cleared my doubts. I checked with of the said enactment by Parliament would expired. The term of office of the Southern liquor bottles by the retailers by adding it changed to Rank Car Park Lanka (Pvt.) many drivers and garage mechanics and result in the Compact and PIA, having parity PC ended on 10 April while the term of to the Government-authorised price of that Ltd. and the approval given for a 30-year several of them have gone through similar of status of a domestic law in Sri Lanka. In office of the Western PC ended on 21 April. particular bottle. lease through Cabinet Memorandum No. experiences.” the context of the above, it is requisite that The term of office of the Sabaragamuwa He elaborated that certain types of bottles 09/1391/320/064 by then Finance Minister He said that the corruption in testing Section 7.1 of the Compact referring to the PC ended on 26 September 2017, while are sold with a bottle deposit of around Rs. was cancelled, and centres operated by both companies provisions on Entry into Force, would be the term of office of the Eastern PC ended 40, which is added to the maximum retail Cabinet approval was given to Lake Leisure involved in testing programmes is one of revised with the deletion of the sentence on 30 September 2017 and the term of price (MRP) of the bottle of liquor. Holdings owned by the same owner of the problems. Moreover, most testing staff pertaining to the Compact prevailing over office of the North Central PC ended on “When the bottle is returned to the store, the two former companies for a mixed have no training and experience in handling the domestic laws of Sri Lanka.” 1 October 2017. The terms of the Central, the deposit is paid back to the customer, or development project on a 50-year lease. and understanding the mechanical problems Meanwhile, the MCC Compact North Western, and Northern PCs ended in no bottle deposit is levied during the next of a vehicle, while garage mechanics don’t agreement is currently under consideration September 2018. The term of office of the purchase. With this new mechanism, we understand the science of emission testing. and awaiting the observations of several Uva PC ended on 8 September last year. are looking at increasing this deposit levy, Dilum to... “Sometimes garage mechanics try to state agencies, according to the AG, – Maheesha Mudugamuwa so that it would encourage the customers “While the certification will be required make money. One mechanic suggested I Co-ordinating Secretary of the AG State to bring the empty bottle to the retailer and for certain vehicles, we do not see a need for remove the engine head and clean it with the Counsel Nishara Jayaratne said, responding have the deposit reimbursed.” all vehicles to go through this, as there are cost of Rs. 15,000. I then took the vehicle to to a query by The Sunday Morning. Electrical... Another mechanism will also be zero-emission vehicles now in the market.” the manufacturer and they tuned the vehicle “We have called for several observations Accordingly, the CEB has identified introduced where empty metal cans can Speaking to The Sunday Morning, with new plugs and air filters but failed from several state agencies, so until we get that the issue had started during certain be brought to the retailers where they can Amunugama noted that there are instances the emissions test again. I found the agent these observations, we are not considering maintenance work at the 220 KW grid crush it with newly installed crushers before where some of these vehicles which did not even have any emission testing the matter. It’s under consideration,” she substation where the maintenance work reselling it for scrap metal. obtained a clean VET certification can be equipment at that time,” Withanage said. said. had been mostly completed. While carrying Kumarasinghe added that the two seen releasing toxic emissions when they He added that the vehicle emissions When The Sunday Morning questioned out the final phase of the said maintenance beer manufacturing companies based in come to renew their vehicle licenses. test is a money-making machine for many Jayaratne as to whether current AG Dappula work, a mistake had been committed by the Sri Lanka have already expressed their He explained that the Government groups and for the Government as, allegedly, de Livera was of the same stance as his electrical superintendent in charge. willingness to supply alcohol retailers with is looking to amend the existing carbon personnel at the testing centres get bribes to predecessor, she responded in the negative. The Chairman said, as a result of the crushers for this purpose. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 3 Sunday, August 23, 2020 SPOTLIGHT

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA CAPS AND SHOES FOR POLICE PERSONNEL Rs. 3,000 and the value of the tender is around Rs. 24 million, it is learnt. The tender process of bulk Meanwhile, when contacted by purchasing 60,000 caps The Sunday Morning, Police Media worth more than Rs. 100 Spokesman SSP Jaliya Senaratne million for police constables said that there was a delay and it (PCs) has been delayed is currently being rectified. He for two years, The Sunday also said the relevant items will Morning learnt. be supplied to the PCs and WPCs within the next few months. The tender, which had been “Even though there was a delay, processed through the Ministry A long wait there was no such issue related to of Defence (MoD) during the another tender awarded to a Chinese the items as there were enough past two years, was finalised a company to purchase 75,000 caps items already provided by the few weeks ago and the Police many years ago and the decision Department to all PCs and WPCs,” Department was to sign the was to be expected within the next SSP Senaratne said, adding that the agreements with the company few weeks. issues that cropped up with regard which won the tender in a week’s The case is currently going on to the quality of the items supplied time, it is learnt. at the Commercial High Court of by the suppliers had caused the A well-informed source attached Colombo and has been filed as present delay in receiving the to the Department, who wished the products were not supplied necessary items. to remain anonymous, told The by the Chinese supplier on time, Since the second tender was Sunday Morning that there was the source explained, adding that also delayed, the Department an ongoing court case against while the case was going on, the had opted for small purchases Department had then processed at events like police parades another tender to purchase caps for and Independence Day PCs, which had been delayed for celebrations, to meet the almost two years as of now. demand and make sure all According to the source, during PCs received the required that period, since the second tender equipment was also delayed, the Department had opted for small purchases at “PCs can usually use their events like police parades and caps for two or three years and Independence Day celebrations, © FAST NEWS the WPCs can also wear a pair to meet the demand and make of shoes for more than a year sure all PCs received the required stocks would be supplied by the As learnt by The Sunday been delayed due to a field test and therefore, none of these had Even though there was a delay, equipment. supplier who won the tender within Morning, the two tenders are worth which is currently ongoing. affected their duties and no PCs are there was no such issue related “Since we went for small-scale four months of the Department more than Rs. 100 million each. “A field test is going on to currently serving at the Department to the items as there were purchases while the tender was signing the agreements. In the meantime, another shoe test the quality of the shoe and without caps,” he stressed. enough items already provided being processed by the MoD, there However, the source also tender for 8,000 women police samples are being tested for four The Spokesman went on to say by the Department to all PCs was no shortage of caps for PCs,” clarified that none of the payments constables (WPCs) has been months. The report is expected that there were around 85,000 police and WPCs the source stressed, pointing out had been made with regard to the delayed for eight months, The on 31 August and once the report cadres attached to the Department Police Media Spokesman that the Department was expecting two tenders and that the payments Sunday Morning learnt. is submitted, the products will be and out of that, around 75,000 SSP Jaliya Senaratne that a decision will be given by the will only be made after the Accordingly, the tender was to purchased,” the source said. are getting all uniforms and other courts in the coming weeks and the products have been delivered. be awarded in January but had A pair of shoes is worth around required items from the Department.

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WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 4 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, August 23, 2020 Kick-starting northern development z Premier held accountable for development promises made in 2015 BY SARAH HANNAN Government manifesto With the ninth Parliament Meanwhile, one can also keep an Development of road network: training and vocational education convening on Thursday (20), eye out for the various sectors that • Rehabilitate unfinished roads that can be repaid when they find the citizens of Sri Lanka are will see a facelift from the present connecting respective economic employment in their trade keeping a close watch on how Government; spelt out on their corridors • Release all private lands currently this Government pulls through an manifesto. • Complete construction of the being held by the Government Fisheries: Northern Expressway without to their respective owners and unstable economy and a pandemic • Achieve self-sufficiency in fishery further delays allocate government lands caused by an ever-evolving virus products to ensure food security Regional development of for large and medium-scale that is still a looming threat to the while contributing to the national Northern and Eastern Provinces agricultural projects; farmers will entire world. economy • Uplift the economic standards and be issued permit for lands • Introduce a fisheries livelihoods of the people in the • Give priority to its inhabitants With Mahinda Rajapaksa being appointed development plan to provide northern and eastern areas in recruiting employees for as the Prime Minister for this Government, nutrition to people, increase • Launch the “Punarjeewana government jobs in these areas the people, especially in the northern region, foreign exchange earnings, Fund” to ensure the upliftment and people that have the ability are banking on his interest to restart the and provide employment and of the economic standards and to converse in the stalled infrastructure development projects. livelihood opportunities livelihoods of the people. The when recruiting police officers to During our visit to the region in July, just • Develop a conflict settlement following facilities will be provided serve in the above areas before the general election, many of the agreement with India in order to through this programme: • Create economic zones in eliminate unauthorised fishing • Housing for families affected by every district for agricultural people in all five districts of the Northern Road development work in northern and eastern seas the 30-year war entrepreneurs to add value to their Province repeatedly stated that they would in Mannar Island and strengthen Navy and coastal • Government-sponsored products and start up small and vote for the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna PHOTOS SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA guard units concessionary loan schemes and medium-scale businesses (SLPP) because they trust that Mahinda Livestock: agricultural loans will be granted • Develop universities, vocational Rajapaksa would be elected to Parliament • Increase the domestic production to women entrepreneurs trapped training institutes, technical and would once again develop the region. a young businessman, revealed that the road previously, the Fisheries Department was of liquid milk to fulfil the domestic under various microfinance colleges, information technology Already, there was some road work from Medawachchiya to Talaimannar was housed in the building at the back, and since requirement schemes institutes, and agricultural underway with bridges being reconstructed, reconstructed in 2010. it was moved elsewhere, the building has • Promote milk production in the • Investment schemes for research institutes as avenues to railroads being upgraded from wooden “It’s been over a decade since any type not been used by anyone. Northern Province rehabilitated youth to become fulfil ambitions of the youth sleepers to concrete sleepers, and main of infrastructure development took place “They can easily repurpose this building Land transport: entrepreneurs • Establish a “Nelum Pokuna” in • High priority to upgrade • Accommodate large and medium- Jaffna to encourage youth in roads being prepared for a new carpet layer. in this district. Thanks to former President to be used as a marketplace, so that we do and develop road and rail scale industries to provide the visual arts and hold regular This somewhat slowed down vehicular Mahinda Rajapaksa, we have this road, but not have to conduct business on the road. infrastructure to provide jobs to the youth in economic performances at this venue to movement down the Medawachchiya- that too is now in need of maintenance.” Furthermore, given that there is a pandemic, a comfortable, efficient, development zones started by create awareness and develop Talaimannar highway and then the road Meanwhile, the fruit and vegetable we too want to have our permanent business and environment-friendly our Government, and the East interests from Paranthan to Mullaitivu. vendors of Pesalai want the Government to premises in town, so that we can sell our transportation system to the will be given adequate capital • Establish an international sports Even the A9 highway was undergoing construct a marketplace, so they do not have produce in more hygienic conditions,” general public while ensuring investments stadium and a cricket ground in refurbishment in several sections. to do business on the roadside. Jesmil added. economic growth • Loans to youth for vocational both these provinces When we stopped over in Pesalai, Nirmal, Jesmil, a vegetable vendor, said that Contd. on page 7

The dilapidated paper factory in as the process requires a lot of energy; it Valaichchenai got a new lease of life this RESTORING VALAICHCHENAI PAPER MILL also has a steam engine which was fuelled year and is off to a promising start with the by furnace oil. But since we are attempting first batch of craft paper introduced to the to restore the functions of this factory with market in July. a minimum cost, we have bypassed this Up until the early 90s, the products from stage and are using our furnaces to burn this paper mill were circulated locally, with the firewood supplied from the eucalyptus products ranging from 50 GSM paper to 500 A new chapter opens forest maintained within the factory GSM boards. premises,” Liyanage elaborated. Established in 1955, the paper factory was As we made our way to the next building, commissioned for commercial operation in we were engulfed in somewhat humid 1956 under the name “Valaichchenai Paper constitutions, and Sivaharan explained Mill”. In 1958, the corporation was renamed that this was due to steam being supplied as “Eastern Paper Mills Corporation” with from the furnaces through the motors to the its board machine commissioned in 1972. pulp-making process. The pulping process The open economy followed by the Civil requires three components: Cardboard/pulp War resulted in the factory’s downfall which material, steam, and water. commenced in 1994, where it was incurring Progressing towards the floor above, heavy losses, and eventually brought the we witnessed several vats that were factory’s operation to a halt in 2016. The churning pulp as workers continued to add factory equipment, meanwhile, was to be waste cardboard to them where water is sold in an auction for scrap metal as many continuously pumped. The pulp mixture governments failed to restore it. is then pumped to the next floor where it However, in February 2020, under the goes through a conveyor belt that pours the directives of President , pulp solution flat, for which the gauge is set Minister of Industries based on whether it is a paper product or a appointed a new chairman and board to board product. oversee the feasibility of restoring the The wet paper is instantly turned into dry factory with minimum expenses. outskirts as well. In return, it will also paper, and at the end of the machine, there is The factory is now partly restored with improve the quality of life of the people in a metal spool that keeps rotating to catch the the assistance of the Sri Lanka Army and Sri Kadadasi Nagar,” he noted. finished product. It is from this metal spool Lanka Navy, along with the consultation of that the product is cut at a cutting station. their retired technical officers. Accessing the paper mill “At present, the output of the factory During The Sunday Morning’s visit to Our initial need to visit the factory was stands at 20 MT per day. Hopefully, it will the Eastern Province in July, we dropped to take a peek at the place and possibly reach 70 MT of product by the end of this by at the factory premises to have a peek photograph the facade of the land. An Army year, as the rest of the machinery will be up at the factory which was supposedly being soldier was posted at the entrance gate. and running. In July, we released stocks of gradually restored. From the main gate, we drove in towards craft paper that is used for paper bags and to the administrative office and were greeted make envelopes to the market, and it is only Landmark railway station by a monument that was erected at the time Valaichchenai Paper Mill Chief S. Sivaharan, a former employee Leo, a railway supervisor of being issued to the Co-operative Association We initially made our way directly the factory was established. Two giant metal Co-ordinator Sudath Liyanage of the paper factory Kadadsi Nagar Railway Station on a wholesale basis,” National Paper towards the Kadadsi Nagar Railway paper spools stood in the centre of the land Company Ltd. (NPCL) Chairman K.A.W. Station where there was a blocked side with a granite tablet affixed to it, detailing by S. Sivaharan, a former employee of the restoration of the mechanical work under Rupasinghe told The Sunday Morning. entrance to the factory ground. While one the commencement of the operations of paper factory, who had been asked to report the supervision of the retirees who have According to Rupasinghe, once the rest of railroad was used for the daily commuter this once flourishing industry, of which the to work to provide guidance to restart the been called back,” Liyanage explained. the factory commences its production work, trains, there was another loop railway line backdrop was the two-storey building which operations of the factory. the country can expect to have 100% of its which was in bad shape and would have houses all the administrative staff for the Pointing at the dilapidated buildings that Ongoing recycling process paper and board requirements fulfilled by taken the goods train to the paper factory in factory. we were passing, Liyanage noted that not On our way towards the main processing NPCL’s Valaichchenai Paper Mill. the years that it was fully functional. Valaichchenai Paper Mill Chief all of it will be restored, adding that instead building, about four people were tumbling He added that there are a few more areas We spoke to Leo, a railway supervisor Co-ordinator Sudath Liyanage was about to they will be preserved as historic ruins a stack of cardboard boxes which were that need fixing, after which the company who was at the station, to get the proper leave as we stepped into the office and was which will tell the story of the previous loaded on to a pulley. We were told that all is looking to have an official opening directions to the factory as well as some kind enough to take The Sunday Morning factory. the cardboard collected from the recycling ceremony in the presence of the President, background information on the area and news team on a familiarisation tour of the “At the moment, we are using the main centres are now being brought to the factory the Prime Minister, the Minister for how the railway station was of use to the factory which had gradually been restored processing building. The Navy was able to to be repurposed as pulp which will later be Industries, and its staff. paper factory back in the day. by the assistance of the Sri Lanka Navy and fix the electrical circuits and the engineering converted to craft paper and boards. – Sarah Hannan “When the factory was functioning, the Sri Lanka Army. We were also joined division from the Army is assisting in the “The factory has its own power station PHOTOS PRADEEP DAMBARAGE most of the people who worked at the factory would use our railway station for commuting. Today, only three or four people who work for the (Ceylon) Electricity Board (CEB) and people from Scan the QR the Department of Railways use this code to access station,” Leo explained. our coverage of He said that since the factory shut down, even the railway station’s water supply has this issue on been discontinued, as the water storage The Sunday tank inside the factory used to supply Morning water to the railway station. Moreover, YouTube channel the revenue of the railway station too had been impacted due to the reduction in commuters. “We are glad that the current Government is restoring this factory which is going to open up many job opportunities Cardboard collected from recycling centres being Finished product of craft paper to the people from this area and the brought to the factory to be repurposed as pulp WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 5 Sunday, August 23, 2020 SPOTLIGHT Knuckles Range MANNAR WIND POWER PROJECT Still blowing in the wind BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA viable sector. Mannar has high potential for wind power,” he said, The Mannar Wind Power adding that the CEB was planning Project (MWPP), which is at to add another 240 MW of wind least a year behind schedule, power in Pooneryn. Reclaiming plans to add 100 MW to the “Studies are being conducted national grid by the end of by the ISE to develop Requests this year, according to the for Proposal (RFP) and other Ministry of Power. sorts of studies. Apart from that, Knuckles Range we very recently floated a tender As learnt by The Sunday for 60 MW of wind. We received z Local Government z 1,600 acres to be reacquired under the Morning, the Ceylon Electricity proposals for grid substations completes survey Environmentally Protected Land Act Board (CEB) has incurred Rs. and we are going to award the 60 8,000 million per year – around MW to private sector developers. BY SARAH HANNAN is about 15,000 hectares, out of Keerthi Hewagoda had conducted Rs. 21 million per day – in losses Another two 10 MW wind power which a 1,600-acre land area research on the area and had later due to the delay in commissioning plants will be commissioned at For years, the settlements and in scattered sections has been published an open complaint the wind power project. ,” Jayawardena unregulated development work occupied by people over the regarding the leasing out of According to Ministry of noted. that was taking place in the years,” Wijetilake elaborated. portions of the protected land to Power Spokesman Sulakshana According to him, the CEB is perimeters of the Knuckles Range, plantation companies. Jayawardena, if the power plant planning to add approximately 800 which is an environmentally When contacted by The was commissioned as it was MW of wind power to the national protected land, has ignited a tug- Sunday Morning, Hewagoda scheduled last year, the high-cost grid within the next 10 years. At o-war between the regulatory It is true that what is taking noted that the 1,600 acres of land generations would have been present, 148 MW has already been authorities and the sovereign place is environmental that the District Secretariat has replaced by wind power. connected to the national grid. residents of the area. destruction, but one must mentioned in the progress report He told The Sunday Morning Once commissioned, the The Matale District Secretariat also look at a workable for reclamation needs to be further that the generation cost of a unit Mannar wind farm cam supply recently reported that about method on how to retain investigated. of wind power was around Rs. 9, more than 380 million units of 1,600 acres of privately owned the people of the area whilst “The families that live in these while the generation cost of high- clean electricity to the national land within the Knuckles Range protecting the forest areas have been given annual cost diesel power stood at around grid, annually. Electricity from had been identified and that the permits by the local government Rs. 39 at present. Wind power plant in the Northern this project can be generated for Environmental activist Province Government was looking to Keerthi Hewagoda to engage in chena cultivation. Explaining further, Jayawardena less than 5 cents/kWh. One of the acquire these lands in the coming Therefore, it will be a challenge said the construction work of the PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA major benefits of this project is its weeks. that the authorities will have to power plant was to be completed facilities in Mannar and ability to displace large amounts The Sunday Morning The surveying of these lands face, should they decide to move last December but had been Anuradhapura has been arranged of fossil fuel-based electricity contacted Additional District has already been completed. these residents out and acquire the delayed due to various reasons, through a loan provided by Asian generation and thereby avoid Secretary Ishan Wijetilake, who However, since the occupants of land to be added to the Knuckles and at present, the erection of Development Bank (ADB). emissions amounting to 285,000 responded: “This has been a the said lands are not to be found Range. It is true that what is all towers had already been The project is also supported MT of CO2 to the environment, long-term process and the said or are unreachable, the District taking place is environmental completed. by a consultancy service contract annually. lands had been identified since Secretariat is unable to take legal destruction, but one must also The CEB is expecting that the with COWI A/S of Denmark The Mannar wind farm will be the ‘80s, during which time the action against them yet. look at a workable method on rest of the construction work be and a Warranty Operations and operated as a semi-dispatchable Knuckles Range was named an how to retain the people of the completed by the end of this year Maintenance contract (WOM) for power plant supported with an environmentally protected land. Questioned on area whilst protecting the forest,” by connecting an additional 100 the initial three-year period. Total advanced wind forecasting system It is in recent times that we have repurposing land Hewagoda noted. MW to the national grid. investment for the wind farm is to optimise and control the wind- been able to track these areas and In 2018, environmental activist Contd. on page 7 The contract has been awarded approximately $ 141 million. generated electricity to the national we are looking to take legal action by the CEB to Vestas Asia Pacific grid. This is in addition to the against squatters and encroachers A/S, a world-renowned Danish bird detection radar system to who have been occupying the Knuckles Range (Dumbara Adaviya) wind turbine manufacturer, to implement a selective shutdown lands for over four decades.” build the first large-scale wind We are planning to add of wind turbines to avoid bird Wijetilake also noted that The Knuckles Range, Range. As for the management farm in the southern coast of another 23 MW and the rest collisions, if any. the authorities are faced with traditionally called the “Dumbara plan, the Knuckles Range was Mannar. we are going to develop with The project is implemented as a the difficult task of tracing the Adaviya”, is a massif located in surveyed, demarcated, and The project comprises 30 state- the private sector because this benchmark project to ascertain the occupiers, as some lands have the central hills in Sri Lanka. The declared a conservation forest in of-the-art wind turbines, each is a commercially viable sector. possibility of integrating large-scale been cordoned off and there are term “range” encompasses not 2000 under the Forest Ordinance rated to 3.45 MW, while the total Mannar has high potential wind plants to the national grid with no residents or workers from only Knuckles Forest Reserve Act 1907 (Gazette No. 1130). installed capacity of this wind farm for wind power relevant grid support facilities. The whom they can get information. but the whole ecological unit that Moreover, in July 2007, with is 103.5 MW. project is also planned in line with the Ministry of Power Spokesman He added that it was only geographically belongs to the the objective of regulating The MWPP recently completed Sulakshana Jayawardena Government’s policy target to achieve recently, after much field research, Knuckles massif. The area above unauthorised activities on the the final main gravity foundation 20% nonconventional renewable that they have been able to map 1,500 metres (approximately private lands in the vicinity of along with the erection of the power generation by 2020. out these lands that are in fact 4,900 feet) in the Knuckles the KCF, all private land within 10th wind turbine. The primary According to Jayawardena, Upon completion, this project part of the Knuckles Range Range was declared a climatic the boundary of the KCF were contractor, Vestas Asia Pacific, most of the work has already been will be the first major addition of Environmentally Protected Land reserve in 1873, and in 1988, the declared an environmentally along with their specialist civil done and the CEB will be able to renewable energy to the national Zone. Knuckles conservation area was protected area (EPA) under the engineering contractor, Access connect at least part of it within grid, thereby complementing He also explained that they are declared over all lands above National Environmental Act No. Engineering PLC, has achieved September or October. the Government’s initiative to seeking the assistance of multiple 1,067 metres (approximately 47 of 1980 (5). Further, this Act satisfactory progress amidst the “We are planning to finish the prioritise sustainable clean energy state authorities including the 3,500 feet AMSL). facilitates acquisition of non-state challenging conditions of the balance within this year, which is to the national grid. Forest Department, Land Reform The Knuckles conservation lands and includes them in the Covid-19 pandemic. 100 MW. There was a delay in grid Meanwhile, speaking to The Commission, Range Forest area was subjected to a floral forest reserve. The project work commenced in substations because of the Covid- Sunday Morning, CEB General Office, and Central Environmental and faunal survey under the The Knuckles Forest is a March 2019. 19 situation and other difficulties. Manager Eng. Keerthi Karunaratne Authority to assist in identifying National Conservation Review refugium for a number of According to the CEB, this is We managed to overcome these said the project was at the final which section of these lands can (1992-1996) (5). Considering point endemics; the leaf-nosed the culmination of a long-term issues during the Covid time. We stage of completion and once it be demarcated into the Knuckles the high biodiversity and lizard (Ceretophora tennennti), effort by CEB to develop wind planned to connect 100 MW this is completed, 100 MW of wind Range. significant cultural value, the crestless lizard (Calotes power in a large scale, exploiting year,” he stressed. power will be added to the national “This is mainly in the Matale central highlands, including the liocephalus), an endemic the major monsoonal wind systems Elaborating further, he noted grid. District portion of the Knuckles Knuckles Conservation Forest fish (Laubuka insularis), and in Sri Lanka. that the potential of the Mannar State Minister of Solar Range, which belongs to the (KCF), was declared a UNESCO the Keerthisinghe Rock frog In this project, the CEB intends location was around 300 MW Power, Wind, and Hydro Power Laggala Divisional Secretariat’s World Heritage Property in 2010. (Nannophrys marmorata) are to harness power from wind on a and steps will be taken to develop Generation Projects Development Pitawala Pathana in the Under the Soil Conservation found only in the Knuckles large scale, on the same lines as it several other projects in the area. Duminda Dissanayake said that Gonamadawatte Division. If you Ordinance of 1993, human Range, and it has been home to did with the hydropower potential “We are planning to add another there were a number of new take the acreage of land from the activity had been restricted in the indigenous community since in the last century. 23 MW and the rest we are going projects in the pipeline and the Knuckles Range that stretches certain areas in the Knuckles historic times. The funding required for this to develop with the private sector planning of these projects will be towards the Matale District, it wind farm and other associated because this is a commercially done by the end of next week. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 6 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, August 23, 2020 e-commerce?The dark side of What do consumers think? Demanding customers Anthony, business analyst They’re pretty persistent that where they stand/park is the address on their map and we need to indicate it properly. They fail to read instructions even about the exact location. Once I left a note to bring change since I didn’t have any with me and the driver was adamant that I should have the change and they can’t see instructions before they pick up the order or else he would have never picked my order from the restaurant. Uber usually doesn’t want to pick up rides if they are too far or nearby after accepting the ride, or cancel when nearby late in the night. Also, they don’t keep change and end up overcharging always, saying they can’t look for change. Cancels and charges Awanki Perera There have been so many instances in which Uber drivers just cancel on us the minute they see the distance, and if the distance is short, after accepting the trip, most drivers do not move from their location. If we cancel the trip, we will be charged. Furthermore, Uber does not give an exact contact number of the driver. We have to contact their hotline, which is extremely inconvenient. More than anything, the biggest issue is that there is no person to complain about these issues in Uber Sri Lanka. They stole the food Savini Perera, senior operational head One of my friends wanted to deliver a food BY PUJANEE GALAPPATHTHI AND Meanwhile, the Country Manager of Uber to avoid liability to ensure the quality, SHANELLE BANDARA parcel through Uber Eats. The person ended the too had called to personally apologise for sanitation, health, and safety (standards) trip after collecting the food parcel and before the inconvenience. prescribed by law to the people who obtain echnology and The consumers who use the Uber delivering it to the required person. Basically, To the shock of the author of this post and services via the platform in most occasions. the Uber driver stole from her. And then she e-commerce have become his wife, on a particular Thursday morning, app have to mandatorily agree The consumers who use the Uber app integral parts of our day- complained about this to Uber but got they discovered a couple standing at their to the terms and conditions of have to mandatorily agree to the terms no response. to-day lives in this digital gate. It turned out to be the rider and his using the Uber app…Agreeing and conditions of using the Uber app. In era. Transactions have wife, apologising and begging them to help to these terms and conditions such contracts, consumers barely have any An illegal service? Tbecome much easier with platforms get the rider’s job back. They had been bargaining power to negotiate on the terms Pamodya like Amazon and eBay, with many shocked by how the matter had unfolded puts the consumers in a position and conditions. Agreeing to these terms and This was when I was travelling in Columbia. popping up every day. However, and brought this to the attention of the Uber where in the event any loss/ conditions puts the consumers in a position We ordered the taxi online and he picked us along with the pros come the cons Eats Sri Lanka Country Manager and in damage/threat is incurred by the where in the event any loss/damage/threat is at the airport entrance. When we exited from and one such con that raised many response, received a text saying that they consumer, they cannot claim any incurred by the consumer, they cannot claim the airport main entrance, the Columbia Police stopped us and the driver advised us to tell concerns recently was an incident were very sorry for the inconvenience damages directly from Uber any damages directly from Uber as Uber has caused. Thereafter, the lady had lodged a not taken up any liability or has excluded its the Police that he was a friend of ours. We relating to the international food complaint on the app and received a call by Attorney-at-Law Prasadi Wijesinghe liabilities in the initial terms and conditions gave the answer he wanted. However, it got so delivery platform Uber Eats. another US number to apologise once again to which the consumer has agreed when complicated after the Police started to question A social media post titled “Consumer and assure her of her safety. signing up on the Uber app,” Wijesinghe us. So, we decided to tell the truth. Only then did safety fail by Uber Eats Sri Lanka – our With several such complaints being explained. we realise that Uber was an illegal service in that personal experience” has been rapidly lodged against the platform in the recent The consumer may be taxed in She said that in her opinion, Uber, country. The Police arrested the driver and they circulating, raising concerns with regard past and some disputes even being dragged the form of a stamp duty. Since although being an intermediary, should not also arranged another taxi for us to go to Bogotá. to how Uber Eats Sri Lanka protects its to courts, and many posts being shared on these are global operations, it is be given the opportunity to escape from its Uber didn’t have a number to lodge a complaint, consumers’ safety. social media, Uber Sri Lanka seems to have difficult for any government to liability to remedy the negative impacts of so we emailed them. Within a day, they refunded developed an unfavourable and questionable levy any taxes on them. Unless poor services provided by the third-party our money. This is actually a very serious issue. The incident reputation over the years. otherwise there should be a service providers registered in their pool The social media post details the incident as service providers. “For example, private which took place on 1 August 2020. The Purpose of riders taking pictures regulation to say that if you have hospitals act as an intermediary to the Dahanayake to gain insights into how author’s wife had ordered lunch from Uber The Uber Eats app has many delivery an app, then you should have a patients who obtain the services of third- e-commerce platforms in general function. Eats Sri Lanka. When the rider had handed options including the new “Leave at local office party consultants. In the event of faulty “When speaking about e-commerce over the order, he had requested the lady to Door” (LAD) option, a recent addition to eMarketingEye Founder/CEO performance of the consultants, the hospital platforms, there are two types: One is an app hold the food so that he could take a picture minimise the spread of the Covid-19 virus Rajitha Dahanayake shall be made responsible for such poor which is downloaded and can be operated of the items being delivered, as the platform as well as to promote safe social distancing performance along with the consultant. The from anywhere and the other is the website generally requires them to take a picture. norms within communities. According levels of liability may differ.” type. With regard to websites, you can place What was out of place was, however, that to Uber, the photo of the order being established internal process. Once on-board, According to Wijesinghe, the law the order and get them delivered, immaterial the rider had not taking a picture of the food, delivered is a requirement only for LAD CPs are provided awareness sessions to relating to digital unilateral agreements of the location. The key difference in the but only of the lady. Upon asking whether orders when the consumers specifically cover aspects such as how to use the app, applicable for intermediary service platform that service providers such as she could see the picture, the rider had request the courier partners (CPs) to leave understanding earnings, how to interact with providing companies can be improved in a Uber work on is that it connects to multiple already been on his bike, ready to take off, the order at the door, which will ensure the users and restaurant partners, community way where the third-party service provider suppliers and works through an app, and and she did not want to stir up a fuss, as she order has indeed been delivered. guidelines, new features, how to contact enters into an agreement with Uber with they charge a commission for their services. was alone at the time. Uber support, Colombo Municipal Council all the obligations relating to the quality In which case, from the amount they get As soon as the rider had left, she had Uber for dummies (CMC)-recommended guidelines, etc. of the service, sanitation, and health and as commission, they pay the riders and the checked the Uber Eats app to see whether When asked about the local hotline “Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 safety protocols and Uber includes every balance is the profit. With regard to the the picture has been uploaded to the order based in Sri Lanka for consumers to lodge pandemic, the on-boarding process of CPs such obligation in the unilateral agreement profits, I am not sure whether it is collected receipt as riders usually do. However, to complaints and receive instant solutions, has been revised. Instead of group in-person or the terms and conditions signed by the locally, but what I feel is that it goes to an her dismay, no such picture appeared, after Uber officials said the in-app Uber Eats sessions, Uber Eats has summarised this customer. “In this way, Uber can get the offshore account as it is a global operation.” which a complaint was immediately lodged helpline is available to consumers during a module into an educational video for third-party service provider to indemnify Dahanayaka pointed out that concerns regarding the incident. live order. After the food is delivered, one viewing, prior to attending the assessment Uber for faulty and poor service provision have also been raised with regard to A bit later on that same day, she had can access messaging support through the session at the Uber GL centre.” while at the same time holding them liable e-commerce operations making local received two messages from Uber, stating in-app “Help” feature. However, given that all service-based to pay damages to the aggrieved consumer.” offices liable to pay taxes while global that they would be in touch with her. Yet, a According to Uber, the procedure when institutions are governed by certain With the curiosity on how Uber deals platforms such as the aforementioned are week goes by and there was no news of the handling complaints includes a designated regulations of the country, The Sunday with its taxation and whether it is registered exempt from such liability. incident or the complaint, despite multiple team and a standardised process to handle Morning spoke to Attorney-at-Law in the under the Inland Revenue Department “In this scenario, the consumer may follow-ups being made. Fortunately, through all feedback raised relating to an order. field of corporate and labour regulations (IRD), The Sunday Morning contacted the be taxed in the form of a stamp duty. a personal connection, they had managed A trained representative from the team Prasadi Wijesinghe. She shared that the IRD. However, they were unable to issue a Since these are global operations, it is to escalate the issue to the Uber Sri Lanka examines all available information relating law governing service-based companies in statement to the public or the media. They difficult for any government to levy any team. to an incident and any potential actions Sri Lanka mainly includes the Consumer did, however, inform that if a company is taxes on them. Unless otherwise there On 8 August, the lady was finally are based on the severity of the incident. Affairs Authority Act. registered with the Department, they are should be a regulation to say that if you contacted by a US number, but as they Additionally, feedback of the CP is also The general regulations in reference to required to submit their annual and quarterly have an app, then you should have a local were travelling, the connection had been taken into consideration. quality of the service, sanitation, and health reports, adding that failure to do so would office. But then again, I do not know how patchy. So, they were contacted once Throughout its standardised investigation and safety protocols apply to every service lead to them investigating the matter. practical it would be. When talking about again on a subsequent day. Since this call process, we learnt that Uber never shares provider in general. Apart from these, Moreover, if an individual felt that there responsibility, it would ideally be that these and the response given were completely personally identifiable information of any of companies providing food delivery services were some discrepancies, they could make entities that have local representation are unsatisfactory, she requested that the matter their users with any other party. are also legally bound by the Food Act No. a complaint with the IRD, after which the able to better handle customer complaints be escalated and further looked into. After Asked if there is a screening process 26 of 1980 in the context of distributing latter would investigate the matter. and issues. Of course, people would be days of going back and forth with the matter, when hiring drivers/riders, the company food. more comfortable in dealing with such the team had held an investigation into the noted: “Uber Eats’ CPs are not employees “As Uber refer to themselves as a digital The functionality operators. However, in certain Southeast matter, assuring that no personal details of but independent delivery service providers, platform which simply connects two third We also spoke to eMarketingEye Founder Asian countries, only the locally based the customer would be divulged to the rider. and they are on-boarded after fulfilling the parties via its platform, this allows them and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rajitha apps are allowed.” WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 7 Sunday, August 23, 2020 SPOTLIGHT BUILDING A PRODUCTION ECONOMY No short-term respite z Commodity prices on the rise z Consumers await promised relief RED ONIONS LOCAL (RS./KG) B ONIONS IMP (RS./KG) POTATOES LOCAL (RS./KG) DRY CHILLI IMP (RS./KG) COCONUT OIL (RS./LTR) DHAL SMALL (RS./KG) EGGS (RS./EACH) RICE (RS./KG)

2019 120.00 128.00 210.00 360.00 320.00 120.00 19.50 85.00 2020 170.00 113.00 173.00 420.00 370.00 145.00 23.00 98.00 BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Betel leaf farmers hit hard One of the popular topics of discussion in Sri Lanka Attention has now been paid products carrying the Sri Lankan today is the “self-sufficient to the minor crops once again label. economy” where priority is with the appointment of the new “The demand has now dropped given to national products State Minister for Development drastically due to the imposing in contrast to the economic of Sugarcane, Maize, Cashew, of a tax on Sri Lankan betel by situation prior to Covid-19 Pepper, Cinnamon, Cloves, Betel Pakistan and the rejection of that was largely based on Production and Promotion of several stocks re-exported to imports. Allied Products and Export by London,” he stressed. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Betel plays a major role in Though the term “self- Farmers are now waiting the Sri Lankan export market, sufficiency” is a good morale for solutions to revive their contributing around Rs. 400- booster before and during cultivations and reduce export 500 million annually. It has elections, in reality, it’s impossible market demand. become one of the main income to achieve within a month or two. Among the minor crops sources for many farmers in In the process, the common man exported by Sri Lanka, betel the Kurunegala and Gampaha would get affected indirectly when leaves played a bigger role as it Districts. Betel for the export local production is insufficient was expensive earlier. market is mainly grown in the to meet the country’s demand; “Farmers earned high revenue, Kurunegala District (65% of when the demand increases and as sometimes, 10,000 leaves total betel production) and the production is limited, prices were sold for Rs. 15,000,” All Gampaha District (22%). increase, ultimately becoming an Island Farmers’ Federation Pakistan is the major export issue of increased cost of living. (AIFF) National Organiser Namal market for Sri Lankan betel. At present, even though there Federation (AIFF) National Rising cost of living Karunaratne stressed. Although betel is grown in is no acute shortage, concerns are Organiser Namal Karunaratne Speaking to The Sunday Nevertheless, the industry Pakistan, consumers prefer Sri being raised by consumers on the stressed that animal feed and other Maize is the main ingredient of Morning, Janatha Vimukthi has been hit hard due to the Lankan betel due to its superior increase in prices of essentials. materials necessary for the poultry the feed, so when the prices of Peramuna (JVP) politburo member re-exporting of low-quality Indian quality. Egg prices soar industry were imported from the maize increase, the production stressed US, India, and China, adding: “The cost also increases. Before that the people of the country were Concerns have been raised by farmers are facing a huge difficulty Covid-19, the production suffering under the burden of a concerns over the cost of living, Meanwhile, worldwide surveys poultry farmers over the drop in in accessing their required cost was around Rs. 13.25 high cost of living. nothing has been changed to conducted by different research egg production during the past few materials due to the current import but now it has increased to According to him, the Consumer reduce the cost of living since they organisations have revealed that a months due to the short supply restrictions.” around Rs. 16. But there’s no Price Index (CPI) has not changed came to power. majority of people in 26 countries of poultry feed as a result of the As a result, at present, government intervention to for the last seven years – it is “The fuel prices were not say the overall cost of food, sudden ban on maize imports. production has dropped by 30%. control the prices of maize supposed to be changed every five reduced even during the all-time goods, and services have increased They predict that if no solution In addition, the price of feed is on AIFF National Organiser years. The prices of essential goods low prices experienced in the for them and their families since is presented, there will be a severe the rise and the poultry farmers are Namal Karunaratne have increased, but the salaries international market which affected the coronavirus outbreak began. shortage of eggs and chicken in the experiencing higher input costs and have not increased in parallel. almost all goods and services,” The world is likely experiencing country within the next two months. meagre returns. “Therefore, we urge the Vithanage said, adding that the the worst economic downturn A majority of poultry farmers “The price of poultry feed is Demand for maize in Sri Lanka Government to review and increase maximum retail price restrictions since the Great Depression live in the Naththandiya, Bingiriya, skyrocketing. At this juncture, it is is around 500,000 MT per year, but all public, private, and estate imposed for daily essentials such with advanced and developing Hettipola, and Kuliyapitiya areas difficult for any farmer to manage local production amounts to only sector salaries to match the cost of as dhal, rice, sugar, and canned countries suffering severe and as per statistics, there are their poultries,” he lamented. around 200,000 MT. living,” he stressed. fish were never experienced by the economic impacts and devastating around 150,000 farmers in the As explained by Karunaratne, the Furthermore, the Government Samarasinghe went on to say consumers and it was only limited consequences. Contractions in North Western Province alone. ban imposed on maize has become imposed a price ceiling on that even though the daily wage of to words. economic activity in response Speaking to The Sunday one of the major issues faced by local maize at Rs. 40, but these the estate sector workers had been to Covid-19 will have a Morning, All Island Farmers’ poultry farmers. prices had increased as there is a increased by the Government, the disproportionate impact on hunger monopoly as a result of the ban workers were not yet getting paid in countries affected by fragility, imposed on imports, he alleged, the higher amount. Therefore, we urge the conflict, and displacement. Prices of essentials adding that the poultry farmers Still waiting Government to review and It further predicts that even in now had to purchase maize at increase all public, private, a best-case scenario outlook for The Daily Price Report There has been a slight increase around Rs. 55. The consumers are still waiting and estate sector salaries to economic recovery, contractions published by the Central Bank of in prices this year, compared “Maize is the main ingredient for the Government to deliver on match the cost of living in gross domestic products Sri Lanka (CBSL) shows the prices with the same period last year. of the feed, so when the prices of their promises made during the JVP politburo member (GDPs) will stagnate the already of several essentials such as dhal (1 According to the Daily Price maize increase, the production cost elections. Wasantha Samarasinghe limited progress made towards the kg), coconut oil (1 l), rice (samba) Report of the CBSL published on also increases. Before Covid-19, It’s nearly a year since the new global Sustainable Development (1 kg), sugar (1 kg), eggs (each), 19 August, the prices of the above the production cost was around Government came to power after Goal (SDG) of Zero Hunger. sprats (1 kg), green chilli (1kg), nine essentials were Rs. 110, Rs. Rs. 13.25 but now it has increased winning the presidential election Now there is no such price It estimates 54 million potato (1 kg), and onions (big and 300, Rs. 83, Rs. 98, Rs. 18, Rs. to around Rs. 16. But there’s no in November, but nothing has restriction and the price of a additional people in developing red) (1 kg) being sold at Rs. 135, 550, Rs. 170, (Rs. 112 and Rs. government intervention to control changed since then, National kilogramme of rice has increased countries will be hungry in Rs. 340, Rs. 96, Rs. 126, Rs. 21.50, 90), respectively. the prices of maize,” he added. Movement for Consumer Rights dramatically compared to that of 2020 as a result of the economic Rs. 550, Rs. 110, Rs. 135, (Rs. In addition, the prices of several As poultry farmers claimed, Protection Chairman Ranjith last year, he stressed. downturn. This includes millions 95 and Rs. 123), respectively at vegetables and fruits also show in addition to maize, the prices Vithanage stressed. “Consumers are waiting patiently already on the brink, pushing them the Pettah Wholesale Market last an increase compared with the of other ingredients such as He told The Sunday Morning till the Government delivers on the deeper into hardship and brutally Tuesday (18). previous year. vitamin E, minerals, etc. have also that while the Government, while promises they made,” Vithanage halting their hope of recovery increased. in the Opposition, had raised added. from conflict and crisis.

Contd. from page 4 that the 96 Mahindodaya laboratories that improve connectivity, and uplift the Contd. from page 5 including the Sri Lanka State Plantations were established in the region will fuel lifestyles of the people in the North. Corporation in 2018 for aiding the land that vision. allocations. Later that year, Kiriella Kick-starting... However, with the presidential election Awaiting budgetary allocations Reclaiming... claimed that the Government was not taking a turn, appointing Maithripala The Sunday Morning contacted the planning to establish any type of industry Time to keep the promise Sirisena as the Yahapalana Government Planning Division of the Governor’s Hewagoda had also submitted a written within the range area. As he assumed office, Rajapaksa stated President, Prime Minister Rajapaksa’s Office for the Northern Province to inquire complaint in June 2018, indicating that Hewagoda, in his paper, listed the that his first priority in development promise to the region had to be set aside. whether they have been given instructions with Cabinet Directive 2017/81 dated critical observations of the adverse work would be to kick-start the projects Once again, being appointed the Prime on any new projects or any projects to be 23 November 2017, the Government of biological impact, adverse geological that had become stagnant and that the Minister through a historic election restarted that were on hold since 2014. Sri Lanka was to lease the large tracts and ecological impact, and adverse Northern Province development will where he secured a record number of “We are yet to receive any fresh of land in Knuckles Range to private economic and social impact these now be prioritised, as the region has preferential votes from the Kurunegala instructions on the type of development ownerships for long periods for factory activities could cause to the range not moved forward since the last time District this August, the Premier got a work that the Prime Minister or President farms (livestock), mineral excavation, ecosystem. he rolled out the “Uthuru Wasanthaya” chance to revisit the projects that were put has planned out to execute in the province. tourism, bottled water industry, and mini/ Furthermore, he had noted that there programme which saw much on hold for the past five years. At the moment, the province has run out small hydropower plants. are underlying political implications infrastructure development work taking Another area that the Prime Minister of its budgetary allocations to continue the The state-owned estates that were that should be addressed with time. It shape. was interested in developing was routine maintenance work as well. The earmarked to be leased were in Opalgala, must be noted that the Knuckles Range On the second day of January in 2015, extending the Government’s support to contractors are dragging the projects as Nikal Oya, Midlands, Kallebokka, is already threatened by the spread of during the last leg of the campaign the business community in the North to there are some pending payments that need Alakola, Gomare, Galpihilla, Kotagala, invasive plants, ground fires, boundary trail for a third term in office, Mahinda set up high-tech industries equipped with to be cleared,” Northern Provincial Council Rangala, Hare Park, and some others, encroachments, tourism-related Rajapaksa, who was President at the time, state-of-the-art equipment, which will Director of Planning E. Johnson explained. altogether comprising approximately activities, illegal agricultural practices, addressing the intellectuals and business open up information and communication With the present Government’s Vote 21,000 acres. etc. and the leasing out of these lands owners of the North, promised to develop technology (ITC)-related jobs for the on Account (VoA) now taken up and the will dramatically increase the damage, the Northern Province as a knowledge youth. debate scheduled to take place on 27 and Former ministers deny Hewagoda had stated in his paper, hub. At the time, special emphasis was 28 August, the Provincial Council will allegations adding that the Sri Lankan Government Sharing his vision for the region, he given to the development of the Northern hopefully be able to get some allocations Allegations were hurled at former must be urged to stop handing out these noted that the northern region needs to be Province since the end of war, to and pay the outstanding to the contactors, so ministers and Lakshman eco-sensitive lands to environmentally recognised as a knowledge hub and stated rehabilitate and restore infrastructure, that the maintenance work can continue. Kiriella, and government institutions, destructive activities. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning Sunday, August 23, 2020 EDITORIAL/POLITICS The case for policy consistency Asia has been projected as the world’s engine of growth in the decade ahead. It has been forecasted that China and India will lead the way followed by the likes of Vietnam, Cambodia, and the established economic powerhouses of Singapore, Malaysia, etc. It is unfortunate that although Sri Lanka has had GR gets reforms ball rolling a head start over all these countries in the race for economic prosperity in this part of the world, it has not been able to attract the kind of investment z UNP leadership continues till next year; RW z Video of Karu backing SJB creates a stir; needed to supercharge growth and propel it to the big league. Today, India is well on its way to economic nirvana, along with the turns down United Bhikku Front request Karu denies promoting SJB at polls other countries mentioned above, thanks to a stable political environment and investment-friendly economic policies that have been a magnet for The political chaos that challenges are big. Some of multinational corporations who have been generous with the big bucks, took precedence in the the challenges you do not see so long as the return is greater. It’s a win-win situation for both, as the weeks leading up to often on protest placards are country benefits through investment, job creation, infusion of technology, the appointment of a significant. As you know, a infrastructure development, industrialisation, etc. new Government and child gets abused every two Which brings us to the fundamental question: What has defined economic the convening of the hours and when drugs are progress of Asian countries like India, Singapore, and Malaysia as opposed ninth Parliament is now the apprehended, some of them go to Sri Lanka? Why is it that we as a nation have consistently underperformed gradually settling with the black box missing and they can end up while the rest around us thrive? The answer in a nutshell is that they have all Government setting the back in circulation,” he noted. had political stability woven around the concept of a supreme constitution agenda for the next few by Capt. Vasabha Meanwhile, Sri Lanka which Parliament or politicians cannot override. Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) In contrast, Sri Lanka has had or attempted to have a new constitution months. the foundation for the introduction Founder/theoretician Basil every few years to suit the whims and fancies of the party in power, not Given that the Opposition of a new constitution altogether. Rajapaksa recently explained only scaring away big businesses but also driving away others because the political parties are yet to get their The Cabinet of Ministers that while the proposed 20th biggest put off for multinational investors – wherever that may be on the acts together after the outcome convened last Wednesday (19) for Amendment will abolish the 19th planet – is policy inconsistency. For all they care, governments and politicians of the recently concluded general the first time since the appointment Amendment, it will also include can come and go, but state policy should remain the same. That really is the election, the Government, it seems, of the new Government and the certain clauses of the 18th and 19th magnet, not some magic mantra. When the constitution is changed every will have a smooth environment to main topic of discussion was the Amendments as well as some fresh now and then, the status quo changes and the fundamental requirement of carry out its agenda without much proposed 20th Amendment to the clauses. stability remains unfulfilled. difficulty. However, looking at Constitution. He also noted that the President Constitutional change has been a tried and tested method for election success the political trend in the country The Cabinet also discussed had requested that the presidential in this country, and politicians of all hues have resorted to that tactic over the during the past five years, it is and approved the programme to term continue to remain as five years, little realising the damage they cause in the process, especially on the evident that all governments need grant employment to graduates economic front. Just to put things in perspective, India is to date governed to pay attention to the verdict of and decided to grant 10,000 more The Government, headed by its founding Constitution introduced in 1949. Singapore is running on the people’s court. jobs to the unemployed graduates. by President Gotabaya its Constitution introduced in 1963 with the declaration of Independence, Despite winning a comfortable The next matter taken up by the Rajapaksa and Prime Minister which is also the case with Malaysia that enacted its Constitution in 1955. majority in Parliament, there Cabinet was the Vote on Account Mahinda Rajapaksa, now has Although amendments have taken place at regular intervals in keeping with has been some distress with the to fund government expenditure till its work cut out for it. After the evolving times, the superstructure has remained untouched, which in governing party, mainly over the the end of this year, when the 2021 ensuring a clear victory for turn has acted as the rock on which the economies of these countries have allocation of ministerial portfolios. Budget will be implemented. President Rajapaksa and been built. Starting from the subjects Minister of Mass Media giving him the two-thirds Here in Sri Lanka, our first post-Independence constitutional change assigned to the individuals to Keheliya Rambukwella, who is majority requested by him occurred in 1972 when the Government proclaimed the title used for the portfolio, also the official Spokesperson for to govern the country, Sri Lanka a republic and severed all constitutional ties with its former colonial displeasure was raised among the Government, announced last the general public has set master, Britain. Just six years later, the J.R. Jayewardene-led administration some of the recipients with some Wednesday that the Cabinet of high expectations of the introduced a completely new constitution with an executive president at the even avoiding appearing in the Ministers had granted approval to Government helm and a market economy to boot. A decade later, owing to the growing official photograph taken with the introduce the 20th Amendment to scourge of an ethnic war, the game-changing 13th Amendment was introduced Head of State after the swearing-in the Constitution. years and the number of times an to the Constitution under India’s compulsion, giving birth to the provincial ceremony. The Cabinet granted approval to individual could contest for the councils and a new electoral system based on proportional representation, This displeasure was further abolish the 19th Amendment and presidency continue as two terms opening up a whole new ball game in the governance structure. These witnessed when the newly to officially commence the drafting as stated in the 19th Amendment. changes led to an uprising in the South in addition to a full-blown war in appointed members of the of the 20th Amendment to the The proposed 20th Amendment the North and East – the combined effect of which set the country back Government started to assume Constitution. is to also include the independent years, if not decades. duties in their respective offices. A five-member committee was commissions that are currently in Then roughly a decade later, in 2000, the Chandrika Bandaranaike Some of the portfolio holders also appointed on Wednesday to operation. Kumaratunga Government valiantly attempted to introduce a new constitution expressed disappointment in what assist with drafting the proposed According to , abolishing the executive presidency, but it ended up in smoke as MPs decided was assigned to them, saying they constitutional amendment. these commissions will be to burn copies of it in the well of the House. Ever since, every successive hoped for an office to carry out The committee consists of structured in a manner in which government has promised to introduce a new constitution, and with the more work. Justice Minister Ali Sabry PC and they would carry out their change of government in 2015, the -led administration However, all is now water under includes Ministers Nimal Siripala functions independently unlike at introduced the 19th Amendment, curtailing the powers of the executive the bridge with all government de Silva, Udaya Gammanpila, present. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa presidency while also introducing independent commissions, Right to members expressing confidence Prof. G.L. Peiris, and Dinesh Newly appointed Co-Cabinet delivering his maiden speech at the Information (RTI), etc. in carrying out their duties as Gunawardena. Spokesperson Minister Udaya inaugural session on Thursday (20) All this, though necessary, tends to send the wrong signals due to the expected. Accordingly, the 20th Gammanpila noted that the manner in which it is done, which inevitably our competitors in the region The Government, headed by Amendment to the Constitution proposed 20th Amendment capitalise on. The proof is there for all to see. A classic case is the 19th President Gotabaya Rajapaksa will be drafted and presented to the will also include the Right to stated that the proposed 20th Amendment which was heralded with much fanfare by President Sirisena, and Prime Minister Mahinda Cabinet of Ministers before being Information (RTI) laws. Amendment focuses on abolishing who for the next two years at least took singular credit for it. Now, just three Rajapaksa, now has its work cut tabled in Parliament for approval. He explained that the the 19th Amendment and would years later, the same Sirisena is championing its repeal. In the meantime, out for it. After ensuring a clear Government did not have any not affect the 13th Amendment to foreign funds are pulling out of the local capital markets while politicians victory for President Rajapaksa Working on 20A intention of doing away with RTI. the Constitution. have little comprehension of the connection between their actions and the and giving him the two-thirds Newly appointed Justice “There are many flaws in the Nevertheless, it is evident that consequences for the country. majority requested by him to Minister Ali Sabry, addressing the 19th Amendment and even those the Government would eventually We are not talking about the pros and cons of new legislation; for all govern the country, the general gathering after assuming duties who formulated it have accepted introduce a new Constitution intents and purposes, it is necessary, but there should be a method as to public has set high expectations of last week, said that the Ministry this fact. Through the 20th altogether. how it’s done in order to minimise its economic impact. To put it bluntly, the Government. of Justice will not allow any harm Amendment, we hope to address “The basis of the success of a constitutional overhauls every time a government changes is bad for In fact, the change expected by to come to the Constitution, or the this issue and do away with the democratic state is its constitution. business. Some folks may be driven by domestic political compulsions to the public is so great that it would public that benefit from it. retrogressive clauses in the piece Our Constitution, which has enact party-friendly legislation, but the truth of the matter is that it scares also be somewhat a noose around “I would like to assure you all of legislation,” Gammanpila said. been amended 19 times, from away the big-timers whose guiding principle is to play it safe wherever its neck. that we will not allow any harm With talk of introducing a its inception in 1978, has many they go. This is basically why Sri Lanka has been unable to get out of the It is in this backdrop that the to befall the Constitution and the constitutional amendment, some ambiguities and uncertainties, bind ever since the initial euphoria of the open economy in 1978, which in Government last week embarked public,” Sabry said, while thanking analysts opined that it would also presently resulting in confusion. reality was the only time the country was able to at least briefly command on one of its key tasks for this year the President for the faith placed result in the amendment/abolition As the people have given us the attention of big multinationals. – constitutional amendments. in him. of the 13th Amendment to the the mandate we wanted for a Today, we are back at square one with another attempt at constitution- The proposed constitutional “Make no mistake, we are up Constitution. constitutional amendment, our making in the works. What we are not quite certain about is whether it is a amendments are expected to form against several challenges; the However, Minister Ali Sabry first task will be to remove wholesale change of constitution or piecemeal where the 19th Amendment is the 19th Amendment to the to be replaced with the 20th. If a brand new constitution is to be introduced, Constitution. After that, all of then the 20th Amendment becomes redundant, as it can be incorporated us will get together to formulate in the new legislation. Going by what President Gotabaya Rajapaksa a new Constitution suitable for stated in his inaugural address to the ninth Parliament last week, the 20th the country. In this, the priority Amendment could be an interim measure until the new constitution is ready will be given to the concept of for implementation. one country, one law for all the The cliché “out-of-the-box thinking” has been part of the business people,” President Rajapaksa said, lexicon for many years. It gained currency during the global recession that addressing the inaugural sitting of took place in 2008/09. It had its period of usefulness and like everything the ninth Parliament. else was fading into oblivion when the Covid-19 global pandemic gave Referring to electoral reforms, it a new lease of life. No doubt, the President is well aware that these are the President said: “While extraordinary times where the winners take it all and the losers lose it all. introducing a new constitution, it It’s a dog-eat-dog world and those who can get their act together faster than is essential to make changes to the the competition will win the day. This is probably what prompted President current electoral system. While Rajapaksa to specifically exhort members of the new Parliament to think retaining the salutary aspects of the out of the box during his policy statement. proportional representation system, Therefore, if we continue on the premise that the world will change to fit these changes will be made to into our way of doing things, we are in for a rude shock. It is not too late to ensure stability of the Parliament fall in line and adapt to the world order, for otherwise, we will continue to and people’s direct representation.” be left behind. In that regard, policy consistency is an absolute prerequisite, and inconsistency, especially between a sitting government and the next, A different Parliament could have far greater implications than what meets the eye, especially on The ninth Parliament that the economic front, even though there may be no discernable connection convened last Thursday (20) was a between the two. unique House. One of the main factors that No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. make the ninth Parliament a unique Fax - 011 2 673 441 one is that it is the first time in over General - 011 5 200 900 seven decades that the House met Director Sales & Marketing - 077 3 866 143 without any representation from Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367620 the (UNP). E-mail - [email protected] The UNP’s present leadership crisis has prevented the WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 9 EDITORIAL/POLITICS GR gets reforms ball rolling z Video of Karu backing SJB creates a stir; z CBK calls for restructuring of SLFP; z Wigi fires first salvo in the House; ITAK Karu denies promoting SJB at polls CC decides to initiate disciplinary action to study performance at general election

alias , both sought court The UNP’s National List slot Withanage and permission to attend the inaugural will possibly remain vacant of the SJB, led by Opposition parliamentary session. till next year until a final Leader , said that Jayasekera was recently decision is reached on the the only alternative left for the convicted of murder while Pillayan party leadership. The UNP has UNP was to ally with the SJB. is accused of murdering former decided that the party will “The electorate has shown what (TNA) MP appoint a member through the UNP should do. Therefore, . the National List after a new we invite them to join the SJB,” Pillayan was granted permission leader is appointed Wijesiri told a news conference. by the High Court to “We hear that the UNP is hoping attend the inaugural session of Secretary Ven. Theeniyawala to reorganise itself. These plans Parliament. Palitha, met with UNP Leader have ended in failure in the past,” After arriving at Parliament, in on Withanage has said at the same his speech to congratulate newly Wednesday (19) afternoon at the news conference. “We are sad appointed Speaker Mahinda Yapa party headquarters, Sirikotha. about the fate which has befallen Abeywardena, Pillayan expressed According to sources within the UNP at the general elections. his desire to attend Parliament as the party, during the meeting, the Parliament will be without UNP an elected public representative priests presented Wickremesinghe MPs for the first time in Sri and to serve the people. Newly elected parliamentarian with a letter in which he Lanka’s political history. We are C.V. Wigneswaran He explained that although he (Wickremesinghe) agrees to his inviting those remaining in the had been in the LTTE, he is now removal from the post of leader party to join Mr. Premadasa.” engaged in mainstream politics. Wigneswaran raised the and appoints as It is in this backdrop that a However, Jayasekera was unable issues faced by the people in Leader, while statement by UNP Deputy General to attend Parliament due to the the North and East Provinces was to be appointed Deputy Secretary failure to get judicial clearance. and called for the recognition Leader. was seen in the media last week, Therefore, three seats were of the Tamil people’s rights. Wickremesinghe refused to where he had said there is a vacant in the ninth Parliament last He took only a sign the letter, stating that he did possibility of a merger between week. few minutes to congratulate not have the power to appoint a the UNP and the SJB in the future. the new Speaker new leader and that the decision “We intend on having a Arranging funds lay with the UNP’s Working dialogue with the SJB with such The Vote on Account that an Appropriation Bill has been Committee (WC). a possibility in view,” he had was approved by the Cabinet of postponed due to the establishment This announcement resulted in told journalists after making a Ministers on Wednesday was of the new ministry. Ven. Palitha launching into a tirade statement before the Presidential tabled in Parliament on Friday The Government is to present a over the failings of the WC and Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) on (21). fully fledged budget for 2021 in the lack of confidence of party the Easter Sunday attacks. The parliamentary party leaders November this year. members in decisions taken by the Wijewardene had also said a during the meeting on Thursday WC. new young leader may emerge (20) decided to allocate two days to Wigi’s salvo The priest subsequently in a few months and one has to debate the Vote on Account, which Newly elected parliamentarian, threatened to quit the party if the be patient on the restructuring of seeks to cover the expenses for the former Northern Province Chief letter was not signed. the UNP during this transitional Government’s efforts to control the Minister C.V. Wigneswaran on It was at this point that period. Covid-19 outbreak. Thursday fired his first salvo in Wickremesinghe informed the The Vote on Account debate is the House by making a political participants at the meeting that SLFP-CBK clash? to be held this Thursday (27) and statement during his speech to earlier in the day, several UNP Senior member of the Sri Lanka Friday (28). congratulate the newly appointed candidates in the recently held Freedom Party (SLFP), former It was earlier reported that the Speaker Abeywardena. general election had shown him a President Chandrika Bandaranaike Vote on Account will be presented Making his maiden speech in video allegedly of Karu Jayasuriya Kumaratunga last week called on for the allocation of Rs. 1.6 trillion the House, Wigneswaran raised calling on the public to vote for the SLFP to regroup and take the for the period from 1 September till the issues faced by the people in Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party forward with a new leader. 31 December. the North and East Provinces and Colombo District candidate Eranda She made this observation in a The Cabinet Memorandum on called for the recognition of the Welianga. special video statement. the proposed Vote on Account Tamil people’s rights. These candidates, all of She also noted that she will not was submitted to the Cabinet last He took only a few minutes to whom had contested from the return to politics but was ready to week by Prime Minister Mahinda congratulate the new Speaker. Colombo District, had expressed support a new SLFP leader. Rajapaksa as the Minister of Wigneswaran observed that the their displeasure at the fact that Kumaratunga also condemned appointment of a member to With talk of introducing a Finance. Tamil people have a right to self- Jayasuriya had supposedly openly the SLFP’s decision to join represent the party in the House constitutional amendment, A Vote on Account was passed determination. canvassed for a member of an hands with the SLPP and form a through the sole seat secured by the some analysts opined that in Parliament last year to cover He also made a reference in opposing party. government. UNP through the National List. it would also result in the the expenditure for the first four Sinhala, “kala kala de pala pala They have asked the leader to According to Kumaratunga, The UNP’s National List slot amendment/abolition of months until 30 April. de” (what goes around comes hold an inquiry into the matter she will never support the will possibly remain vacant till the 13th Amendment to However, it was not possible to around). prior to considering Jayasuriya for kind of politics followed by next year until a final decision is the Constitution. However, pass another Vote on Account in The following day, on Friday the post of Leader of the Party. the Rajapaksas, but admitted reached on the party leadership. Minister of Justice Ali Sabry April as Parliament was dissolved (21), MP Wickremesinghe has been that Prime Minister Mahinda The UNP has decided that the party stated that the proposed on 2 March this year. requested the Speaker of engaged in meeting with members Rajapaksa was a good leader, will appoint a member through the 20th Amendment focuses Therefore, the President Parliament to direct the removal of the party since the UNP’s something the Opposition does not National List after a new leader is on abolishing the 19th authorised the Treasury Secretary of certain statements made historic loss at the general election. have. appointed. Amendment and would not to spend money from the the previous day by MP C.V. The purpose of these meetings has She went on to say that the “The party seniors believe affect the 13th Amendment to Consolidated Fund on government been to ascertain who the party Opposition lost the just concluded that the new leader of the party the Constitution since the general election was also Wigneswaran observed that wishes to see succeed him as Party parliamentary election as they did should not be sent to Parliament postponed due to the Covid-19 the Tamil people have a right Leader. not have a good leader. since the leadership will be tasked has failed to appoint its National global pandemic. to self-determination. He also While a single name has been Following interest shown by with reforming and restructuring List nominee is Our People’s Accordingly, the Treasury made a reference in Sinhala, lacking, the general consensus Kumaratunga over resurrecting the party. It will be the next in Power Party (OPPP). Secretary was empowered “kala kala de pala pala de” within the UNP is that the party the SLFP, Party General Secretary command or a senior member Two newly elected MPs, one to allocate funds from the requires a new young leader Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara who will be appointed through the convicted of murder and another Consolidated Fund to cover Wigneswaran in the House from capable of energising the core said the decision on whether National List to Parliament. So accused in a high-profile murder government expenditure from 1 the Parliament Hansard. support base while winning back Kumaratunga’s support should be until then, the National List slot case, were elected to the ninth June to August 31. Nanayakkara raised objections the Sinhala Buddhist vote bloc that accepted or not would be taken will remain open,” a senior UNP Parliament. The Government decided to to the comments made by had been lost. by the party’s Central Committee source said. MP Premalal Jayasekera and MP allocate funds through a Vote on Wigneswaran on the right to self- While the search for the UNP’s (CC). Meanwhile, another party that Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, Account as the preparation of determination of Tamil people new leader continues, the party He said that necessary steps in the North and East as well as seniors are now looking into the would be taken to restore the party promoting the Tamil homeland complaint lodged by the party’s to its previous position and all concept in the House. Colombo District candidates about those, including the members of According to Nanayakkara, it Jayasuriya’s alleged backing of an SLPP, who left the party during was not appropriate to promote SJB candidate. the last few years were now such sentiments in Parliament at a However, Jayasuriya on invited to join the party. time when everyone in the country Thursday (20) issued a statement “We invite all members to come was trying to shed differences and denying the allegation that he had back to the party,” Jayasekara said. come together as one nation. backed the SJB and one of its He also noted that it was He further stated that candidates at the general election. Kumaratunga who joined with the Wigneswaran’s statement was a Jayasuriya had stated that he had UNP to support Sajith Premadasa violation of the oath taken by all not in any way backed the SJB, but during the last presidential parliamentarians at the inaugural had commended Welianga upon a election, causing severe damage to session of the House where it personal request made by the latter. the party. was pledged that a division of the He had further explained that he Therefore, decisions on the country and communities will not had decided to remain independent future of the party would be taken be promoted. and unbiased during the general after discussions with the SLFP Speaker Abeywardena responded election after his efforts at uniting leaders and the CC. saying he would look into the the party failed. “We have a leader, Maithripala matter and take appropriate action. Therefore, it had been noted Sirisena, and we will discuss how that the allegations of him backing to strengthen the party’s grassroots New twist in UNP another political party during the levels,” he added. The United National Party’s election are the work of a few He also noted that The inaugural session of the (UNP) search for a new leader defeated and politically destitute Kumaratunga’s personal grudges Ninth Parliament faced a fresh turn of events last individuals. with the Rajapaksas should not be PHOTOS LALITH PERERA week. reflected in the party restoration AND PRADEEP DAMBARAGE Several members of the United SJB’s invite work. Bikkhu Front, led by its General Meanwhile, MPs Hesha Contd. on page 14 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 10 the sunday morning FEATURE Sunday, August 23, 2020

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKERA President at the entrance to the Parliament, NINTH PARLIAMENT INAUGURATION where the Speaker and Secretary General of The inaugural sitting of the ninth Parliament Dasanayake greeted the President was more and the First Lady. toned down this time than usual The President and the First Lady were and for the first time had Covid-19 then met by a choir of schoolchildren safety measures in place, a possible dressed in pastel blue and pink, singing a omen for the newly elected public traditional Sinhala song. representatives. Next in line to greet the President was Leader of the House Gunawardena and The sittings kicked off at 9 a.m. on a Chief Government Whip , crisp Thursday (20) morning, with the new A change in both of whom greeted the President with the Parliament meeting for the first time in the customary “Ayubowan”. House. The President then entered the Parliament An initial sign that this Parliament Chambers and was escorted to the Speaker’s would be different to the others was the chair by the Sergeant-at-Arms and the arrival of novice MP Madhura Vithanage Deputy Sergeant-at-Arms of Parliament, to Parliament in a boat via the Diyawanna where he proceeded to make his first policy waterway. statement. After arriving, Vithanage said that since many ways The President, in his policy statement, Parliament was situated in the middle of thanked the people for the considerable the lake, it was apt to use boats as a mode Jayasekara was garbed in a white batik concluding his speech: “Kala kala de pala mandate given at the presidential election as of transport. He said that using boats was shirt with a simple blue design to represent pala de.” well as the recent parliamentary election. the best way to prevent traffic congestion the party colours of the Sri Lanka Freedom This was followed by the new Touching on a range of topics from on the road leading up to the Parliamentary Party (SLFP). parliamentarians taking their oaths. The national security, agriculture, and Complex. The first in the agenda for the day, as per MPs read out their oaths, which were made medicine to culture and heritage, President “The President has introduced the boat the usual routine, was the election of the available to them in all three languages, Rajapaksa highlighted the fact that the new service for transportation to minimise vehicle new Speaker of the House. pledging to uphold and defend the Government, with its two-thirds majority, congestion on the roads, but people are yet The Leader of the House, Sri Lanka Constitution of the Democratic Socialist would take immediate steps to introduce the to adapt to it. However, we plan to promote Podujana Peramuna MP and Minister of Republic of Sri Lanka. 20th Amendment to the Constitution and the use of boats to travel to Parliament in the Foreign Affairs , a They also pledged to “not, directly or bring about changes to the 19th Amendment future,” Vithanage said. veteran parliamentarian himself, proposed indirectly, in or outside Sri Lanka, support, to the Constitution. Many first-timer MPs were visibly excited the name of SLPP Matara District MP espouse, promote, finance, encourage, or “The basis of the success of a democratic to be within those hallowed chambers as . This was advocate the establishment of a separate state state is its Constitution. Our Constitution, public representatives, and the House was seconded by Samagi Jana Balawegaya within the territory of Sri Lanka”. which has been amended 19 times since its abuzz with impatient chatter. (SJB) National List MP Ranjith Madduma Thereafter, the name of Kegalle District inception in 1978, has many ambiguities What stood out the most from Bandara. MP for the post and uncertainties, presently resulting in other inaugural sittings – or any other Then, Gunawardena and Madduma of Deputy Speaker was proposed by MP confusion. As the people have given us the parliamentary sittings, for that matter – were Bandara approached Abeywardena’s seat , which was seconded mandate we wanted for a constitutional the anti-Covid-19 precautions such as the and escorted him – standing on either by MP , while SLFP amendment, our first task will be to remove MPs wearing facemasks and the seats in the side of Abeywardena – to the Speaker’s MP ’s the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. viewing gallery being separated to maintain chair at the very front of the House, after name was proposed for the post of Deputy “After that, all of us will get together to social distancing. which Abeywardena took his oaths as the Chairman of Committees and seconded by formulate a new constitution suitable for the However, it must be noted that neither the new Speaker before Secretary General of MP Duminda Dissanayake. country. In this, the priority will be given parliamentarians nor those gathered in the Parliament Dhammika Dasanayake. Then, Speaker Abeywardena suspended to the concept of one country, one law for gallery were strict in following these health Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa led sittings till 3 p.m. that day, at which point all the people. An unstable Parliament that and safety guidelines. Some parliamentarians all party leaders to the high post of Speaker the ceremonial sitting of the House, presided cannot take firm decisions and succumbs could be seen without facemasks or with of Parliament to wish the new Speaker over by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, to extremist influences very often is not facemasks removed, and many failed to on his appointment. The party leaders began. Just shy of 3 p.m., the Speaker suitable for a country,” he said, adding adhere to the rule of remaining in one’s seat were unanimous in their call to Speaker arrived at the Parliamentary Complex once that a new Constitution will be brought in, and could be seen shaking hands and talking Abeywardena to restore dignity to the again for the scheduled ceremonial sitting including electoral reforms. closely with each other. House and also ensure fair play and a level and to welcome the President. At around 3.45 p.m., the President In the gallery too, many visitors playing field for all lawmakers represented At 3 p.m. sharp, President Rajapaksa concluded his policy statement, after ignored the Xs marked in red ribbon to in the ninth Parliament. arrived in Parliament with First Lady Ioma which the Speaker adjourned Parliament invalidate seats to ensure social distancing One unique speech was the maiden Rajapaksa. Unlike in the past, however, till 9.30 a.m. on Friday (21). As per is maintained and so were seated close speech made by newly elected the President was not accompanied by the tradition, the inaugural session of together. parliamentarian C.V. Wigneswaran. He the traditional presidential motorcade Parliament was concluded with a tea party. Amidst all this, while most called for the recognition of Tamil rights. and instead arrived in a single bulletproof All parliamentarians set aside their political parliamentarians were either dressed in He said that the people in the North and Mercedes Benz. differences to have tea and mingle with the white cultural suits or black suits and East have a right to self-determination A troupe of Kandyan traditional esteemed guests who attended the sittings. ties, State Minister of Batik, Handloom, and that every action has an opposite dancers conducted a concise and elaborate PHOTOS LALITH PERERA and Local Apparel Products Dayasiri reaction, stating the final phrase in Sinhala, performance upon the arrival of the AND PRADEEP DAMBARAGE

Speaker of the House Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena and President Gotabaya Rajapaksa entering the Parliamentary Complex

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa greeting Speaker of the House Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena Newly appointed Speaker of the House Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena

Minister of Fisheries

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Minister of Foreign Affairs Dinesh Gunawardena

JVP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake

A troupe of Kandyan dancers conducted a performance upon the arrival of the President at the entrance to the Parliament Former President Maithripala Sirisena

State Minister of Defence and First Lady Ioma Rajapaksa chatting at the tea party Inaugural sitting of the ninth Parliament in session

From left: (Top row) SJB Spokesman , Field Marshal , MP Dr. , former State Minister Velusami Radhakrishnan; (bottom row) SLMC Leader , MP Gayantha Former Ministers and Karunathilake, Chief Opposition Whip , and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa Traditional tea party after the inaugural session of Parliament WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 11 Sunday, August 23, 2020 hot seat

accessible, quick, and efficient. The this point by the 20th Amendment is law’s delay is a huge problem. That to see how we can review the 19th is what, as a lawyer, I have seen. Amendment that was brought in. Other than that, there are vocal That is the scope of the immediate 20A will affect and sentimental issues, but that is measures. a policy decision which has to be taken. But if you go to a court, there You have claimed the new are about 900,000 cases pending, Government would unite the according to the information I people under one law. How do have so far. We are interested in you see this happening? 19A, not 13A finding a way to get that done more What I have claimed basically is efficiently. That’s one of the main what the President said on Thursday issues, and as lawyers, we (20) – to create a government all know that the law’s where everyone will feel as Sri delay is a massive Lankans and live without fear. That problem – that’s is what I have said. The policy of Ali Sabry where my focus is. the Government is directed by the Cabinet in terms of the Constitution, z MMDA reforms need z Delays in laws need so let the Cabinet make that call. to be expedited to be addressed What other legal reforms and policies do you expect to BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA look at Sri Lanka for all as a Sri introduce? Lankan identity and a moderate There are a number of areas. Pointing out the need to choice. I see that everyone should We have to have a multipronged expedite reforms to the be treated equally in this country approach to arrest the law’s delay. Muslim Marriage and and work together. There are people We are trying to see if we can Divorce Act (MMDA), newly who believe that only their extremist digitalise the process as soon as appointed Minister of Justice views should be respected and possible and I’m in the process of Mohamed Ali Sabry said others should not have a view. So talking to different stakeholders on that the 20th Amendment to it is in that context, probably, that delayed, and has been prevalent I have certain views, but Apart from the extension of the that. Then, we have to introduce some people are objecting to it and for a long period of time. ultimately it has to be the Cabinet President’s term limit and other some of the laws like the breakdown the Constitution would only others for personal reasons. which has to decide the policy of changes to the 19th Amendment, of the Marriages Act; some of those seek to make changes to the As the Minister of Justice, how the Government. For example, I what other changes can we expect need to be brought to the Cabinet, 19th Amendment and that How do you view the fact do you look to bring about the oppose allowing those below 18 with the 20th Amendment? so that it can take a decision on the 13th Amendment would that you’re the only Muslim proposed reforms to the MMDA? to get married. I think it is uniform There is a subcommittee that them. Next, the introduction not be affected. Below are represented within the Cabinet I can’t give a timeline, but it is one everywhere. Even in Saudi Arabia, has been appointed and they are of some procedural laws. It’s excerpts of his interview with and state ministers? of the priorities. Of course, we must they have taken a decision not to getting into it, so it’s premature for basically from infrastructure facility The Sunday Morning. I may be the only Muslim, get it done quickly. But there are so allow anyone below 18 years from me to discuss that matter. I think development, the number of judges, but in the Cabinet there is also many other things as well. The 19th getting married. the Cabinet Spokesman will brief and changing and amending laws How do you view your Douglas Devananda, the Minister Amendment has to be looked into I also don’t see any reason or the public from time to time. But and introducing new laws, to appointment as a Cabinet of Fisheries. Both of us are and then there’s the digitalisation rationale behind keeping female as you say, there are two areas: The repealing the archive floors and Minister and the various there as minorities. But I don’t of the judicial system. Along Quazis away when the Malaysian five-year term and the two-term digitalisation. It’s a multipronged objections to it by Buddhist see it in that context; I see that with those, the MMDA too has to Chief Justice herself is a Muslim limitations. Subject to that, the approach towards easing the burden organisations? the President probably picked be brought in. It depends on the lady. rest of it is still in the process of on the litigant. It’s just a handful of extremists, me based on my credentials as direction of the Cabinet. We need to discussion. The independence of the judiciary not Buddhist organisations as such. someone who has been in the legal put the Bill to the Cabinet and let the What other key areas do you is a must. There is no compromise These are the people who have been profession, and he knows the areas Cabinet take a decision. hope to focus on as the Minister of Will the 13th Amendment be on that. In order to do that, what is rejected by the electorate. I have which need to be rectified in the Justice? removed or would provisions required is that we must gradually always maintained that there are legal reforms and justice sector, How do you view the current I’m mostly interested in seeing a within it be changed? introduce to reach that ultimate extremists on all sides. I basically particularly in view of the laws MMDA? way through to make justice more No. I think what is looked into at objective. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 12 FOCUS/ WOMEN AND CHILD AFFAIRS A forgotten segment? BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA STATISTICS OF WOMEN AND CHILD ABUSE CASES REPORTED TO WOMEN IN NEED A 28-member Cabinet of Ministers has been appointed WIN branch Women Children Men Total clientele sans a portfolio for women New Repeat New Repeat New Repeat and child affairs. However, with the rising number of Colombo main branch 71 131 4 3 6 6 221 abuse and domestic violence Children and Women’s 19 5 1 15 4 44 cases against women in the Bureau country, the failure to assign De Soysa Hospital 30 15 2 47 a cabinet portfolio for this Anuradhapura branch 34 93 2 6 11 8 154 subject came under heavy criticism. Medawachchiya Police 30 18 11 2 12 5 78 Instead, the subject of women and branch 63 169 4 1 15 10 262 child affairs was gazetted under the Badulla Police 36 20 1 - 7 6 70 purview of the Ministry of Education Batticaloa branch 59 172 - - 24 31 286 as the State Ministry of Women and Child Development, Pre-school Batticaloa Police 30 27 1 17 23 - 98 and Primary Education, School Jaffna branch 34 152 - - 12 11 209 Infrastructure, and School Services. The Government asserted that Matara branch 45 242 7 5 10 12 321 there wasn’t a need for a cabinet Weligama Police 22 11 4 2 13 1 53 ministry for women’s affairs, as it 1843 believed a state ministry would be assumed duties as the State Minister of Women and Child Development, Pre-school and Primary more suited for the subject. Education, School Infrastructure, and School Services on 13 August Government Spokesman and “Clearly, a cabinet ministry means obligations under international laws, Minister of Mass Media Keheliya giving birth to healthy children who While criticising the lack of a and Child Affairs Dr. Sudharshani more authority and resources for treatises, or the UN Convention Rambukwella claimed: “A state will be brought up under the care of cabinet minister for women’s Fernandopulle’s opinion. programmes that would enable on the Elimination of All Forms minister would be able to focus on strong motherly love and providing affairs, the Women In Need She charged that in a country women to develop their capacities, of Discrimination Against Women such a subject better than a cabinet women with knowledge; as well (WIN) organisation said the with more than half the population to strengthen women’s access to (CEDAW). We hope he is aware of minister.” as skills and time to keep children current situation with regard being female, it was crucial to have a safety in public spaces, to ensure the Sri Lanka Women’s Charter – a However, he went on to say that a on the right path and a permanent to women and children cabinet minister for the subject. regulations are put in place to key national policy framework for cabinet minister will oversee such a scheme to provide relief to all, required an experienced Meanwhile, Women and Media eliminate violence against women, women’s rights. Dr. Sudharshini state ministry. especially women and children who cabinet minister Collective Director (Programmes) to focus resources on creating non- Fernandopulle is probably the only “Of course, the subject of women’s frequently face disasters. Dr. Sepali Kottegoda pointed out the exploitative working conditions, etc. person in this Government who affairs will come under the purview However, women’s rights groups the cabinet ministry for women’s significance of a cabinet portfolio for A state minister does not have the would have such capacities.” of a cabinet ministry. The only were vehemently opposed to the lack affairs. In the last three months, we women’s affairs. authority or access to such resources Further, Emeritus Prof. of Law difference with a state minister is of a cabinet minister. have had so many incidents of child “A cabinet ministry gives or the required capable personnel to and former that he will not be able to submit While criticising the lack of abuse, rape, women abuse, domestic recognition to the importance of the carry out such programmes. A state Vice Chancellor Savitri Goonesekere a cabinet paper separately for that a cabinet minister for women’s violence, killings, and burnings. We subject/subjects to government; gives minister, who has also got more asserted that it was crucial that subject.” affairs, the Women In Need (WIN) need somebody who is sensitive and direction on policies and regulations subject areas relating to children, there be a Ministry for Women and The gazette notification organisation said the current has commitment to address these relating to the development required will be compelled to overlook issues Children at the Cabinet level. establishing the ministry portfolios, situation with regard to women and issues, or I dread to think what will for those specific areas. Ensuring relating to the rights of women.” Referring to a recent petition by released on 9 August, stated that 14 children required an experienced happen to the younger generations,” a direct focus on women’s affairs The Women and Media Collective various academics and professionals listed priorities will be addressed cabinet minister. WIN Executive Director Savithri through a designated cabinet also questioned the qualifications of urging the Government to establish through action plans set up under “As an organisation working with Wijesekera told The Sunday ministry was an integral component the recently appointed State Minister. a Cabinet Ministry, Professor the guidance of the Minister of women and girls, where incidents Morning. of the Cabinet for four decades until “We have no idea of the Goonesekere said that a Cabinet Education, of which four were and forms of violence are escalating Wijesekera then called for an this Government came into power.” capabilities of the current State Ministry will better allow the women and children-centric. They with new forms of violence and experienced state minister, at the least. She then noted that a state minister Minister. We have never heard of this addressing of core issues faced by were: A plan of action to ensure abuse, such as cyber abuse, we were “I’m not sure if the current alone would not have the required person speaking for or taking any women and children at both the the security of women; relief to looking forward with so much hope State Minister has experience in powers and resources to properly action to strengthen women’s rights. grassroots level as well as during rural women who are victims of and expectations that someone who the subject,” she said, endorsing address a broad subject like women’s There is little to indicate that he has policy formulation. unregulated microfinance schemes; knows about women would be given former Deputy Minister of Women issues in Sri Lanka. any understanding of Sri Lanka’s Contd. on page 14

WOMEN AND CHILD ISSUES IN PARLIAMENT Abysmal BY DIANDRA ANNE Many things have changed from ancient times – some positive and some negative. One positive change would be that women have more rights now than they some decades ago, when women were considered second-class citizens. However, we still have a long way to go in that respect. Whilst this is indeed a global issue, let’s look at Sri Lanka first. Our Constitution states that everyone in the country, regardless of gender, amongst other things, has equal rights and opportunities. However, is this really the case? Following the results of the recently concluded general The ninth Parliament of Sri Lanka election, many claim that female representation in as 12 female representatives out Parliament is abysmal. In this backdrop, The Sunday of a total of 225 members PHOTOS LALITH PERERA AND Morning took to asking the public their opinion on the PRADEEP DAMBARAGE matter.

One of the main functions of Females need to provide input Parliament is to represent the people; by excluding women, ours does not. Far from adequate Roshini Silva – Colombo-Re Insurance Brokers (Pvt.) Ltd. Chief Operating Officer Sri Lanka had the first female Prime Sashi Schaffter – LLB, LLM With women comprising over 50% Women govern differently than men do Minister in the world. However, we of Sri Lanka’s population, the promises in some important ways. Research shows have made little progress with regard to in the public sphere. An International addressed. of democracy cannot be truly that they tend to be more collaborative increasing the participation of women Growth Centre Report (2018) found The lack of female representation is fulfilled if half the population and bipartisan. They push for far in power. Without detracting that female legislators raised exacerbated by the fact that the Cabinet remains underrepresented more policies meant to support from the women who have economic performance more Ministry for Women and Child Affairs in the political arena, women, children, social welfare been leaders in the past, it than their male counterparts. has been relegated to a mere State especially in the and — when they are in executive must be acknowledged The male legislators in Ministry, coalesced with Education. Sri legislative branch. They positions — national security. that many of them came the study were also three Lanka is ignoring its obligations under need to provide input One of the biggest social issues from political families times more likely to have the Convention on the Elimination of when implementing the that we currently face as a nation and were elected upon the criminal charges pending all forms of Discrimination Against national policies that affect is the rise in violence and sexual death of their husbands or against them and more Women (CEDAW 1981) and the United them. Unfortunately, we are abuse against women and children. It fathers. Political parties act prone to corruption. Thus, Nations Convention on the Rights of still far away from that reality. is our utmost duty to empower women to as gatekeepers to the election, the traditional perception of the Children (UNCRC 1991) by failing Female representation in the newly elected live with dignity and to contribute as equal and if they fail to actively nominate politics as a male domain must to prioritise women and children who Parliament is only a little over 5%. partners in development, in an environment female candidates, then there are few be challenged in order to increase the are susceptible to discrimination, There is strong evidence that as more free from violence and discrimination. The to vote for, with virtually no women participation of women, which in turn subjugation, and violence. This women are elected to the legislature, current lack of a designated cabinet portfolio from ethnic minorities, and so the cycle would benefit the country as a whole. devaluation of the issues faced by corollary there is an increase in for women’s and children’s affairs could continues. Female participation would not only women and children could not be more policymaking that emphasises quality of probably hinder the process of enforcing There are structural, ideological, increase economic growth but also ill-timed due to the Covid-19 pandemic life and reflects the priorities of families, related a legal and social framework in an cultural, social, and economic barriers ensure that the unique issues faced by causing a sharp rise in violence against women, and ethnic and racial minorities. effective manner. prohibiting women from involvement the female population are effectively them. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning VIEWS Sunday, August 23, 2020

BY SARAH HANNAN FEMALE MPS IN NINTH PARLIAMENT up issues that need to be immediately addressed to empower the women of Sri Given that this time too Sri Lanka Lanka and ensure that a safe and equal managed to send only 12 female environment is created for them,” Dr. MPs to Parliament and that there is Fernandopulle added. no Cabinet portfolio dedicated to When asked about her recent appointment oversee women’s affairs, the 52% as State Minister of Prisons Reforms and female population in Sri Lanka Get to know them Prisoners’ Rehabilitation, Dr. Fernandopulle will have to push these female noted that she is quite satisfied to take representatives to make enough over the responsibility of attending to noise about the teething issues the longstanding humane issues faced by inmates that need to be addressed. women face on a daily basis, due She also noted that prisons need to to archaic laws and regulations be seen as a place for rehabilitation and that are hindering them from correction and not a place of conviction. pursuing their prospects in the work While it seems like a difficult task at environment, as well as the ability first, she said that she is willing to put to enjoy the freedom to live as her mettle to the test and has already independent citizens of Sri Lanka. approached several organisations and professionals in the vocational training, The Sunday Morning managed to speak psychological, and medical spheres to to a section of the handful of women MPs assist in changing the mechanism with the this week to understand their roles and how Department of Prisons. they are going to contribute towards the Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle Dr. Kokila Harshani Gunawardena Mudhitha Prishanthi de Soysa In addition to that, Dr. Fernandopulle also betterment of Sri Lanka while being a voice noted that she will continue with her social for all women in the country in Parliament. responsibilities and projects she has been We will be speaking to the rest of these continuing as a politician to ensure that a female representatives next week to gather safe environment is created for children to their sentiments. receive their primary education and also to empower and encourage women who have Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle become the breadwinners of their families (SLPP) – State Minister of due to various social circumstances. Prisons Reforms and Prisoners’ Rehabilitation Dr. Seetha Arambepola (SLPP A very familiar face for many, given that National List) – State Minister of she has served as a medical doctor since Skills Development, Vocational 1986 and was elected to Parliament in Training, Research, and 2010 from the Katana electorate; fate had Innovation pushed her into politics, as the people of Dr. Seetha Arambepola rose to fame in Katana had requested her to contest from Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi Rajika Wickremesinghe Manjula Wijekoon Dissanayake the political arena after she was appointed the seat that was made vacant following her as the Western Province Governor. An ENT husband’s demise in April 2008. surgeon by profession, Dr. Arambepola has Dr. Fernandopulle retired from her practised both locally and internationally 24-year state service as a medical since 2013. professional to enter active politics and As a member of the Viyathmaga for the since 2010, has been able to secure a seat Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Dr. in Parliament in consecutive elections. She Arambepola was also nominated to the has chaired several committees as an MP, National List during this year’s general specifically focusing on child development election and was nominated to Parliament and preventing harassment towards women, through the National List as well. and has also served in the Parliament Select Serving as the State Minister of Skills Committee for Public Grievances, attending Development, Vocational Training, to resolve many issues faced by state sector Research, and Innovation, she has already workers. eased into her role as a state minister, The Sunday Morning spoke to Dr. conducting many meetings with various Fernandopulle following her appointment Dr. Rohini Wijeratne Kavirathna stakeholders that she would be working as the State Minister of Prisons Reforms with during her term in office. and Prisoners’ Rehabilitation to ask about representatives, we can continue our She also stressed that except for Women’s Caucus to be the voice for 52% of Speaking to The Sunday Morning, Dr. her sentiments on the number of female cause in improving the number of female Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi, Thalatha Sri Lanka. She also highlighted issues that Arambepola noted that education is the representatives elected to Parliament and representatives at the local government Atukorale, Geetha Kumarasinghe, are faced by women and children. basic foundation for the creation of a her new portfolio. level to 25%. It is partially the fault of the and herself, the rest of the female “Even during the previous Government, prosperous, productive country, productive “I suppose we are stuck at the 5.33% political parties as well, as they should representatives are first-time entrants to the amount of issues that were discussed citizens, a happy family, and a just society, female representative ratio in Parliament for allow the space for women to contest Parliament and that they would have to about women and children was quite low. which is the hope of thousands of people in another four years. While we are saddened from their parties,” Dr. Fernandopulle be directed on how to use their positions This time, we are hoping that we will this country. that not many decided to vote for female commented. in Parliament and being members of the be able to get these female MPs to bring Contd. on page 14 Pushed to the bottom of the pile Gamini Gamage Despite Sri Lanka’s favourable “human development indicators for women”, female representation representation has been minimal for the past 60 years since Independence. Furthermore, of the small number of women representatives, the Females need to be protected Never passed 6.5% majority of them come from political families Dushani Perera – housewife and from the Sinhalese community. In Sri Lanka, Women play a key role in ensuring There should be guidelines for female representation the major political parties that win elections have quality governance with the political parties to appoint women shown very limited commitment in enhancing use of their skills, qualities, to positions where they can Thushani Bulumulle – assistant director women’s political representation. Though and expertise. Therefore, implement laws to protect nominations for women have been increasing over their participation must women from character The relationship between unable, in the history of its the years, they have been mainly from smaller be encouraged during assassination, and physical and the Sri Lankan woman Parliament, to get more parties and independent groups. nomination appointment physiological violence. In order and politics has been than a 6.5% women With the stroke of a pen as it were, Women procedures. Female political to increase female representation oxymoronic for representation. The and Child Affairs, which earned a cabinet-level participation is fundamental for in politics, female children should a long time. Sri 2020 parliamentary ministry 23 years ago and to which ministry gender equality. Women’s direct be taught about their rights by their Lankan women election was the “wellbeing of the country’s children” was engagement in public decision- parents and in school. Also, female beat men in not any better; included as a mandate in later years, has now been making is a means of ensuring better students should be given more chances to population (52%) it curtailed the placed under the Ministry of Education along accountability for women. lead. and forex earnings cabinet portfolio with Preschool and Primary Education, School too. However, they which was hitherto Infrastructure, and School Services. In relegating are underrepresented allocated to women the subject of Women and Child Affairs to a state Unnecessary Are we moving in politics and other and children. Both voters ministry without even a standalone status, it seems decision-making professions and politicians have been that for the newly elected Government, two of the back in time? in the country. Pathetically, indifferent. most important categories of the population are no requirements women seem to be more Globally, Sri Lanka is in a longer a priority. Shenali Perera – undergraduate, GFL recognised in labour than in any worse position, as it occupies At a time when child protection, child abuse, Milroy Perera Founder other profession as a whole. one of the eight positions and physical and sexual harassment has become a While some people are saying that The numbers are staggering. Sri Lanka is Sri Lanka, having produced among 190 nations ranked national crisis, it is ironic that the Government has women are underrepresented in Parliament noted in history as the country that elected the first woman Prime for women representation in abolished the cabinet-level ministry of Women and and the Cabinet, I think this is not the time the world’s first female Prime Minister, and Minister of the world, has been parliament. Child Affairs. to look into matters such as this, especially is acknowledged and remembered for it. with the current situation. What is required When did we stop recognising the for the country at the moment is a cabinet contribution and value of women in Voters should realise females are good leaders that cares for the country and can work political affairs? Nabeela Iqbal – Sisterhood Initiative Founder tirelessly towards uplifting it. Today, there remain many unresolved What our country needs right now is issues pertaining specifically to women in In 2017, the Government they are not good to realise that women respective backgrounds), but nothing but strong leadership. Everything Sri Lanka, while women make up of Sri Lanka passed an leaders and are are “electable” we still failed to elect them, that is detrimental to society – thuggery, half the population. Last week, we amendment to increase the unelectable – this and should put which has translated into very corruption, and fraud – must be witnessed the newly appointed quota of women in local is not the case. their names on low female representation. eradicated. cabinet do away with a cabinet government elections by We as voters candidate lists. When we have issues like The western way of thinking and portfolio for Women and 25%. While we, at Hashtag have a huge This year, domestic violence, sexual culture must change! This country must Child Affairs, leaving only Generation (a youth responsibility there were so harassment, and rape, and we have its own unique identity, philosophy, a state minister to voice organisation), were creating to realise that many women ask why there are no solutions and culture. Therefore, I do not think the needs of 52% of the content about this to raise women are good who contested for it – this is why. So many there is a big necessity for female population; one man to awareness on the issue, I leaders and that the parliamentary women’s issues go unheard representation in Parliament as the represent the voice of all realised that we hold women they comprise 52% of election who showed in Parliament because women leadership that we currently have can give Sri Lankan women. Are we to this very high unattainable the population. Even political experience, community are not there to listen or make us all that is required. moving back in time? standard and say that parties have a responsibility work, and leadership (in their those changes. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 14 the sunday morning FOCUS/POLITICS Sunday, August 23, 2020

Contd. from page 12 Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi becoming the first female parliamentarian known for the immense support she (SLPP) – Cabinet Minister of to hold the position. rendered towards her husband’s (Sanjeewa Health Atukorale secured a seat in Parliament Kavirathna) political career before his Contesting from the Ratnapura District, in this year’s general election through the untimely demise in March 2014. Get to know... Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi managed to Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) from the Her father, K.Y.M. Wijeratne Banda gain the highest number of preferential Ratnapura District. too was a well-known politician who She noted that it is the intention of the Gampaha District, Gunawardena also votes from the district during this election. served as the Minister of Agriculture. this Government to provide vocational agreed that women empowerment needs Given her work as an interim Cabinet Dr. Harini Amarasuriya (NPP Contesting via the Samagi Jana training to develop the skills of this to be a key focus with a lot of labour- Minister during which time Covid- National List) Balawegaya (SJB), Kavirathna is the country by developing the skills of the intensive work required, especially by the 19 broke out and the country had to Contesting through the National People’s only female representative to have been youth, directing them to employment women in her region. She said that she immediately follow a lockdown protocol Power (NPP), Dr. Harini Amarasuriya elected from the Central Province of Sri by developing skills through education, will look at empowering them to improve to prevent the virus from spreading, she was nominated to Parliament through Lanka in the 2020 general election. and directing the youth to vocational their skills in craft work and creating was once again appointed as the Minister the National List. A senior lecturer at the training. business awareness. of Health. Department of Social Studies at the Open Geetha Kumarasinghe (SLPP) “The President has named the next Entering Parliament in 1994, University of Sri Lanka, Dr. Amarasuriya In 2010, Geetha Samanmalee decade as a decade of skill development. Mudhitha Prishanthi de Soysa Wanniarachchi followed her father’s completed her PhD in Social Anthropology Kumarasinghe contested under the I think a lot can be done through my (SLPP) (Darmadasa Wanniarachchi, Member of from the University of Edinburgh, where United People’s Freedom Alliance ministry to prepare the background for Mudhitha Prishanthi de Soysa stepped Parliament from 1965-1977) footsteps into her dissertation work explored the nexus (UPFA) from the Galle District but them to build this country and become into politics after the voters from her Parliament and hails from a well-known between the state, development policy, could not secure a seat in Parliament. prosperous. The legal background has deceased husband’s electorate had business family in Ratnapura. and practice within the bureaucracy, Not shying away from her defeat, she been prepared for that,” she elaborated. requested her to contest from the vacant A lawyer by profession, since she specifically in relation to probation and continued her political journey and seat representing the Sri Lanka Podujana entered politics, she has ensured that childcare services in Sri Lanka. became a political activist, working in Kokila Harshani Gunawardena Peramuna (SLPP). the people in Ratnapura had a voice in Her work includes research in the areas the grassroots levels for five years. (SLPP) “At no point did my husband encourage Parliament, and during her stint as the of youth unemployment and conflict, The five years of campaigning from Having worked as a political activist for our son or myself to get involved in interim Cabinet Minister of Health, she gender, child protection, globalisation, and 2010-2015 paid off when she managed 15 years, she noted that she will look at active politics. However, after deep managed to upgrade many hospitals in the development. to secure a seat in Parliament during the addressing all the issues that the people of consideration following the request made . Prior to joining the Open University, Dr. 2015 general election. However, her dual Mirigama have brought to her. by the voter base of Ratnapura, who time Amarasuriya worked as a child protection citizenship became an issue, questioning “I know the issues the people who and time again supported my deceased Thalatha Atukorale (SJB) and psychosocial practitioner for several her loyalty to Sri Lanka, and she was voted me in have been facing for decades. husband during his political career, as Having first been elected to Parliament years. She currently serves as a Board unseated. The areas have water supply issues, road well as the invitation extended by Prime in the year 2004 through the United Member of Nest Sri Lanka, a local NGO Renouncing her citizenship in connectivity issues, and education-related Minster Mahinda Rajapaksa, I decided to National Party (UNP) and through the working in the psychosocial sector; the Switzerland, Kumarasinghe once again issues. I will ensure that the budgetary contest in this election.” seat made vacant by her brother’s demise Centre for Women’s Research (CENWOR); pursued her political career, not bowing allocations that are set aside for the She said that the people of Ratnapura (Gamini Atukorale, who died in January and the Law and Society Trust (LST). down to the various challenges she had Gampaha District will be efficiently did not disappoint her and had cast 2002), Thalatha Atukorale was later She was the lead researcher for Sri to face, and emerged victorious during utilised to develop and uplift the enough votes for her to secure a seat in appointed as the Minister for Foreign Lanka’s National Human Development this year’s general election, managing livelihoods of the residents of this district. Parliament. Employment Promotion and Welfare Report 2014, which focused on youth and to secure enough preferential votes from “Furthermore, I will closely work with “Although I cannot move at the same during the Yahapalana Government from development, and was also a member of the Galle District to enter Parliament. local government institutions to make speed as the skilful politician he was, I January 2015 to February 2018. the drafting team for Sri Lanka’s National Kumarasinghe claims to have retired sure the rural areas of Gampaha get just can’t isolate supporters who were She was later appointed as the Minister Youth Policy which was launched in 2014. from her acting career and said that developed in the next four years while I by his side. I promise to use all my for Prison Reforms from May 2018 till she is fully dedicated to serving the am the people’s representative and voice capabilities and skills in carrying out the September 2019. In the meantime, she Rohini Wijeratne Kavirathna people of the Galle District, who have in Parliament.” political work my husband left behind,” also served as the Minister of Justice (SJB) continued to trust her and voted her in As the women’s leader of the SLPP for de Soysa noted. from August 2017 till September 2019, Rohini Wijeratne Kavirathna has been for a second time.

Contd. from page 9 four to five persons to appoint for this committee to study the setback that the GR gets... party and the TNA faced during the recent It is in this backdrop that the SLFP last election. week decided to initiate disciplinary action From the date of appointing the against party organisers who had failed to committee, we will allow them a period of support the candidates fielded by the SLFP one week to submit the report to us, after at the recently concluded general election. which we will take a decision on the way The party seniors who met at the party forward for ITAK and TNA.” headquarters last Thursday (20) had Speaking further, the former MP said: discussed the party’s performance at the “ITAK Founder P. Selva thought that he will elections as well as the group of organisers, be able to win the demands of the Tamil mostly affiliated to Kumaratunga, who had people through his party, while the deceased refrained from supporting the party and its Velupillai Prabhakaran presumed that the decision. freedom fight would manage to win the trust “It is clear that a group of party organisers of the Tamil people. has clearly violated the party’s Constitution “Meanwhile, R. Sampanthan tried to by acting in contravention to the party win the votes of the Tamil people through decisions. The party will now take action diplomatic channels. All three failed. Now, against them. That is also part of party the Tamil people cannot even imagine who reforms,” a senior SLFP member said. they want to support. The Tamil people It seems like the SLFP and Kumaratunga gave their full support to all three who I are heading for a showdown in the near mentioned earlier. The election results were future. the doing of politicians in the North, who pulled the strings,” he said. ITAK looking inwards He added that all Tamil politicians should Meanwhile, the Illankai Tamil Arasu now unite to find what the Tamil people Kachchi (ITAK) has appointed a committee want and must provide those solutions to study the outcome of the election results without blaming anyone. of the 2020 general election, with the party When the results were announced, the losing popularity during this election. The TNA contesting as ITAK, under the “house” committee will be appointed on 29 August symbol, got three out of seven seats in Jaffna. when their working committee meets, The S. Shritharan (35,884), M.A. Sumanthiran Black Box learnt. (27,834), and D. Siddarthan (23,840) had When contacted, ITAK Leader Mavai been elected as MPs on the basis of their Senathirajah noted: “We will be selecting preference votes. Contd. from page 12

international obligations made. “These are A forgotten... also commitments Sri Lanka has undertaken by becoming state parties to international “Nationally, constitutionally, and conventions. There is the international regionally, it is upfront for policy planning standard setting on women which is the and interventions because there are certain Convention on the Elimination of All Forms endemic problems with regard to both of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), categories. They have to be addressed at the international standard setting on children level of macro policy formulation, law reform, which is the Children’s Convention and this etc. and carried through to the grassroots level. country has consistently reported; even during In essence, it has to be top-down and bottom- the time of the previous Mahinda Rajapaksa up.” Government prior to 2015, there were reports She then pointed out that numerous to this committee. In fact, there was a serving governments for over four decades had a member, Dr. Hiranthi Wijemanne in the separate ministry for women’s affairs. Children’s Rights Monitoring Committee. “If you don’t have a cabinet minister, you She was nominated by Sri Lanka and served cannot achieve that. That is why successive in that capacity. Even the Mahinda Rajapaksa governments have always had institutions Government did report earlier. Then why the specifically devoted to these two issues from change?” the 1970s but then subsequently expanded She said that there were two qualified into a separate ministry. Originally, there was parliamentarians who could be appointed a separate ministry for women but then it as the Minister of Women and Children’s was changed to include women and children, Affairs and affirmed that it was imperative but at least it was at Cabinet level right up to that the Government is convinced to 2019. This is why it is extremely important to establish a separate cabinet ministry in this put it as a Ministry of State because then you regard. “I think the letter (petition) written can’t have it at the macro-cabinet level. While by the people concerned referred to both it is true that you have to have grassroots and Dr. Sudharshani intervention and it has to flow right down, the Fernandopulle. Both of them are women who fact is that that has to be dependent on holistic have been engaged in some of these issues. adequate planning.” Of course, Pavithra Wanniarachchi has a very Prof. Goonesekere also noted that even important Ministry which is Health, so it the former Rajapaksa Government before may not be possible to combine that (women 2015 worked on women’s affairs with a and children) with health, but it is perfectly cabinet ministry and that Sri Lanka was possible to get Dr. Fernandopulle, who is now duty bound to pay special attention to issues a State Minister, to also take a seat in Cabinet of women and children due to the various on women and children’s affairs.” WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 15 Sunday, August 23, 2020 SPORTS Beresford Williams appointed CSA Acting President z Resignation coming days before Parliamentary inquiry

Cricket South Africa (CSA) Nenzani resigned on 15 Committee meeting, which was issues, the acting CSA leadership Govender views has appointed a new Acting August scheduled for today. is faced with further headaches, “This is a critical time for our President and Acting Chief Chris Nenzani resigned as CSA Daily Maverick reported that including its response to the organisation and (it is) crucial for Executive following a pair President on 15 August and Jacques Williams has requested the meeting coronavirus pandemic. key stakeholders to work together of resignations. Faul stepped down as Acting Chief be delayed, saying that CSA is still to improve the rating of cricket Executive on 17 August. studying an independent forensic Players tested positive among those who love, support, Inside the Games on Friday (21) Williams, an ex-Western Province audit. CSA pulled out of a women’s and follow the sport and those who said Beresford Williams will act President, was Vice President under tour of England this week, citing have trust in the sport’s ability to as President of the beleaguered Nenzani. Forensic audit government travel restrictions, unify all South Africans. body until 5 September, when its CSA Chief Executive Thabang while two men’s players have tested “We will work hard to improve annual general meeting (AGM) is Resigning before Moroe has been suspended since positive for the virus. the levels of pride amongst our scheduled. parliamentary inquiry December, following allegations “It is important to improve stakeholders and I am humbled Kugandrie Govender, who had Both resignations came only days of serious misconduct. our reputation both locally and to be a part of the collective that Former CSA Chief Commercial Officer been CSA’s Chief Commercial before the officials were due to That led to the independent internationally,” Govender said, commits itself to ensure that CSA is Newly appointed Kugandrie Govender was Officer, is the new Acting Chief face questions from Members of forensic audit being commissioned. following her appointment as Acting a federation of which South Africans CSA Acting President appointed as its Acting Executive. Parliament at a Sports Portfolio On top of these governance Chief Executive. are proud.” Beresford Williams Chief Executive

Cavendish left out of race for second year in a row Britain’s Mark Cavendish The rescheduled Tour begins Cavendish has raced 24 times nearly two years after being McLaren on a one-year deal in has been left out of Bahrain- on 29 August in Nice and runs this season, with no victories, diagnosed with the Epstein-Barr October 2019 to rejoin former McLaren’s Tour de France squad. until 20 September. having also ridden in a support virus – which causes glandular Coach Ellingworth, who spent It is the second year in a row Bahrain-McLaren Team role for other riders. fever – in April 2017. almost a decade at Team Sky. the 35-year-old has missed the Principal Rod Ellingworth said Before last year, Cavendish had The Manxman resumed racing Bahrain-McLaren will focus Tour, having not been selected by in May that Cavendish was not raced in every Tour since making two months after his initial on the general classification previous team Dimension Data an automatic pick for this year’s his debut in 2007, and in 2011 he diagnosis but broke his collarbone ambitions of Leader Mikel Landa in 2019. Tour and that his preparation became the first Briton to win the as he crashed out of the 2017 Tour at the Tour. Mark Cavendish The sprinter has won 30 had been hampered by a lack of green points jersey, also winning and took a further break from the The Spaniard finished fourth Tour stages, four short of Eddy races because of the coronavirus the world road race title that year. sport in August 2018. in the 2017 Tour and will be Merckx’s record of 34 victories. pandemic. He struggled with illness for Cavendish joined Bahrain- supported by a strong team.

unusual and completely unexpected mating pattern. another of his gems to test your imagination. Meet the 1.Ra2!! bxa2 2.Bxa2 Kxg6 3.Bb1#. ‘Riddle Uncle’ THE CHESS CORNER White to play and mate in five moves by Dulan Edirisinghe A surreal checkmate! Can you discover the hidden point of the riddle? While other composers sought depth with In this case, if not for the presence of the f7 pawn, Eminent German chess problem composer Fritz variations, Giegold invariably presented a single Be8-g6 would have been a checkmate. Once you Giegold (1903-1978) has a special place in chess forced line of play and revelled in the obscurity of see this, you have half a chance. history. His creations were unique because he the “twist”. It is astonishing how much depth and 1.Qc3! dxc3 2.Rb6! c2 3.Bxc5 dxc5 4.Re6! placed the riddle-element above everything else. delight he managed to squeeze in using a single fxe6 5.Bg6# This earned him the affectionate nickname Der neat mainline. As we can see clearly, the distinct lack of Rätselonkel (the Riddle Uncle). His work contained Here’s another problem of the same ilk, albeit a variations do not hinder the depth nor the riddle witty riddles of the highest difficulty, yet they were bit longer. It’s a delightful example of the composer’s aspect. In Grigold’s world, black is always granted very easy to understand and appreciate once the style. Remember that in every Giegold problem, all a single forced move each turn, while white would solution was revealed, essentially creating an the black moves are forced but discovering white’s exhibit stunning paradoxes one after the other. explosion of intellect and emotion. plan – a well hidden paradox – is the actual “riddle”. Here’s another case in point. A typical Giegold white-to-play-and-mate-in- x-moves riddle would consist of a single main line where all the black moves are forced. This theme may sound somewhat uninspiring at first, but your encounters with trademark Giegold problems are guaranteed to change all that. Here’s a supposedly easy one as an appetiser.

White to play and mate in six moves White to play and mate in four moves Except for the black pawn on d5, the whole There is a checkmate starting with 1.a6, but black army is immobile. So it is clear that white that’s not quick enough to meet the stipulation. has the luxury of three moves to hatch a plan The solution is something out of this world. to allow a third black move while planning the 1.Rh1 what? cxd3 2.Qg1 what?? c4 3.f4 eventual checkmate. aha! exf4 4. Ba7# aha!! 1.Rh1!! d4 2.Ra1! Where’s the rook going? d3 It’s all about discovering the point of the White to play and mate in three moves 3.Ra3! It travels all the way to the other end of the riddle – the relevance of the hidden g1-a7 board only to be sacrificed. Three more moves left… diagonal in this case. But as with all Giegold White must allow black a move to avoid a 3…bxa3+ 4.Ka1! a2 5.Ba3 Kxf6 there goes problems, the point is incredibly well hidden. stalemate. Moving the knight and allowing the the other rook as well, but now white can accomplish It’s almost impossible to solve unless you are black g-pawn to move forward seems logical. his aim with 6.Bb2# familiar with Giegold’s modus operandi. Still, In that case, a checkmate can be found (1.Nf4 The solution has got everything to do with it brings a great deal of joy when the solution g6 2.Kf8 etc.), but not in four moves. The only having a great imagination and absolutely nothing is revealed. Der Rätselonkel indeed! way to mate in three moves involves a highly to do with calculation; a typical Giegold trait. Here’s Clay Court President’s Nationals Cup Q/F from resumes today (23) This year’s Clay Court Tennis The Football Federation of Nationals, which had been Sri Lanka (FFSL) President’s interrupted due to the pandemic Cup quarter finals will be last March, resumed on Friday held today, Sunday (23) and (21) at the Sri Lanka Tennis tomorrow (24). Java Lane meet Association (SLTA), Colombo. Defenders FC at 4 p.m. while Pictured here is Jammal Sabry Blue Eagles take on New Star in action in his Boys’ Under-12 at 7 p.m. in Colombo. Tomorrow first round match where he beat at 4 p.m., Colombo FC meet Sri Nichel Fonseka to a score of 6/3, Lanka Police before Red Stars 6/1. Ganendran Subramaniam take on Serendib SC at 7 p.m., is the Tournament Director. also in Colombo. Hatton National Bank and Hutch PHOTOS Telecom are the main sponsors. ISHAN WANNIARACHCHI Sunday,sports August 23, 2020 ‘Mali’ to go Dhoni’s way? z He is to miss IPL’s start only to find no serious T20 cricket remaining this year BY REVATHA S. SILVA Observing IPL and World Cup didn’t take part in the two residential training IPL WILL BE AN INDICATION: Meanwhile, a Sri Lanka team source, who camps of the (Sri Lankan) squad. He would ASHANTHA DE MEL Is it really over? Will Lasith Malinga hang up his boots soon? His fans were spoke to The Sunday Morning Sports on the have probably been waiting to see how things curious whether the celebrity is going to play in this year’s Indian Premier condition of anonymity, said what Malinga was were evolving with regard to the IPL and the National cricket Selection Committee League (IPL) that starts on 19 September in the UAE. doing since last March was only “a mystery”. World Cup,” the above source explained. Chairman Ashantha de Mel said that “He has said he was doing his own Malinga missed both the Colombo and Lasith Malinga has not communicated But now it is revealed that Malinga is going tournament. So the MI squad had left for the fitness regime because of a knee injury. He Kandy legs of the post-pandemic training any details to the to miss some matches in the initial stages of UAE on Friday. camps for the Sri Lankan squad which were national selectors this year’s IPL due to “personal reasons”, The tournament was slotted into a 19 held from 1 June and 22 June, respectively. about his future ruling out almost all possibilities of him September-10 November window, away or any retirement getting picked for Sri Lanka again. from India due to the staggering Covid-19 Having Dhoni’s fate? plans. situation there, soon after the International The said source, who is in the know of the “We don’t know Will be back on IPL’s business end Cricket Council (ICC) postponed its T20 developments of the Sri Lankan team’s anything about his “The fast bowler wants to be by his (ailing World Cup until next year in July. preparations, opined it is “highly unlikely” plans. He has not father’s) side and will be training in Colombo,” that Malinga is going to play in this informed us anything yet. He was not Cricinfo reported on Friday (21). It also said A host of quickies in MI year’s IPL anyway. part of the residential training camp for the Malinga’s father is to undergo a surgery “in MI, which has recorded four IPL titles in “The plan would have been to play (Sri Lankan) squad either,” de Mel told The the coming weeks”. seven seasons, during 2013-19, is led by star the IPL and retire after the World Cup. Sunday Morning Sports on Friday (21). “The fast bowler…will be training in batsman Rohit Sharma. Such plans would have gone awry due to “There is no T20 (international) cricket Colombo. It is believed that Malinga is likely This time, they will have as many as six the pandemic. With this, there are hardly any planned for this year. The Bangladesh to join Mumbai (Indians) during the business main strike bowlers, both from India and practices; it could be really tough for him series (that may come up in October) is end of the tournament, including the playoffs, overseas, fighting for the two key spots for (Malinga) to find a place in the MI playing planned as a Test series. We can take him where his experience will come in handy,” the “quickies”. 11. So, that could be it,” he said, indicating into consideration (for selection) only the above report added. Jasprit Bumrah, Digvijay Deshmukh, Malinga won’t have any realistic chance when limited-over cricket begins next The IPL, which was postponed from its Dhawal Kulkarni, Mitchell to prove his eligibility for national year,” he added. usual March start in India due to the Covid- Mcclenaghan, Nathan Coulter- selection again. Malinga retired from Tests in 2010 and 19 pandemic, will go on until 10 November. Nile, and Trent Boult are all “It is the similar situation ODIs in July 2019. He is the present Sri at the disposal of Sharma that (Mahendra Singh) Lanka T20I Captain and will turn 37 on Speculations on retirement and his fast-bowling Dhoni faced. The Friday (28). After last playing for Sri Lanka in March battery. pandemic and “I am not in a position to say anything against the West Indies, nothing much was cancellation of the about his present situation. But if he is heard about the goldilocked celebrity. There World Cup gave going to play some matches in the IPL, were speculations that the iconic bowler would him no other that will be a very good indication for us announce his retirement after both the IPL and option but to assess him.” the 2020 T20 World Cup, scheduled previously to retire.” in Australia during October-November, were postponed due to Covid-19. The IPL’s most successful bowler with 170 wickets so far, Malinga, gave his franchise Mumbai Indians (MI) a thrilling fourth title last season by disallowing Chennai Super Kings to make eight runs in the last over in the finals. He was part of the MI setup continuously since the tournament’s inception in 2008, helping MI be the most successful franchise in the league so far. Mumbai Indians leave for the UAE Due to strict biosecurity requirements, the Mumbai Indians team leaves for the UAE on 21 August IPL participants needed to be in the UAE this week, about one month before the start of the

compiled (Zack Crawley 95 In brief (i) Colts 302 vs. Chilaw Marians (iii) BRC (o/n 319/6) 392 (Shanuka 2/66) vs. CCC 210/3 (Kusal Mendis n.o., Jos Buttler 23 n.o.; Yasir (o/n 53/0) 309/9 (Rumesh Buddika Withanawasam 94, Raminda 73 n.o., Lasith Abeyratne 49 n.o.) Shah 2/59) Sports news from Friday, 21 bottom six clubs playing in the 145, Kasun Adikari 68 n.o., Lasith Wijesooriya 109, Nisal Francisco at P. Sara Plate Group, Moors, Negombo, Croospulle 54; Dilruwan Perera 52; Ranitha Liyanarachchi 4/66, England lead series 1-0 August 2020: INTERNATIONAL y LOCAL Tamil Union, and Lankan lead 3/84) at SSC Sachintha Peiris 2/85) vs. Saracens y Day three (Thursday) results of (ii) Ragama (o/n 294/5) 501/9 191/5 (Sithara Gimhan 43, Gamindu yy The third and final cricket Test the Caribbean Premier League yy In the Premier Cricket Super respectively with only one dec. (Janith Liyanage 107 n.o., Amarasinghe 43; Mohamed Shiraz between England and Pakistan (CPL) in Trinidad and Tobago: Eight round, played among top round left Saminda Fernando 92, Roshen Silva 2/45) at Katunayake began at Southampton on St. Lucia Zouks beat Barbados eight of the 14 clubs, CCC, yy Friday’s results of the Premier 80, Madushka Fernando 56, Binura (iv) NCC (o/n 341/5) 467 (Lahiru Friday (21). England electing Tridents by seven wickets NCC, Chilaw, and Colts lead League, Tier A, Super Eight Fernando 62; Yasoda Mendis 3/74) Igalagamage 111, Chathuranga de to bat first after winning the (under D/L Method), Trinbago the table respectively with one penultimate round (day two of vs. SL Army 93/6 (Dinesh Chandimal Silva 159, Sahan Arachchige 62, toss were 181/4 in 54 overs Knight Riders beat Jamaica more round to go. Among the the three-day matches): 50; Shashika Dulshan 3/19) at CCC Mahela Udawatte 77; Lahiru Gamage at the time this update was Tallawahs by seven wickets.

Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 THE FIRST TEST OF THE PRESIDENT’S ‘POWER’ »SEE PAGE 3 ‘FEMALE REPRESENTATION IN CORPORATE WORLD A MODEL FOR POLITICS’ »SEE PAGE 6 Sunday, August 23, 2020 Newbusiness terminal New Central Bank at Katunayake Act abandoned delayed, again The new Central Bank the independence of the Central Act, which was proposed Bank and was submitted to BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR provider for the new terminal to replace the existing Parliament, following the approval at BIA. The loan agreement Monetary Law Act with of the previous Cabinet. The Bill The long-delayed yet of Rs. 56 billion was signed the aim of depoliticising did not permit CBSL to participate desperately needed second almost four years ago on 24 the Central Bank of in the primary auction and was terminal (Terminal II) at March 2016. expected to create confidence Bandaranaike International Nevertheless, according Sri Lanka (CBSL), has amongst the foreign investors about Airport (BIA) has run into a to Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri, been abandoned by the Sri Lanka. new obstacle that is expected initial discussions for a second Government, The Sunday Furthermore, the Bill carried to delay the construction of the terminal were begun under Morning Business learns. three main changes. The first was project by another two months, the presidency of now Prime that that the Central Bank’s existing according to the Airport and Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa When contacted for confirmation, Monetary Board which oversees Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) in 2007 and a foundation Central Bank Governor Prof. W.D. the institution’s activities will be Ltd. (AASL). ceremony was held in 2013. Lakshman stated that the new Act bifurcated or broken up into two After years of delays driven The project made no progress will not be proceeded by the new separate boards. by tender-related issues, the AASL Chairman Major General after the change in government Government. Upon the bifurcation, the project was finally set to launch (Retd.) G.A. Chandrasiri in 2015, he added. “I do not think it will be passed Monetary Policy Board will be at the end of this month and works of the second terminal. The second terminal was and I do not think the Government formed comprising economists, was expected to be completed Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri initially scheduled to come will proceed with it,” Prof. and the Board will be responsible by August 2023 as a measure to confirmed that changes have into operation by 2020 but Lakshman added. solely for the monetary policy mitigate passenger congestion not been made to the original was deferred as the bids from Plans of bringing in a new Act formulation of the CBSL. Neither issues. However, earlier this design of Terminal II or the the Japanese companies were that could replace the 70-year- the Treasury Secretary nor any month, the construction was earlier decision to award the far higher than the engineer’s old Monetary Law Act, which member of the Government would postponed to early September. tender to Taisei Corporation, estimate. established the Central Bank and be a member of this Board. The Postponing the launch a Japanese construction JICA refused to budge Sri Lanka’s monetary system, second Board would be a governing further, AASL Chairman company. AASL signed the from the original quotations were initiated by the Central Bank, board which would oversee all Major General (Retd.) G.A. contract agreement with Taisei submitted by two Japanese under former Governor Dr. Indrajit Central Bank Governor Prof. W.D. Lakshman the activities of the CBSL, apart Chandrasiri told The Sunday on 12 March. contractors, which were 46% Coomaraswamy. from the monetary policy decisions. Morning Business that the Accordingly, the new and 96% higher than the The last development of the , prior to the Government before it was dissolved The Treasury Secretary would be a Terminal II project would terminal will be built at a cost of engineer’s estimate, and was new Act was that the drafted Bill presidential election in November on 2 March for the general election voting member of the Governing certainly not commence early $ 800 million and is expected to not willing to award the tender was submitted to the Parliament 2019. However, it was not taken up in April. Board. next month as planned due to handle a passenger capacity of to any other company other by then Minister of Finance at the Parliament under the present The Bill was drafted to strengthen Contd. on page 2 complications in importing nine million as initially planned, than a Japanese company. workers amidst Covid-19. bringing BIA terminals’ total The Sri Lankan Government CREDIT CARD INTEREST RATES “We are getting workers capacity to 15 million. planned for an interim terminal from Japan, China, Malaysia, The new terminal building until the bidding issues were Singapore, and various other would feature the addition of resolved. Subsequently, bids Banks accept cut with reservations countries. They are in the 96 check-in counters, eight to the $ 19 million interim process of coming into Sri baggage claim belts, seven terminal were announced in BY THE SUNDAY MORNING BUSINESS DESK The reduction has been done by the Monetary told The Sunday Morning Business that the Lanka. We have the Covid- baggage makeup carousels, November 2017. Board of the CBSL, considering bank lending margin is important because not all credit 19 problem going on. There 16 contact boarding gates Nevertheless, as exclusively While the recent reduction on interest rates rates of certain financial products which cards they issue are revolvers. are many procedures to with 28 passenger boarding reported by The Sunday on credit cards is expected to encourage the continue to remain high. “We earn interest only on the revolvers. There adopt. Already, about eight bridges, and six bus gates. Morning Business on 1 credit card usage in the country, banks are The move is expected to cut down the interest is a large segment of people who pay on time. engineers have arrived in Sri The scope also includes a March 2019, under the likely to incur a significant fixed cost element income earned by the banks from their credit For them, there is no interest applicable. 40% Lanka,” Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri capacity enhancement of the headline “Interim terminal at due to a drop in interest income. cards. Earlier, the revision banks were enjoying of the revolvers pay a minimum payment and informed. incinerator, water treatment BIA abandoned”, the project During the monetary policy meeting on an interest income margin of about 14% while carry on. The balance 60% is using the system He stated that in addition plant, and sewerage treatment was abandoned due to a Thursday (20), the Central Bank of Sri Lanka the cost of funds was about 10-12%. However, without any income to the bank, except for an to importing workers, there plant. protracted legal battle between (CBSL) announced a downward revision to after the revision, the margin is expected to drop annual fee. For high-end customers, we waive are several other things that The Japan International a bidder and the procurement caps on interest rates on credit cards to 18% to 10% while the cost of funds would be 7-8%. the annual fee,” sources noted. need to be completed before Co-operation Agency (JICA) committee. per annum from 24% earlier. Senior sources from the banking industry Contd. on page 2 commencing the construction is the concessionary loan Contd. on page 2 FDIs shifted SRILANKAN AIRLINES DEBT RELIEF from Q2 but not State banks yet to agree BY THE SUNDAY MORNING BUSINESS DESK to this, SriLankan’s fuel bill to Ceylon debts with a grace period where they Pathirage stated that SriLankan’s cancelled: BOI Petroleum Corporation (CPC) stands at could service the capital payments too. future plan is dependent on when BIA Attempts to restructure over a $ 400 $ 275 million. In mid-June, Pathirage stated that the would open up for tourists. He added BY UWIN LUGODA FDIs have not been cancelled and million debt owed by national carrier These long-standing debts to state debt restructuring with the state banks that upon the reopening of BIA and have only been deferred. He added SriLankan Airlines to the two main banks are hindering SriLankan’s received approval from the Cabinet of other regional airports, SriLankan would Sri Lanka’s foreign direct that most projects have already state banks, Bank of Ceylon (BOC) and development plans while on the other Ministers. plan its routes. investments (FDIs) planned for commenced, despite being a bit People’s Bank, have not been successful hand, state lenders too are facing Following the closure of Bandaranaike SriLankan has been a loss-making the second quarter of 2020 have delayed due to the lack of people, yet, according to the airlines’ Chairman difficulties when loans that are International Airport (BIA) on 18 airline for over 10 years. The airline been shifted to the third and fourth raw materials, and capital goods. Ashok Pathirage. unlikely to be serviced in the March, SriLankan Airlines had recorded a loss of Rs. 40 billion in the quarters, according to the Board of Mohottala further stated that Responding to a query by The Sunday near term occupy their loan to remain on the ground apart financial year (FY) 2017/18, the highest Investment (BOI), due to the impact despite this drop, when looking Morning Business, Pathirage noted that books. from few cargo flights. Few annual loss since Emirates’ departure of the Covid-19 pandemic. at this year’s approved projects the airline and the banks are still in Considering this, days after, SriLankan began from its management in 2008. “The constructions for FDIs like and other projects that have not discussions. SriLankan had made a operating rescue flights During a Committee on Public factories and other construction- yet being signed, Sri Lanka has When asked what was holding back request from the two state that brought in stranded Sri Enterprises (COPE) meeting in February related projects have been delayed, around $ 1.4 billion in FDIs to the restructuring of this debt, he said: banks to restructure its debt to Lankans from around the this year, Pathirage disclosed that but that does not mean the FDIs date. He went on to state that this “Nothing is holding the restructuring them and to arrive at a mutual world. In addition to this, SriLankan was estimated to lose about themselves go away. They were just ensures that the country’s pipeline back. Banks are still doing it. We are agreement. Therefore, SriLankan operated $ 130 million by March 2020. He also shifted and will come during either is healthy and will not face issues expecting a good outcome.” they can convert rescue flights for added that if everything goes well and quarter three or four,” BOI Director next year. SriLankan owes about $ 220 million to their short-term several other no external issues such as Covid-19 General Sanjaya Mohottala said, “This is what I am more focused BOC while it owes about $ 187 million to debts to the countries, disrupt the airline’s operations, they are speaking to The Sunday Morning on. Otherwise, next year we will People’s. It is learnt that interest is being banks into bringing their aiming at bringing the losses down to Business. fall flat on our face. paid on time while the capital payments long- SriLankan Airlines nationals about $ 30 million next year. However, he stressed that these Contd. on page 2 are being dragged on for years. In addition term Chairman Ashok Pathirage back home. Contd. on page 2 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 2 the sunday morning business NEWS Sunday, August 23, 2020 CBSL lowers market interest rates, maintains policy rates The Monetary Board of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, at its Central Bank of Sri Lanka credit disbursement on account meeting held on 19 August 2020, decided to revise downward of concessional credit schemes the caps on interest rates on credit cards to 18% per annum, for businesses affected by the on prearranged temporary overdrafts to 16% per annum, and pandemic. Credit to the public on pawning facilities to 10% per annum, considering bank sector, in the meantime, soared lending rates of certain financial products which continue to in recent months reflecting the remain high. Government’s heightened funding requirement, thereby causing a Moreover, the Board was of The rapid spread of the Covid-19 notable expansion of broad money the view that penal interest rates pandemic and related containment thus far in 2020. need to be capped at 2% over the measures have resulted in a regular interest rates charged on the significant downturn in the global The impact of monetary- relevant credit facility. Directions economy in the first half of the easing measures is to put into effect these regulated year. In response, almost all central reflected in the recent interest rates will be issued shortly. banks of advanced economies notable decline in market However, it decided to maintain as well as emerging market and interest rates the Standing Deposit Facility Rate developing economies continued A noticeable decline in market (SDFR) and the Standing Lending to implement monetary easing lending rates was observed in July Facility Rate (SLFR) of the Central measures, alongside fiscal stimulus 2020 in response to the series of Bank at their current levels of 4.5% by respective governments, policy and regulatory measures and 5.5%, respectively. in support of the recovery of adopted by the Central Bank thus The Board said it recognised economic activity. far in 2020. With the gradual the necessity to continue the reduction in market lending rates, accommodative monetary policy Domestic economic interest rates applicable on new stance, particularly as market activities, which were lending by commercial banks, lending rates are yet to reflect adversely affected by the on average, have now reduced to the full pass-through of policy Covid-19 pandemic, are The enhanced focus on of exports, supported by Price Index (CCPI) accelerated single-digit levels. easing measures implemented expected to recover in the domestic production for import restrictions and subdued marginally in July 2020, yet thus far. The Board decided to second half of 2020 import substitution as well global petroleum prices. Some is remaining at relatively low The tourism sector, which adopt targeted measures to reduce As per the provisional estimates as to export is expected to improvement in workers’ levels. The National Consumer has been forced to rely specific interest rates that it released by the Department of drive near-term growth, remittances was observed in June, Price Index (NCPI)-based on domestic tourism for considered to be excessive, which Census and Statistics (DCS), the with potentially significant in contrast to the declining trend headline and core inflation its survival in the face of would help marginal borrowers. Sri Lankan economy contracted implications on the longer observed since March 2020. also accelerated in June 2020, the pandemic, is poised to The Board anticipates a further by 1.6% in the first quarter of horizon However, the tourism sector, mainly reflecting the impact of witness a sizable decline in reduction in overall market 2020, contrary to the expectations of monetary and fiscal stimulus. which has been forced to rely on food inflation. In spite of such foreign exchange earnings in lending rates, thereby encouraging of the Central Bank. As per the This expected rebound in the domestic tourism for its survival short-term fluctuations, inflation 2020 borrowing for productive economic available indicators, the adverse fourth quarter is essential for the in the face of the pandemic, is is expected to remain broadly activity and reinforcing support for impact of Covid-19 on economic country to record a positive growth poised to witness a sizable decline within the desired 4-6% range in The Average Weighted Prime Covid-19-hit businesses as well activity during the second rate during this year. The enhanced in foreign exchange earnings in the near to medium term, with Lending Rate (AWPR) has also as the broader economy, given the quarter of 2020 is likely to be focus on domestic production for 2020. Depreciation of the Sri appropriate policy measures. declined significantly in recent conditions of subdued inflation. substantial. However, a faster import substitution as well as to Lankan rupee against the US dollar weeks. While the recent decline The following factors were taken rebound of economic activity is export is expected to drive near- has been limited to 1.3% thus Slow growth of credit in overall market interest rates into account when arriving at these expected, especially in the fourth term growth, with potentially far during the year, following a to the private sector is encouraging, some market decisions. quarter of 2020, supported by significant implications on the significant depreciation recorded is expected to recover lending rates still remain excessive, Global monetary easing improved political stability, the longer horizon. Sustaining the during March-April 2020. gradually in the period affecting marginal borrowers in continued amidst the rapid spread resultant improvement in business growth momentum beyond the With the Central Bank ahead particular. Overall market lending of the Covid-19 pandemic confidence, and the lagged impact near term would require reforms buttressing its reserves through Growth of credit extended to the rates are expected to decline to address structural issues in the foreign currency purchases from private sector by commercial banks further, commensurate with economy. the market and foreign currency decelerated in June 2020, year-on- monetary easing measures adopted swaps with the Reserve Bank of year, while the outstanding volume in the recent past, enhancing the External sector has India and licensed banks, gross of credit contracted during June affordability of credit, which is improved with the support official reserves were estimated 2020 for the second consecutive imperative to support the recovery of proactive policy at $ 7.1 billion by end-July 2020, month, in spite of the large surplus of economic activity in the period measures providing an import cover of 4.7 liquidity in the market. ahead. The external sector continued to months. However, a gradual recovery The Central Bank said it will demonstrate resilience, reflecting in credit extended to the private continue to monitor domestic the impact of prudent measures No demand-driven sector is expected in the period and global macroeconomic and implemented amidst the Covid- inflationary pressure ahead, driven by increased financial market developments and 19 outbreak. The trade deficit is expected during the economic activity, improving take further measures to support has narrowed during the first half forecast horizon business sentiment with enhanced the economy to return to a higher of 2020, as the contraction of Headline and core inflation, political stability, declining growth path without delay, given imports outpaced the contraction based on the Colombo Consumer market lending rates, and rising subdued levels of inflation. Airtel Lanka appoints Ashish Chandra as CEO Airtel Lanka last week announced the Bharti Airtel MD and CEO (India and forward to some exciting innovations he was the Business Head and CEO (Uttar Development (IMD) Business School, appointment of Ashish Chandra as Chief South Asia) Gopal Vittal said: “We are from Airtel and I wish Ashish and his Pradesh and Uttarakhand) for Vodafone Lausanne; Indian Institute of Management Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing delighted to welcome Ashish to Airtel team the very best for the future.” Idea Ltd. (IIM), Ahmedabad; and the Indian Director (MD). In his new role, Ashish has Lanka, which has built a solid platform Ashish brings with him over two Ashish has a degree in Mechanical School of Business, Hyderabad. Bharti the mandate to accelerate Airtel’s growth for future growth. I am confident that decades of rich experience in the Indian Engineering from the Malviya National Airtel Lanka (Airtel Lanka) commenced in the Sri Lankan market by leveraging Ashish’s experience will add immense telecommunications industry. In the past, Institute of Technology and did his MBA commercial operations of services in Newly appointed best-in-class network technologies and value to Airtel’s vision of delighting he has worked in various leadership at the Podar Institute of Management. He Sri Lanka on 12 January 2009, and was Airtel Lanka CEO innovative digital platforms. customers with world-class services. Over roles with India’s top telecommunication has also attended leadership programmes the fastest operator to reach 1 million Ashish Chandra Commenting on the appointment, the coming months, customers can look companies. Prior to joining Airtel Lanka, at International Institute for Management customers in the country.

Contd. from page 1

Peramuna (JVP) and the “Joint BIA has been in dire need of technological, and training total number of active credit cards Chartered Bank, Seylan Bank, New Central... Opposition”, respectively, in the another terminal for years now. requirements. in the country was 1,826,100 Pan Asia Bank, Bank of Ceylon, Secondly, the Central Bank would committee, opposed the move. It had more than 170 aircraft “Banks are incurring significant compared to 1,821,108 a month People’s Bank, and National not be allowed to participate in Then Committee on Public movements per day, including an costs for maintaining these cards, ago and 1,829,927 in December Development Bank were 7%, 5%, primary auctions, while the third Enterprises (COPE) Chairman average of more than 60 movements from the moment of swiping these 2019. Amongst these credit cards, 5%, 4%, 2%, and 2% respectively. being that economic growth will be told The Sunday of heavy aircraft per day in 2018. cards to acquiring machines and locally accepted cards were 18,126 added to the list of objectives of the Morning Business at that point that The existing six million passenger training people on how to use while globally accepted cards were CBSL. there is no point in the CBSL being terminal handled 10 million them, these hidden costs should be 1,807,974. FDIs shifted... The third change was the addition independent when all the other passengers in 2018, resulting in covered by the interest income. This As of end-June 2020, the So whether the FDIs are shifted of economic growth to the list of institutions in the country are not hours of delays, particularly as is where the problem lies. Reduction outstanding balance of existing one quarter, the projects have objectives of the CBSL. Currently, dysfunctional. passengers were trying to collect is a good thing. On the other side credit cards in the country was Rs. commenced. It is only a little delay.” the CBSL’s two primary objectives Meanwhile, Dr. Gunawardana, the their baggage. it is a huge running cost in the 118 billion, out of which Rs. 85.7 According to the United are economic and price stability Cabinet Spokesman for the current According to the annual reports industry, and this is a fixed cost,” billion were from globally accepted Nations Conference on Trade and and financial system stability. Government, noted that the Central of AASL, the airport experienced sources added. cards while the rest was from only Development’s (UNCTAD) World However, under the amended draft Bank’s independence should not heavy congestion in the arrival According to sources, credit card- locally accepted cards. Investment Report 2020, inflows to Bill, the CBSL would also have to be taken seriously as none of the and departure zones, as well as related fraud is on the rise and noted About 23% of the credit card Sri Lanka has have decreased from ensure its monetary policy is geared “independent” institutions in Sri vehicular traffic, particularly during perpetrators attempt to impersonate market share was held by HSBC the record level of $ 1.6 billion in towards gross domestic product Lanka are actually independent. peak hours, all the while passenger people and obtain a credit card. Bank in the first half of 2018, while 2018 to $ 758 million in 2019. The (GDP) growth, which goes beyond arrivals grow 5-6% Year-on-Year Therefore, banks are obliged to Nations Trust Bank (NTB) had a country’s FDI stock exceeded $ 13 economic stability. (YoY). spend significantly on verifying market share of 22% and Sampath billion in 2019, and the Government When the Bill reached New terminal... equipment to avoid such fraudulent Bank had a market share of 12%. expects the yearly FDI to triple up Parliament last year, it faced stiff Following a deadlock of years, activities. However, since then, NTB is to $ 4 billion by 2022. opposition from the Parliamentary Minister of Tourism Prasanna Banks accept... If a bank is in an acquiring reported to have overtaken HSBC, Committee on Public Finance as Ranatunga, as exclusively reported They added that the reduction business, it is also maintaining taking the top place. it was divided on the proposal to by The Sunday Morning Business, of interest rates is understandable several acquirers, giving them the Commercial Bank’s credit card State banks... remove the Treasury Secretary had managed to negotiate with JICA considering the economic situation swiping machines, training them, market share stood at 10% in early- SriLankan Airlines’ monthly CPC from the Monetary Board. Then and the bidder to bring the prices but said that providing credit and reconciling them; all of these 2018, while Hatton National Bank’s bill alone is about $ 14 million, with parliamentarians down, reviving the project to which cards as a service is a considerable are fixed costs. credit cards covered about 8% of only $ 6 million out of it being paid and Dr. Bandula Gunawardana, the Sri Lankan Government was running cost for the banks due According to the data from the the market share during the same monthly before the local Covid-19 representing the Janatha Vimukthi paying late fees since 2012. to its extensive infrastructure, CBSL, as of end-June 2020, the period. Market shares of Standard outbreak. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning business 3 Sunday, August 23, 2020 INSIGHT

By Dhananath Fernando

Power cuts in Sri Lanka are not a recent phenomenon. The first test of the However, this phenomenon is going to be repeated over and over if we fail to find a sustainable solution. The media reported that during the 2019 blackouts, senior officials in the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) had President’s ‘power’ to beg the rain gods with a special “poojawa” to fill our One suggestion by Prof. Rohan reservoirs faster as they ran Samarajiva in a report compiled out of any other option. under the chairmanship former Central Bank Governor Dr. Indrajit As reported by media, pressure Coomaraswamy and handed over mounted to a level that the then to H.E. the President, is to connect President was very disappointed Sri Lanka’s grid to the South Indian with their performance and grid through an HVDC (High requested that the Public Utilities Voltage DC) cable. Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) Energy trading is already in place and CEB agree on a common plan between Bhutan and India, and (1). Bhutan is a net energy exporter It is clear that the energy and their energy cost is very low problem in Sri Lanka is extremely as their generation is mainly from complicated. This problem has hydropower due to their unique no simple solution, as structural mountains and geography. This constraints, economic limitations, has to be taken up at the highest technological drawbacks, and many level with negotiations bilaterally if other complications continue to we are aspiring to be part of a big ravage Sri Lanka’s energy sector. energy market and if we are serious The current President has about being a hub for energy in the received a mandate for a “system Indian Ocean. change”. How he solves this In an era of uncertainty and Peak and off-peak demand over the course of a day problem will be a litmus test Energy generation, transmission, and distribution costs per country supply chain diversification, it is not on his administration. His The most economical form of be indirectly passed to the taxpayer Possible solutions a bad idea to move ahead from a approach and ability to solve this generating electricity is hydropower anyway, as no CEB official or The problems at hand have many simple self-sufficiency mentality, to complicated public policy problem where the cost per unit is about Rs. parliamentarian pays the losses tiers. The main barriers for reforms a mentality of generating a surplus will determine whether such an 6. We cannot match demand only from their private money. Our cost are structural. While operational and aiming to become competitive ambitious “system change” is through hydropower, however, of power has a greater impact on and human resource-related within the energy industry. possible. and we have to activate our coal Sri Lanka’s investments, and its reforms can be undertaken, without While we work on these power plants during peak hours ability to get faster connectivity structural reforms, the operational long-term solutions, we have to Understanding the context when demand rises. The unit cost to the grid is one main parameter issues and human resource issues make sure to build the necessary The uniqueness of electricity is of coal-generated electricity is in the “Ease of Doing Business sustainably fixed will continue to be power plants in the short run to that we cannot store it on a grand approximately Rs. 17.50 per unit Index’’ compiled by the World chronic weaknesses. manage our energy supply, while scale – until the world comes and Rs. 25-35 is the unit cost of Bank (WB). diversifying towards renewable up with a cost-effective battery thermal-generated electricity (2). The CEB’s losses have also Structural changes energy sources. storage solution. This places the According to energy specialist extended into the Ceylon Petroleum Imposing a strict leadership The energy mafia is so large and CEB in a challenging position, as Dr. Tilak Siyambalapitiya (3), the Corporation (CPC). In the past, the style or rolling heads at the senior sometimes they work by planting it has to walk a fine line between overall cost of production of a CPC stated that they would stop the level of bureaucracy in the energy big ideas that are backed by self undersupplying and oversupplying unit of electricity is Rs. 23.32 and supply of fuel if the CEB fails to sector will not be productive given interest of the key decision-makers, power to the country, without the approved selling price is Rs. settle its debts. This continues to be the structural problems that exist. including H.E. the President. an option to store electricity and 16.29. In other words, our selling an ongoing battle. Both the CEB’s In fact, it will most likely worsen If we continue to think in manage shortfalls. In other words, price only covers about 70% of the and CPC’s losses are passed onto the situation if dealt with in this isolation and settle for mediocre all electricity that is produced has to generation cost. taxpayers, even though their claim manner. options yet again, we will just be be met by demand, and the CEB has The important fact is that the cost that our electricity is reasonably postponing the problem before to have a constant supply available, for each unit we consume is not prices is a flawed argument and The current President has us. Our President has the rare as it would be impossible to predict the same; the cost of the energy we proves to be counterproductive, received a mandate for a opportunity to fulfil his mandate electricity demand down to the last consume during peak hours from 6 given that our energy prices are not “system change”. How of a “system change” and tangibly unit. p.m.- 1 p.m. is more, as it is mainly reasonable when compared to the he solves this problem change the system by reforming will be a litmus test on his This will be a major generated from thermal and coal. region. the energy sector. Alternatively, Sri Lanka’s cost per electricity Over the years, it was reported administration. His approach he could take the easy road by structural change. To ensure and ability to solve this competition in the long run, unit is comparatively high that a grant from the Asian postponing any serious tackling of compared to our neighbours like Development Bank provided $ 17 complicated public policy the problem. I hope the Government a competition law has to be problem will determine established which will not Kerala, Tamil Nadu, India, and million in 2012 to modernise the will have the courage to change Bangladesh. But one real reason System Control Centre (SCC), whether such an ambitious the system, instead of giving into only be beneficial to the “system change” is possible power and energy sector but for the cost to be lower in these which is the main control centre for pressure. for all Sri Lankan monopolies countries is they have blackouts managing demand and supply of By implementing this reform, during peak hours without Government. It is rather unfortunate electricity. As a first step, the monopoly held the Government will be working If the electricity demand is higher activating their thermal and coal that Sri Lanka’s inability to come to Even though an SCC is the heart by the CEB must be un-entangled towards bringing the average than what is generated, the grid plants, and households have a timely consensus on solutions for of managing electricity demand and straightened out. The ecosystem Sri Lankan out of the figurative becomes unstable. Producing more adapted to face blackouts with some this chronic issue has continued to and supply and stabilising the of corruption, inefficiency, and darkness of ’s long- electricity than is demanded will capital investments such as battery weigh down our national potential. grid, it took Sri Lanka more than malpractices has to be exposed to running electricity crisis. make it difficult to manage the grid. power and installing inverters. In a decade to execute this decision. competition, with players entering References It would also be very expensive as Sri Lanka, the economic cost of The CEB monopoly The CEB, a state corporation with the market. 1. https://newshub.lk/ our electricity supply comes from a blackout would be significantly The CEB has an absolute an asset base of Rs. 500 billion, There are multiple options to do en/2019/04/03/president-decides-to- multiple sources such as hydro, higher than supplying power monopoly in power generation, being unable to finance crucial this, and we have to unbundle the boycott-cabinet-meeting-until-ceb- coal, thermal, and few renewable through coal, thermal, and distribution, development, and infrastructure development such as monopoly of power generation, pucsl-dispute-is-resolved/ energy sources. renewable energy sources. Hence, technology implementation. It’s a the SCC is indicative of a culture transmission, and distribution 2. http://www.ft.lk/columns/ When demand increases, we our cost is high for a multitude of monopoly within a non-tradable of inefficiency and ineffectiveness as the first step. This will be Electricity-crisis-and-Gotabaya-s- can’t just activate a power station reasons. sector. They have blocked everyone that is inherently ingrained within a major structural change. To proposals/4-693134 and supply electricity to the grid, The composition of Sri Lanka’s else and kept complete control. monopolies. ensure competition in the long 3. https://www.sundayobserver. as activating some power plants, grid is based on domestic run, a competition law has to be lk/2020/03/01/opinion/ setting up the temperature, and consumption, making our peak The established which will not only lame-excuses-given-shutting- resetting the grid takes a few demand hours in the evenings be beneficial to the power and down-power-plants-dr-tilak- days. That is one reason as to why between 6 p.m.-10 p.m. In contrast, Coordin tion Problem energy sector but for all Sri Lankan siyambalapitiya the CEB requires a few days to countries with greater industrial monopolies. (The writer is the Chief overcome this situation with the development have peak demand by Operating Officer of Advocata Norochcholai Plant becoming hours during daytime working Opening energy for trading Institute. He can be contacted at dysfunctional. hours. Since Sri Lanka is an island, we [email protected]. Learn Even with low power demand Additionally, in Sri Lanka there is Even though power generation One of the main promises of are not in a position to trade energy, more about Advocata’s work at due to the contraction of economic a tug of war between the regulator, and power stations have been H.E. the President is creating an as our grid is not connected to any www.advocata.org. The opinions activity such as tourism and some the PUCSL, and electricity supplier, contracted to suppliers of renewable e-government system and digitising other energy market. Even if we expressed are the author’s own industrial plants, resetting the the CEB, on developing a long- energy in the private sector, they government systems and processes. generate a surplus of energy, we views. They may not necessarily grid without Norochcholai and term power generation plan and too fall under the CEB’s control. It If the Government is serious cannot trade, and in an emergency, reflect the views of the Advocata managing the capacity with other maintaining our power mix. As a was reported multiple times by the about this, installing smart meters we do not have the capacity to Institute, or anyone affiliated with plants takes a few days. To put it result of this cold war, not a single media that the CEB buys power as soon as possible under the manage a sudden shortage. the institute) simply, the CEB does not have an power plant has been commissioned from private energy suppliers at a digitisation programme must be easy task at hand. to be built during the last high cost, causing colossal losses a key consideration. With the for the CEB. installation of smart meters, a It’s a mafia ecosystem between significant cost for the CEB would bureaucrats and the private sector. be reduced. In an age where our The more thermal power we buy, bank card is connected to a mobile- the more beneficial it is for the based platform, where private buses cartel members to make more are in discussion about a smart card, money. The grid and cable network can we as a country still afford to is also maintained (generation, have a system where an officer transmission, and distribution) has to visit every household in Sri by the CEB with no competition, Lanka to check the electricity meter making it completely inefficient. and provide a bill? Especially in an When questioning the CEB on energy market where the cost of the its colossal losses, one common unit changes based on the period excuse provided by all governments of the year and as per the time is that the CEB sells units of of electricity usage? Introducing power at a cheap rate so that all Sri smart meters will not be a popular Lankans have access to electricity. solution, but a system change However, it is important to note that cannot be achieved without making Energy consumption by sector if the CEB makes a loss, it would unpopular decisions! Sources of electricity generation over time in Sri Lanka WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 4 the sunday morning business VIEWS/BRANDS Sunday, August 23, 2020 Attention, honourable minister The ninth Parliament of Sri Lanka has been convened, correct course, and move onwards. Lanka, if a two-thirds majority and the shallow dismissiveness of appointments both sensible and unpopular have been made, Such investigations tend more is not absolute, we don’t know others. the 20th Amendment is already in the works, and a strong to be mere theatrics to appease a what is. But individual ministers What we need now is a and stable government is in place to lead Sri Lanka for the gullible and partisan public than will do well to remember that culture of high performance next five years. any sincere effort by lawmakers this victory was as much an imbued throughout both the to identify the wrongs or to book endorsement of the presidency as public administration and Be that as it may, this much- this to continue – that is why short- their colleagues on the other side it was in part adulation of the first the private sector. A vibrant touted stability in the Government sighted, short-term fixes must be of the fence. President Rajapaksa and a vote economy is not only about alone won’t realise our abandoned in favour of long-term, To correct course, against the shambolic state of the drafting conducive policy and development goals and growth sustainable thinking that balances mismanagement must be THE former ruling alliance. It’s worthy facilitating infrastructure; it feeds expectations overnight. As the past our requirements against our identified and fixed while to note here that the younger off the inspiration, abilities, week has shown, more work must ambitions. stemming out corruption is vital: HEADLIGHT Rajapaksa seems to be revelling and aspirations of our people. be done even at a rudimentary As the new Government gets Power, as an abundance of local in the discovery of his “people’s A level playing field with the level to ensure the stability of our to work, several ministries have evidence shows, is quick to and influencing. Such abuse is at touch” – long seen his weakness hope of better opportunities for basic infrastructure. Sri Lanka already mulled the appointment of influence corruption and subdue times so deeply entrenched that given the strongman profile built everyone must be constructed cannot hope to develop local committees to investigate activities morality. Placing professionals unravelling the morass may even as the wartime Defence Chief. forthwith. That should be every manufacturing or attract high over the last five years. Given the or military men in positions of take an entire five-year term. But But here we have a man plunging minister’s ambition; as you get investment interest if we cannot same commitment to investigate authority can do little to stem it must be done and must start into crowds with fervour, using to work, know that your success even guarantee continuous power previous abuses at the beginning out the endemic corruption that somewhere. his messaging especially via in this endeavour will make a supply with suitable backup of Yahapalanaya and what it had is intertwined with every layer As Lord Acton pronounced two social media with aplomb and meaningful difference to your systems in place. We cannot allow whittled down to by the end of it, of some institutions, if the entire centuries ago, “absolute power a self-styled leadership sans the people and secure your own systemic vulnerabilities such as perhaps it is better to look ahead, system is based on kickbacks corrupts absolutely”, and in Sri arrogance and distance of some, political future.

BY UWIN LUGODA and hygiene protocols aligned with WTTC’s Safe Travels Protocols. With Covid-19 continuing to The WTTC’s Safe Travels be an almighty threat, Sri Lanka’s stamp is the first of its kind tourism industry has decided to take specifically designed to combat the safe route, being guided purely Long-term stability the ramifications of Covid-19 and by the health authorities instead similar outbreaks. Recognised and of lobbying for a reopening of the embraced by the United Nations airport and a resumption of the World Tourism Organisation tourism sector. (UNWTO), the stamp allows Similar to Sri Lanka, other over short-term gain travellers to trot the globe whilst tourism-dependent countries in ensuring their safety. the region such as Thailand and z Tourism to play it safe despite opportunity for competitive edge Sri Lanka joined the ranks of Indonesia have decided to keep their other leading destinations to be borders closed for the safety of their done well are currently facing their stamped safe, including Indonesia, citizens. A recent prediction from second waves.” Dubai, Tanzania, Portugal, Mexican a deputy governor of the Tourism She went on to state that they Caribbean, Barcelona, Madrid, Authority of Thailand claimed that need to be prudent when making the Seville, Turkey, Bulgaria, Jamaica, the country may remain closed decision to open up the country, but Mauritius, Ontario, Saudi Arabia, until 2021, while Indonesia’s also need to be completely prepared Rwanda, and counting, having had Co-ordinating Minister for Maritime and agile to opening with even a its protocols validated by WTTC to Affairs and Investment announced mere 24 hours’ notice. be in line with those devised by the that Bali, the country’s biggest Fernando stated that they have global organisation. tourist destination, might be closed already taken steps to ensure that Sri Lanka got another leg up on till the end of 2020. the industry is prepared through other regional tourist destinations Despite this, countries such as the the all-inclusive Sri Lanka Tourism thanks to Wunderman Thompson’s Maldives have already opened their app, which is now ready and “So Sri Lanka – Wild Guides” film borders to international tourists, awaiting approval from the Cabinet I have to first look at this issue We have to look at multiple Countries like the Maldives recently winning the coveted award and the country’s immigration and Immigration and Emigration as a Sri Lankan, and not as factors such as the risk of a have opened the country for for “Best Viral Film” in the Brand authorities have revealed that a Department to be linked with the an industry leader. This is second wave and if we can international tourists with Film Awards in London. total of 5,177 tourists arrived in online visa process. why I think it is important handle it, because this is a no control or testing, which is “Wild Guides” was a first of its the country between 15 July and “We have now prepared the for us to go by what the health national issue. Therefore, risky. We should not do this, kind digital PR (public relations) 15 August. The decision for this Cabinet paper required for the app authorities tell us and just be I think the overall country we need to listen to our health film experience brought to life by opening came after the country’s to be authorised along with the ready when they give us the policy supersedes the tourism authorities and allow them to a British Academy Film Awards health authorities permitted tourists online visa procedure. It will be one green light industry, so we need to go on make the ultimate decision (BAFTA) and Emmy Award- to enter the country without of the first Cabinet papers by Sri Sri Lanka Tourism Chairperson the risk assessment done by the THASL President winning team of nature filmmakers; mandatory quarantine, provided Lanka Tourism for the new Cabinet Kimarli Fernando health authorities and let them Sanath Ukwatte designed to communicate the new that they remained at the facility of Ministers.” guide us destination identity, “So Sri Lanka”, where initial bookings were made. This app is set to be developed industry to focus on taking smaller JKH Vice President and the health authorities and let them the film delivered unprecedented Within this first month of opening with funding from the UNDP steps, like bringing low numbers of Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts guide us.” success with a combined reach its borders, they reported that the (United Nations Development tourists into the country as opposed Brand Marketing Head However, Ukwatte stated that the of over 2.5 billion across key highest number of incoming tourists Programme) and it will be upgraded to returning to the earlier numbers, Dileep Mudadeniya current system is not sustainable, international markets last year. was from the UK, with 679 arrivals, to allow tourists to have all the so as to help control the disease and as over two million Sri Lankans Alongside these achievements, followed by the United Arab necessary information required to keep the rest of the country safe. country has currently taken a lot of depend on tourism for their Fernando applauded the local Emirates (UAE), and the US, which get around . Fernando “At the height of Sri Lanka’s action to mitigate the situation, and livelihood, having had no proper industry on its innovative attitude account for 647 and 525 tourists, stated that they had looked at all the tourism in 2018, we had roughly therefore, the sector is waiting on income for over six months. He during the initial outbreak, respectively. top travel apps in the world and its around 190,000 tourists a month, the health authorities’ decision to also stated that hotels have started especially pointing out initiatives However, when it comes to features, and incorporated it into which added up to 2.3 million open the country. borrowing money in order to pay such as the quarantine hotels which Sri Lanka, the Chairperson of Sri this new app. tourists that year. However, I think “Countries like the Maldives the salaries of their employees, and ensured that some hotels had guests Lanka Tourism, which includes the The app is going to use the now we should focus on getting have opened the country for many of them will not be able to do staying for 14 consecutive days. She Sri Lanka Tourism Development information taken by the tourist, and smaller numbers, like 1,000 tourists international tourists with no this for much longer. suggested that the industry focus Authority (SLTDA) and Sri email it to health officials of the area a day. I have to first look at this control or testing, which is risky. Despite this, he stated that Sri on seafarers, with strict guidelines, Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau they are travelling to. This is to help issue as a Sri Lankan, and not as an We should not do this, we need to Lanka currently has a definite proper PCR testing, and demarcated (SLTPB), Kimarli Fernando, stated these officials stay informed about industry leader. This is why I think listen to our health authorities and advantage over other countries hotels and areas, with no interaction that the industry is prioritising the who is entering their areas and it is important for us to go by what allow them to make the ultimate due to its success in controlling the with the public. safety of the citizens and being where they are staying. the health authorities tell us and decision.” pandemic and that this has brought Post-Covid Sri Lanka needs to better prepared for tourists when “This will really help us in just be ready when they give us the John Keells Holdings (JKH) Vice the country to the top of people’s pitch its uniqueness to the world, the country eventually does open its tracking down the movements of the green light.” President and Cinnamon Hotels minds when thinking about travel when it comes to managing the borders. travellers entering the country post She stated that the local industry and Resorts Brand Marketing Head post-Covid. pandemic, diversity, nature, wildlife, Speaking to The Sunday Morning Covid-19. Although no decision has has been very understanding and Dileep Mudadeniya shared these One of these advantages comes in and other amenities, she explained, Business, Fernando explained that been made yet on the exact date of supportive of the current situation, same sentiments, stating that other the form of the Safe Travels stamp, saying that this is what a post-Covid the decision to open the country for the reopening of the airport, there making no demands to open the countries like Vietnam and China which Sri Lanka recently received tourist will be looking for when they tourism has to come from the health were several procedures that needed country for tourists and that even that opened up too early have from the World Travel and Tourism are planning to travel – the local authorities, and the tourism industry to be addressed and now almost all The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka had to close their borders again. Council (WTTC) after gaining industry needs to be ready for when needs to be prepared for when they have been sorted out.” (THASL), whose members have He explained that the opening or recognition for its safety protocols these tourists start coming in. give that green light. She also stated that they have to made the biggest investment in the closing of Sri Lanka should be in introduced by the Government “Irrespective of the airport “We need to be careful and work with the health authorities country’s tourism, fully understand line with the health authorities’ along with standards mandated by opening, we will be ready, so that if listen to the health authorities when and Airport and Aviation Services the situation and are exercising recommendation, as it is not the SLTDA to ensure the safety the President reopens the country, it comes to opening Sri Lanka Sri Lanka (AASL) to increase the caution. only about getting tourists into of domestic and international we will be ready to go in 24 hours. for tourism, because our primary capacity of PCR testing before the country. “We have to look at travellers. We have got global recognition responsibility is for the safety of opening the country. Tourists will The local industry multiple factors such as the risk This stamp is set to instil with the safety stamp, we have the our 22 million citizens, then to the be subjected to three PCR tests, According to THASL President of a second wave and if we can confidence among tourists looking app, we are planning on getting Sri Lankans stranded abroad and one before arrival, one on arrival, Sanath Ukwatte, prematurely handle it, because this is a national at Sri Lanka as a potential future the cabinet approval to put the app finally, to bring back the tourists. and another five to seven days after opening the country and letting issue. Therefore, I think the overall travel destination, and will also in immigration forms, and with We also need to take into account entering the country. a lot of tourists in is not the way country policy supersedes the allow them to recognise properties regards to PCR test, we are in what is happening in the rest of the When the country is eventually forward for the local tourism tourism industry, so we need to and businesses that diligently contact with Airport and Aviation world, where countries that have opened, Fernando wants the local industry. He explained that the go on the risk assessment done by follow globally streamed health (Services), so we will be ready.” Yamaha introduces Sri Lanka’s first 155 CC scooter Associated Motorways (Pvt.) possible, combining innovative available. The Yamaha Aerox 155 racing technology with a liquid- even with a passenger. Moreover, Ltd. (AMW) recently unveiled the technology with a bold, eye- CC continues this trend with a cooled four-stroke, SOHC engine the combination of front disc Yamaha Aerox 155 CC scooter catching design. This makes it scooter that promotes economic and fuel injection. The latest brakes with ABS and a rear in Sri Lanka, which it said is one stand out in any situation and is fuel consumption, is loaded with FI technology makes it one of drum brake guarantees superior of the most popular scooters in ideal for the biker that wants a futuristic features, and is easily one the most fuel-efficient scooters stopping power. So riders get a Europe. It is also the first scooter ride with personality and style, of the most advanced, top-of-the- ever made. Other impressive scooter that is lightweight yet in Sri Lanka with a futuristic commented Director of Passenger line scooters in the market,” said additions include LED head and tough, ultra-manoeuvrable, and keyless start. Vehicles Yohann De Zoysa. AMW Deputy General Manager – tail lights for brilliant visibility. A aerodynamically constructed. “The Yamaha Aerox 155 CC is “Yamaha is renowned for Yamaha Zahran Ziyawudeen. telescopic fork front suspension The Yamaha Aerox 155 CC is ideal for the young urban rider. As delivering technology and service The Yamaha Aerox 155 CC and unit swing rear suspension now available islandwide through a scooter, it excels in every way that is far superior to anything combines state-of-the-art Japanese which makes riding a breeze, over 235 Yamaha sales dealers. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning business 5 Sunday, August 23, 2020 POLITICS

BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR Gaining a two-thirds majority in a democracy has been the ultimate desire of all Sri Lankan governments The economic pitfalls as it would virtually put a fullstop to meaningful political competition, enabling governments to make sweeping changes of a two-thirds majority unilaterally, for better or worse, without worrying about consensus. z Historically, absolute power has not been good for Sri Lanka’s economy. Will this time be different? Nonetheless, achieving a two- crucial nonpartisan positions. As thirds majority is a rare occurrence analysts say, Rajapaksa’s rule was as throughout Sri Lankan history, increasingly authoritarian during it has happened only on four this period. The legal system was occasions so far, with the latest one increasingly politicised. being the 2020 general election. Rajapaksa failed to secure his Unfortunately, during the first three third term as the President of Sri occasions, it could hardly be said Lanka as he lost in the presidential that the two-thirds majorities have election held in January 2015. been used in the best interest of the Maithripala Sirisena was elected as nation or its economy. the new President. Focusing particularly on the economy, the consequences of What would this two- actions taken under these respective thirds Government do? governments most often had a Ruling party Sri Lanka Podujana negative impact on economic Peramuna (SLPP) secured 145 seats growth, whether those effects were out of 225 seats in the 2020 general felt immediately, as in the early- Sirimavo Bandaranaike J.R. Jayewardene Mahinda Rajapaksa Gotabaya Rajapaksa election, while SLPP’s allies secured 1970s Government, or belatedly, five seats. It is still unpredictable as in the late-1970s Government. under Sirimavo Bandaranaike’s he held a five-sixths majority in of investors and officials of aid- while the Opposition, UNP, won 60 what this Government would do The impact of these decisions administration. Parliament. giving nations and agencies across seats. with its impressive two-thirds still affect the development of the Analysts say that this the world. In the first full year The Sri Lankan economy grew majority achievement. Nevertheless, country and have contributed to us unprecedented nationalisation J.R. Jayewardene; overly of the new regime, official loan by an impressive 8% in 2011 but on Wednesday (19), the Cabinet of remaining a “developing” nation. In that took place led to the fall of open commitments more than doubled, dropped to 6.4% the following Ministers of the newly appointed contrast, many countries that gained Bandaranaike’s regime as it did Junius Richard Jayewardene, in the marked contrast to the year. The slowdown was primarily Government granted approval to independence around the same time not achieve the desired results. commonly abbreviated as J.R. experience of other South Asian due to weaker external demand introduce the 20th Amendment to we did have travelled far ahead in Nationalisation controlled a Jayewardene, was elected as the nations at the same time. The net and tightening of fiscal policies. In the Constitution. The Cabinet had terms of economy. significant part of the economy, first Executive President of Sri flow from all lenders increased to $ the last three years of Rajapaksa’s granted approval to abolish the 19th At a time when the present which means the control was Lanka in 1978. It was a landslide 175.9 million in 1979 compared to regime, growth shot up and was Amendment and to draft the 20th Government is gearing up to with the Government. They victory for Jayewardene as his $ 49 million in 1977. ranging between 7-8.5%, driven Amendment to the Constitution. enjoy its two-thirds majority, The dominated international trade and Government secured five-sixths of The increase in the level of mainly by a boost in infrastructure Accordingly, the 20th Sunday Morning Business decided payments, plantation and industrial the majority. The UNP swept off international grants created an growth. Amendment to the Constitution to take a look at the previous three manufacturing sectors, and even the 140 seats out of 168. unprecedented balance of trade In September 2014, the will be drafted and presented to occasions of two-thirds majorities, trade unions. Jayewardene’s manifesto deficits in the economy. The tax International Monetary Fund (IMF) the Cabinet of Ministers before key economic decisions taken Due to sluggish bureaucratic promised to reverse the revenues foregone through the stated that Sri Lanka had made tabling it in Parliament for under these Governments, and how processes; lack of professionalism; nationalisation of the country’s incentives for capital had to be notable advances in recent years, approval. Senior members of the the current Government can avoid lack of capital, managerial tea, rubber, and coconut estates; to made up from other sources. and appears to be on its way to Government have said earlier that similar pitfalls in economic policy expertise, and technology; and make changes to foreign exchange Taxes on individual and corporate joining the ranks of upper middle- the proposed amendment will formulation. political interference, by 1977, most policies; and to open the Sri Lankan income and profits fell from income countries. include clauses from the 18th and of the state-owned companies were economy. He proceeded with his 17.5% of total revenues in 1976 to “Per capita GDP has increased 19th Amendments as well as several What is a two-thirds running at a loss and continued promises once he was elected into 9.8% in 1978. Similar decreases from $ 869 in 2000 to $3,256 in fresh clauses. majority? to make losses. The total output power. Jayawardena’s regime occurred in the share of taxes on 2013, and there appears to be an Speaking to The Sunday Morning To put it in simple terms, a two- of the plantation economy had initiated an open economy, the first property, net wealth, and estates. ongoing shift toward higher value- Business, former Central Bank of thirds majority means securing 150 fallen because of drought and low in South Asia. The Government The rate of growth in real national added industrial production, as well Sri Lanka (CBSL) Deputy Governor or more seats in the Parliament by reinvestment in new equipment mostly withdrew from its direct role income had been significantly as the rapid expansion of services,” Dr. W.A. Wijewardena stated that a the ruling party. According to the and replanting. Nationalisation in the Sri Lankan economy, making less. The import liberalisation the IMF added. government can do whatever they Sri Lankan Parliament, a particular deteriorated the condition of the a clear departure from policies policy, by removing constraints However, infrastructure projects would like to do, when there is a procedure has to be followed to pass outputs. Making things worse, the implemented by the previous on imported intermediate goods, such as roads, highways, and ports two-thirds majority. Nevertheless, constitutional amendments, bills oil crisis in 1973 broke the back administration. Market mechanisms certainly contributed to growth were mainly funded by China and he emphasised that it should be used inconsistent with the Constitution, of the Sri Lankan economy and were given greater autonomy and in the manufacturing sector, but interest rates of these loans were for the betterment of the country’s investment treaties, and agreements. resulted in large-scale rationing. were considered as the engine of simultaneously contributed to 5% and above. Highways were in economy. At this stage, a special majority is In addition to this, Bandaranaike growth, and steps were taken to wiping out the current account fact a priority of the Government. “Governments should use their required, and it should be taken brought in stringent foreign instil features to the political system. surplus very quickly. In 1978, the Borrowing was high during two-thirds majority power to by name to ensure that the votes exchange control measures to the The policy since the early 1960s balance of trade deficit was one of Rajapaksa’s period. At one point, undertake the necessary reforms, are specifically recorded for future Sri Lankan economy to remain that restricted foreign banks from the largest in Sri Lanka’s history, private banks were directed to such as reforms in the labour reference. This special majority as a closed economy. All non- opening branches in Sri Lanka was and that deficit was dwarfed by the borrow from international lenders market, capital market, and land vote should be taken not only on the essential and luxury imports were changed in 1977 and 10 new foreign 1979 deficit, which in turn doubled and re-lend it to the Government to market,” Dr. Wijewardena added. second reading, but also on the third banned, and at a point, even imports banks opened offices in 1979 and in 1980 and increased further in keep interest rates low. Analysts are of the view that reading. Every committee-stage of foods and medicines were 1980 alone. Generous tax incentives 1982. Moreover, most of these during the previous three occasions, amendment should receive a two- forbidden. Nevertheless, this led to were announced to encourage Current account deficits were infrastructure projects failed to the two-thirds majority was used for thirds majority vote. The Speaker locals opting to manufacture goods foreign direct investment (FDI). covered by dependence on foreign provide a return. According to a personal needs and to take revenge or the Presiding Officer is entitled they cannot import. Even though Powerful investment incentives for funding. The 1980 budget deficit local media article, as of 2013, from political rivals of heads of the to cast a vote when there is equality import controls were commended, foreign and domestic capital and amounted to more than 26% of the Southern Highway cost Sri Sri Lankan Government. in votes. But when the two-thirds difficulties in importing the liberalisation in international trade GDP. Sri Lanka lost 7% of its real Lanka an annual loss of Rs. 5.5 Dr. Wijewardena added that if Sri majority is required, the Speaker necessary raw materials for policies were announced. national income in 1982 and 8% in billion, as Prof. Amal Kumarage Lanka chooses to use its majority cannot exercise the casting vote. local production due to lengthy The Greater Colombo Economic 1983. Unfortunately, the economy of the Transport and Logistics power wisely, the country could get bureaucratic processes were Commission was established was more vulnerable to exogenous Management Department of the rid of the debt burden; otherwise, we Historical two-thirds criticised. However, some of these by statute in 1978, with powers shocks under the liberalised regime Moratuwa University stated. The would end up like the previous three majorities manufacturers managed to survive necessary for the development than under the closed economy of annual revenue collected from the occasions of a two-thirds majority. Sirimavo Bandaranaike bureaucratically and continue to do and resurgence of the economy. Bandaranaike. toll collected from vehicles was “In none of the occasions were and the closed economy business even today. Further, imports and payments were Public sector firms varied in just Rs. 1 billion in 2013, while the they used for the betterment of the During this time, import liberalised, and price controls and profitability, with no clear trend maintenance cost, together with country. We would have introduced Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the substitution was promoted, with other administrative controls were since the new policies took form. debt servicing, was Rs. 6.5 million. massive amounts of reforms. In the world’s first female Prime Minister, food rationing and compulsory removed with a view to enable The rate of growth in production Therefore, the Government had to capital market, we have to introduce when elected in 1960, served as the savings having been introduced. the market mechanism to operate. in public sector enterprises was borrow more to service its external the new legislation to investors Prime Minister of Sri Lanka for 18 The year 1973 was declared as The concept of privatisation of considerably lower than in the debt repayments. Nevertheless, rather than the borrowers. We will years, periodically. Bandaranaike’s the year of manufacturing by state assets was introduced with private sector. government expenditure remained have to introduce new taxes as no second term as Prime Minister was Bandaranaike. The Government economic liberalisation, recognising “One irony is that import high as infrastructure developments Government can function merely by from 1970-1977. In the general expanded state control of the it as an alternative strategy to boost liberalisation – a key component in continued to take place during printing money,” he added. election of 1970 that re-elected distribution of necessities at low private sector activities in the the strategy – has hurt the National Rajapaksa’s regime. Meanwhile, Advocata Institute Bandaranaike, she rose to power prices. economy. Textile Corporation and the Massive infrastructure projects Chief Operating Officer (COO) at the helm of the United Front According to a scholarly article However, the five-sixths of National Paper Corporation, adding that were completed under the Dhananath Fernando stated that a (UF) which consisted of the Lanka written by Ronald J. Herring the Parliament was often used to to the troublesome budget deficit,” Rajapaksa era include Mattala two-thirds majority is “like a knife” Sama Samaja Party (LSSP), Sri on “Economic Liberalisation manipulate and amend constitutions. Herring explains in his research Rajapaksa International Airport, and one can either harm themselves Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), Policies in Sri Lanka”, although Since 1978, the Constitution was paper. known internationally as “the or do the necessary thing. and Communist Party (CP), and the economy was exporting amended 16 times in 10 years, In 1989, Jayewardene’s term world’s emptiest airport”. The “It is a big power and a lot of collectively secured a two-thirds substantially more than in the 1960s which led to a democratic deficit. ended, and Ranasinghe Premadasa project was more of a want than a changes can be made economically majority in Parliament. In the under Bandaranaike’s regime, those In addition to this, as a result was elected as the President of Sri national need. The project cost $ and constitutionally. It should be House of 151 seats, the SLFP exports had a purchasing power of removing import controls, the Lanka the same year. 209 million, of which $ 190 million utilised for economic reform plans, alone won 91 seats while the LSSP more significant than one-third the market was filled with imported was obtained from China as a loan. to ensure the competitiveness of secured 19 seats and CP secured smaller volume of exports in the goods, and as the Sri Lankan Mahinda Rajapaksa: Even though Sri Lanka needed a the economy, and to make the six seats. Unitedly, the three parties 1960s. mentality always preferred imported Infrastructure and second international airport, due state sector more efficient and garnered 115 seats. The United Further, a new constitution was goods, demand for local items borrowing to being located in the midst of transparent,” he added. National Party (UNP) suffered a brought in, creating an executive dropped and it took very little for Even though President Mahinda a migratory birds’ route, neither It is difficult to rule that a two- crushing defeat, obtaining only 17 presidency and also changing the many local industries to vanish Rajapaksa’s presidential term was aircraft nor passengers flock to thirds majority can always be seats. This led Bandaranaike to name “Ceylon” to “Sri Lanka”. permanently. Industries such as to expire in 2011, in November Mattala. Nevertheless, Mattala counter-productive for an economy enjoy a comfortable two-thirds in The Government instituted socialist fertiliser, ceramics, and plywood 2009, he announced the presidential was chosen as the location of the merely based on Sri Lanka’s Parliament. economic policies, strengthening that began to nourish with the election to be held in January new airport, mainly because it was previous experiences or based Radical policies raised their ties with the Soviet Union and support of foreign loans and aids 2010. While the main Opposition situated in the home region of the on other similar international heads, free enterprises were further China, while promoting a policy of had to go out of business. Foreign party nearly collapsed, Mahinda President, and he had bigger plans experiences. As economists say, it is restricted, and industries and non-alignment. reserves gradually deteriorated. Rajapaksa rallied an impressive to develop the southern region. the Government that should decide institutions were nationalised. Even Regardless of these policies, This was attributed to opening the two-thirds victory, in little less than In September 2010, Parliament how effectively they are going to though the nationalisation of private Bandaranaike’s Government failed economy in an extreme way instead a year in 2010 since the end of the passed a proposal to remove utilise the comfortable two-thirds companies was initially begun miserably as closed economic of opting for a middle path. Civil War in 2009; mainly due to presidential term limits from the majority they have secured, while under the late Prime Minister and policies were an utter failure. Ronald J. Harring’s research successfully ending the war under Constitution. The amendments making sure that the Sri Lankan husband of Sirimavo Bandaranaike Bandaranaike was sent home in the paper states that in pursuit of new his Government. Ruling party also included the removal of an economy will not face the same S. W. R. D. Bandaranaike’s regime 1977 election due to this. People strategies on external investment United People’s Freedom Alliance independent advisory council fate as it did during the previous in 1956, these measures were elected J.R. Jayewardene as the capital and foreign loans, the (UPFA) secured a large majority in that the President had to consult three occasions. Here’s hoping the continued with renewed vigour in 1977, and Finance Minister visited groups the House as it obtained 144 seats before appointing people to Government has the same idea. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 6 the sunday morning business GENDER/INNOVATION Sunday, August 23, 2020

BY UWIN LUGODA schools, both in and out of Colombo. Dr. Segera stated that it is very Women in Management (WIM) important to start these awareness recently initiated their 10th programmes from a young age instead year of honouring inspiring ‘Female representation of trying to change the mindsets of Sri Lankan women with Top people in their 40s. She explained 50 Professional and Career that school teachers usually do not Women Awards 2020. The have the knowledge or awareness on organisation partnered with job markets and the current business Women in Work, a partnership in corporate world a world to encourage their students to entered into between pursue certain careers. the International Finance “So I work with schools in Colombo and mostly outside Corporation (IFC) and the Colombo, but the main obstacle I Government of Australia on 19 model for politics’ have seen is changing the minds of August, to open the awards for teachers because they think they nominations. z are right. So it is more important In discussion with WIM Founder/Chairperson Dr. Sulochana Segera to change the teachers’ curriculum During the event press conference, employed, but there is a big difference job, they should not say no but ready than it is to change the children’s WIM Founder/Chairperson Dr. now.” themselves for it because at the end curriculum.” Sulochana Segera told The Sunday She also stated that she has seen of the day delivery matters. They According to Dr. Segera, the Morning Business that the event is a positive increase in women in should also not look at feminism as a Government can do a lot to help all about recognising women from leadership roles, instead of them negative thing and should not try to be women in the corporate world, the corporate world to those in being confined to the staff level, a man in a corporate world, as you are including enforcing laws against business and society at large. She explaining that this is because more recruited because you are a woman; advertising based on gender for jobs explained that the awards is not women are now demanding these so use your emotions and intelligence and making the public transport only to appreciate and recognise leadership opportunities and are in to solve problems – that is the best system safer for women to travel in. the successes of women, but also fact aiming for them. thing women can do.” She stated that this is another reason to give them an opportunity and “Women are the best suited for She also stated that companies need companies opt to hire men because platform to excel in their leadership the corporate field, because women to stop looking for job roles to fit the women were to work late, they would while contributing more to the local excel when it comes to things like gender, with mindsets that fixate on have to pay for their transport, which economy and being role models for credibility and integrity, while also women being receptionists and men is not always feasible. the younger generations. delivering on the things they promise. being sales reps. “93% of women in Sri Lanka get “We want the younger generations These are very big positive points for “They look at a boy with a mobile abused when using public transport, to look up to these women. This event women in the corporate world.” and bike and say he is a sales rep, but so the Government needs to look has grown throughout the years. According to Dr. Segera, they say women can’t do the same. I at increasing the safety for women. When we started, we only had five local politics can use women’s think it’s this myth and psychology Also, I suggest the Government look awards, but now we have 50. So representation in the corporate as a in society that certain jobs are only into introducing women drivers and today, we are inviting all these women model to base their representation meant for boys and others are only conductors for public transport so that to come and nominate themselves for on. She stated that unlike the political meant for girls. But this is true; we women will feel safer.” the award.” world, the corporate sphere gives are currently working with a water The judging panel for Top 50 With over 420 past award winners women more equal opportunities and company where all the girls are doing Professional and Career Women who represented a diverse list of has proven that having women in an the manufacturing.” Awards 2020 would consist of professions including banking and organisation really increases their Dr. Segera said that this is why Jetwing Travels Chairman/Managing finance, hospitality, media, legal, profits. the award is not just for women in Director (MD) Shiromal Cooray, logistics, and supply chain, the She went on to state that the leadership or women in corporates, High Commissioner of Australia ceremony aims to bring about a representation of women in politics but for women in all levels, from the to Sri Lanka David John Holly, change as employees, entrepreneurs, has remained the same for the last WIM Founder/Chairperson Dr. Sulochana Segera PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA grassroots to the top. She explained John Keells Group Executive Vice and business leaders. This year also 40 years, with only 5% of women therefore attach a stigma to women in it having to do with being unaware that when she first came up with the President Nadija Thambiah, Clootrack marks IFC’s sixth consecutive year in representing Parliament throughout leadership. of what they are capable of. She concept, it was to ensure a woman’s CEO to Sri Lanka/the Maldives and co-hosting the awards. the years. However, she stated that there is explained that this is especially the success and not quantified by her Swadeshi Industries PLC Strategic Dr. Segera stated that since the “In local politics, women are given a change happening in the younger case when it comes to entering male- position. Lead Rohantha Athukorala, Women last awards ceremony, women very little opportunity and choice, and generations, where women are not dominated industries. “Now, if for a woman in the In Work IFC Programme Manager representation in the corporate world there is a lot of nepotism involved, ready to be in their comfortzones Dr. Segera claimed that the biggest grassroots level the objective is to Sarah Twigg, and businesses has increased, with which you do not see in the corporate and come with high qualifications, hurdle for women when entering feed her kids and to do a business, Daily FT Editor Nisthar Cassim, the average percentage of female world. You cannot run a business or wanting to learn the skills needed in these industries come from home and and if she has achieved that, that’s an Hayleys Agriculture Holdings MD representation in a workplace going country leaving one gender out; Sri the corporate world. Once they have school, where they give no awareness achievement. If a corporate woman Jayanthi Dharmasena, Marketing up from 34% to 35%. She stated that Lankan women are more qualified achieved these skills, these women to women on non-traditional wants to be on a board of directors, Consultant Kumara Samarasinghe, this increase is due to the current and talented, so why not give them an deliver and want to keep climbing the employment for them. She went on that’s her achievement. This is for Fonterra Brands Lanka Associate environment in which both women opportunity and choice to excel?” corporate ladder, she added. to say that there is also an issue with everyone.” Director – Corporate of Regulatory and men have to earn a living in order Dr. Segera stated that there is also “I think these factors will lead to the self-belief in most women where WIM is conducting many Affairs and Customer Care Thamari to live a comfortable life and educate a myth that women in leadership a huge change in the next five years they think they cannot do these non- programmes in order to help these Senanayake, and Shippers’ Academy their children. positions do not support other women, where corporates will not only look traditional jobs. women climb up the ladder, including Colombo CEO Rohan Masakorala. “If you look at the women adding that it is usually the men at women leadership, but also gender “The first thing women need to coaching programmes for both men The nominations for the awards representation numbers in corporates, who hinder the growth of women. leadership.” do is groom themselves to look at and women. Moreover, WIM takes are open until 15 September, with the you might not see a big change. She explained that most middle- According to her, there are still challenges as opportunities, and part in programmes to help local final ceremony set to take place on This is because they do not calculate aged men feel uncomfortable with some challenges women face in women should learn to say ‘no’. So female entrepreneurs and also work 26 November at Shangri-La Hotel, the women who are not directly women in positions of power and the corporate world, with most of when receiving that non-traditional on educating teachers and children in Colombo.

Cinnamon Training Academy to DFCC launches new enhanced establish cinnamon processing centre ‘Virtual Wallet’ today Further strengthening its potential customers of DFCC The Cinnamon Training Academy position in the digital banking Bank. Furthermore, the bank (CTA) recently laid the foundation space of Sri Lanka, DFCC delivered its commitment to stone to establish a modern cinnamon Bank PLC will launch the enhance lives by widening processing centre called “Bought Tree enhanced version of its “Virtual choices for smartphone Factory” at its premises in Kosgoda, Wallet” application for all users providing customers Balapitiya. The centre is expected to be Sri Lankans today (23) under access to make payments operational before the end of this year. the theme “you don’t need to and funds transfers from the When operational, it will benefit touch cash to do your financial convenience of their home. the smallholders in the areas of transactions”, with new As a bank with a focus on Balapitiya, Baddegama, Batapola, features to foster higher levels digital transformation, we Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Karandeniya, of customer convenience. are confident that the latest and Ambalangoda in the Galle District Building on the existing features of the Virtual Wallet to obtain a better price for their premise of the DFCC Virtual will provide an utmost cinnamon trees and/or process them Wallet application, the convenience and meet user to international standards. The centre enhanced application features expectations. Forging ahead will create direct employment to 20 a refreshed, user-centric towards becoming the most jobs and about 100 indirect jobs and Cinnamon Training Academy interface. In an effort to cater to digitally enabled customer- have a capacity to process about 24,000 every customer segment based centric bank by 2025, DFCC cinnamon trees with an output of 1350 and implemented by UNIDO from over the years. on language, the application Virtual Wallet will play a key kg processed cinnamon per month the inception in 2013 to date. UNIDO Delegation of the European Union can be used in Sinhalese, role in the journey.” during the two harvesting seasons, the provided technical consultants, training for Sri Lanka and the Maldives Head Tamil, or English. Around The Virtual Wallet is CTA noted. of trainers, development of curriculums of Operation Frank Hess, addressing 15 novel features have been DFCC ‘Virtual Wallet’ app available for download on the Foundation stones were laid by for training, and revision of curriculums the gathering, stated that they are included, all aimed at creating a Apple App Store and Google Delegation of the European Union for after three years, while hosting other extremely happy to be a part of this seamless customer experience. portfolio including savings Play Store at no charge. Sri Lanka and the Maldives Head of activities as well. It designed the project by funding it and also assisting The DFCC Virtual and current accounts, fixed Many onboarding options Operation Frank Hess, United Nations Bought Tree Factory, selected the in the activities of CTA. He noted the Wallet gives customers the deposits, and loans, customers are available for customers. Industrial Development Organization contractor, and implemented the progress of CTA and wished that it functionality of performing may also add their DFCC New-to-the-bank customers (UNIDO) International Expert Dr. Jairo project. would continue the progress. fund transfers between their primary and supplementary may download the app and Andres Villamil-Diaz, CTA Chairman The First stage was implemented UNIDO) International Expert Dr. own accounts and to other bank credit card to the wallet. click on the “apply now” Sarada M. De Silva, Spice Council during the presidency Mahinda Jairo Andres Villamil-Diaz noted the accounts/settling other bank Through this feature, details feature, whereas existing Chairman D.A. Perera, and CTA Rajapaksa and launched by Basil activities the UNIDO has undertaken credit cards using the common such as the card limit, customers can contact the Director Wijitha De Zoysa Jayatilleke. Rajapaksa. The second stage consisting for CTA as the implementing partner. It electronic fund transfer switch available balance, minimum call centre or use their debit CTA’s Bought Tree Factory of the lecture hall auditorium, female has been involved with the CTA since (CEFTS) technology, and all payment due, payment due card to self-onboard. Prior will enhance the operations and and male hostels, and the storeroom has 2013, formulating the strategy to plan transfers are performed in real date, cashback rewards to the onboarding process, sustainability of CTA. The construction been provided in the national budget in and implement actions to establish the time, allowing for immediate value, transaction details, and any customer may also of the factory and equipping it is fully 2019 and approved. However, due to CTA. credit. Additionally, customers statements pertaining to the use the demo feature to funded by the European Union, while the Vote on Account, these funds are yet Spice Council Chairman Perera have the option to top up their previous three months can familiarise themselves with it is designed and implemented by the to be released. delivered the vote of thanks. He DFCC Virtual Wallet in order be viewed in the palm of the the application’s interface. As UNIDO. The European Union has been Welcoming the distigushed invitees thanked the European Union, UNIDO, to make utility bill payments customer’s hand. the application complies with assisting the CTA over the last five and participants from the cinnamon the , and all and insurance payments. DFCC Bank CEO Lakshman the safety regulations set by years to make it sustainable, and it has industry, CTA Chairman De Silva departments and agencies. He also Together with the over 140 Silva stated: “DFCC Bank the Central Bank of Sri Lanka trained over 800 trainees and has also thanked the European Union, UNIDO, thanked De Silva for all his hard work DFCC ATMs and 45 CRMs is a pioneer in the digital (CBSL), customers need not assisted in the process of obtaining and the STDF for all assistance in establishing and improving CTA. islandwide, the application also payment space through the worry about misplacement of geographical indications for Ceylon rendered to CTA. He also thanked the He made special mention of De Zoysa enables cardless withdrawals. DFCC Virtual Wallet which funds or the theft of personal cinnamon since 2013. Government of Sri Lanka, ministries, Jayatilleke for all the supplies and From checking balances is now upgraded with host of information, DFCC Bank The CTA project has been initiated and agencies for the assistance given arrangement for the function. across a customer’s entire benefits for both existing and added. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning business 7 Sunday, August 23, 2020 TECH

By Dr. Nicholas Ruwan Dias and Niresh Eliatamby Digital identity card In Sri Lanka, the prospect of each citizen having a unique digital identity card has raised some debate on certain aspects of such a card. It is not the intention of the authors of this article to examine the merits or demerits of the different opinions on this issue. Rather, it is our intention to explore and shed light on for all Sri Lankans the use of a digital national identity card (NIC) Smart card e-payment can be considered in other nations. As with any other device, as one requirement for the successful such cards must not be abused, but their usage creation of NIC PKI in the e-commerce should be of benefit to individuals, the public, sector. Smart cards are either used for and the country. storing money in smart card e-payment or yy Globally, 3.6 billion people are to enhance the protection of e-payments. estimated to carry a NIC by 2021 To use smart cards, a hardware system that interacts with the chip on the smart yy Many of the latest national NIC card must be a smart card reader. For initiatives have been introduced or example, personal and electronic cash started (including cards and/or mobile registers can be attached to the reader. platforms). For example, Afghanistan, The NIC can be used for payments at toll Denmark, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, gates, station charges, and bus and Light Cameroon, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan, Rail Transit (LRT) rates for transportation. Italy, Iran, Japan, Senegal, Sri It offers fast and easy transactions, Lanka, Bulgaria, the Maldives, functioning as an ATM card for banking Norway, Poland, Zambia, and a pilot applications. Cash withdrawal, balance programme in Myanmar are also being inquiry, and the transfer of funds are developed part of the functions. The PKI maintains yy Banks have used the NIC as the safest confidentiality, integrity, non-repudiation, way of accessing and demanding and authentication. government credit for online services. The card is also the gateway to the Importance of data protection bank’s website authentication One important area any government yy Lawyers can now access the needs to address when implementing a government portal via their national digital identity card is how a citizen’s data NIC via the online service provided by would be protected from theft by others, the Justice Ministry and digitally sign when included in the new card. This and upload legal proceedings includes theft by commercial organisations, Sri Lankan authorities recently, once foreign commercial organisations, and again, began moving to implement the foreign governments. Unique Digital Identity Card Project, Who would be authorised to access the which would provide central access to information in a card? How can citizens be the information on every citizen through confident that such information will not be a magnetic strip or QR Code on a new accessed by the wrong types of individuals unique digital identity card. This was to for illicit purposes? Which institutions be expected, given the chaotic lack of Many private sector organisations e-commerce transactions, is brought to light. would be authorised to have card readers/ current information that greatly hampered already collect information on customers, In order to make this payment model scanners to read these cards? Certainly, the anti-Covid effort over the past several especially employers, hospitals, appropriate to the public, two problems local police stations, hospitals, etc., but months. The advent of Covid has brought supermarkets, airlines, hotels, and banks. should be addressed: The question of trust who else? forward a project that had earlier been These are manifested mainly in the form and protection and the question of results. What would be the criminal penalties mooted. of loyalty cards or ATM cards, and so Two digital certificates can be used in for hacking/stealing/changing information do multinational firms such as Google, the NIC’s public key infrastructure (PKI) on the cards? If a card is misplaced, what History of digital identity cards in Facebook, LinkedIn, Apple, and Microsoft. programme. would be the procedure to invalidate the Sri Lanka Your Apple ID, Google account, Microsoft The authors propose that the new NIC can card, and who would be authorised to The digitisation of citizens’ information account, and many other “accounts” have be integrated with 10 (or more) functions as do so? The present system is extremely was first looked at as far back in the multiple uses that are actually global in shown in Figure 1: cumbersome. If a card is invalidated by 1990s, with the white-coloured driving reach, allowing you to access your diverse yy Identification card and photo driving accident or by wilful action, what would be licenses including a magnetic strip at digital accounts from anywhere in the license: the procedure to revalidate it? significant cost, which was never utilised. world, whether you’re sitting in your living Another important aspect is that there ·· Name of cardholder The new NIC, which has been issued for room or at work in a scientific station in Collection of citizens’ data by the must be a streamlined procedure to correct a couple of years now, also includes such Antarctica. Government ·· NIC number any incorrect data on a card. If incorrect a magnetic strip, again unutilised. Sri Many foreign governments also digitally Collecting data on a population by a ·· Nationality data of a criminal is included into the card Lankan passports have a magnetic strip collect our information, including our government is not at all unusual anywhere ·· Date of birth of a priest, what would be the procedure to that contains information, which is used fingerprints, when we apply for visas. in the world. In Sri Lanka, we have ·· correct it swiftly? by Immigration officers at Bandaranaike Even some vehicles have digital identity literally dozens of different government, Sex As with anything else, it is in the use International Airport (BIA) for departing cards in the form of the electronic toll semi-government, and local government ·· Place of birth of such a tool where there needs to be and arriving passengers, and also used by collection (ETC) card that is stuck to the bodies that collect our data, literally from ·· Date of issue of NIC execution. It’s easy enough to collect the foreign immigration authorities. windshield of every vehicle that has been before we are born through our lifetimes ·· Residential address information and include it in one system The current idea for a digital identity registered for passage through the ETC and even many years after our deaths – which would generate the cards, but it card is not new either, having been floated lane on the E03 Airport (Katunayake) government bodies such as the Registrar ·· Thumbprint would be imperative that the relevant nearly a decade ago. Expressway. General’s Department for birth, marriage, ·· Barcode (NIC number can be retrieved authorities be equipped with card readers. and death certificates; Department when the barcode is scanned) If police stations aren’t given readers, of Census and Statistics; Elections yy Travel document in Sri Lanka and then you would simply have crowds of Department (Commission); Registrar of several neighbouring countries people with digital identity cards standing Motor Vehicles (Department of Motor yy The card is intended to minimise the outside police stations and filling out forms Traffic); Schools, Ministries of Sports and congestion at the borders by allowing the anyway. For example, the white driver’s Education; Department of Examinations; use of unmanaged gates with biometric license issued by the Department of Motor Police Headquarters and local police identification (fingerprint) but is still Traffic in the 90s was of no use, although stations; Inland Revenue Department; Sri required for international travel it had a magnetic strip, simply because Lanka Customs; grama niladaris, local traffic police had no way to access any government, and provincial government; Figure 2 provides examples of the information that may or may not have been Department of Pensions; Central Bank of advantages of such a card. stored on it. Sri Lanka; Samurdhi Authority, agricultural The inclusion of some multi-functions authorities, and fishermen’s societies; etc. – such as e-voting is likely to require Acts Conclusion you get the picture. of Parliament or amendments to existing Digital NICs can be powerful and useful Thus, governments actually know a lot legislation. tools, if used for maximum benefit. But it about every one of us, including where is imperative that sufficient safeguards are to find us within a few hours if they want Appointment and scheduling set in place to protect the rights of citizens to. What a single digital card would do system for government and prevent the abuse of the information would be to – in theory, at least – serve as Even today, many police stations, MOH by any foreign or local party. It is also a central point for all of this information (Medical Officer of Health) offices, and imperative that measures are set in place that a government already has within its local government offices around the country to broad-base the usage of such cards many disparate arms, for the benefit of both have citizens waiting in long queues to so that they would make life easier for citizens and the government. speak with officials and obtain some citizens. product or service, from a curfew pass to Multi-functions of one card when a driver’s license. It would be far simpler (Dr. Nicholas Ruwan Dias and Niresh used optimally if a digital system would be used based on Eliatamby are Managing Partners of But such cards also often have a variety of digital NICs to make appointments, so that Cogitaro.com, a consultancy that finds other functions and benefits. In addition to there is minimal waiting and hassle. In the practical solutions for challenges facing its primary function as a validation device, era of Covid, standing in a crowd or queue society and different industries. the NIC may, as part of the Government is also deathly dangerous. The system is Dr. Dias is a digital architect and Multipurpose Card (GMPC) initiative, also also highly unequal, where more influential educationist based in Kuala Lumpur. serve as a useful driver’s licence, an ATM citizens get served faster than average He holds a BSc in Computing from the token, an electronic purse, and a public key, members of the public. University of Greenwich, a Master’s amongst other applications. The card shows In the UK, for example, Covid testing in Computer Software Engineering many data items and carries different data in many towns requires citizens to make from Staffordshire University, and a categories in the chip, including biometrics, appointments online and present their PhD from the University of Malaya. which are used by several government identification at the testing centre. He is completing a second doctorate in agencies and configured for extensibility The development of public and private business administration from Universiti and “feature creep”. sector appointments and scheduling Utara Malaysia. [email protected]. It could also facilitate safe internet applications allows users to make their own Niresh Eliatamby is a lecturer in electronic transactions. These include appointments. The online scheduler helps marketing, HR, and mass communications online returns of taxes, safe e-mail, and the constituents to easily make, amend, based in Colombo. He is an author e-commerce. A new NIC payment model and cancel their own appointments at the and was formerly Associate Editor of (NPM) has been proposed in many click of a button from bodies such as those a newspaper and Editor of various countries in accordance with the emergence handling visas and passports, appointments industry magazines. He holds an MBA of the e-commerce payment system, and to parks and recreational facilities, etc. It is from London Metropolitan University thus another NIC feature, which is not only a cost-effective way to tackle multiple goals and an LLM from Cardiff Metropolitan for identification purposes but also for simultaneously. University. [email protected].) WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 8 the sunday morning business ADVERTORIAL Sunday, August 23, 2020 HNB Assurance records Rs. 500 m in 1H 2020 Sathosa posts record HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Ltd. (HNBGI) recorded a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs. 500 million during 1H 2020. Rs. 17.62 b revenue Speaking on the financial Lanka Sathosa, the largest state-owned was developed with the will receive their performance of the Group, HNBA retail chain in Sri Lanka recorded a record partnership of Sri Lanka deliveries free of charge and HNBGI Chairperson Rose revenue of Rs. 17.62 billion at the end of Telecom, within a short in the Western Province Cooray stated: “It is indeed a great June 2020, making it the highest revenue period of time. and Kandy city areas, pleasure to announce that HNB ever posted in the history of its operation. Lanka Sathosa said its Chairman Dr. Assurance Group has achieved a HNBA and HNBGI CEO Prasantha Fernando Marking a 23% growth in sales revenue currently operates Nushad Perera. significant PAT growth compared between 2019 and 2020, it is truly a from 400-plus stores Further streamlining to the corresponding period of results amidst a number of monumental milestone in the history of located in strategic its online offering, the previous year following an macroeconomic challenges any state-owned entity in Sri Lanka. locations around the Lanka Sathosa economic downturn caused by the presented during a global crisis. nation. The online store recently inaugurated outbreak of a global pandemic. In a market backdrop where most Lanka Sathosa is set Bandula Gunawardana, is an infrastructural a fully fledged Through the tireless efforts, our businesses succumbed its profits to launch its online and hopes to cater to a foundation that enables warehouse complex teams successfully navigated to the outbreak of Covid-19, the presence on www. growing generation of Lanka Sathosa online in Orugodawatte, the challenging environment to HNBA Group has delivered a lankasathosa.lk. The tech-savvy customers shoppers to receive securing a significant deliver a noteworthy performance. notable performance. The Group online store was while capitalising on their orders quickly competitive advantage The life insurance business recorded a gross written premium unveiled under the the rising demand for and efficiently. when competing in Sri recorded a PAT of Rs. 176 million, (GWP) of Rs. 4.5 billion. The leadership of Cabinet online services in Sri During phase 1, www. Lanka’s fast-growing showcasing a growth of 25%. investment income of the Group Lanka Sathosa Chairman Nushad Perera Minister of Trade Dr. Lanka. This online store lankasathosa.lk visitors online marketplace. The profit does not include any surpassed Rs. 1.2 billion and the surplus transfer from the life fund. total assets of the Group surpassed The general insurance business Rs. 29 billion. The Group has recorded a PAT of Rs. 323 million, taken swift and effective measures depicting an impressive growth of and has adapted various agile Amãna Bank PBT 120%. These results reiterate the initiatives following the Covid-19 SDB sees threefold resilience of our sustainable core outbreak, including enhancing business model and the Group’s its digital selling portals and Rs. 250 m in 1H increase in profit YOY undivided focus in capturing claims settlement platforms. It market segments with growth is noteworthy to mention that Despite the Covid-19 Sanasa Development majority shareholder Top 50 listing in their potential.” the life and general insurance pandemic which disrupted Bank PLC (SDB) base, composed primarily “Sri Lanka’s 100 most HNBA and HNBGI funds surpassed values of Rs. economies around the globe, recorded a threefold of the country’s sizeable valuable brands” annual CEO Prasantha Fernando 15.7 billion and Rs. 2.9 billion, Amãna Bank PLC recorded a increase in profit year- rural and co-operative list. stated: “The HNBA Group respectively, reaffirming the profit before tax (PBT) of Rs. over-year (YoY), with populations, renders the SDB’s profitability delivered outstanding financial Group’s firm footing.” 250.5 million and profit after tax year-to-date net profit consistent increase in increase, high growth (PAT) of Rs. 170.4 million for totalling Rs. 329 million growth rate for the period rate, and brand value the first half of the year, whilst at the end of 2020 all the more noteworthy. enhancement, in spite PBT and PAT for Q2 stood at Q2, compared to its A major portion of of the market issues Pan Asia Bank relaunches Rs. 70.3 million and Rs. 40.6 performance of Rs. 109 SDB’s paid-in capital experienced on account million, respectively. million for the same contributions come from of Covid-19, place the ‘Business Internet Banking’ Supported by the continuous period last year. This individuals belonging bank strongly to make a Pan Asia Bank relaunches trend in profitability, the bank, growth in profitability to this vital segment, similarly strong showing ‘Business Internet Banking’ in July 2020, announced its Amana Bank CEO Mohamed Azmeer was ably supported by and therefore, all profits in the last two quarters of Pan Asia Bank has relaunched third consecutive dividend since of unfavourable business an 18% (YoY) growth received go right back to 2020, the bank noted. its “Business Internet Banking” 2018 – a Scrip Dividend of eight environment, drop in market recorded in its total asset them. CEO Thilak as a better and improved version cents per share in line with the rates, and the moratorium owing base, which stood at Rs. Additionally, SDB Piyadigama added: “The of the current corporate internet directions issued by the Central to the Covid-19 outbreak which 115 billion at the end continues to enjoy bank recently offered a banking platform, extending Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to impacted business profitability, of June 2020. This is strong brand and rights issue to fuel SDB’s convenience and ease of use to all licensed commercial banks, I am happy to note our resilient particularly heartening customer confidence growth plans for 2020 its customers. Customers can which restricted the payment of performance. I believe the considering a large part across segments, further and beyond, and I’m also perform fund transfers and cash dividends for the rest of the economy is in a much better of it ran parallel to the buoyed by their recent confident our existing bill payments whilst passing it year. The Scrip Dividend, which position than where it was a few Covid-19-impacted valuation of Rs. 2 billion shareholders will realise through the necessary approval totals over Rs. 200 million from months ago, and I am confident stretch, the bank noted. from global brand substantial benefits in the process, without having to visit Pan Asia Bank Senior Deputy General the bank’s retained earnings, this positive momentum will SDB’s micro, small, valuation consultancy coming quarters from this the bank or the merchant. They Manager Naleen Edirisinghe is issued in proportion of one continue and reinforce economic and medium enterprises Brand Finance, with a fresh capital raise.” can also set up and manage share for approximately every development.” scheduled transactions and messaging option; RTGS 25 shares held in the bank. The During the pandemic, in request cheque books and Real- request; cheque book request, XD date for the Scrip Dividends facilitating CBSL’s stimulus Time Gross Settlement (RTGS), and view account balance/ is 18 September 2020, while to support the economic People’s Bank Rajagiriya without having to visit the bank. history. uploading the shares to the turnaround, especially Pan Asia Bank Senior Edirisinghe added: “Saving respective CDS accounts will focusing on SMEs, Amana Deputy General Manager customers’ valuable time, the be completed by 28 September Bank set up a dedicated unit service centre shifted Naleen Edirisinghe said: new Business Internet Banking 2020. to enable the channelling of “Pan Asia has designed the allows them to be in touch with The bank maintained a relief and Saubhagya Scheme. new value-added Business the bank with an in-built secure positive momentum in customer During this process, the bank Internet Banking version taking messaging option. Most of all, deposits throughout the period to accommodated over 5,000 relief into consideration the most this service is free of charge close the first half with a deposit requests, impacting a portfolio pressing requirements of Sri for all customers as there is no portfolio of Rs. 78.9 billion of over Rs. 28 billion which Lankan business owners when annual or joining fee.” reflecting a six-month growth comprised 47% of the bank’s it comes to conducting their Business owners can of 10%. As a result of conscious total advances. internet banking transactions. download the Business Internet strengthening of credit risk Furthermore, the bank One of the main features that Banking application from parameters in the backdrop of processed 64 Saubhagya Pan Asia Business Internet the Pan Asia Bank website challenging market conditions, applications and disbursed over People’s Bank Rajagiriya service centre moved to new premises Banking offers, compared to its and hand over the required advances grew by 2% to close Rs. 500 million to its SME The People’s Bank Rajagiriya service Mayor Premalal Athukorala; Sri predecessor, is that it has multi- documents to their nearest Pan at Rs. 58.6 billion. At the end customers who requested for centre moved to a new location recently. Jayawardenepura Kotte Divisional level authorisations catering to Asia Bank branch. They can of the first half, the bank’s total working capital assistance. A ceremony to mark the occasion was Secretary Shiromi Jeewamala; People’s the need of corporate clientele. also directly contact the Pan assets stood at Rs. 94.2 billion, Strengthening the bank’s attended by People’s Bank Chairman Bank’s Senior Deputy General Manager Pan Asia Bank’s new Business Asia Bank Business Internet 9% higher than the 2019 closing position as a growing and stable Sujeewa Rajapakse and Chief Executive (Retail Banking) K.B. Rajapakse, Internet Banking empowers Banking Unit via 0114 667 703 figure, resulting in the bank’s franchise, Fitch Ratings Sri Officer/General Manager Ranjith Deputy General Manager (Channel customers so that they can create for any inquiries. The new Pan net asset value improving to Lanka, in June 2020, upwardly Kodituwakku. Management) Lionel Galagedara, their own logins without any Asia Business Internet Banking Rs. 4.81 per share. The bank revised the bank’s National The new service centre is located at Deputy General Manager (Enterprise extra cost or having to visit the solution is ideal for the bank’s also continued to maintain a Long-Term Rating to BB+(lka) No. 34, Old Kotte Road, Rajagiriya, Banking) Krishani Narangoda, Assistant bank each time they need a new corporate clientele consisting healthy asset portfolio with non- from BB(lka) with a Stable with ample space, and is complete General Manager (Marketing) A.U.A. one, offering time savings.” of sole proprietorships, performing ratios being well Outlook. Amidst the economic with modern technology and modern Anzar, Regional Manager (Colombo The salient features of the partnerships, clubs and societies, below industry averages, where challenges, the bank’s flagship conveniences. Through the Self- Outer) Thushari Hewawasam, Assistant new Pan Asia Business Internet non-governmental organisations net NPA and gross NPA stood at CSR project “OrphanCare” Banking Unit available at the branch, Regional Managers: Nugegoda Branch Banking encompass multi- (NGOs), limited liability 2.2% and 4.6%, respectively. continued to benefit over 2,700 customers can withdraw and deposit Manager D.L. Jayawardena and level authorisation; create users companies, etc., who will be Commenting on the bank’s orphan children around the cash 24 hours a day, seven days a Rajagiriya Service Centre Manager without visiting a branch; fund able to use the above features to financial performance, Chief country as it paid its fourth week. Ruwani Illeperuma; along with a large transfers (to any local banks); fulfil their business needs and Executive Officer Mohamed disbursement in July 2020 since Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte number of customers also participated utility bill payments; set up manage their accounts and cash Azmeer said: “In the backdrop its launch in March 2019. Municipal Council Deputy at the event. standing orders online; secured flows. AIA Group No. 1 MDRT company in the world again AIA Group Ltd. (stock code 1299) level of premium, commission, and agency force, and we remain deeply announced the historic achievement income and demonstrate professional committed to continuing to provide of becoming the only multinational knowledge, strict ethical conduct, and our agents with the best technology, company in the world to achieve outstanding client service. training and career development the largest number of Million Dollar AIA Group Chief Executive and opportunities in the industry.” Round Table (MDRT) members for President Lee Yuan Siong said: “I AIA Sri Lanka Deputy CEO six consecutive years. am extremely proud of our agents and Chief Agency Officer Upul A record total of 12,796 AIA agents and the outstanding work they do Wijesinghe noted: “As part of AIA and agency leaders were registered as every day as trusted partners to our Group, AIA Sri Lanka too upholds MDRT members as of 1 July 2020. customers. AIA’s No. 1 position in the the highest standards for wealth MDRT is a global and independent world for MDRT qualifiers reflects planners. Proud to note that in Sri association that is internationally the enormous quality and depth of Lanka too, AIA had the highest recognised as the standard of our agency force, representing a help our millions of customers live Lisle said: “I am truly delighted that impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. number of MDRT qualifiers for excellence in life insurance and key competitive advantage for our healthier, longer, better lives.” AIA’s superb agents have achieved Being No. 1 in the world in MDRT five consecutive years, which is a financial services. Its members company. We shall continue to ensure Regional Chief Executive and this amazing result, particularly in for the sixth consecutive year reflects testament to the high calibre of our are required to generate a certain that our agents are fully equipped to Group Chief Distribution Officer Bill 2020 as the world grapples with the AIA’s longstanding investment in our team.”

Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 “WHY NOT?” IRAJ »SEE PAGE 4

“IT IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO MOTIVATE” WHAT’S YOUR TEHANI EMERGENCY? »SEE PAGE 4 »SEE PAGE 5

Sunday, August 23, 2020 brunchWITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER SCOPE CINEMAS’ PLEASURE OF CINEMA September 07 Miss Jenis FILM FESTIVAL This can only mean good things BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE enjoyed by the whole family, explained Susiran De Silva Susiran. He shared that if you are The “Pleasure of Cinema” film festival will take Screening five Susiran De Silva is the a fan of Manoratne, then this is only fresher in the list of a must-see as he gives a most place at the Scope Cinemas Complex in Colombo directors featured at the film unique performance in the role previously festival. He shared that his of a woman as Miss Jenis, City Centre from 4 to 8 September. The festival film Miss Jenis might be a role that was dear to his unscreened special for many as it is one heart. Susiran said that it will be screening five previously unscreened films of the final performances by is an honour to be featured the great Jayalath Manoratne amongst some of the industry by famous Sri Lankan filmmakers. The order of the who passed away in January greats in this lineup, adding that films by as a newcomer, it is a fantastic ││Contd. on page 2 this year. The film is a family screenings is as follows: film created to be opportunity for him. famous Lankan ││Contd. on page 2 September filmmakers 04 Midunu Wasanthaya (Frozen Cosmos) This might be a unique experience was pending its theatre release. However, it is at Jayantha Chandrasiri my great pleasure that this film got selected to be The director of the opening film of the opening show for the Sarasaviya Scope the festival Midunu Wishwaya (Frozen Pleasure of Cinema film festival. I am Cosmos), Jayantha Chandrasiri also grateful that my spectators would shared his thoughts on the effects get a chance to see this film of the pandemic in delaying the without much delay,” screening of his most recent film. he shared.. “The film at the time of the ││Contd. on page 2 pandemic had received its Censor Board approval and September 08 Gindaree 3 This is the new normal Udayakantha Warnasuriya Gindaree people that if 3 Director things are done Udayakantha in a controlled September Warnasuriya environment shared that while properly Yugathra 06 he is still adhering to the uncertain about precautions in Word of mouth is the best when he would place, then there premiere his is no need to deny possible marketing movie. However, yourself the simple September this special screening he pleasures of life, as long as Kathuru Mithuru believes will function as you are being careful. 05 a catalyst in encouraging Channa Perera’s technology, is still going cinemagoers to actually ││Contd. on page 2 We can all do with some film Yugathra is third head to head with works begin to frequent cinema in the lineup for the that have a much larger halls in the new normal. entertainment right now Pleasure of Cinema investment than theirs He said that while things are not 100% safe in cinemas, considering that some film festival. While on the world stage. the film has not About being and there is no “post- Giriraj Kaushalya of his other films like Sikuru pandemic situation” just Hathe and Suhada Koka been officially a part of the film Giriraj shared yet, in this new normal, went on to screen for released, it did have festival, Channa with us that usually, we must adapt and learn 75-100 days. a limited screening in shared that while he if his film was to carry on with our With regard to Australia, and Channa hopes to premiere the to be screened everyday lives while being this new film, he said said that it was largely film possibly in January under normal precautious. He shared that they hope to have its well received by the varied next year, he said that word circumstances (or at present, there is a lot official premiere in audience it was screened to – they of mouth is the best possible what we recall as of uncertainty and fear in November, adding that featured not only Sri Lankans marketing anyone can ask for, normal prior to the people’s minds about going it would however depend but also a number of Australians, noting that being part of a film pandemic), upon the to public places – and on the prevailing situation in Indians, and others. He said festival and allowing for a special release of the film, he could have rightfully so. Nevertheless, the county. that it was encouraging to see screening, therefore, can only be a shared a rough estimate of how how Sri Lankan cinema, despite good thing for the future success he believes that having long the film would be screened ││Contd. on page 2 its limitations on budget and of his work. festivals like this will show

BY NAVEED ROZAIS HSBC CFW 2020 Colombo Fashion Week holds its landmark edition, becoming the first fashion week in Asia A MID-PANDEMIC and possibly the world to take place amidst the Covid-19 pandemic FASHION WEEK ││Contd. on pages 2 &3 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 2 the sunday morning brunch ARTS/FASHION Sunday, August 23, 2020

Contd. from page 1 SCOPE CINEMAS’... We spoke to all six directors with intention of being released in 2020, with regard to their creative work that will the exception of Giriraj Kaushalya’s be screened at the festival, while also comedy film Kathuru Mithuru, which discussing their thoughts on how the was first postponed as a result of last pandemic has affected them and their year’s Easter Sunday bombings and productions. scheduled for release this year, but All six films were made with the delayed yet again. This might be... He said that the film has a great cast with the likes of Uddika Premarathna, Udari Warnakulasooriya, Chulakshi Ranathunga, Buddhika Jayaratne, , Kusum Renu, Damitha Abeyratne, and Wasantha Wittachchi, and the film’s production was helmed by Ruwan Jayasinghe, who also produced Jayantha’s previous film Butterfly Symphony. Jayantha shared that the thematic concern of the film is the sensitive emotion of love and the phenomenon consideration of not only Sri Lankan of space and time expressed through cinema, but also international cinema. interesting journey. He explained: “Because the science of acting. “In my opinion, As for the genre of the film, it is rather the environment was changing, the mindset this might be a unique experience in music-oriented storytelling,” he added. and behaviour of society was changing. Of course, this change brought its own challenges with it. We had to be innovative and come up with a presentation of fashion We can all do... that would be accepted and relevant to the He shared that as an artist having new environment. To do this, we briefed created something for the audience’s designers on the new mindset and they consumption, if he were to have things go worked on new ways to present their his way, he would like to show his work collections in a ‘new normal’ of fashion to the public as soon as possible. “That is HSBC within this new normal environment. my wish,” he said, which is why he is quite “As you know, the pandemic changed glad that despite the delayed premiere, this circumstances completely so it required special one-time screening would allow his new thinking. Of course, we also adhered film to be viewed as intended. to all health and safety protocols, including This can only... “These are difficult times. Our a very small number of guests presented Miss Jeni was in the top 10 of 18 country’s in an interesting way, wearing masks, films shortlisted by the National Film people have CFW temperature checks, social distancing, and Corporation for main releases out of gone through so on.” a backlog of nearly 100 films. Susiran a lot; they Speaking on the production end of said that as a newcomer, this really have had to CFW, Rajabdeen explained that CFW gave him an edge as otherwise, getting deal with one has always had a strong local team who a main release as a novice would have catastrophe 2020 worked closely with CFW’s international been next to impossible. He also said after the other, A mid-pandemic fashion week production partner to make CFW the that he is most grateful to his producer and with the success it is. Walter Abeysundara for believing in bombing, then CFW 2020 featured the collections of his vision for the film. the pandemic, the local designers who were to showcase He shared that this film was and the heat SBC Colombo of the future of Sri Lanka’s fashion during CFW’s initially planned run in actually set to release during the first of the election, there was much unrest. Fashion Week landscape. March. Rajabdeen shared that the designers few weeks the pandemic hit, with them However, we can somewhat say that things Day 2 of CFW, also at the Shangri- have taken the extra time to improve and having begun to run trailers as well as have come to a relative standstill. (CFW) held its La Hotel, Colombo, shone a light on enhance their collections for the showcase. including lobby cut-outs in cinemas “I can only speak for my film; this film 2020 season some of Sri Lanka’s favourite established in their distribution film circuit. happens to be a comedy and I think we designers, opening with the latest Linking performance art and last week in its However, then Covid-19 happened can all do with some entertainment right collection by Aslam Hussein and closing fashion together and everything was brought to a halt. now. Even the other films in this lineup – usual spectacular fashion. with Dimuthu Sahabandu, whose brand H CFW 2020 also illustrated how fashion Therefore, he believes that giving the whatever genre they may be – will provide has grown with CFW, developing from a and art go hand in hand. Singh shared that film an opportunity to be viewed by a a form of escapism and relief to those of us The CFW 2020 season was young, emerging brand to the established this move to combine these different forms wider audience can only mean good who have been under extreme pressures for initially scheduled to take Sri Lankan designer brand it is today. of art and creativity was led in part by the things for his work. some time now,” he said. place from 18-21 March and The finale evening at the Hilton need to create a more engaging format of Colombo showcased some of Sri Lanka’s presentation that appealed both online and was postponed due to the most beloved designer brands with Covid-19 pandemic, the risk offline. the likes of Indi, Jai by Aashkii, and “One of the key challenges was to of large gatherings, and Meraki showing their latest. The season create a unique format of presenting the nationwide lockdown closed with the unveiling of the latest fashion which is attractive to both online collection of designer Charini Suriyage’s and offline audiences while maintaining which was put in place on eponymous label Charini. the quality of CFW productions,” Singh 20 March. Driving a fashion week added. “For this, we had to create interesting collaborations with music, Taking place on 13, 14, and 15 amidst a pandemic dance, and the literary scene of Sri August, the long-awaited 2020 season The Sunday Morning Brunch caught up Lanka which was a global first, where took to the ramp over three curated with CFW Chief Executive Officer (CEO) a celebrated Sri Lankan author (Ashok nights, showcasing the best of Sri Lankan Fazeena Rajabdeen to learn more about Ferrey) did a reading while fashion fashion. how CFW had adapted as an event in the was being presented. This was a unique The first two nights of CFW were wake of the pandemic. event where creative collaborations held at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo CFW 2020 relied solely on local are showcased and appreciated by the This is the... with the finale event taking place at the talent across all forms of design and audience.” Hilton Colombo. production, from designers to models The Day 2 showcase opened with Udayakantha said he is CFW 2020 was the first fashion to show production. “Colombo Fashion designer Aslam Hussein’s collection going hopeful that this festival might week of its kind to take place globally Week has always operated with the goal of down the runway to the reading of an be a step in the right direction following the pandemic hitting us earlier encouraging and highlighting local talent,” excerpt from Ashok Ferrey’s latest book with regard to the revival of the this year, with the CFW team going Rajabadeen shared, speaking on the power The Unmarriageable Man, read by Ashok cinema industry in the island. above and beyond to implement health of local talent. “We have used foreign Ferrey himself. and safety guidelines for the protection of talent in the past only where local talent FH by Fouzul Hameed and Dimuthu its guests. The Pleasure of Cinema film festival was lacking, and this year, I am happy to Sahabandu both took to the ramp with Day 1 of CFW, which took place is Scope Cinemas’ initiative in an attempt Pleasure of Cinema say we have reached the stage where our performances from Natanda Dance at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, to provide “collective human pleasure” What: Six unscreened films by Sri local talent has been able to fill all gaps.” Theatre, and renowned soprano Kishani showcased Sri Lankan design’s newest to our communities, considering the Lankan filmmakers CFW Founder and Managing Director Jayasinghe performed for the unveiling fashion talent featuring brands from “unrest and unpleasantness” that’s Where: Scope Cinemas Complex at (MD) Ajai Vir Singh shared that driving of Vogue Jewellers’ latest collection of emerging designers and painted a picture unfolded as a result of the pandemic. Colombo City Centre CFW amidst a pandemic was a very stunning fine jewellery. Scope shared that they as an When: From 4 to 8 September organisation are dedicated to the betterment and progression of the Sri Dolby Atmos viewing experience, Lankan entertainment industry and so while also providing cinema enthusiasts chose to facilitate this event for fans of a valuable opportunity to interact As you know, the pandemic changed circumstances Colombo Fashion Week has always operated with cinema in the form of a film festival. with their favourite filmmakers and completely so it required new thinking. Of course, the goal of encouraging and highlighting local The films that will be screened are those actors as the event will bring together we also adhered to all health and safety protocols, talent. We have used foreign talent in the past that Scope Cinemas believes are likely behind-the-scenes collaborators, including a very small number of guests presented only where local talent was lacking, and this year, to become fan favourites upon their directors, and actors of the films, in an interesting way, wearing masks, temperature I am happy to say we have reached the stage eventual release. providing a great opportunity for checks, social distancing, and so on where our local talent has been able to fill all gaps The festival would be unique in that Lankan cinephiles to interact with CFW Founder and MD Ajai Vir Singh CFW CEO Fazeena Rajabdeen it will utilise cutting-edge technology them to learn something valuable as in the cinema experience, with Scope’s well as have an enjoyable day. ││ Contd. on page 3

the sunday morning brunch editorial [email protected] 011 5200900 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning brunch 3 Sunday, August 23, 2020 FASHION

Contd. from page 2

Other performances included a rendition HERE ARE SOME HIGHLIGHTS of Adele’s iconic hit Skyfall by aspiring actress, musician, model, and journalist Q (aka. Francesca Mudannayake), and FROM ALL THREE DAYS performances by Sandarangi Perera of Vibe Dance Academy and beatboxer and rapper Julius Mitchell. Responsibility in fashion, the Responsible Metre CFW 2020 takes unprecedented steps to create responsibility in fashion with 1 DAY regards to sustainability, introducing the Responsible Metre, a sustainable audit where each garment presented at CFW will be given a Responsible score. The Responsible Metre was developed in association with the Responsible Fashion Movement (RFM). The Responsible Metre aims to drive sustainable change in the global fashion industry. The audit system is a result of progressive feedback, research, and professional input from the design fraternity and has now been formalised with 14 high- profile designers. Together with CFW and RFM, these 14 designers are the first group that is pioneering this new direction, taking JOANNE KULAMANNAGE UDARIKA DALUGAMA the lead in transforming how the global Playing with denim, this high-street, contemporary street-style Inspired by the human “body and soul”, this mostly gender-neutral fashion industry operates, encouraging collection revolved around a carefree, adventurous personality, collection with an old-school aesthetic experimented with cuts, shapes, designers to think about how they can featuring studded leather jackets, ripped jeans, bodycon dresses, and and garment volume, creating beautifully unique pieces of living art. transition towards designing for a more reimagined workwear overalls. sustainable future, with both environmental and social impacts in mind. Visit The The future CFW schedule With CFW 2020 out of the way, Sunday Rajabdeen explained that the CFW team would assess the environment carefully Morning before adjusting their schedule for the year going forward, if needed. Brunch on Looking to the future, Singh shared: “We believe the future of CFW is bright Facebook and is an evolved platform in line with the new needs of the fashion industry and the for more new consumption patterns of society. In a nutshell, CFW remains a development pictures platform with an evolved look and relevant solutions.” Designer and audience comments AYESH WICKRAMARATNE RANGA SENEVIRATNE DIVYA JAYAWICKREMA Inspired by the cultural melting pot of the hit film Black Panther, the A print-based collection that featured simplified silhouettes mixed with Inspired by World War II, this collection collection incorporated draping and ruching, and consisted reversible graphic hand-illustrated print; Ranga was inspired by how art whispers to incorporated sustainable zero-waste methods, elements mixed with sustainable print and washing techniques to create a the very intuition of the perceiver, letting the intuition of a person guide reversible design and natural yarn, and minimal collection built on the trust of sustainability. them in style and connect with the spirit of urban youth. water use to create a sustainable, luxe collection.

It was my first time at Colombo Fashion 2 DAY Week; I attended Day 1 and Day 3. I was super excited to attend and it’s everything I thought it would be Chaagi Jayasekera

ASLAM HUSSEIN LOVI CEYLON DIMUTHU SAHABANDU Inspired by the vibrant colours of the Holi festival, the collection was a Lovi’s 2020 collection was an unapologetic celebration of a prosperous Inspired by Kuveni and the ancient aboriginal tribes of Sri Lanka, the The CFW experience this year has been celebration of colour, featuring natural dye techniques and repurposed Sri Lankan future. This clothing is made for modern royalty, the proudly collection told the story of the tribal queen and her encounter with Prince and restyled pieces from previous collections. The collection was designed cosmopolitan Sri Lankan. Vijaya from India. The collection featured hand-embellished eveningwear great. It’s good to see that talent is to be zero-waste in terms of fabric usage. focusing on the brand’s signature fabric manipulations and textile designs. being showcased after everything that’s happened and with almost all industries failing. That CFW is going on without stopping is a great lesson in resilience Ushan Gunasekera DAY 3 DAY

It was great being part of CFW; I built in a reading of Ashok Ferrey to my showcase because I wanted to do something really different, especially since this is the

first post-Covid-19 runway happening. PRADEEP DAMBARAGE, SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA, AND ESHAN DASANAYAKA I wanted to show the world where we

stand. The process of getting things done AMILANI PERERA PHOTOS this time around was a little different In partnership with the UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) Sri and challenging because we needed to Lanka, the collection uplifts and empowers women who have faced LIMAK CHARINI follow restrictions carefully, but we made domestic violence in Sri Lanka. The collection was a display of intense The collection showcased what purity should be and could Designed and manufactured with responsibility in fashion in mind, emotions brought to life through a meaningful colour palette. The deep be if the destruction of the environment is taken seriously the collection was inspired by traditional Sri Lankan floral motifs, and it happen burgundy represented fear and abuse, contrasted by the mint greens and and it’s brought back to its former splendour. The uses batik craft, timeless versatile design, and feminine organic lines, Designer Aslam Hussein shades of blush representing the healing process. collection featured structured silhouettes and tailoring. contrasting with strong body contours. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 4 the sunday morning brunch PEOPLE/EVENTS Sunday, August 23, 2020

ON 18 AUGUST, IRAJ RELEASED THE FIRST SINGLE “AYER | YESTERDAY” FROM HIS Read the full article online UPCOMING BRAND NEW ALBUM TITLED “WITH U”, WHICH HE SAID WOULD BE HIS FIRST INTERNATIONAL ALBUM. impact the lives of others, and even accepting any form of fees or payment invest it for future use, thereby aiding for the services I render to the Board the country economically too. as a Director. I was born and raised in Sri ÄÄ Are there identified Lanka and received my primary youth issues that and secondary education at Royal you believe must be College, Colombo and Stafford addressed and be dealt International School, Colombo. I with immediately? only went overseas for my tertiary Youth unemployment. In my education and promptly returned opinion, an important strategy to the island upon graduating with for youth employment would be my degree in Accounting and to facilitate and encourage youth Finance from the UK. I have lived entrepreneurship. Providing in Sri Lanka, received most of my entrepreneurship training to youths education in Sri Lanka, and have “Why not?” BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE worked and earned in Sri Lanka; Iraj Weeraratne on National Youth hence it is my duty to serve the “It is our Last Tuesday (18), Minister Services Council appointment and more country if given the opportunity to of Sports and Youth Affairs do so. I was appointed a Member of the Furthermore, for there to be real Namal Rajapaksa appointed can lead to significant growth in responsibility Board of the National Youth Services business creation and innovation. progress, all of us as Sri Lankans Iraj Weeraratne and Tehani Council, Sri Lanka. My role primarily Encouraging start-ups by creating the should work together to achieve our Imara as members of the Board entails developing, promoting, and right training facilities and the right common goal; to make Sri Lanka creating easy access to digital and of Directors of the National mentorship programmes, creating a developed first-world nation. We to motivate” social media for the rural youths. Youth Services Council. The avenues for youths to network, must not simply sit back and be My forte, apart from music, has been Council, headed by Theshara and introducing multiple start-up keyboard warriors, expecting free digital and social media. Hence, I am Jayasinghe who is also business loan facilities can create the handouts. grateful to be given an opportunity to the Founding Member of overall environment and ecosystem TEHANI share my experiences and knowledge Viyathmaga and the Ekathuva that is required to encourage youth ÄÄ Finally, do you see “We are yet to be dependent on improving in digital and social media with the entrepreneurship. yourself affecting appointed to our duties,” education. Youth Movement, will consist youth of Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has immense talent. real change and as said Tehani, sharing that, Tehani shared that of eight members. The I firmly believe that if we We just need to empower our youths someone who has had however, her role would as someone with a public appointment, which is for a encourage our youths to engage more and help them find their calling. Two a different experience primarily be in skills audience, she has a period of three years, is now in with digital and social media, we can other issues that I firmly believe need development. Her education responsibility to speak out effect and both Iraj Weeraratne create a network of young digital (as an artiste), what is to be addressed immediately are background, she said, is in and as someone who is now entrepreneurs. your unique vision that and Tehani Imara shared that ragging in universities and suicide. digital marketing. However, part of an organisation in the Small business owners and you bring to this newly they are looking forward to she is most passionate about public sector that is dedicated young entrepreneurs can sell their appointed role? lending their contributions to ÄÄ Is there any other skills development and she for the betterment of youth, goods and services via Facebook and I would like to encourage the the National Youth Services area you would like has been involved in projects and who has a considerable Instagram. They can reach their target youths in Sri Lanka to keep thinking Council. to look into? where organisations provide youth following, she has a audiences and potential customers out of the box, to invent, innovate, and I am quite keen to see PayPal a platform for youths, bigger voice than most which Both Tehani and Iraj are notable quite easily utilising social media as grow. Use social media as a positive being allowed in Sri Lanka. At particularly those from can be beneficial in affecting youth leaders in the island; both their primary tool. Post Covid-19, tool; we have seen young people present, Sri Lanka only allows a user marginalised parts of the actual change. well-known artists with a number more consumers will be purchasing embark on successful careers, for to send money via PayPal but not island. While Tehani is well of successes, with Iraj having a goods online. example in the beauty industry, food number of Billboard features with receive and withdraw. This has to industry, etc. by teaching themselves She said that there and truly ready to take on global artists like Sean Kingston, ÄÄ Why did you as a change. If we are to encourage SMEs skills via YouTube tutorials and are many talented youths her newly appointed role Soulja Boy, R.I.O., Cassidy, Kevin musician decide to (small and medium enterprises) to videos. in the island, those who dedicated to her cause, she is Lyttle, King Los, Dizzy Wright, engage in matters trade online and young professionals Young actors have emerged by are highly skilled but first and foremost a musician. Londynn B from Cardi B’s Netflix to offer their services online – for learning acting skills via YouTube lack the opportunities to We checked in with Tehani pertaining to example, graphic designers, website showcase their skills and about any upcoming work special “Rhythm and Flow”, and also development? and aspiring musicians can today Grammy award-winning rap crew developers, etc. – we need to allow talent. “I believe that with that her fans can look My question to you would be, learn how to play the guitar, or Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. full access to PayPal. Products our influence, it is our forward to and she said that why not? As a Sri Lankan citizen, I any instrument for that matter, We reached out to both designed, created, and made in Sri responsibility to motivate she has had a new single in think we all have a duty to serve our by following a YouTube tutorial. Tehani and Iraj to speak about Lanka can easily be traded online the disenfranchised youths to the works. “I’m planning to country. I was invited to be a Board Individuals in Colombo have started their appointments and how via platforms such as eBay if the full have a voice,” she said. release a single very soon; Member of an important public sector to make money by becoming social they as public figures hope to services of PayPal are allowed in the She shared that the I was supposed to release it institution that aims at empowering media influencers or Instagram approach their newly appointed island. appointment allows her months ago, but after Covid the youth of Sri Lanka, not to take on influencers. Brands today invest in roles, while also maintaining their to truly reach out to those hit, I couldn’t really shoot the role of a politician. social media influencers and use careers as prominent figures in ÄÄ Do you believe that for who would otherwise get the video! It’s a dance track The youths approximately them as a marketing tool. These the entertainment industry with a there to be progress, overlooked, and she said and I’m hoping to release account for a quarter of our opportunities should also be extended considerable online following and fan work should be handled she hopes to pursue this it very soon.” She said population – 4.4 million. That is 4.4 to youths in other areas of the island. bases. by individuals such as skills development aspect to the single is titled “Adara million potential local change-makers The following are excerpts yourself? go hand in hand with other Katha”. She also added that and global game-changers. from our conversation with Iraj Again, I would like to ask you, On a closing note, Iraj shared that areas that require attention she has a few English tracks Youth empowerment has Weeraratne. why not? We all have a duty to serve his goal with this new appointment such as youth unemployment in store, which she hopes to proven to reduce the rates of our country. An opportunity has come would be to encourage the youths to and also, as mentioned release soon as well, while poverty, suicide, depression, etc. to ÄÄ Tell us a little about the my way to do so and I am grateful engage more with digital and social before, the development of also hopefully being able to a significant extent. I firmly believe appointment. What does for that opportunity and that chance media and use these tools in a positive skills which can facilitate get back on stage once the that if the youths are equipped with your role as a Board to give back to my country. I will manner to bring about positive change employment; this is largely Covid situation settles. essential skills, they can utilise these be working for free and will not be in their lives. Member entail? skills to change their lives, assist and Arise Sri Lanka: The island’s first-ever telethon BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE Jayasinghe who lives in California. De Zoysa made special mention of his generous “Arise Sri Lanka” is said to be Sri contribution, which he said lessened his Lanka’s first-ever telethon organised in aid burden of bearing the costs. He said that of the frontline healthcare workers who have a few other close friends in the corporate tirelessly lent their efforts in battling the sector also came forward to support their Covid-19 pandemic in the island. The event event with noteworthy contributions. will take place on 29 August at 6.30 p.m. The speakers at the event collectively at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa shared that in addition to their primary goal Theatre. of paying tribute in recognition of the great For the uninitiated, a telethon is a service rendered, they also hope to bring a televised fundraising event that lasts many variety of talent together to complement each hours – or even days – for the purpose of other’s performances, along with images of raising funds for various charities such as how Sri Lanka’s frontline workers combated alleviating hunger and suffering. Similarly, the pandemic, and also to encourage foreign Arise Sri Lanka’s main objective is to raise The Arise Sri Lanka team travellers to visit our country when the entry funds for the frontline healthcare workers; points open up. this will be facilitated during the concert and professionals came together in order to not decisive and resolute. is to come. He said that if you are to truly The telethon will feature Sohan & the thereafter for a period of three days where only battle the effects of the pandemic, but He also stressed how without the understand what they hope to achieve, you X-periments, artistes Damien, Bonnie, any person who wishes to contribute can do also to effectively nearly eradicate it, leaving support of his core team comprising Sohan must think back to what Bob Geldof did for Ranil Amirthiah (Bonnie of Crossroads), so. no room for mistakes. Weerasinghe, Benjy Ranabahu, and Ivan “Live Aid”. Rukshan and Melantha Perera, Umara, The brainchild of Richard de Zoysa, De Zoysa acknowledged the Ministry Alvis together with Noeline Honter anchored Telecast from Wembley Stadium in Corrine Almeida, Shiyam and Shamistar, Arise Sri Lanka is set to be telecast and of Defence, National Operation Centre by Thushi Weerasinghe, this project would London, UK and John F. Kennedy Stadium April Shockman, Jackie and Ishini Fonseka, live streamed the world over in order to for Prevention of Covid-19 Outbreak not have been what it is today. They have in Philadelphia, US, in 1985, Live Aid Marlon, Shafi and Sherriden, Rajitha portray Sri Lanka’s success in combating (NOCPCO), Director General of Health been his greatest strength in collectively was a music-based fundraising initiative, a Rupasinghe of Misty, Treshelle, and Covid-19. De Zoysa, who is the Producer Services, and all the other persons who putting this juggernaut of an event together, benefit concert put together in order to raise Mariazelle Goonetilleke. Bands Mirage and and Director of Arise Sri Lanka, is working in some shape or form were instrumental he added. funds for relief for the Ethiopian famine. Aquarius will back the artistes. closely with the World Health Organisation in the success of containing the virus. He To further elaborate on the event, some Weerasinghe shared that you need to think Sohan Weerasinghe and Noeline Honter (WHO) for this project. Addressing a media said that their exemplary actions deserve of de Zoysa’s core team members took Live Aid in a smaller capacity, which is will be compeering the concert, which will gathering on Tuesday (18) at Galadari Hotel, global recognition and he was determined the stage. Weerasinghe, amidst a lot of what they hope to achieve through Arise Sri be limited to only 100 invitees. They shared speaking of the rhyme and reason behind to create an avenue where not only Sri bantering and reminiscing about school-time Lanka. that the highlight of the event will be a song the event, de Zoysa outlined the manner in Lankans but the rest of the world too shenanigans that cemented the strength of Much like what Weerasinghe said, Arise composed specifically for this event by which the Government together with the would be made aware of how governments the bond shared amongst these artists, took Sri Lanka is a musical event, of which the Noeline Honter and Melantha Perera. armed services and medical and healthcare could face a crisis of this nature by being it upon himself to set the stage for what primary individual sponsor is Dr. Walter PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning brunch 5 Sunday, August 23, 2020 SOCIETY

What’s your emergency? Looking behind SL’s islandwide police emergency service

BY NAVEED ROZAIS 7.30 p.m., after over three hours since she you are in. It is also possible to complain had first reported the incident. to the National Police Commission (NPC). Dealing with an emergency is The whole episode left Careem very nerve-wracking in any case. The disappointed in the fact that the 119 Bringing it all together The recent lapse in the 119 service is very idea of emergency is that it service was so difficult to use and so cavalier in their handling of an emergency. not the only time the response system and is unexpected, and most people In her case, things had worked out, mainly procedure of the service have come under can’t keep calm in an emergency, because she and her husband had been scrutiny. What is important is to look at particularly the traumatic kind of present at the time, but what if this had the main cause of the issue and see how it emergency that involves bodily happened when her in-laws were alone? could be remedied. harm or a threat to your life or that The Sunday Morning Brunch reached of a loved one. The aftermath out to Police Media Spokesperson In response to Careem’s Facebook SSP Jaliya Senaratne, who explained Globally, we are all familiar with the post on the matter, she was contacted that typically, 119 receives a call and concept of 911, the service any American by the Presidential Secretariat which then disseminates the complaint to can call and receive help from in a matter explained that her complaint had been the relevant authorities for a localised of minutes, be it a health emergency, noted and escalated to the Ministry of response. Complaints are also domestic dispute, or simply your cat Defence (119 falls under the purview of disseminated based on their nature. A having got stuck in a tree. the Ministry of Defence as it is a police criminal complaint, for example, is sent Sri Lanka has its own 911 equivalent service) for necessary action to be taken directly to the Police. emergency service – 119. Established in and for the suspect to be apprehended. Speaking on complaints directly 2004, 119 was introduced as an organised Careem noted that due to the delay, made to police stations, SSP Senaratne police emergency service resource for the the addict had been able to flee and is commented that in the case of oral general public. Before the establishment of Shafiya Careem Attorney-at-Law Harshana Nanayakkara now in hiding. Careem commented on the reports, complainants are asked to contact the 119 service line, emergency services situation, sharing: “In the future, I will their relevant police stations for two were only available to the citizens of several times). were also looking for another teenager try calling 119 and similar services for reasons: One is so that the information Colombo via the telephone number 011- Careem’s husband stepped in who had gone missing, going on to find the sake (of it) and because not reporting received by the investigating officers 2433333. immediately, grabbing hold of the assailant them alive and safe as well. something makes it your fault. I will also is complete and accurate and that those 119 was established at the IG’s while Careem reacted to the emergency by try to get through to other people who can 119’s responsibility and what investigating Command and Information Division, calling the Wellampitiya Police Station. help me.” have the Mirihana, and provides emergency This is where things started to go wrong. happens when it fails necessary support to all Sri Lanka citizens as well as Careem was told by the officer on the The Sunday Morning Brunch reached Not all bad jurisdiction foreigners visiting Sri Lanka. phone to get in touch with the Grandpass out to Attorney-at-Law Harshana Police Station. No other support was While the incident with Careem and Nanayakkara to gain more insight into to be fully What is 119 and how does it work? offered. Despite her explaining that a her family is an example of a response what 119’s responsibilities are when effective, and gone terribly wrong, there have been The 119 service is a centralised service stabbing and a potential home invasion it comes to handling complaints made the other is incidents where calling 119 has made the for Sri Lankan citizens to avail from has taken place. She was told to call the through the service. so that police difference between life and death. The in an emergency. As of June 2019, the Grandpass Police Station or 119. Nanayakkara explained that 119 is complaints Sunday Morning Brunch spoke with a unit’s Superintendent of Police (SP) was Frantically, Careem dialled 119 but essentially a universal line to contact the often result in group of hikers who found themselves Amith Gunaratne and Officer in Charge despite repeated attempts couldn’t get Police. It is no way a separate regime legal action and stranded on a mountain peak at night and (OIC) was Chief Inspector Jayathilake. through. By this time, other people in or system; when you call 119, you are legal procedures turned to 119 for assistance. The service includes approximately 135 the area had got involved in the scene, calling the Police. It is the same as if you needing to be The group, which wished to remain officers dedicated in a central office, 24 trying to get Careem’s husband to release were running into your nearest police followed, which anonymous, explained that they got stuck Police Media Spokesperson hours a day working on 26 open phone the addict so they could take him away station because it is 100 m away. The come with their hiking near Mandaram Nuwara on the SSP Jaliya Senaratne lines. from the premises – presumably back to only difference is that you are phoning own limitations Pidurutalagala mountain on a very wet, The mandate of the 119 service is to wherever he lived. Several of these people your complaint in, and the Police have and protocols windy day, with one member of their party assist citizens in need for whatever reason were also gang members, creating a very to respond when a crime/emergency is that need to be followed. injured. They were also lost and were in – be it property destruction, a public tense and volatile situation. Considering reported. While noting that he couldn’t no way prepared to spend the night in the nuisance, or a natural disaster – arranging the inability to get through to 119 and the However, the manner in which they comment directly on matters regarding wilderness (the temperature in the area for teams to immediately call in at the exigency of the situation, prioritising his respond based on the report they receive immediate access of services by callers, drops quite severely in the night, and scene of the emergency and ensure proper father’s health and life, Careem’s husband is up to them, Nanayakkara explained. SSP Senaratne noted that discussions are freezing to death is a very real possibility law enforcement protocol is followed. released the addict so that Careem’s father- In another country, 119 could be used to in place on the enhancement of the 119 in-law could be taken to hospital. in the wrong conditions). They decided report anything from a cat stuck in a tree to service. Does calling 119 work? Careem stayed behind trying to get to call 119 for help but couldn’t get a domestic dispute. Careem shared that when the The 119 emergency service was through to the Grandpass Police Station, through due to a poor network connection. Admittedly, the Police would not Presidential Secretariat followed up with recently at the forefront of major 119, or 118 (the other emergency service However, they managed to send a text to a respond to complaints of that nature her on her experience, she broached controversy on social media, following Sri line) repeatedly over the next few hours. friend explaining their predicament, who seriously or quickly as they would to a the topic of addressing issues like this Lankan citizen Shafiya Careem’s traumatic At one point, someone she had got through then contacted 119 on their behalf. report of bodily harm, and this is down to at an organisational level, volunteering experience. to on 118 had told her that if no help had The 119 service then got in touch with the culture of both our country and our law her time to educate and train officers On 1 August (the day of the Hajj yet arrived, then she should go to the the group and told them of a nearby Army enforcement. working the 119 phones. “If it’s an issue festival), Careem, her husband, and their police station instead. On explaining that base, giving them directions on how to In instances where there has been a of not having resources and training, I’d two small children visited her elderly she wasn’t in a position to do so with her get there and letting them know that an breakdown in handling the reporting of be happy to volunteer a few hours of my parents-in-law in Wellampitiya. At around two toddlers and an old lady with arthritis, officer had been dispatched to find them a crime, particularly like how Careem’s time to support and help with training 4 p.m. that day, the family was gruesomely not to mention a crowd of hostile people as well. The group was eventually found complaint was handled, Nanayakkara officers on handling calls and connecting interrupted when a drug addict from the outside the house, the officer had laughed by an officer from the Army base and led shared that you would seek redress in people in need to the right people. If the area forced his way into the premises casually, saying that there was nothing he to safety. A police officer also found them the same way you would if you were police aren’t able to handle this, then and stabbed Careem’s father-in-law (the could do, and hung up. after visiting the closest town and speaking physically making a complaint at a police perhaps they should handle 119 in the official reasoning behind the stabbing Eventually, Careem enlisted her own to local guides. station that was not being taken seriously. same manner 911 is handled – through being that Careem’s father-in-law had father’s help in getting herself, her mother- Incidentally, they were not the only You would complain to the OIC or a a call centre which dispatches people refused to give the drug addict money in-law, and children back home at around group of people lost that night; the Police higher authority within the police station through to the relevant people.” WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 6 the sunday morning brunch HEALTH Sunday, August 23, 2020 A panic attack isn’t life-threatening, but can be frightening Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) After going to the over time – often within emergency department for minutes – is more likely a what I thought was a heart panic attack; whereas, pain in attack, the doctor told me the chest from a heart attack there were no issues with my is often a squeezing pain and heart and that my symptoms pressure that worsens over were likely from a panic time and can radiate to the arm, attack. How can I tell the jaw, shoulder blades, or back. difference, and how can I Although the differences may prevent future panic attacks? be subtle, understanding them While having a heart attack can help you know how best to Pityriasis versicolor and experiencing a panic attack respond when symptoms occur. can feel similar, the symptoms This is particularly important Tinea capitis in a toddler differ and the two conditions for older adults and people with for the initial one to two weeks, as are managed very differently. heart disease risk factors who steroids will stop the immune system Although not life-threatening are also prone to panic attacks. temporarily and the inflammation like a heart attack, a panic will reduce. However, this is far attack can be a frightening People commonly from the solution and it will only experience. Panic attacks can link chest pain create a stronger resurgence of the also affect your quality of life, and other symptoms Fungal skin underlying fungal infection. as it’s common to develop a to a heart attack and To address this issue, the Sri fear of having another panic may fear the worst Lanka College of Dermatologists attack. if the symptoms (SLCD) has taken the initiative to A heart attack occurs when come on intensely or educate the public and all other coronary arteries that supply stakeholders regarding the growing abruptly. But you may the heart with blood become experience many of misuse of topical steroids. The narrowed from the build-up National Medicines Regulatory the same sensations of fat, cholesterol, and other with a panic attack infections Authority (NMRA) is also now substances. Most heart attacks taking the necessary steps to regulate involve chest discomfort, such That said, if you’re ever You shouldn’t ignore the issue of triple combination as an uncomfortable pressure, uncertain about your symptoms, creams that have steroids and squeezing, fullness, or pain. don’t delay in seeking antifungal and antibacterial agents. Other heart attack signs and medical care, particularly if BY DR. DINESHANI yy A scaly ring-shaped area, typically on the buttocks, trunk, symptoms include shortness you’ve never experienced HETTIARACHCHI SIRISENA Prevention of breath, cold sweats, nausea, such symptoms. If you have arms, and legs Dermatophyte infections are lightheadedness, and discomfort a history of heart attack, seek difficult to prevent. The fungus Dermatophytes are fungi that yy Itchiness in other areas of the upper body, immediate medical attention if that causes it is common, and the utilise keratin for growth. such as the arm, neck, or jaw. you experience symptoms that yy A clear or scaly area inside the condition is contagious even before They cause superficial People commonly link resemble a prior heart attack. ring, perhaps with a scattering of symptoms appear. Take these steps chest pain and other symptoms Getting early treatment infections of the skin, hair, red bumps to reduce your risk of getting a to a heart attack and may fear for panic attacks can help and nails and can also cause yy fungal skin infection: deeper subcutaneous and Slightly raised, expanding rings the worst if the symptoms prevent them from worsening come on intensely or abruptly. or becoming more frequent. even systemic infections in yy A round, flat patch of itchy skin yy Educate yourself and others. But you may experience many Cognitive behavioural therapy the immunocompromised. Know that it’s contagious. If yy Overlapping rings of the same sensations with teaches you different ways an affected person is a close Even though fungi are a panic attack. In addition to of thinking about – and yy You’re at higher risk of Trichophyton rubrum contact, all should get treatment not as virulent as bacteria a sometimes overwhelming reacting to – the feelings and ringworm of the body if you: together or viruses, if not treated feeling of anxiety or fear, a symptoms that occur with a properly, they can become yy Live in a warm climate yy Be aware of the risk of ringworm panic attack may also cause panic attack. Once you learn to troublesome. We spoke to yy Have close contact with an from infected people or pets. physical signs and symptoms, react differently to the fear and National Hospital of Sri Lanka infected person or animal Tell your children about such as a pounding or racing physical sensations that occur, consultant dermatologist Dr. ringworm, what to watch out for, heart, sweating or chills, the panic attacks often begin to Janaka Akarawita regarding yy Share clothing, bedding, or and how to avoid infection trembling or shaking, and subside. this highly prevalent towels with someone who has a y breathing problems. Dizziness Antidepressant medications fungal infection y Avoid sharing personal items or weakness, tingly or numb can reduce the signs and condition. such as clothing, towels, yy Participate in sports that feature hands, chest or stomach pain, symptoms of panic attacks, and Fungal infections spread hairbrushes, and sports gear and nausea also can occur. have a low risk of serious side readily through direct contact from skin-to-skin contact, such as Trichophyton mentagrophytes wrestling yy Keep clean. Wash your hands Signs and symptoms of effects. They may be used on people, animals, soil, and directly only rare outbreaks and epidemics often. Bathing once a day is a panic attack often come on their own or in combination through fomites. In dermatology, yy Wear tight or restrictive clothing of superficial dermatophytosis. mandatory. Avoid exposure suddenly and peak within with cognitive behavioural there are some common However, lately, there is a sweeping yy Have a weak immune system to prolonged hot and humid minutes. A panic attack may therapy or another form of presentations of dermatophyte change in the clinical presentation (Source: Mayo Clinic) environments occur as a result of a frightening therapy. If you experience infections. due to extensive, atypical, and or stressful situation, or may symptoms of a panic attack – 1. Pityriasis versicolor – a According to Dr. Akarawita, resistant infections. Treating such yy Keep shared areas clean, even occur out of the blue. particularly if they recur – talk common fungal infection there is a rapid increase in infections poses a great challenge especially in schools, childcare Attacks may even occur to your healthcare provider. causing small, discoloured dermatophyte infection rates. to the clinicians. Hence, both the centres, gyms, and locker unexpectedly and repeatedly as He or she can delve into your scaly skin patches involving Tinea infections are public and the medical rooms. If you participate in a component of a panic disorder symptoms and recommend the back, chest, upper arms, becoming increasingly fraternity should be contact sports, shower right after or along with another mental management options, as well as neck, and stomach areas, this common and more well informed with practice or training health condition. refer you to a psychologist or condition is quite harmless – severe, which is now regard to following the yy Keep your clothes clean. If you There are a number of psychiatrist if needed. except there might be itching seen at an epidemic correct treatment. The have to wear the same garment ways that the symptoms of a (c) 2020 MAYO – and most seek treatment in level in South Asian reasons for the change without washing, make sure it’s panic attack differ from those FOUNDATION FOR the form of topical antifungal countries. Mild in disease patterns ironed or sundried as fungi can of a heart attack. For example, MEDICAL EDUCATION creams, mainly for cosmetic ringworm infections could be attributed to live in the clothes and cause the sudden onset of symptoms AND RESEARCH. reasons. were used to respond change in lifestyles as reinfection during extreme stress is more DISTRIBUTED BY 2. Candidiasis – this is a form to topical antifungal tight-fitting clothing likely to be caused by a panic TRIBUNE CONTENT of fungal infection caused agents. However, is becoming more yy In infected animals, there will attack. But onset of symptoms AGENCY, LLC. ALL by yeast called “candida”. dermatologists are fashionable, together be a patch of skin where fur during physical exertion or RIGHTS Candida species live as normal now seeing more with longer working is missing. If you have pets onset with rest, such as RESERVED. commensals in our bodies. resistant forms Consultant dermatologist hours requiring or other animals, ask your upon waking, is more However, due to certain of manifestations Dr. Janaka Akarawita many to be in the veterinarian to check them for often associated with reasons, they can grow out of requiring aggressive same clothes from ringworm a heart attack. A control. Diabetes or working in treatment. Hence, correct diagnosis morning until they go home in the sharp stabbing hot humid climates, or having and treatment are critical at the night, creating an ideal breeding Get treatment pain in the chest to wear the same clothes for initial phase of the infection. ground for dermatophytes. As If you or someone you know that improves long periods can exacerbate Tinea capitis is the most such, good physical hygiene should has a fungal skin infection, get candida overgrowth. This is common dermatophytosis in not be taken for granted. Another treatment from your family usually seen between skin children. It can be commonly reason could be overcrowding. physician or the nearest hospital. folds, under the breast, and seen on the scalp where there This is mainly seen in urban areas It’s important to follow the correct in the groin area. You may will be itchy, scaly patches with where several people share a single treatment regimen with the correct experience itching and small some amount of hair loss over the apartment. He mentioned that even dose and frequency. Usually, pustular lesions that grow from patches. Tinea pedis, or athlete’s the species could have evolved treatment should be continued the centre to the periphery. foot, is often seen in adults. It’s into a different category. Earlier, for four weeks or longer to get a Candida infections are treated often characterised by fissuring, most infections were due to the permanent cure and shouldn’t be with oral or topical antifungal maceration, and scaling of the web species Trichophyton rubrum. stopped halfway. In more persistent agents. spaces between the toes. It can Now, however, Trichophyton cases, treatment may need to be 3. Tinea infections – tinea even result in fungal nail infections. mentagrophytes is the more repeated. infections are commonly When it affects the nails, it’s called commonly encountered species, known as “ringworm” due onychomycosis or tinea unguium; which is less sensitive to traditional to its ring-like circular it can affect either the fingernails antifungal agents. About the writer appearance, and there is no or toenails. Fungal nail infections The writer, Dr. Dineshani worm involved. It usually normally develop over time, so Misuse of topical steroids Hettiarachchi Sirisena, is a family manifests as a red, itchy, any immediate difference in the Irrational use of topical physician circular rash with clearer skin way your nail looks or feels may corticosteroid (TC) is now a with a special in the middle. Ringworm be too subtle to notice at first. It is common practice. This is seen not interest in infections of the body are important to note that anyone can only among the general public, rare genetic named according to the region get a dermatophyte infection and but also among physicians and diseases and for, e.g. athlete’s foot (tinea it affects both males and females chemists due to the quick relief regenerative pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), equally. However, those who suffer of symptoms. Steroid creams are medicine and ringworm of the scalp from diabetes, obesity, and other widely used to treat certain skin currently (tinea capitis). These spread illnesses that affect their immunity rashes that accompany redness working as a readily by skin contact with an can be prone to severe and more and itching, and as a result are lecturer at the infected person or animal. resistant forms of infection. commonly available to most people. Department Signs and symptoms of ringworm Dr. Akarawita further Fungal skin infections do tend to of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, may include: emphasised that there used to be respond to topical steroid creams University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning brunch 7 Sunday, August 23, 2020 GAMES/TOONS

SOLUTION FOR 9 AUGUST 10 Medal awardees 63 Wreck with a ball 11 Keyboard contemporary of 64 Marked on a ballot Crossword Vladimir 65 Behind CROSSWORD CLUES 12 Market speculator 66 File menu option Across 50 Duck Hunt console, briefly 88 Drink brand with a 13 Hat that originated in 67 Letters for one with 1 More than a little unkind 51 Trait carrier lizard logo Ecuador, strangely weekend plans 5 Tolkien monsters 52 Chef lead-in 91 Fruit farm’s cash flow? 14 Keats’ Muse 71 Knighted Guinness 9 One hanging in a 2000 15 Yale of Yale fame 72 Snowblower maker 53 Midwest native 96 “Little Shop of __” 16 Fruit lover’s gadget 74 So-called “river of wind” election 54 Mideast potentate 101 First African-American 18 Most weak 75 “Little Red Book” writer 13 Tiny tweet 56 Masters of allusion major-league coach Buck 21 Kurt of Nirvana 76 Vocalist Sumac 17 Leaking slowly, as a faucet 57 Verse sometimes sung 102 General and private 23 Make __ dash 78 Placed 19 Pacific salmon 58 Kid’s punishment 103 Hip-hop label co-founded 27 Play setting 79 Compulsive fire starters, 20 Juno’s Greek counterpart 59 Mosquito mating by Jay-Z 31 Primordial substance, in informally 21 Sassy “Cheers” waitress maneuver 105 Barrel component physics 80 Jack of old oaters 22 Prime growing month for 61 Not too sharp, as an image 106 Painter Nolde 32 Designer __ Saint Laurent 81 Like plump pets, perhaps a citrus fruit? 62 Vintner’s prospects? 107 Write-up on a fruit? 34 Bad blood 83 Pequod, for one 24 Culturally affected 66 Lack on some gowns 108 Solution strength 37 “I get it” 84 Belt parts 25 Broadcast booth sign 68 Toy line? 109 Busy as __ 38 Crucifix 86 Ornamental hedge shrub 26 Sources of current 69 Temporary pause 110 Cream color 39 Lawn choice 87 “__ Song”: John information 70 Styron protagonist Turner 111 Kirsten of “Spider-Man” 40 Abbr. on a teeing ground Denver hit 27 Recon pro 73 Visually rapt 112 Reserved __ sign 89 “Dang it!” 28 Take a dip 74 1987 Best New Artist 113 Fail to make contact with 42 Fruit-filled dessert, often 90 Dull-sounding critter 29 Belgrade resident Grammy winner Watley 114 VA concern 43 Circus highlights 91 Runs, moneywise 30 Song sung by a French fruit 75 Tortilla dough 115 Chile money 44 Self-appointed pub experts 92 Let loose lover? 76 “Carpe diem,” in textspeak Down 45 Pay to play 93 Spanish lasso 33 First fruit site 77 Wood shop tool 46 It calls for sweeping action 94 Poetic pairs 35 Fields for fillies 1 Mighty sharks 78 Paul on guitar 2 Draw out 48 Court game 95 Build 36 New Balance rival 79 One removing fuzz from 3 Emmy-winning producer 49 Kitchen add-on? 97 Gun, as an engine 37 Fast-food chain with a fuzzy fruit? of “The Fugitive” Alan __ 51 One may come with a train 98 NFL pass blockers as a cowboy hat logo 82 Leadoff double? 4 Muslim face covering 54 Apiece unit, in football lingo 41 Starts the show 83 Bit of power 5 Pump figure 55 “I pity the fool” speaker 99 Like “Harvard Yard,” as 43 Gulf of __: Arabian Sea 84 How some items are 6 Runaway victory 56 Billiards type spoken by some locals arm auctioned 7 Deep fissure 58 It’s at one end of the back 100 Took care of 44 Comics impact 85 Explorer da Gama 8 Vegan protein source 59 Do a vet’s job 104 Scull crew 47 “No juice in my mojito, 86 Sorority letters 9 Dances with shuffle steps 60 Jazz guitarist Montgomery 107 Get-up-and-go please”? 87 Intangible quality 61 Purple hue Entries should be written clearly and addressed to: The Features Editor, The Sunday Morning, No. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 to reach us on or before 12 noon on 2 September, 2020. 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 9 AUGUST First prize (Rs. 5,000) Consolation prize winners M. Prasanna, 1. Ramani Martin, Matale Valaichchenai 2. Dharshi Fernando, Modera, Colombo 15 Colombo 13 Second prize (Rs. 3,000) 3. Binthari Ummool, 4. Kenista Jenicyril, Hendala, Wattala Shobiya Clinton, 5. Harriyet Luis, Katugastota Dehiwela This week’s winners will be announced on 6 September

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) WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 8 the sunday morning brunch EVENTS Sunday, August 23, 2020 Keells awarded SLS Covid-19 Safety Management Certification UGA CHENA HUTS First supermarket chain and retailer certified yy Reassuring the safety of customers and team in ‘Top 25 Boutique members yy 10 stores obtain SLS certification and all other stores following Luxury Hotels’ the same safety guidelines yy An approved action list on TripAdvisor plan for safety measures in case of future emergencies John Keells Group President – Retail Charitha Subasinghe (third from Uga Chena Huts views left) receiving the certification from SLSI Director General Dr. Siddhika TripAdvisor has picked a leading being acclaimed as one of the “Best in the community or G. Senaratne (fourth from left). Also in attendance were (from left) Sri Lankan hotel brand to reward of the Best Hotels” around the country Lasitha Fernando, Thushara Silva, SLSI Director – System Certification in its latest “World’s Top 25 world by securing a commendable As the Covid-19 Samanthie Narangoda and Buddi Darmasena from Keells Boutique Luxury Hotel” awards. third place among world’s top 25 pandemic impacts the way and wellbeing of customers that as a responsible Uga Chena Huts has won the latest boutique luxury hotels, bringing of life for all Sri Lankans, and for the teams at their retailer during these international commendation, travel fame to the island nation. safety and hygiene have stores and in the supply challenging times, safety been at the forefront for all chain. It also includes an is of utmost importance Uga Chena Huts, which during these challenging emergency action plan, to our customers as well already has a track record for times. Keells as a retailer which is to be carried out if as our team members. winning prominent awards has led the way with many more challenges are faced We wish to reassure our such as 14th place in Asia’s measures to ensure the in the future. customers that we have Top 25 Small Hotels, fifth safety of customers and Currently, 10 taken every measure place in Asia’s Top 25 Luxury team members to the extent stores have received the possible to ensure a safe Hotels, 15th place in Asia’s spas, beach outings, outdoor of even having guidelines certification and more shopping experience, and Top 25 Hotels for Romance, pools, and many more. The for safe home deliveries stores are in the pipeline to for our team members a and 10th place in Asia’s Top huts are enveloped in natural from March 2020 onwards. obtain the certificate, while safe place to work. This 25 Luxury Hotels, is owned by surroundings, entertaining The SLS certification all stores are complying SLS certification is a Uga Escapes, one of Sri Lanka’s travellers to a tranquil, eco- for Covid-19 Safety with the SLS safety further reassurance in prestigious hospitality groups accommodation experience. In Management Systems is protocols. our journey to establish recognised by previous editions addition to the famous safari a recognition culminating John Keells Group such safety measures and of TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ rides escorted by experienced in the stringent health President – Retail build confidence among Choice Awards. rangers, travellers can also and safety practices Charitha Subasinghe customers to shop at Sharing his thoughts on experience leading travel implemented for the safety said: “We understand Keells.” the achievement, Uga Escapes destinations close by, such as Management (Pvt.) Ltd. most scenic destinations in Sri Chena Huts consists of 14 the Great Basses Reef, Bundala Managing Director Priyanjith Lanka.” luxurious cabins in a seven- Sanctuary, Kataragama Temple, Weerasooria commented: “We TripAdvisor is the world’s acre land accommodated by and many more. Daraz Fashion Week are extremely delighted by largest online travel platform, individual plunge pools in each Uga Escapes, owned by these awards. To have been with 463 million travellers in cabin. These lavish cabins pack Finco Group of Companies, has recognised by the world’s 49 markets and 28 languages spacious living areas, cosy pioneered the boutique hotel largest travel platform, seeking assistance from this bedrooms, private bathrooms, concept, preserving natural from 25 to 31 August TripAdvisor, as the third best platform each month. Its and modern amenities such as splendour and indigenous Sri Lanka’s largest online market, those who guess the nearest price of the boutique luxury hotel in the Travellers’ Choice Awards is a twin vanity controls and shaded culture to provide a unique Daraz will open its best fashion deals LICC, Emerald, and Miika gift boxes world is no less than a triumph coveted awards ceremony that outdoor decks with built-in accommodation experience. on Daraz Fashion Week from 25 to 31 also have an opportunity to walk away for Uga Chena Huts. This celebrates the world’s favourite private 5 m plunge pools. Uga Escapes hotels comprise August. Powered by Emerald as the with the gift box. achievement is a testament to hotels and restaurants and guides Travellers to Uga Chena Ulagalla in Anuradhapura, main partner, Daraz Fashion Week will DarazMall, the exclusive platform the fact that we have prioritised travellers to the world’s most Huts walk into an array of Jungle Beach in Trincomalee, bring about the best deals for some of featuring leading brands by authorised customer satisfaction and, above sought-after destinations. exotic wildlife in the Yala Uga Bay in Pasikuda, Uga the most favoured fashion brands in Sri dealers, gives a 14-day return policy for all, provided them a unique Situated in the picturesque Nature Reserve and a variety Chena Huts in Yala, and Uga Lanka. all fashion purchases during this period. eco-retreat among one of the surroundings of Yala, Uga of indulgent treats including Residence in Colombo. This year promises the largest One of the key brands from DarazMall, variety of men’s and women’s clothing, Emerald, has tied up with Daraz fashion accessories, jewellery, bags, Fashion Week as its platinum partner, shoes, watches, sunglasses, and many while LICC, P.G. Martin, Signature, more fashionable items. With mega and Giordano join as gold partners. deals and offers of vouchers valued up The silver partners are Zara Garments, Oily skin gets thirsty too to Rs. 1 million, all purchases on Daraz Miika, Avirate, Vantage, Trendy Fashion Week come with islandwide Clothing, and Zanzea. The Body Shop’s Tea Tree range gets oily skin back in shape free shipping. Daraz Fashion Week is further The online fashion event is also enabled by leading Sri Lankan banks “It’s the monsoon season, plus I absorbent and lightweight lotion giving an out-of-this-world offer where that have partnered to offer 10% off have oily skin. Two reasons why I don’t provides hydration without clogging the shoppers can enjoy on credit cards. These banks include need to moisturise.” It’s a common pores or leaving skin feeling greasy. 25% discount from 25 Commercial Bank, HSBC, Sampath misconception that oily skin equates to The Tea Tree Skin Clearing leading fashion brands. Bank, Bank of Ceylon, Seylan Bank, sufficiently moisturised skin. Mattifying Toner helps skin look visibly Emerald, Signature, Cargills Bank, FriMi, National Oily skin is a result of the sebaceous clearer and toned in just one step. Again, Vantage, LICC, Development Bank, and DFCC Bank. glands in the skin producing too much enriched with Community Trade tea Avirate, Dilly & Carlo, Moreover, Mastercard owners will sebum – a waxy, oily substance that tree oil and shake-to-activate mattifying and P.G. Martin will enjoy a further 12% discount on all protects the skin. While sebum is powders, this toner leaves the skin be part of the “One- Mastercards, complying with the terms important for overall skin health, too feeling clean, refreshed, and visibly rupee Game”, in which and conditions. much sebum leads to oily skin, clogged clearer. shoppers who take With much excitement taking place, pores, and even acne. You can also tend to your oily skin part stand a chance to Daraz Fashion Week is the ideal time for The distinction needs to be made, while you sleep with the Tea Tree Anti- win vouchers worth the ultimate fashion transformation one however, that oil and water are two Imperfection Night Mask. Infused with Rs. 7,500. In addition, always looks forward to. different things, and that our skin needs salicylic acid and Community Trade tea To grab early bird offers, visit bit. both to be healthy. The key to being tree oil, this alcohol-free leave-on mask ly/darazfashionweek2020. comfortable with moisturising oily skin helps reduce the size and number of is to internalise the skincare mantra: blemishes, without staining your pillow. Hydrated skin equals healthy skin. Many For optimum results, prep your skin people confuse oil with hydration, but first with the Tea Tree Skin Clearing the role of moisturisers is to improve Face Wash, Tea Tree Skin Clearing derived from the distillation of the the skin’s hydration by adding water to Mattifying Toner, and Tea Tree Oil to leaves of the tea tree. Known for its anti- it. When skin becomes dry as a result target blemishes. fungal and anti-viral properties, and also of lack of water, your body responds All The Body Shop products – for its capacity to absorb excess oil, tea by making more oil, and this extra oil including the Tea Tree range – are tree oil is a great remedy for blemishes can clog pores, leading to even more 100% vegan and sustainably sourced, and dark spots. blemishes than oily skin is already prone enriched with Community Trade tea The Body Shop’s highly effective to. tree oil from the foothills of Mount Tea Tree Oil comes in a 0.67 fl. oz. Unfortunately, the hyperactive Kenya. Furthermore, The Body Shop’s bottle packed with the oil of 15,000 sebaceous glands that cause oily and Community Trade practices provide a tea tree leaves. Packing a punch with shiny skin are most often the result of fair price and stable income to hundreds its powerful, purifying properties, the genetics and hormonal changes, meaning of farmers belonging to Kutoka Ardhini formula is great for quick application that the only real way to deal with this (“from the ground” in Swahili) in rural to help reduce blemishes. It achieves is to incorporate a consistent skincare Kenya, where employment opportunities this by internally healing the skin, routine that best keeps blemishes under are low. maintaining overall skin health, and control. Shop The Body Shop’s entire Tea leaving behind a rosy glow. The Body Shop’s Tea Tree skincare Tree skincare range at its flagship store The Body Shop’s Tea Tree range in particular harnesses the healing on Bagatalle Road or at Odel outlets in Mattifying Lotion is enriched with and hydrating qualities of one of the Alexandra Place, Kandy City Centre, Community Trade tea tree oil. This most effective natural ingredients, and Colombo City Centre.

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