Sharia Law Played Quarantine Residents Four Flee Area by Dilanthi Jayamanne, Shiran

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325 test COVID-19 Easter Attacks positive in Atulugama Infected persons Bandaragama directed to MOH cautions Sharia Law Played quarantine residents Four flee area By Dilanthi Jayamanne, Shiran – Cardinal Ranasinghe and M.A.P. Deen (Ampara Major Part Correspondent)

Out of 689 PCR tests conducted on a group of By Buddhika Samaraweera Province, M.L.A.M. Hizbullah, and Investigations should be people from Atulugama, 325 had tested positive to to discuss the matter. conducted not only by the COVID-19, while four infected persons had fled the Muslims may consider Sharia Cardinal Ranjith also said if the Presidential Commission of area. Law important, but that does not investigations into the bombings Inquiry, but also through other Bandaragama Medical Officer-of-Health, Nimesha mean it could be interpreted or on 21 April 2019, Easter Sunday Government agencies. We do not Ratnaweera, urged the people of Bandaragama and introduced as the law of the are not conducted properly, other expect this to be swept under the Atulugama to be wary of the spread of the fatal... country and forced on other alternatives would have to be carpet as usual for political communities or used to intimidate found. He also said, “We will have advantages and other deals," he Story Continued on PAGE 2 and influence other communities, to hand over the responsibility to said, and added that he hoped that Archbishop of Colombo, Malcolm other parties and look for all agencies investigating the Cardinal Ranjith insisted. alternative measures if the ongoing incident, including the Cardinal also pointed out that investigations are not conducted CID, would work to investigations conducted so far on properly.” uncover the forces the brutal Easter Sunday Attacks Speaking to the Media at the behind it. have shown that Sharia Law and Archbishop’s House in Colombo Dr. institutions that advocate or yesterday, Cardinal Ranjith added Jayawardena preach Sharia Law have played a that it was not appropriate to said a Sectoral major part in the attacks. reverse the ongoing investigations Oversight He said this when Samagi Jana into the Easter Sunday bombings Committee Balawegaya Parliamentarian, Dr. due to day-to-day issues and that Kavinda Jayawardena, met him added that Catholics would remain investigated yesterday (3), to request his vigilant until the truth about the the Cyclone Burevi departs intervention in pressuring the matter is uncovered. Batticaloa Government to take over the “The Government and the Campus SL with no serious impact Batticaloa Campus owned by the President have promised a full during the Over 12,000 persons affected former Governor of the Eastern investigation into the bombings. tenure of... By Naalir Jamaldeen Story Continued on PAGE 2 The Department of Meteorology yesterday (3) said, Cyclone Burevi is moving out and the impact is Nominations to five Mahara Prison to gradually waning. O/L Exam in Assistant Director of the Mullaitivu District Commissions approved remain a Quarantine Disaster Management Centre (DMC), Sinnathambi March next year Lingesvarakumar said, 536 families numbering By Gagani Weerakoon and Centre – Lohan 1,581 persons have been affected in the ... By Thameenah Razeek Methmalie Dissanayake By W.K. Prasad Manju Story Continued on PAGE 2 The 2020 GCE O/L Exam, which was The Parliamentary Council yesterday (3), postponed to next year, will be held in March approved President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s State Minister of 2021. The decision was taken after taking nominations to the National Election Prison Management into account that most schools were closed Commission (NEC), the Public Service and Prisoner Not banning TNA a big due to the spread of COVID-19, Education Commission (PSC), the National Police Rehabilitation, Minister Professor G.L. Peiris said. Commission (NPC), the Human Rights Lohan Ratwatte, mistake – Weerasekara He added that 621,000 students had Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) and the said it has been applied to sit for the Exam, noting that they Commission to Investigate Allegations of decided to maintain By Gagani Weerakoon could not sit for it from 8 to 27 January 2021 Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). the Mahara Prison and Methmalie as previously scheduled due to the pandemic. Accordingly, the current Legal Adviser of as a Quarantine Dissanayake He noted the Ministry of Education expects to EC, Nimal Punchihewa, will chair the EC Centre and to also hold the Exam in March and do not hope to while M.M. Mohamed, Gunapala conduct Rapid Minister of Public postpone it further. Wickramage, Jeevan Thyagarajah and K.P.P. Antigen tests on all Security, Rear Admiral Pathirana will serve as Members. 2,800 detainees at (retired) Sarath Story Continued on the Prison after Weerasekara yesterday (3), PAGE 2 seven days, to check opined that it was a big Story Continued on PAGE 2 whether they are COVID-19 positive. mistake not banning the 402 COVID-19 Ratwatte pointed out that this Tamil National Alliance Matale Mayor unfortunate incident took place due to (TNA) after winning the war patients detected clashes between groups of detainees in 2009. within the Prison and that a certain Participating in the in Colombo Aluwihare removed individual had recorded the clash on his Committee Stage debate on mobile phone and the footage shows the Appropriation Bill of Five deaths reported yesterday Says he will go to Courts how the fights broke out. 2021, Weerasekara alleged that the TNA is the By Chamara Amarasuriya By K.K. Ariyadasa Dambulla & He further said, extensive ‘political voice’ of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Hewa P. Karunaratne- Mathale investigations are being conducted by Eelam. Out of 878 persons who had been infected the CID using video footage. He also said "The normal practice of the world is banning the with COVID-19, which is also the highest Daljith Aluwihare has attention has been focused on whether political voices of terrorist organisations. When number detected on a single day, 402 of them been removed from his an outside force was behind this clash. Nazi Leader Adolf Hitler was defeated, the Nazi had been detected in the Colombo District. post as the Mayor of movement was banned in Germany. This number had been reported in Colombo Matale with effect from 2 There are several other countries which did the on 2 December, while of that number 103 had December 2020. exact same. But the TNA, the political voice of the been detected in Borella. Governor of the Central Furthermore, 63 had been detected in Province, Attorney Lalith Mahara Prison Riot Story Continued on PAGE 2 Aluthkade, 42 in Colombo 3, 36 in Colombo U. Gamage had issued an 15, 30 in Colombo 9, and 29 had been found Extraordinary Gazette in Kotahena and Bloemendhal areas.Another Notification in this Details on injured, 188 patients had also been detected in the connection. Cash transactions Gampaha District. Retired High Court deceased inmates Meanwhile, five COVID deaths reported Judge Kusala Sarojini can spread COVID-19 yesterday increasing the total deaths to 129. Weerawardena had handed over the... to be disclosed – GMOA Prisons CG urges By Shiran Ranasinghe Story Continued on PAGE 2 families to be calm

GMOA Executive Committee By Kumudu Upul Shantha Member Dr. Haritha Aluthge Parliament gets new DSG said, people should take care to Prisons Commissioner General cleanse their hands after Attorney-at-Law recently as a Court of Thushara Upuldeniya urged family handling cash to avoid Kushani Rohanadheera Appeal Judge. members of those who had died and contracting COVID-19. has been appointed as Speaker of have been injured in the Mahara Prison He said, it was imperative that the Deputy Secretary Parliament Mahinda Riot on 29 November, to exercise calm all members of a family do not General (DSG) and Yapa Abeywardena has and caution as details of the inmates will handle cash and that only some Chief of Staff (CoS) of given his approval to be disclosed to them promptly. members handle cash and Parliament. appoint Rohanadheera He said, any perceived delay in thereafter follow health Rohanadheera is to the vacant post on submitting the details of the inmates to guidelines. appointed to fill the the recommendation of relatives had been due to a sizeable He added, both notes and coins could carry the vacancy left by former the Secretary General amount of documents being destroyed in virus and hence observed that it would be vital for Deputy Secretary of Parliament the fire that raged inside the prison those who use it to wash their hands thoroughly General Neil Iddawela, Dhammika following the clash between the inmates following transactions. who was appointed Dasanayake. and guards.

Story Continued on PAGE 2 Story Continued on PAGE 2 A2 friday 4 december 2020 news

COVID-19 positive suspect sends Makumbura Railway cops, cellmates to quarantine By Sujith Mario (Payagala) six Police officers involved in his arrest are to undergo the mandatory Station to be substation A suspect who was arrested by the quarantine programme. By Buddhika Samaraweera Kalutara South Police on Tuesday The suspect is a resident of (1) had tested positive for COVID-19 Mawala, Wadduwa and the result of and two other suspects who were his PCR test was issued yesterday General Secretary of the Sri Lanka detained in the same cell as well as (3). Station Masters’ Union (SLSMU), Kasun Chamara, said the Railways Department is converting the railway station at the Makumbura Multimodal Centre to a substation. He said after being converted to a Expenditure Head of Defence substation, the Station Master will be on contract. He also mentioned that the Station Master will have to Ministry passed by 132 votes discharge all duties including By Gagani Weerakoon and favour while 5 MPs voted against. cleaning, issuing tickets and Methmalie Dissanayake Ishaq Rahman who was the only accounting. Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP However, Chamara said at a railway Expenditure Head of the Defence remained in the Chamber voted in station like Makumbura, one officer Ministry was passed in Parliament by favour of the Expenditure Head. was not sufficient to do all that work. 132 votes yesterday (3). Jathika Jana Balawegaya MPs were He added that the quality of the After the debate, All Ceylon Tamil not in the Chamber when the vote railway station, which has modern Congress (ACTC) MP Selvarajah took place. facilities, could be degraded by doing Kajendran called for a division on the Apart from Kajendran, MPs so. Expenditure Head. Therefore, Selwam Adaikkalanthan, G. He further said within a very short appropriate to convert it to a in the face of severe traffic restrictions, Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena Karunakaran, Gajendrakumar period of opening, the station substation. He added that the due to incidents such as the 21 April took a vote row by row in the Ponnambalam and Vino generated substantial revenue and Makumbura Railway Station had 2019, Easter Sunday bombings and Chamber. Noharathalingam voted against of that it would therefore not be generated a significant revenue, even the spread of COVID-19. Accordingly, 137 votes were in the Expenditure Head.

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Details on ... Upuldeniya added that at the time of that some inmates had assisted the the clash, some 3,000 inmates had been Prison guards to quell the unrest Sharia Law... housed at the premises and mentioned without taking part in it. ... the Yahapalana Government Presidential Commission of been done illegally. had recommended that it be Inquiry into the 21 April 2019, He added that the Batticaloa taken over by the Government Easter Sunday bombings too, it Campus should be taken over by immediately. has been proved that the setting the Government as soon as He further said according to the up of the Batticaloa Campus and possible, as it could be a Cyclone Burevi... facts revealed before the many of its other activities have supporter of global terrorism.

Nominations to... The three-Members of CIABOC HRCSL and the Members are Dian Gomes, W.H. Piyadasa, are former Supreme Court Judge, Vijitha Nanayakkara, Chandana Dilith Jayaweera, Hema Justice Eva Wanasundera, retired Udawatta, Harsha Nawaratne and Dharmawardena and Nimal Court of Appeal Judge, Justice Kumari Balalla. Karunasiri. Deepali Wijesundera and former Retired SC Judge, Justice Retired IGP Chandra Fernando Director of the State Intelligence Jagath Balapatabendi will chair will Chair the NPC and Members Service, Chandra Nimal the PSC. The other Members are will be S. Liyanagama, Sanjeewa Wakishta. Indrani Sugathadasa, Leelasena Pathirana, M.S.M. Samsudeen Jagath Balasuriya will chair Liyanagama, Dr. T.R.C. Ruberu, and Premasiri Fernando. ....Mullaitivu District and that 447 Mannar District experienced fairly light persons from 130 families were showers accompanied by winds evacuated to four temporary safety yesterday evening but added that the centres while 892 persons from 332 District is gradually returning to normal. families are staying with r relatives and The Assistant Director of the DMC in O/L exam... friends, and the rest were staying in their Trincomalee, K. Sugunadas said that the homes. people who fled their homes on Addressing the Media yesterday after the results for the GCE O/L disinfection products. Those in safety centres were sent back Wednesday (2) owing to the panic (03) at the Government Exam are expected to be released Prof. Peiris noted that the fee for home after the situation in the region concerning Cyclone Burevi had returned Information Department, in June. paper marking has been was observed to have turned for the to their homes before 12 noon. Education Secretary Prof. Kapila There will be a special increased. batter, according to Lingesvarakumar. He said that 2,558 persons from 744 Perera said when this Examination programme to expedite the process He also noted that other State He said that 34 houses had been families who had evacuated had been takes place in March 2021, the of releasing exam results. As part exams such as aptitude tests for partially damaged while one was accommodated in 52 temporary shelters GCE A/L classes for those who of this programme, every paper job applicants and other completely destroyed. set up in safe locations in the District. pass the GCE O/L Examination marking centre will receive a Rs assessments will also be Lingesvarakumar added that of the He said that no one had been affected will likely commence from July, 10,000 allowance to procure conducted during this period. small, medium and large scale reservoirs by the Cyclone in the Trincomalee in the Mullaitivu District, nine were filled District and that the people who are to the brim, but pointed out that there residing in vulnerable locations in 10 DS was no need to panic since the reservoirs Divisions except for Gomarankadawala are in forest areas. He said 392mm of were evacuated to temporary shelters. 325 test COVID-19... rainfall was recorded in Manthai East A group of 6,946 persons from 2,148 Thunukkai Divisional Secretariat (DS) families who were not willing to go to the ... illness, as it can wreak havoc complaint had been lodged in this services would have no other Division within 24 hours, which ended at shelters had been staying at their among those living there, more regard at the Bandaragama alternative, he observed. 4:00 a.m. yesterday (3). relatives, friends and other safe places, than within the Colombo Police. She said legal action would Meanwhile, the Police pledged to Even though 210 families had been according to Sugunadas, and all of them Municipal Council limits. be taken against the patient. provide security to those engaging affected in the Thunukkai DS Division, too had returned to their homes. She added that those infected GMOA Executive Committee in prevention work. no one has been displaced. Owing to the gusty winds blowing for with the virus have been directed Member, Dr. Haritha Aluthge, Police Spokesman, DIG Ajith However, certain roads had been the past few days, 64 houses which were to quarantine centres. said as it is the Government’s Rohana, vowed that stern action inundated and alternate roads were in a vulnerable state were partly With the number of COVID-19 responsibility to provide security would be taken against such used, he added. damaged while one house was completely patients topping 25,000 yesterday for health service employees persons and said they would be Assistant Director of the Mannar damaged in the Trincomalee District, he (3), the Government Medical engaged in COVID-19 prevention considered as traitors for refusing District DMC, Kanagaratnam Thileepan added. Officers’ Association (GMOA), and control work, it is also the treatment for such a deadly said that 7,749 persons from 2,236 Meanwhile, 41 persons from 10 warned that if the people of duty of the Health Ministry illness. families have been affected by Burevi in families had been affected in the Bandaragama and Atulugama officials to ensure that their Elsewhere, 418 persons were the District. Karaichchi DS Division in the Kilinochchi continued to hinder the prevention health employees are safe during tested for COVID-19, on 2 Thileepan further said six houses had District on 2 Wednesday the aforesaid and control of COVID-19 in the prevention and control work December, at the Teaching been partially damaged while one house DS Division, according to DMC sources. Kalutara, Bandaragama and that is done at the ground level. Hospital, Jaffna, while six persons was completely destroyed. He added that The sources added that 829 families Atulugama, the health workers The possibility of infection in from the Navy Mulankavil nearly 40 acres of paddy cultivation had numbering 2,986 persons had been would be compelled to withdraw Atulugama in Bandaragama, Quarantine Centre had tested been completely destroyed in the flooded affected in the Jaffna District and that their services from these areas. Kalutara is very high, with at least positive for COVID-19, medical areas in the District. Thileepan said that one person has gone missing in Sankanai The GMOA said so in reference 25 to 30 per cent of the population sources said. nearly 50 multi-day fishing trawlers and DS Division. to the incident where a Public in the area at risk of getting The Akkaraipattu MOH Division, nearly 200 fishing nets have been The sources added that 15 houses had Health Inspector (PHI) attached to infected. which has been isolated, after completely destroyed. been completely damaged and 152 the Bandaragama Medical Officer “But the people of the area being identified as a high-risk area He said 6,795 persons from 1,778 houses were partly damaged in the of Health (MOH) area was wilfully avoid undergoing PCR on 26 November, found 95 COVID- families who evacuated their homes have Jaffna District owing to the heavy winds. attacked by a patient. A COVID- testing, which has in turn delayed 19 positive cases, after 980 been accommodated in 18 welfare The sources noted that 236 persons 19 patient from Atulugama, the Health Department’s ability to persons underwent PCR and centres in the District, adding that some from 74 families had been affected in the Bandaragama, had allegedly spat assess the risk. About seven Rapid Antigen testing. A large of them went back home yesterday night Vavuniya District and that partial on the face of a PHI who was Grama Niladhari divisions have number of persons in and around because the floodwaters had drained damage had been caused to five houses transferring the patient in been isolated as a result,” he said. the Akkaraipattu Market were from those areas. He added that the in the District. question for treatment to an If this continues, Atulugama could subjected to both PCR and Rapid intermediary treatment centre. become a place where people Antigen tests. Most of the The MOH of Bandaragama, would start dying in their homes confirmed cases were from the Nimesha Ratnaweera, said a with the disease and the health market square. Matale Mayor...... report of the investigation into the Ordinance, the Gazette Notification allegations against Aluwihare to stated. Parliament gets... Not banning ... Gamage on 24 November. Meanwhile, Aluwihare says he will The report had stated that Aluwihare seek legal redress against the Governor Rohanadheera joined Parliament service in 1999 as a ... is operating freely. Even now, they had reportedly committed the misdeeds of the Central Province, over the Parliamentary Officer and served as the Assistant Secretary speak in favour of terrorism. They speak referred to in Subsections 277 (1)(a), decision to remove him from the General (Administrative Services) of Parliament since 2012. separatist views in this Parliament. They 277(1)(c), 277(1)(d) and 277(1)(e) of the Mayoral post. An alumnus of Dharmashoka Vidyalaya, Ambalangoda, got advantage of the sympathy of the MC Ordinance (Chapter 252) while He charged the decision taken to sack she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from the former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. It discharging his duties. him was politically motivated and University of Colombo. She later graduated with a Bachelor was a very big mistake to not ban the TNA Therefore, action has been taken to stressed he will institute legal action of Law from the Open University of Sri Lanka. back then,” he claimed. remove him from office under the MC against the Governor shortly.

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No approval for hotel Injured prison escapee in Muthurajawela wetland - Amaraweera By Thameenah Razeek apprehended The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) said no approval has been given for a private company to By Thameenah Razeek from the Orugodawatta area. statements were recorded from eight doctors, construct a hotel, on 600-acre block of land, in the The arrestee was detained separately at the two male nurses, 10 Prison officers including Muthurajawela wetland. Prison authorities yesterday (3) Welikada Prison, Police Media Spokesman, the Chief Jailor and six persons who Minister of Environment Mahinda Amaraweera said, apprehended a Mahara Prison inmate who DIG Ajith Rohana said. sustained injuries. He said a special team led although approval was given on a request submitted escaped while receiving treatment at the Meanwhile, the CID has recorded 26 by a Superintendent of Police of the CID is by the Forest Conservation Department, to conduct an Ragama Teaching Hospital. statements in relation to the unrest reported conducting further investigations in this environmental study, the final decision regarding the The inmate had sustained injuries in the at the Mahara Prison on 29 November. regard. Probes are being carried out to hotel will be taken after consulting the public. Prison incident on 29 November. Prison While noting that more statements are due ascertain the main cause of the unrest and He said this while addressing a Media briefing at the intelligence officers took him into custody to be recorded, the Police Spokesman said the damage to property. CEA yesterday (3). Amaraweera noted that the Muthurajawela wetland, which is an ecologically sensitive zone, has been gazetted as a sanctuary, including the estuary where the Muthurajawela wetland ends. Right to bury COVID-19 Dead

Civil Society Orgs SL’s request for IMF to continue struggle Aid intact - IMF A collective of civil society including the manifestation organisations stated that of the freedom of religion By Paneetha Ameresekere they will continue to and belief. We also struggle for justice and the understand that Buddhists, Sri Lanka’s request for International Monetary Fund right to bury those who die Hindus, Christians, (IMF) assistance is in place, IMF Mission Chief for Sri from COVID-19 or are Muslims and others have Lanka Masahiro Nozaki told Ceylon Today on 2 suspected to have died from all been affected by these December. COVID-19. restrictions, but in all other His reply was to the question: ‘According to the On 01 December, the cases where rights were latest official data, Sri Lanka’s foreign reserves have Supreme Court, by a limited, there is evidence of fallen to a 42-month low to US$ 5,858.50 million as at majority decision, refused the need to do so. Catholics end October 2020. As such, is there any succour to grant leave to proceed, to and Muslims, have agreed forthcoming from the IMF end?’ the 11 applications filed by to all the restrictions Nozaki said,”In April, we received a request from the petitioners belonging to including with regard to Sri Lankan authorities for emergency financial Muslim, Christian and gathering, handling, COVID-19 Control support under the Rapid Financing Instrument (RFI). Catholic communities, washing, praying and the Assessing relevant conditions for the RFI has taken challenging the specialised mode of burying Sudarshini assumes duties longer than for other countries, due to Sri Lanka’s Government’s policy of and that all they want was daunting economic challenges. The RFI request cremating the bodies of only to be buried adhering remains in place. We have sought, but not reached an those who died from to all health conditions. as State Minister understanding yet, on how to fulfil key requirements COVID-19 or are suspected Under international law, State Minister for Primary Health Care, Epidemiology, and COVID-19 for the RFI. The IMF stands ready to discuss all to have died from COVID- limitations of rights, such Control, Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle, assumed duties at her new Ministry options of engagement with Sri Lanka”. 19 on the grounds that it as the freedom to practise yesterday (3). She is seen here flanked by Health Minister Pavithra violates the right to the one’s religion, have to be Wanniarachchi, State Minister for the Production, Supply and Regulation of freedom of religion and prescribed by law and must Pharmaceuticals, Professor Channa Jayasumana, and Health Secretary, belief of some faiths. be necessary and Major General Dr. Sanjeewa Munasinghe. On 11 April, the Minister proportionate. We have of Health brought in an repeatedly asked the Education seriously amended regulation making Government to give us the cremation compulsory for reasoning for this policy COVID-19 or suspected and they have failed to underfunded in COVID-19 victims. A provide any evidence that circular published on 27 the burial of the COVID-19 Budget – JVP March, consistent with dead can contribute to the previous health regulations, spread of the Virus or The budget presented by the Government for 2021 allowed cremation or burial provide any health threat. has once more drastically reduced the expenses set within 24 hours. This There has been national aside for education, the JVP Politburo claimed. changed with the Ministry and international criticism This Government has not only failed to allocate the of Health’s Provisional of the Government on its necessary funds for the development of the education Clinical Practice Guidelines decision, in spite of sector but the benefits accorded to teachers and on COVID-19 Suspected guidelines by the World lecturers in the sector have also been cut off, the and Confirmed Patients, Health Organisation Politburo further claimed. dated 31 March, which explaining that the burial of “It is clear that the present regime is also determined made cremation the only such victims poses no to cut funding allocated for the education sector as option. danger to public health. much as possible like previous Governments. Even the ‘Victims and communities These measures affect more United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural are now left without than one religious group, Organisation has deemed that 15 to 20 per cent of the recourse for the injustice but it is particularly total State expenditure or six per cent of the GDP has they suffer. Given the terrifying for Muslims for to be set aside for the education sphere. Especially, sensitivities and whom the burial of the dead considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on importance of the issue, it is a non-negotiable the sector, what the Government should have done is was felt that the Court religious practice. They feel not cut benefits but increase the funds for the field of could have referred it to a targeted, bullied and education,” a Press release issued by the Politburo larger bench. We threatened by the manner further said. understand that due to the in which the Government is pandemic, there is public acting on this,’ the emergency, under which statement issued by them certain rights can be limited in this regard further read. Health Ministry to recruit 1,000 personnel Reporting on COVID-19 pandemic The Ministry of Health has decided to absorb Discussion on future 1,000 new personnel to fill vacancies in 12 35 journalists felicitated categories in various medical units in the Health Department. A group of 35 journalists, Day, under the theme The Ministry, issuing a press release, stated that representing the Sinhala, ‘Recover Better – Stand Up of Civil Defence Dept facilities have been made available for prospective Tamil and Muslim for Human Rights’ applicants to submit applications online and from communities in the organised by the Minister of Public Security, Rear Admiral (Retired) Sarath Weerasekara, its website www.health.gov.lk. Trincomalee District, were Trincomalee Aham discussed about the future activities of the Department of Civil Defence, The closing date for applications has been felicitated for their timely Humanitarian Resource with its Director, Rear Admiral Ananda Peiris, on 2 December. (NV) extended to 21 December. contributions in making the Centre, in collaboration with people aware of the COVID- the Media Unit of the 19 pandemic and the Trincomalee District challenges they faced when Secretariat. The Chief reporting amidst quarantine Guest, Trincomalee District Thuruliya Lanka Tree Planting Programme curfew and lockdowns. Secretary Saman New road development These journalists were Dharshana Pandikkorale, CEA completes felicitated at an event donated a set of personal activities get off the ground organised to mark the protective equipment to a International Human Rights journalist during the event. planting in 19 districts State Minister for Rural Roads - Lanza and Residual Infrastructure, Nimal By Eunice Ruth Lanza stated that the development and rural bridge projects were of 100,000 kilometres of rural being undertaken. He expressed The Thuruliya Lanka National Tree Planting roads, the construction of the these views while inaugurating the Programme of the Central Environmental Authority Central Expressway and the development work of the Ragama (CEA) has been completed in 19 districts. Ruwanpura Expressway, the Zoysa Housing Circle Road. It Media Officer of the CEA, Sriyanjani Lokuliyanage, Warakapola by-road, the bridge should be noted that all these said this project was started on 2 September in the built on poles across the Nawala development activities are being Anuradhapura District. In some districts, two to three canal, other by-roads, alternative carried out while protecting the separate programmes have been done by selecting roads, flyovers, tunnels, car parks environment, he claimed. different places, such as religious sites, military camps, forest reserves and others. Currently, the programme is pending in Jaffna, Kurunegala, Ratnapura, Kegalle, Gampaha and Hambantota districts. So far, the respective District Officers of the CEA have planted more than 2,000 saplings including kumbuk, mee, khaya, areca nut, bamboo, jack, teak, some medicinal plants and others, she said. “All these saplings were planted in protected areas with proper fencing and the watering and maintenance of the plants will be done by the management of the respective places,” said Lokuliyanage. news friday 4 december 2020 A5

Mahara prison riot Committee conducts probe By Ruwan Laknath Jayakody to property. The Committee is Chaired by retired Previously, when queried as to whether High Court Judge Kusala Sarojini The Committee appointed by the the Committee would also visit the Weerawardena and has the Chief Legal Minister of Justice, M.U.M. Ali Sabry, to hospitals and quarantine centres at which Advisor to the Ministry of Justice, Udaya look into the origins of the deadly incident injured prisoners and COVID-19 positive Rohan de Silva PC, the Additional at the Mahara Prison, which visited the prisoners are receiving treatment, to Secretary of the Administration Division of Prison yesterday (3), inspected the places obtain their version of the events that the Justice Ministry, Rohana S. linked to the incident, made observations, occurred at the Prison, the source said: Hapugaswatte and the former Prisons and recorded statements from certain “We will look into what actually took place, Commissioner Gamini Jayasinghe among individuals. what were the factors that caused it and its Membership, while the Additional The process of inquiry will continue at make suggestions to prevent recurrence. Secretary to the State Ministry of Prison the Prison today (4). There are different opinions expressed Reforms and Prisoner Rehabilitation, An inside source informed Ceylon Today concerning the incident which are in Nishan Danasinghe is its Secretary. that the Committee will hand over its circulation. We will record statements and Although Police Media Spokesman, DIG interim report by early next week. once we have the details, we will ascertain Ajith Rohana had also been appointed to The incident at the Mahara Prison on 29 whether it was a riot or whether there was the Committee, he declined to be a and 30 November has thus far resulted in an unseen hand behind it or whether it Member, citing a conflict of interest with the deaths of 11 prisoners, caused injuries was natural for this to occur due to the his duties as the official Spokesman of the Customs seize to both inmates and officers, and damages COVID-19 situation.” Police Department. narcotics worth Fmr Kuliyapitiya SSP Non-Tamil minorities over Rs 8M tells Easter Attacks PCoI earn more than Sinhalese Sri Lankan Moor Muslims – WB Narcotics, worth over Rs 8 million, were seized by the and other non-Tamil Customs Narcotics Control Unit on 2 December. Based on Was unaware minorities, on average, earn primarily own-account intelligence, 490 grams of Kush Cannabis worth over Rs 6 more than Sinhalese workers earn about Rs million and 80 grams of cocaine worth over Rs 2 million was workers, a World Bank (WB) 26,000 and domestic seized from the Central Mail Exchange. These narcotics were document released on workers earn around Rs found in four parcels. Two parcels were from the United States, of Zaharan’s 2 December said. 16,000 monthly. one from the United Kingdom, and the other from the It also said formal public As of 2017, 27.1 per cent of Netherlands. These were addressed to different persons residing sector workers earn about Rs informal workers earned less in Colombo, Ahangama and Wadduwa. The drugs were handed wife’s house 42,000 monthly on average. than the stipulated monthly over to the Police Narcotics Bureau. (NV) They are followed by formal minimum wage of Rs 12,500 private sector employees who per month (equivalent to By Buddhika Samaraweera receive about Rs 34,000 US$ 79.28), while 5.8 per monthly and informal cent fell under the same Former SSP in charge of the Kuliyapitiya Police Division, employees slightly more than threshold. Ministry of Technology Oshan Hewawitharana, said he was not aware that the house of Rs 20,000 monthly. Formal workers in the National Thowheed Jama’ath Leader Zaharan Hashim's wife, It further said the Western Province earn Abdul Cadre Fatima Hadiya, was located in the Kekunagolla informally employed are almost Rs 61,000 monthly, area in Kurunegala, until the bombings on 21 April 2019, Easter defined as persons who have which is significantly more ICTA Chair Sunday took place. no letter of appointment, than their counterparts He had been summoned before the Presidential Commission of Employees Provident Fund everywhere else. Formal Inquiry into the Easter Sunday bombings, to give evidence on benefits and such like, which workers in the Uva, Jayantha de Silva the unrest in Kuliyapitiya between 12 and 14 May 2019. also includes domestic, all Northern, Sabaragamuwa, A Member of the Commission questioned the witness whether comprising around 60 per and Eastern Provinces earn he was aware that Zaharan's wife's house was located in cent to 70 per cent of the only Rs 26,000-Rs 30,000. appointed Secy Kekunagolla, which was under his supervision as the SSP. In total working population. Similar differences are response, the witness said he had not been informed of this by Formal self-employed have observed among informal the Police Department. the highest average earnings, workers as a group, with Chairman of the Once again, a Commission Member questioned as to whether at over Rs 100,000 monthly, those residing in the Western Information and he was aware that the Criminal Investigation Department and though they represent only a Province earning almost Rs Communication Technology the Terrorist Investigation Division had visited Hadiya’s house very small fraction of the 33,000, compared to less Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka, on several occasions. In response, he said he may not have been labour market (less than 4 than Rs 20,000 for those in Jayantha de Silva, has been informed about that investigation to protect its confidentiality. per cent in 2017). Informal the Northern, Central and appointed as the Secretary When queried whether it is customary to inform senior Police self-employed who are North-Central Provinces. to the Ministry of Officers in the area about these inspections, the witness said he Technology. Strategic could have been vigilant if he had been informed of the matter. Communication Specialist of the ICTA, T.M.G. Chandrasekara, said the Uninterrupted education Ministry oversees 10 institutions including the Ministers from the for poor students Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Asia and Pacific meet Sri Lanka, the ICTA, the Sri Jayantha de Silva Lanka Computer Emergency What has the Readiness Team, the Sri Technology Commission, all Strengthening partnerships Lanka Telecom, the Information Technology in Water, Sanitation Industrial Training Institute, parks, the Sri Lanka Govt done? the Sri Lanka Institute of Standards Institute and the Nanotechnology, the Department of the and Hygiene discussed By Paneetha National Science and Registration of Persons. (ER) Ameresekere – Eran By Risidra Mendis Wickramaratne. What steps has the “How many schoolchildren Over 15 finance sector Ministers from the Asia and the Pacific Government taken to ensure are equipped with either a met on 2 December to develop and strengthen partnerships for that the indigent student has laptop or an iPad or a smart investments in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH). uninterrupted education, computer or a smartphone?,” Govt ready to fund “These partnerships are critical, given the central role this online, or otherwise, in view questioned Wickramaratne. sector can play in national economic and health recovery, of the disruption caused to “How can one expect the delivering improved resilience, employment opportunities, their education by COVID- suffering masses to buy milk production health benefits, and access to innovative finance,” the Executive 19, Opposition those electronic necessities Director of the Centre for Environmental Justice, Hemantha Parliamentarian Eran to ensure that their children Withanage said. Wickramaratne queried on have uninterrupted school – Aluthgamage “The Ministers presented evidence and practical experience of 1 December. education?,” he questioned. successful investments in the sector to foster an active dialogue “But because of COVID- “Did the Government take By Sulochana Ramiah officials in this field, and partnership between Ministers and leaders from 19, a number of students into account such hardships Mohan including Milco, were development agencies, including development banks, bilateral receiving secondary when promoting distance working with the private and multilateral partners, the civil society, private sector, education had their studies learning? Additionally, how The 2021 progress review sector and instructed the research and learning institutions, the philanthropic community disrupted. Nonetheless, the many students had problems of the State Ministry of Chairman of Milco to put in and United Nations (UN) agencies,” Withanage explained. students who ‘have’ had with regard to Internet speed Livestock, Farm Promotion place a formal procedure to He said that the Freshwater Action Network South Asia would uninterrupted education, but and signals?” and Dairy and Egg-related get the project off the ground. like to share messages to the Finance Ministers to achieve the ‘have nots’ fell by the It’s in the midst of these Industries was held on 02 Aluthgamage instructed Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). wayside,” said difficulties and questions to December and the Minister of the Chairman of the National “There must be robust accountability mechanisms in place to Wickramaratne, while which seemingly no solutions Agriculture Mahindananda Livestock Development ensure that the progress achieved in reaching the services for speaking during the debate are found, that the debate on Aluthgamage said that steps Board to implement the the unreached, is commensurate with the resources invested. on the Education Ministry’s the head of expenditure of have been taken to fill the measures required to make The lack of sustainability and the slip back tendency is a crucial head of expenditure in the Education Ministry is vacancies and acting posts progress in 2021. barrier in achieving WASH services for all. Addressing these Parliament. being taken, he said, and under the relevant Ministries He instructed the use of barriers requires a substantial increase in financial resources In that context, what did questioned whether this is to implement an efficient unused lands under the for the sustainable management of ground and surface water the Government do to ensure the way the Government programme. Janatha Estate Development resources, utilized for providing water resources and this that all students had access plays around with the future Emphasising on the need Board and the land belonging includes wastewater treatment and ensuring source security,” to online education? He of the youth or if it is the plan to increase milk production, to the Ministry of Agriculture, Withanage said. queried. of the Government to forfeit he said the Government is for grass for dairy cows that He added that financial resources allocated for climate change How many deprived the education of the indigent ready to provide all necessary would be imported in the mitigation and adaptation shall be targeted to build climate students were encouraged to student because his/her assistance, including fund future. He said that the resilience of WASH infrastructure. “The adequacy of financial study online by the provision parents cannot afford to buy allocations. Government should ensure allocations must be ensured to create capital infrastructure that of halls that can house the an electronic tab? “What is There are 337 veterinary self-sufficiency in milk by can meet WASH needs of the current and future generations,” required numbers and with the purpose of the offices operating island-wide 2023. Withanage explained. the provision of ‘live’ Government which allows and the State Minister D.B. He also immediately He said that partners share the belief that Government-led, connections with teachers? such things to happen?,” he Herath has requested farmer coordinated the necessary collaborative and multi-stakeholder decision-making, leads to He further queried. further questioned. organisations to immediately allocations of funds to more effective and sustainable solutions. “Together, our “If this was possible, how He further said: “Because start training and construct warehouses at the partners stimulate high-level political dialogue (at both the many students benefited of COVID-19, we began encouraging producers of Weerawila, Polonnaruwa, country, regional and global levels) and coordinate and monitor with the availability of such distance learning. But, as a dairy and animal products. Oyamaduwa and Ridiyagama progress toward the WASH related targets of the UN SDGs,” facilities? The answer is country, are we ready to Herath said that some National Livestock Boards. Withanage said. none,” added provide distance learning?” A6 friday 4 december 2020 Editorial

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Prioritise Disaster Management “Though records show cyclone frequency in Sri Lanka has a declining trend over the 20th century, currently, nonetheless, a report warned of increased intensity of tropical cyclone activity in the Bay of Bengal, emphasising that disaster risk reduction remains a priority”- Excerpts from an Asian Development Bank (ADB) publication titled ‘Climate Risk Country Profile: Sri Lanka’ published on 18 November, 2020. Disaster management should be as important as national security as the impact of COVID-19 and now two cyclones, first Cyclone ‘Nivar’ and now ‘Burevi,’ hitting the country in the space of a week show. At the time of writing, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) said that as at 12 noon yesterday, the impact of Cyclone ‘Burevi’ that hit Sri Lanka ‘in force’ on Wednesday, resulted in one person being reported missing, caused injuries to 12, impacted 10,609 families comprising 36,338 persons, fully damaged 15 houses, partially damaged 192 others, Seeking Balm to whilst also causing damages to nine small and medium enterprises (SMEs). DMC, at the time of writing said that ‘Burevi’ impacted the totality of the Northern Province (NP), comprising the Jaffna, Mullaitivu, Kilinochchi, Mannar and Vavuniya Districts, as well as the Restore Trust with Trincomalee District in the Eastern Province (EP). It didn’t report of the impact of this cyclone on the rest of the country, including the two remaining districts in the EP, namely Ampara and Batticaloa Districts. DMC said that the missing person was reported Agitating Farmers from Chankanai, Jaffna, an incident that took place on the previous day Tuesday, due to the impact caused in respect of the buildup of ‘Burevi,’ By Ashok Dixit social distancing norms. We will before it launched itself in all of its fury on the know of this only next week. island on Wednesday. India is faced with two major Communicating timelines In related developments, of the 12 reported issues at this point in time – and meeting deadlines is the injured, four each were from Jaffna, Vavuniya and first, a farmers’ agitation over need of the hour to lift both Trincomalee, having being affected on Wednesday, three contentiously-passed economic sentiment and public the day the full force of the cyclone hit Sri Lanka. agriculture sector-related laws spirit. Meanwhile, the largest impact of ‘Burevi’ was felt that in all likelihood is going to in Trincomalee District which saw 3,575 families progress into its second week, China discusses being displaced, impacting 12,252 persons. The exposing cacophonic disparate defence cooperation next largest impact was in Vavuniya, affecting voices in Centre-State relations, 3,554 families and 12,161 persons. and two, the anxiety of with Nepal, Pakistan The other four districts in the NP in which people trumping the world in the race Close on the heels of India’s were impacted according to the DMC, in to be the first with a credible Foreign Secretary and Army descending order in numbers were Mannar, 2,236 Covid-19 vaccine. Chief undertaking visits to families comprising 7,749 persons; Jaffna, 829 Let’s look at both Farmers’ agitation Nepal over a period of two families (2,986 persons); (1,149 persons) and sequentially. weeks in November, the Mullaitivu, 405 families (1,149 persons), Keeping politics aside, a Are the three laws good laws is unlikely, and at best Chinese leadership has sent the respectively. majority in this part of the enough from an economic or a they can hope for negotiations country’s Defence Minister, In the meantime, the largest impact ‘Burevi’ had world feels that the over week- reform point of view? Most to be conducted in a manner Gen. Wei Fenghe, not only to on real estate in terms of numbers was in long farmers protest against experts are questioning the that restores trust. Kathmandu, but also to Trincomalee where it partially damaged 192 three laws – (1) The Farmers’ speed with which the Race on for a Islamabad, to review bilateral houses. The second biggest impact was in Jaffna, Produce Trade and Commerce legislations were impatiently defence cooperation. which saw 15 houses fully damaged; a further 152 (Promotion and Facilitation) rammed through the Credible Vaccine The leadership in India would partially, whilst also causing damages to two small Bill, 2020, (2) The Farmers Legislature, giving institutional have watched the visit of Gen. and medium enterprises (SMEs), respectively. (Empowerment and Protection) negotiations and compromise a In the week just passed, the Wei to these two countries with The next was in Mannar, where ‘Burevi’ partially Agreement of Price Assurance miss. mounting cases of Covid-19 keenness to assess outcomes. damaged six houses and six SMEs; followed by, and Farm Services Bill, 2020, “Choosing to introduce infected has had the Gen. Wei’s visit to Kilinochchi (nine houses partially damaged), and (3) The Essential Central legislation on State Government concerned enough Kathmandu comes almost 14 Vavuniya, five houses partially damaged and Commodities (Amendment) Bill, subjects without any debate, for Prime Minister Modi to months after Chinese President Mullaitivu, one house partially damaged, 2020, passed by the Indian refusing to consult farmers or undertake visits to three Xi Jinping’s trip to the city to respectively. Parliament during its truncated even to give their anxieties a separate cities – Ahmedabad, witness the inking of a strategic At least some of the displaced have been moved monsoon session in the middle hearing, and pushing the Bills Hyderabad and Pune – to partnership of cooperation. into 79 centres which were housing 2,911 families of September, can impact the through Parliament without interact and review progress in The Defence Minister used comprising 10,336 persons, the DMC said. future of India’s agriculture debate are typical” of the Modi developing a vaccine to counter his visit to reiterate Beijing’s The locations vis-à-vis these shelters in sector and derail the Government’s modus operandi, the virus. commitment to strengthening descending order of numbers were Trincomalee, 52 Government’s economic said experts Yamini Aiyar and Three research institutions – its military relationship with safety locations which housed 864 families reforms. Mekhala Krishnamurthy in a Zydus Biotech Park, Bharat Nepal and to support the comprising 2,558 persons; 18 shelters in Mannar The ongoing protests that recent article. Biotech and the Serum latter’s bid to ensure its housing 1,778 families and 6,795 persons; five have virtually brought the But they also made a point to Institute of India – are in the territorial integrity. shelters in Jaffna housing 139 families and 539 administrative machinery in the highlight that current policy race to deliver a vaccine to Both sides discussed persons; five shelters in Jaffna housing 139 northern parts of the country to discourse “is impatient with the immunise Indian citizens. Talks resumption of military training, families comprising 539 persons and four shelters a standstill, reflects the deep pulls and pressures of are also on with global pharma promotion of the bilateral in Mullaitivu housing 130 families comprising 444 vacuum prevailing in the realpolitik”, and therefore, is giants Astra Zeneca, Pfizer and student exchange programme persons, respectively. No shelters operating in agrarian sector politically and seeking to legitimise “riding the Gamaleya Research and to boost defence either Kilinochchi or Vavuniya were reported by economically. roughshod” over existing Institute in Moscow, Russia assistance. DMC. The agitating farmers appear processes in choosing out of the (the last named is spearheading In Islamabad, Gen. Wei called It was only last week that the impact of Cyclone to be sending a firm message to box options to facilitate much development of the Sputnik V on Pakistan President Arif Alvi, ‘Nivar’ was felt in Sri Lanka, though no damages in the ruling class that they can needed changes in prevailing vaccine). Prime Minister Imran Khan and the island were reported from ‘Nivar’ which, no longer be treated as a systems. India is facing a challenge visited the General however, had a greater impact on India.. marginalised constituency that “There is no question that that can be said to be acute. A Headquarters in Rawalpindi Cyclone ‘Nivar’ last week and Cyclone ‘Burevi’ is to be managed. India’s agriculture markets are population of 1.3 billion people city. this week, show that though cyclone frequency had Agrarian distress in the last in urgent need of reform, but to requires to be vaccinated and to A review of the fight against shown a declining trend in the previous century, two years has been cited as the assume this can be done achieve the goal of an the Covid-19 pandemic, i.e. in the 20th century, according to the ADB, that main factor behind farmer without responding to the acceptable vaccine; hundreds of discussions on developments in trend appeared to have changed for the worse in agitations, the latest one being anxieties of those impacted – scientists, researchers and lab the South China Sea, Taiwan, the current 21st century, namely an increase in the led by farmers owning land. farmers, middlemen and staff are on the job to deliver on Xinjiang and Tibet, and frequency of cyclones. ADB further warned of The over-arching fear is that labourers – and without the run virtually. progress in the China-Pakistan increasing intensity of cyclones impacting Sri of livelihoods intertwined with assurances of protection and The Central Government has Economic Corridor (CPEC) Lanka. agriculture being compromised finding a middle ground, is a held virtual meetings, with projects and bilateral defence Adding to these woes, Sri Lanka is currently to a point of no return, in spite recipe for failure,” they warned. Chief Ministers of States, on the ties formed part of the plagued by COVID-19 which has hit the economy of Central Government The bottom line is that if we pan-India Covid-19 scenario. engagement. hard, harder than the three insurgencies that the assurances of safety nets being are to reform systems, then it is An all-party virtual meeting (Ashok Dixit is a New Delhi- country was previously impacted with, Post- in place to prevent such an a given that in a country the scheduled for today (4), to be based former senior editor/ Independence 1948. outcome. size of India, it is not possible addressed by the Prime journalist with leading multi- Therefore, disaster management, whether it By and large, farmers feel and without better coordination Minister led to expressions of Media news agencies means managing pestilences such as COVID-19 or fear that the Central and/or understanding. anxiety across platforms over Sputnik, ANI & IANS. He is managing weather related disasters such as Government is not addressing For the moment though, the possibility of a second also the son of India’s former cyclones, should be the priority of the Government. their anxieties, but seeking to farmers and their lockdown being in the offing as National Security Adviser prevent and rubbish voices of representational leaders are the general public continues to and Foreign Secretary J.N. objection and dissent. aware that repealing the three be careless about observing Dixit). Column Friday 4 December 2020 A7

By Sumanasiri Liyanage opined that agricultural Notes To The People production can be increased by At the third reading of the using bio-fertiliser instead of Budget 2021 the Minister of chemical fertiliser. According to Agriculture, Mahindananda him, the cost of production Aluthgamage informed the would be substantially reduced house his Ministry would by this alternative system. prepare a national agricultural For a National Explaining further, the plan within a period of twelve professor notes that bio- months. In the context that fertiliser is not in fact a kind of under the present fertiliser as it is inoculum that administration, the subject helps to rejuvenate the fertility agriculture is fragmented into of soil by an organic process. separate sub-fields and placed So, the social metabolism under three or four separate Agricultural Plan between humans and nature in Ministers or State Ministers, it the sphere of agriculture will may be difficult to prepare an agricultural modernisation, it both natural and social not lead to a metabolical rift integrated national agriculture has been posited that the large history”. Hence, if this social affecting soil fertility, polluting plan. Hence, what the minister portion of bare land and forest metabolism does not keep at a water resources and causing would have in his mind is a land are to be directed to manageable level, the system unknown diseases while plan for what is generally agricultural production. would move to a ‘metabolical enriching multinational known as peasant or The experience in the last 42 rift’. For example, the fertiliser companies and their subsistence agriculture, the years have shown that this dependence of food crop village level merchants. The phrase in itself has now policy package has miserably agriculture on chemical most attractive part of Prof. become a misnomer failed to protect the country’s fertiliser and pesticides is so Kulasuriya’s proposal is that notwithstanding. So let us call food autonomy and to increase heavy that peasants are forced he argued that an introduction it food crop agriculture to the living conditions of the to use increasing doses of of the alternative system distinguish it from plantation majority of agricultural fertiliser in order to get the package may tend to reduce agriculture. producers. Therefore, I submit expected yield. Moreover, they the price of rice to Rs 70 per The buzz word that has been that in preparing a new have to depend on pesticides in kilo. Moreover, he posited that incessantly resonated in the agricultural plan, this old larger quantity. This reversing to more eco-friendly development of agriculture is baggage is to be left behind and metabolism forced on small system would help to reduce agricultural modernisation new thinking that integrates scale agricultural producers imports of agricultural meaning an application as far traditional and indigenous has created a kind of vicious products spending valuable as technically feasible of agricultural practices is circle that has been exacerbated foreign exchange reserves. industrial modes in needed. by making about 70,000 people What are the agricultural production. This Food Autonomy kidney patients. I argue that has been the policy especially this mode of production has Obstructions? since the 1960s with advent of The extant area under food now reached the level of the so-called green revolution. crop agriculture is around Human beings are a part of nature depending on eco-systems to sustain metabolical rift. If Sri Lanka has generated The extant weaknesses of 900,000 hectares. Any themselves What does this mean? Why a new scientific knowledge agricultural production and the agricultural plan should be would it be a critical element in that is eco-friendly and less prevailing poverty in the rural based on the projected order to meet the demands of Marx, namely, metabolism and the articulation of an costly, one may wonder why sector have been often times estimates of the level of the growing population that is metabolical rift. Let me briefly agricultural plan? Marx was we had waited so long to go explicated as the absence or consumption, direct and around one per cent per year define the terms although Marx greatly influenced by into this alternative system. inadequate presence of the indirect, of agricultural and to improve the nutrition did not proceed on the basis of agricultural research of Minister Aluthgamage’s modernised methods and products in order to maintain level of peoples’ diet. definitions, but on agronomists, chemists and proposal to have a new techniques in production. and improve food autonomy of Hence, both quantitative and determinations. The dictionary other scientists. The German agricultural plan is Hence, the Governments since the country. This of course qualitative increase of food definition of Metabolism refers chemist, Justus von Liebig in commendable. Nonetheless, if 1977 have resorted to the does not mean that total production should be the to “the chemical activity in your the 1850s referred to English he does not seek advice from methods that include leasing consumption needs of food principal objective of the new body that uses food to produce agriculture as a robbery an academic like Prof. large tracts of land to products should be locally agricultural plan. However, the the energy you need to work because of its use of intensive Kulasuriya when drafting the commercial agricultural produced because of the fact critical issue is how and in and grow”. Marx employed the methods of agriculture in order plan, but from pseudo- companies, national or multi- that food autonomy in any what way this goal should be notion of social metabolism to to raise production for the scientists that are in the pay national. The base documents country is partly culturally achieved taking the both short- refer to “the complex, dynamic market destroying the vitality roll of multinational chemical of the Millennium Corporation conditioned. Moreover, as quite term and long-term goals into interchange between human of the soil. Thus the mode of fertiliser and pesticide Compact Agreement (MCC) has a large portion of animal consideration. and nature”. As John Bellamy production in English companies, the “new” plan recognised the nature of land protein in our diet comes from Metabolism and Foster noted, human beings agriculture forced it to depend would be another disaster rights as one of the principal meat and egg production, an are a part of nature depending later highly on artificial and profiting the minority in the causes of abject poverty of the increase of production of Metabolical Rift on eco-systems to sustain chemical fertiliser in order to upper echelon of the Sri island. So, the hidden agenda animal feed in adequate themselves and their actions in maintain the quality of the soil. Lankan society. is to generate a space that quantity should also be a part In answering the issue of how turn affect those same eco- Recently, giving an interview The writer is a retired benefits agricultural of the plan. There is no the agricultural production, systems. So, “As a result, there to a Sinhala newspaper, Prof S. teacher of Political Economy production based on large and difficulty in obtaining these basically the food production, is a necessary metabolic A. Kulasuriya, a well-known at the University of concentrated land ownership. quantitative data and making be increased, I deploy two interaction between humans micro biologist from the Peradeniya. As a part of this so-called projections of future needs in concepts advanced by Karl and the earth that influence University of Peradeniya has [email protected] Sea Power, Chinese Smarts and American Complacency By Lakna Paranamanna a steady presence in territories identified as having a strategic value Last week India, Maldives and Sri for them, which we now know as the Lanka revived trilateral maritime talks ‘string of pearls’ in China’s One Belt after six years. It was soon after the One Road (OBOR), that not only focus Quad nations staged the two phased on sea but also on assets on land Malabar 2020 exercise in the Bay of surpassing Mahan’s vision. Bengal. The U.S. led alliance has The U.S. was far too focused on the upped its game against Chinese war on terror and attempting to bring influence in the Indo-Pacific waters, countries that fall under their strategic but the question remains if these interest span under the American measures will suffice to withstand sphere of influence in the Middle East rising Chinese power that is already and South America, that the growing consolidated in the region. threat in Asia went almost unnoticed. The answer to these queries, can be That was until China launched the explored in the theory of sea power OBOR initiative and the challenge argued by Alfred Thayar Mahan - the became real, for, imposing a threat on renowned American Naval officer and rivals’ access to global waters is to strategist, whose 1890 book ‘Influence indirectly also restrain the rival’s of Sea Power upon History’ extensively military development. wrote on the use of enhancing The use of Military presence and Naval prowess to constrain foreign maritime capacities This was the same strategy the maritime prowess to elevate America Americans deployed with Russia as the next hegemon to replace the overt focus on sea power, his U.S. vs China Secretary of Defence Mark Esper during the Cold war using U.S. waning power of Great Britain at the arguments are not without merit. The U.S. concentrated on the rightly identified the need for urgent military presence and Naval prowess time. Living in an era where around 80 per capacity build up of its militaries, reforms within the Naval fleet – he to constrain Russian maritime Mahan and sea power cent of global trade by volume and particularly the Navy during the cold called for a 355-ship fleet by 2030, but capacities. As a result, despite their over 70 per cent of global trade by war arms race, but the momentum it was not backed up by actions. The wealth it took a significant amount of Mahan wrote during an era of vast value are carried via sea, Mahan’s was not sustained. In fact, since the US Navy requested 19.9 billion USD time for Russia to build their Naval changes in technology, yet, he stressed arguments are not only valid but are collapse of the USSR, the American through the budget for 2021 fiscal fleet. But the U.S.’ lax attitude and on the logic of a bluewater strategy essential. After all, his vision did carry fleet has reduced by about 137 ships. year for shipbuilding, a $4.1 billion tendency to intervene in wars that are above and beyond every other factor to America to greatness post-WW2, In the absence of competition for a drop from 2020. not their battles to fight, have cost achieve national greatness. At the owing to leaders including former power race – until the rise of China – Meanwhile, China surpassed the them dearly - both Russia and China time, sea power also played a key role American President Roosevelt finding America fell into complacency. U.S. this year in terms of the sizes of have climbed up the ladder surpassing in increasing wealth, but his strategy validity in his claims. America’s doom also came in the form the navies; according to the U.S. the U.S. in terms of Naval power proposed merely tapping into foreign Did America abandon the winning of distractions, both at home via Department of Defence report, the ranking 3rd and 2nd respectively resources and using the maritime strategy influenced by Mahan’s domestic financial and social PRC now has the largest Navy in the while the U.S. has landed fourth on power to enter overseas markets to thinking or is China simply better at pressures as well as fighting wars world, with an overall battle force of Global Fire Power index. match the increasing American adhering to Mahanian principles than abroad. approximately 350 ships and Today, the sea routes are at risk of production and to pave the way to America was? But Mahan urged against submarines including over 130 major being influenced by new forms of create political allies throughout the In their rhetoric against growing complacency – he instead argued that surface combatants, as opposed to the rules based on different interests world who will join the alliance of the Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific, a country in fact, makes its most 293 ships of the U.S. Navy as of this than of the U.S. and the West-led liberal trade order. a key word that American diplomats significant gains during times of year. international order. America has His recipe for geopolitical success recurrently emphasise on is ‘free and peace, which can be achieved by using Mahan advocated encouraging the finally woken up to the challenge but was the trifecta of extensive open seas’. Freedom of navigation is a Naval capacities as means of soft rival to build its Naval forces, as it the damage done by the illusion of production, growth in shipping vital factor in today’s economy and it is power pushes. would financially drain the rival, perpetual permanence of American through the development of a indeed the duty of a Naval power in a Mahan argued for the preemption of particularly if their quest for dominance will not be reversible merchant fleet and colonies - presently democratic society to ensure the vital sea power as opposed to the promotion dominance is pushed out via both land unless meaningful measures that go meaning military bases that ships can sea lanes of communication remain of rival power to develop their own and the sea. But this point however beyond staging military presence and use to replenish fuel and supplies. unhindered to facilitate liberal trade merchant shipping fleet to assist in has not proven to bring the exact exercises are implemented. If not, the They were to be backed with the and thereby promote domestic their trade, noting a capable Navy is opposite outcomes in the context of repercussions to the American country’s geographical position, wellbeing. America has some 490 the product of a thriving commercial China. It was only logical and economy - despite America’s rallying physical conformation, extent of Naval assets including 20 aircraft shipping industry. But it appears that predictable for China to venture via of the West and their allies against territory, number of the population carriers at its disposal, but it is the U.S. has done its exact opposite; sea routes to consolidate power impending Chinese dominance - will and the charter of the people and the increasingly becoming clear that while China has acquired several large considering its geographical deadlock be no different to the fate that befell government to achieve sea power maintaining a military maritime shipping companies and ranks ninth with India and Russia. Following on the British or the Dutch when they dominance. presence alone is not enough to outdo in the merchant Navy capacity, the this, the Chinese then went to lost status as the dominant sea Although Mahan is criticised for rising Chinese influence. U.S. ranks at 22. Former US The systematically influence and maintain powers in their times. A8 friday 4 december 2020 column National Prosperity COVID-19 or Complacence, what’s more Destructive? By Ananda Ariyarathne favourable environment for the virus. The arrival of Winter in the Northern Unlike in the other cases of natural Hemisphere has marked the turning disasters, a pandemic has to be point for stop being ‘complacent’. handled swiftly as a moment wasted can have disastrous effects. All the Misconceptions and viruses have their ‘life cycles’ and if the Indifference environment permits the virus to flourish, it getting out of control cannot There is no question about how be avoided. Therefore our strategy has destructive can COVID-19 be. But it is to be to control its propagating capacity also a fact that it had not closed down as the ‘life cycle’ can be used as the the escape routes. Starting with the most natural control, and if the mask it had proved to the world that ‘carriers’ can be contained in a the choice has been left with us. The manageable small area and in mask has actually given mankind a manageable groups so that individual very clear choice to stay safe. The attention becomes possible only such a sensible and meaningful use of the strategy can be effective. When that mask will stop the virus escaping from aspect is covered, the next important a carrier and prevent it entering the aspect is to prevent any new ‘hosts’ physiological system of another. The coming into the picture. That can be maintenance of that shall prevent the done by 100 per cent commitment from virus from propagating. That will give the general public so that, the the healthcare workers a kind of a possibility of numbers increasing can hands-free situation to concentrate in be stopped. This condition can be cleaning up areas geographically so further strengthened by increasing the that the limited resources shall be able physiological powers of immunity of the to cope. people, which can be expected through In the meantime, the researchers in the natural and induced processes of USA as well as in the UK are said to ‘immunisation’. The induced kinds of have reached substantial levels in immunisation can be realised through progress in creating vaccines capable the ‘vaccinations’ and it is an area of combating the virus. The time taken unknown at the moment, in this case of is understandable as the virus calls for COVID-19. a Time Frame. Until such time an effective vaccine has been found, it Realities of COVID-19 shall be a cat and mouse game It may not be an over-statement, to A pandemic has to be handled swiftly as a moment wasted can have disastrous effects between the ultimate potential victims say that there had never been such a and COVID-19. Until that becomes the destructive virus than COVID-19 which any individual identities and some take requirements stipulating strict long awaited reality we will have to makes the mightiest Nations accept turns to sleep causing them to share adherence to avoiding social life, closing admit that we cannot afford to be rash defeat, because all the nations and such a personal facility, let alone other areas and insisting on self quarantine. anymore as we have to keep ourselves their best scientists and the medical privacies. That had resulted in changing the safe and healthy and keep on wearing experts are still groping in the dark. COVID-19 affected even a most It is a virus that attitudes of even the Sri Lankan facial masks and maintaining the What the worlds’ best scientists are still affluent nation like USA that sounded affects the Leaders who were imitating the leader stipulated distance, taking care to trying to grasp is the elusive nature of over-confident about this virus which there who was playing with the fate of keep the hands cleaner and staying at the virus. It is a case of the whole world has started showing its real capabilities respiratory system Americans. Although it is better late home to avoid others getting too prone being compelled to fight an invisible of destruction only now proving how than never, all must understand that to the virus. enemy. destructive could it become. However, that stimulates a they were promoting the virus only to While the former American President It can infect large numbers of people much USA sounded Brash and bold, it condition that ridicule the Government which was gave wrong example to people by who have become carriers of the virus became finally unavoidable to realise doing the right thing. pretending to be brave, the sensible and still remain undetected due to their the gravity, at the end. It was causes a nourishing We now know more than what we researchers did not relax their immunity. Therefore, it is essential that symbolised by the previous President environment for the knew with the time passing relevant to commitment to understand the elusive we have the capabilities to detect, who shunned the use of ‘facial masks’ social features and the geographical virus, and as a result, we have now identify and isolate the virus carriers to contain/prevent outside negative virus to thrive. It presence, Globally, as well as become fortunate by becoming more and the hosts who can become the influences off, even when it was plain Regionally and locally. It is now known capable in deciding on more rational silent supporters, of this deadly virus, and obvious that the mask symbolised can enter a human that there are 58.7 Million cases of measures. who can turn all the preventive efforts the most effective and the most effective physiological COVID-19 and the scary reality like the In a crisis, the survival depends of a Governments meaningless. It shall preventive measure, to prevent the fact that the number of deaths has completely on the status of the become more complicated and virus escaping one to enter another. system easily passed 01.3 Million, according to the consciousness of each citizen as it is destructive in the communities where That disregard towards a vital as well as through touch or as WHO. In USA alone the number of completely an aspect dependent upon the people have more important an essential measure showed how affected as exceeded 12.1 Million while each individual. If all the citizens know priorities than trying to be concerned disastrous could it become. an air borne visitor the number of deaths has passed what they have to be concerned about. about personal and community hygiene While the over-confident laughed and 255,000. It could have been definitely a While the role of the Government is as their main priority is to exist another mocked at the destructive capacity of to the system and smaller figure if the country adopted a vital in providing infrastructure day. COVID-19, the virus made the best use then would capture more serious policy right from the required, it is naturally its It is a virus that affects the of time and in no time that false sense beginning. responsibility to guide the citizens act respiratory system that stimulates a of confidence made the whole country the whole The danger is the possibility of with judgment, as it is not a case of condition that causes a nourishing suffer and it did not need much time to persons who shall not show any signs others’ well-being. environment for the virus to thrive. It give it on the ‘noses’ of those over- environment to of the disease but may carry the It is a matter that shall vary from one can enter a human physiological confident leaders who acted insane , serve it, while disease. Evidence is growing that the household to the other for the simple system easily through touch or as an who could still bask in glory, while droplets can stay in the air and travel reason that the members of a air borne visitor to the system and then seeing their own Nation suffering. They choking the host beyond six feet indoors and that the household can be different when it would capture the whole environment ignored precautionary measures who would be droplets can land on surfaces, and comes to livelihood, vocational practices to serve it, while choking the host who promoted and instead laughed at people may get the virus by touching and other social aspects. If the would be gasping for air. The victim is those. Now upon seeing the whole gasping for air. The those surfaces. breadwinner is irregularly employed, compelled to give up as there is no world taking the matter more seriously, It boils down to one thing and that is the nature of his work and the localities system developed so far to provide even those over-confident have now victim is compelled the plain reality that it is the density of he may have to cover can make a big artificial respiratory support to all those resorted to the need to take care. to give up as there people around that would make it more difference in the impact he may cause. who fall victim. Depicted by the recent developments or less dangerous, because it is the Life among the low income earners is Imagine such a development to be that took place in the United States of is no system possibility for contamination. The Key not something that can easily come to present in every household, and then America which showed the drastic is the prevention of infection. the minds of those who are used to you will understand its magnitude. In changes that have taken place ending developed so far to However, with the Northern comforts and safe environments. other words, it will be deaths from each with the Declaration of a National provide artificial Hemisphere entering the colder Among such people, it shall be nearly household. When such a thing can Emergency situation, in March this atmospheric conditions, by now, have impossible to drive home the concept happen even in the rural areas where year, realising their folly at last. That respiratory support affected the upward trend of growth of of maintain safe distance. We know people shall have more space to hang realisation, though very late has to all those who fall the virus that was sending shivers how destructive COVID-19 can be but, around, what will happen in the affected the life-styles of the Americans among the people, have now created a it is an undeniable fact that it can be congested urban areas where, even the who acted promptly adjusted victim natural quarantine by causing people more destructive, if we ignore the norms have changed when it comes to themselves strict guidelines , followed to stay at home, in spite of the fact that realities or indifference towards ‘households’ where there shall not be by measures such as quarantine the lower temperatures provide a more realities. New Zealand to be Carbon Neutral by 2025

By Praveen Menon now," Ardern told lawmakers in greenhouse gas emissions come from Parliament. agriculture, mainly methane. New Zealand promised its public After an hour-long debate, a The Government on Wednesday sector would become carbon neutral majority of parliamentarians voted in promised the public sector will by 2025 as it declared a climate favour of the declaration. The main achieve carbon neutrality by 2025. emergency on Wednesday; a symbolic Opposition National Party voted Government agencies would have to move that critics said needed to be against it saying it was nothing but measure and report emissions and backed with greater actions to reduce ‘virtue signalling’. offset any they can't cut by 2025. emissions. New Zealand joins 32 other The programme will be backed by a Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said countries including Japan, Canada, NZ$200 million ($141 million) fund to the climate emergency declaration France and Britain that have declared finance replacing coal boilers and help was based on the Intergovernmental a climate emergency. purchase electric or hybrid vehicles, it Panel on Climate Change's findings Ardern, who returned to power in said. Greenpeace welcomed the that to avoid more than 1.5 degree October delivering the biggest election declaration, but challenged the Celsius rise in global warming, victory for her centre-left Labour Party Government to follow through with emissions would need to fall by in half a century, has called climate policy and action. around 45 per cent from 2010 levels change the "nuclear free moment of "For Jacinda Ardern's climate by 2023 and reach zero by around our generation". emergency declaration to be more 2050. In her first term she passed a Zero than just words, that means tackling "This declaration is an Carbon Bill, which sets the framework New Zealand's largest source of acknowledgement of the next for net zero emissions by 2050 with climate pollution: Agriculture," said generation. An acknowledgement of an exemption for farming, and banned Greenpeace agriculture and climate the burden they will carry if we do not Climate emergency declarations to be more than words mean tackling New Zealand’s new offshore oil and gas exploration. campaigner Kate Simcock. get this right and do not take action agriculture! Nearly half of New Zealand's (Reuters) asia friday 4 december 2020 A9

Beijing, China China Orders Chang’e-5 completes lunar sample collection Inspections to Prevent ahead of schedule China’s Chang’e-5 lunar statement, without vehicle has finished disclosing the total weight of collecting samples of lunar the samples collected. rocks and soil more than a China had planned to COVID-19 Spread day ahead of schedule in collect the samples over a the first lunar sample period of about two days, retrieval mission since the with the entire mission 1970s, the country’s space taking around 23 days. agency said on Thursday The ascending vehicle (3). would lift off from the lunar via Cold Chain The robotic vehicle has surface with the samples, China is carrying out stored the samples and will and dock with a module sweeping inspections on food now dock with the orbiting currently orbiting the moon. importers, supermarkets, Chang’e-5 for the return The samples would then e-commerce platforms and journey to Earth. be transferred to a return restaurants to prevent the China launched a robotic capsule onboard the spread of coronavirus spacecraft on 24 November orbiting module for delivery through imported cold chain to bring back rocks from the back to Earth. products, the country’s moon in the first bid by any If successful, the mission market regulator said on country to retrieve samples will make China only the Wednesday (2). since 1976. third country to have “The current epidemic Late on Tuesday, the retrieved lunar samples prevention and control Chang’e-5 spacecraft after the United States and situation is still complex and successfully deployed a pair the Soviet Union. austere, and the risk of the of landing and ascending China made its first lunar disease entering through vehicles onto the moon’s landing in 2013. imported cold chain links is surface. The plan was to In January 2019, the continuously rising as the collect 2 kg (4.4 pounds) of Chang’e-4 probe landed on exchange of international samples. the far side of the moon, the personnel and goods The sample collection was first space probe from any increases,” State completed after 19 hours, nation to do so. Administration for Market the space agency said in its (Reuters) Regulation said in a statement on its website. While China has already stepped up testing and disinfection of imported Bangkok, Thailand frozen products at ports and in local markets, driving up costs and curbing demand, Five dead as flash the latest comments from Beijing showed inspections A staffer stocks up seafood products at a supermarket, following an outbreak of COVID-19 in Beijing, China, floods hit southern on cold chain imports would 11 November 2020. (Reuters) only strengthen. China has repeatedly also asked for authorities to administration said, imported cold chain food detected the virus on have all cold storages reiterating an existing policy. products without clear Thailand packaging on products registered by the end of the Imported cold chain food origin, or relevant receipts ranging from German pork year, according to the products “without inspection and bills, it said. knuckles to Ecuadorian statement. and quarantine certificate, or Producers and operators shrimp, triggering disruptive Imported cold-chain food nucleic acid test report, or were to bring in imported import bans, even as the products cannot be sold in disinfection certificate, or cold chain food products World Health Organization China without a report tractability information, through designated channels says the risk of catching showing they have must not be sold in the and store and sell them in COVID-19 from frozen food is undergone a nucleic acid test market,” the statement said. designated areas, according low. for the coronavirus, the Local authorities must to the statement. The administration has market regulation intensify the crackdown on (Reuters)

Tokyo, Japan Zoo unveils Fashionable Feline A Buddhist monk paddles a boat down a flooded street in Nakon Si first elephant born Thammarat Province (Reuters) Thailand on Thursday (3) where children played. The in 138 years reported at least five deaths floods started a week ago but after flash floods caused by had receded by Thursday, Japan’s oldest zoo unveiled The Ueno zoo, founded in monsoon rains hit seven according to the Interior the first baby elephant to be 1882, has asked the public to provinces in the country’s Ministry, having affected born there since its founding vote online for the baby’s southern region. more than 255,000 more than a century ago, and name, choosing from Authorities reported the households in seven of the asked the public for help in candidates suggested by the deaths all took place in southern provinces. naming it. Royal Thai Embassy in Nakhon Si Thammarat The impacted region is The male calf was shown to Tokyo. Province, where television home to Thailand’s major the public on Tuesday (1) for The choices are Arun, footage showed staff of a rubber plantations, the first time since his 31 which means “dawn” in Thai, hospital piling up sandbags accounting for the majority of October birth at Tokyo’s Atsadong (sunset), or Tawan outside an emergency room the world’s natural rubber Ueno Zoological Gardens. (sun). The winning name will to fend off water gushing in supply. His mother Authi and be announced on 15 from the street. The Rubber Authority of father Artid were gifted to December. Other images showed Thailand said on Thursday it Japan by Thailand in 2002 to Viewings of the baby people wading or pushing will pay affected rubber celebrate the birth of elephant and mother Authi, motorcycles through thigh- farmers 3,000 baht (USD Princess Aiko, the only 22, are being limited to two A cat wearing sunglasses is pictured as pro-democracy activists deep water while some 99.34) if the flood damaged daughter of Japanese hours a day for now to avoid protest after the constitutional court’s ruling on Prime Minister residents, including a more than 20 rubber trees in Emperor Naruhito and stressing the animals. Prayuth Chan-ocha’s conflict of interest case, in Bangkok, Buddhist monk, rowed boats their plantations. Empress Masako. (Reuters) Thailand, 2 December 2020 (Reuters) through commercial areas (Reuters)

Hong Kong, China Media tycoon denied bail after fraud charge Hong Kong Media tycoon “one country, two systems” not using the office space as said they had arrested nine and pro-democracy activist formula, while supporters say permitted under the lease men and one woman for Jimmy Lai was denied bail on it will bring stability after between 2016 to 2020, and suspected offences including Thursday (3) on a charge of prolonged anti-China, pro- had sub-let part of the “collusion with a foreign fraud related to the lease of a democracy protests last year. premises, resulting in country/external elements to building that houses his Lai, an ardent critic of benefits to Apple Daily. endanger national security, Apple Daily, an anti- Beijing, was detained on Reuters was not able to conspiracy to defraud” and government tabloid. Wednesday and the case has reach Lai or his lawyers for others. Hong Kong authorities have been adjourned until April, comment. Suspicion of colluding with intensified a crackdown on according to Media. Next Digital, which foreign forces carries a key opposition figures in the On Wednesday (2), one of suspended trading on maximum sentence of life in Chinese-ruled city since Hong Kong’s most prominent Thursday morning, said in a jail under the new security Beijing circumvented the local democracy activists, Joshua statement it did not expect law. legislature and imposed Wong, was jailed for more the charges to have an Lai has been a frequent sweeping national security than 13 months for his role in immediate impact on daily visitor to Washington, where legislation on the global an anti-government rally in operations, as the company is he has met officials, including financial centre on 30 June. 2019, the toughest and most operated by a team of U.S. Secretary of State Mike While Lai’s fraud charge did high-profile sentencing of an management personnel. Its Pompeo, to rally support for not fall under the national opposition figure this year. shares will resume trading on Hong Kong democracy, security law, it marks the Lai, 73, and two senior Friday (4). prompting Beijing to label latest crackdown on pro- executives of his company “This is about dirtying him a “traitor”. democracy figures in the Next Digital, were charged on Jimmy up. It’s Beijing’s The security law was former British colony, which Wednesday on suspicion of policing brought to Hong introduced on 30 June and was handed back to Beijing in concealing from and falsely Kong,” Mark Simon, an punishes anything China 1997 with a promise of representing the use of their associate of Lai, told Reuters. considers subversion, keeping its free-wheeling way office to their landlord, a Lai was arrested in August secession, terrorism or Media mogul Jimmy Lai Chee-ying, founder of Apple Daily, arrives at of life for 50 years. public corporation set up by when about 200 Police collusion with foreign forces Lai Chi Kok Reception Centre by prison van after being in custody over Critics say the law crushes the Hong Kong Government. officers swooped on his with up to life in prison. fraud charges, in Hong Kong (Reuters) freedoms enshrined under the The charge stated they were offices. Hong Kong Police later (Reuters) A10 friday 4 december 2020 world

Bellinzona, Switzerland Rome, Italy Trial begins of World food price Liberian rebel index jumps in commander accused of cannibalism, rape Nov to almost A former rebel commander accused of being – FAO involved in the killing of 18 civilians and other 6-year high crimes that included rape and eating pieces of a World food prices rose for a sixth month running in school teacher’s heart during Liberia’s civil war November, hitting almost a six-year high with the appeared in a Swiss Court room on Thursday (3). index posting its biggest monthly increase since July The trial is just one of a handful of cases brought 2012, the United Nations food agency said on to international Courts in connection with the West Thursday (3). The Food and Agriculture Organisation’s African country’s 1989-2003 civil war, which (FAO) food price index, which measures monthly became a byword for savagery and killed hundreds changes for a basket of cereals, oilseeds, dairy of thousands of people. products, meat and sugar, averaged 105.0 points last The defendant, 45-year-old Alieu Kosiah, denies month, versus a slightly revised 101.0 in October. the charges. His lawyer said Kosiah was not present The October figure was previously given as 100.9. in the area in question when the alleged crimes were The Rome-based FAO also said in a statement that committed. The flags of China, the United States and Chinese Communist Party are displayed in a flag worldwide cereal harvests remained on course to hit Kosiah’s crimes are listed by the Swiss Court as stall at the Yiwu Wholesale Market in Yiwu, Zhejiang province, China, 10 May 2019 (Reuters) an annual record in 2020, even though it trimmed its “recruitment and use of a child soldier, forced forecast for a third month running. transportation, looting, cruel treatment of civilians, Vegetable oil prices led the upward charge in the attempted murder, murder (directly or by order), overall index, surging 14.5 per cent month-on-month, desecration of a corpse and rape”. thanks largely to a rally in palm oil prices tied to a Kosiah was one of the so-called ‘big men’ in the U.S. toughens sharp fall in global inventories. rebel faction ULIMO whose battalion fought against The cereal price index posted a more modest 2.5 per the troops of warlord Charles Taylor in the remote cent rise in November from the month before, some Lofa County in the 1990s. 19.9 per cent above its value a year earlier. Wheat The indictment says that he killed or participated export prices were pushed higher as a result of in the killing of 18 civilians, forced a displaced visa rules for “reduced harvest prospects” in Argentina, while maize woman to be his ‘wife’, raping her repeatedly, and prices were lifted partly by lower crop forecasts in the that he recruited a 12-year-old boy as his personal United States and Ukraine. Rice prices held steady. bodyguard. Average sugar prices increased 3.3 per cent from In one incident described in the indictment, October amid fears of a future shortfall in global Kosiah joined fighters in eating slices of an ‘malign’ CCP production as poor weather hit crop prospects in the assassinated man’s heart off a metal plate. Acts of European Union, Russian and Thailand. cannibalism were not uncommon in the conflict. The dairy index climbed 0.9 per cent on the month Kosiah, who has given testimony to Swiss to a near 18-month high, driven in part by firmer prosecutors, has not yet pleaded in court and is due butter and cheese prices. The meat index also pushed to be heard next week. members – NYT up 0.9 per cent, ending a run of nine consecutive “According to Alieu Kosiah, one of the big U.S. President Donald Trump’s Chinese Communist Party’s “malign monthly declines, but is down 13.7 per cent on the problems with this case is he had not yet arrived in administration on Wednesday (2) issued influence,” the NYT quoted a spokesman year. FAO revised down its forecast for the 2020 cereal Lofa (county) at the time of the crimes he supposedly rules to restrict travel to the United for the State Department as saying. season for a third month running, cutting it to 2.742 committed there,” his lawyer Dimitri Gianoli told States by Chinese Communist Party The Department did not immediately billion tonnes from a previous 2.75 billion tonnes. Reuters before the trial. (CCP) members and their families, the respond to a Reuters request for However, this still represents a record high and is 1.3 “(He) has always been very clear on his New York Times (NYT) newspaper comment. per cent above last year’s level. whereabouts in Liberia and the Court filings include reported on Thursday (3). Washington and Beijing have clashed “Looking further ahead, planting of the 2021 winter testimonies collected in Switzerland that confirm it.” The policy shift limits the validity of over China’s handling of the coronavirus wheat crop in the northern hemisphere is underway, The case is a first for Switzerland under a 2011 travel visas for party members and outbreak, its tightening grip and sowings in several major producing countries are law allowing prosecution for war crimes committed families to one month and a single entry, on Hong Kong, its disputed claims in the foreseen to increase driven by remunerative prices, anywhere. the paper reported, citing people familiar South China Sea, trade and accusations although recent dry weather could curb planting Lawyers for Liberian victims are opposed to a with the matter. of human rights crimes in Xinjiang. expansions and hinder yields,” FAO said. The forecast Court decision to postpone their hearings until next Previously, party members, like other Last week, Reuters reported the United for world cereal utilisation in 2020/21 was put at year due to COVID-19, effectively preventing them Chinese citizens, could obtain U.S. States was poised to add China’s top 2.744 billion tonnes, little changed from the previous from hearing Kosiah in person. visitor visas of up to 10 years’ duration, chipmaker SMIC and national offshore estimate and up 1.9 per cent from the 2019/20 level. The Court is also mulling video link testimonies. it said. oil and gas producer CNOOC to a The forecast for world cereal stocks by the close of “After the unspeakable things they went through The Trump administration has sought blacklist of alleged Chinese military seasons in 2021 was 866.4 million tonnes, down 9.6 during the war they deserve to be present,” said to cement the outgoing President’s companies, curbing their access to U.S. million tonnes from the previous estimate posted last Alain Werner, a lawyer representing four plaintiffs, tough-on-China legacy, while relations investors. The new visa guidelines allow month. in a pre-trial interview. between the world’s two largest American officials to determine “At this level, the global cereal stock-to-use ratio Liberia has never prosecuted its war criminals economies have sunk to the lowest point someone’s party status based on their would decline from 31.8 per cent in 2019/20 to 30.7 despite a recommendation to do so by its Truth and in decades. application and interview, the paper per cent in 2020/21, a five-year low but still a Reconciliation Commission more than 10 years ago. The move was a part of ongoing action reported. relatively comfortable level,” FAO said. (Reuters) to protect the United States from the (Reuters) (Reuters)

Melbourne, Australia Los Angeles, United States Great Barrier Reef status lowered Mayor orders to critical and deteriorating residents to stay The health of Australia’s through to 2050 has been home to avert Great Barrier Reef, the world’s slow and it has not been most extensive and possible to stop its spectacular coral reef deterioration, it said. The ecosystem, is in a critical state turtle populations - including ‘dreaded scenario’ and deteriorating as climate loggerhead, hawksbill and The mayor of Los Angeles change warms up the waters northern green - as well as the warned on Wednesday (2) the in which it lies, an scalloped hammerhead shark, city was nearing “a international conservation many seabird populations and devastating tipping point” and group said. possibly some dolphin species ordered residents to stay in The World Heritage-listed are declining. Efforts to their homes and avoid social site off Australia’s safeguard the reef are rising, gatherings in new lockdown northeastern coast has lost however. HSBC and the measures to rein in a surge in more than half its coral in the Queensland Government said COVID-19 infections. past three decades. in October they would buy His order limits nearly all Coral-bleaching in 2016, “Reef Credits”, a tradable unit social gatherings of people 2017 and 2020 has further that quantifies and values the from more than a single damaged it health and Branching staghorn coral grows on the Great Barrier Reef off the work undertaken to improve household, mirroring a affected its animal, bird and coast of Cairns, Australia, 25 October 2019 (Reuters) water quality flowing onto the directive by county health marine population, the The union moved the reef’s “Other pressures cannot be reef. Similar to the carbon officials last week, but International Union for status to critical and addressed at the site level, offset market which exempts religious services Conservation of Nature said in deteriorating on its watchlist. such as climate change, which incentivises the reduction of and protests protected by the a report. Such bleaching Some activities which is recognised as the greatest carbon dioxide from the constitution. occurs when hotter water threaten it, like fishing and threat,” it said. atmosphere, the scheme pays “Our City is now close to a destroys the algae which the coastal development, can be Progress towards landholders for improved devastating tipping point, coral feeds on, causing it to tackled by the management safeguarding the reef under a water quality. beyond which the number of turn white. authorities, the union said. long-term sustainability plan (Reuters) hospitalised patients would start to overwhelm our Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti hospital system, in turn risking needless suffering and activities like healthcare death,” Mayor Eric Garcetti operations, supermarkets and Beirut, Lebanon said late on Wednesday. restaurants, the directive Los Angeles is the second- said. largest city in U.S. and has a The head of the U.S. COVID cases rising, beds population of over 3.9 million. Centres for Disease Control Los Angeles County, which is and Prevention warned on – Minister home to the city, has recorded Wednesday that the pandemic won’t suffice 414,185 infections and a was still raging nationwide Lebanon will not have enough the shutdown may be extended if death toll of 7,740, according and that the country faced its hospital beds to cope with people did not comply. The Health to LA Public Health. grimmest health crisis yet increasing COVID-19 cases, the Ministry said on Wednesday (2) The way to avoid a “dreaded over the next few months, Health Minister in the caretaker 1,842 COVID-19 cases and 22 scenario” is to refrain from before vaccines become widely Government warned on Thursday deaths had been recorded in the gathering with people from available. (3), saying compliance with a two- past 24 hours. Recorded deaths outside your household More than 270,000 week lockdown that ended this due to COVID-19 total 1,055 in the wherever possible, Garcetti Americans have died from week had been patchy. country of six million, where said. COVID-19 to date. The In a Tweet, Hamad Hassan said healthcare is deteriorating. He also directed businesses University of Washington’s cases were on the rise and although On top of the COVID-19 requiring the presence of influential Institute for Health more hospital beds had been pandemic, Lebanon is in the throes workers to close, and set Metrics and Evaluation has added, these would not be enough. of a major financial and economic restrictions on travel, but projected the toll could reach Intensive care units were at critical crisis and still grappling with the specified certain exceptions to nearly 450,000 by 1 March capacity when Lebanon ordered the aftermath of the 4 August explosion both. without greater social lockdown and caretaker Prime at Beirut port. A patient suffering from COVID-19, lies in bed at an intensive care unit People may ‘lawfully’ leave distancing and mask-wearing. Minister Hassan Diab had warned (Reuters) at Rafik Hariri University Hospital, in Beirut, 1 October 2020 (Reuters) homes to engage in exempted (Reuters) friDAY 4 december 2020 b11 Ride-hailing in Sri Lanka More Female Riders Can Boost Revenues - IFC Annual revenues for ride- that over half of the women riders transportation service providers, gender. Both as passengers and hailing in Sri Lanka could were able to work more ranging from under- as transportation service increase by more than a quarter frequently because of ride-hailing representation across the sector providers there are barriers that if gaps between men and services, with almost two-thirds to widespread safety and women face,” said Amena Arif, women’s ridership were closed, saying ride-hailing enabled them security concerns – 90 per cent IFC Country Manager for Sri according to Sri Lanka’s first-ever to access better job of women using public transport Lanka and Maldives. “Increasing study on women’s role in the opportunities. have experienced sexual mobility through ride-hailing will Email: [email protected] country’s ride-hailing industry. “We realised the impact that harassment. create new economic The study ‘Women and Ride- safe transport has on women’s The study finds that increasing opportunities for more women in hailing in Sri Lanka’ was empowerment and financial the number of women drivers a traditionally male-dominated conducted as part of the Women independence. Our company and would improve women riders’ industry, and will help women Thursday Markets in Work Programme – a our investments in technology perceptions of safety. Fifty-eight reach their destinations safely.” partnership between IFC, a enable women passengers to per cent of women riders According to the International Bullish run member of the World Bank make safe trips while providing surveyed said they felt more Labour Organisation (ILO), lack Group, and the Australian flexible and lucrative employment secure when driven by another of safe, affordable, and government – along with the local for women drivers,” said Zulfer woman. The study also finds a accessible transport accounts continues at CSE ride-hailing platform PickMe, and Jiffry, Chief Executive Officer of high demand for gender for more than 15 per cent of the The bullish run at the Colombo Stock Exchange consulting and research agency, PickMe. segregated transport. Around 90 gap in women’s labour force continued for the eighth consecutive session, on Kantar Public. In recent years, ride-hailing, per cent of women riders would participation by keeping women Thursday (03), as the benchmark index gained on a Survey results from 280 drivers which includes both four- like the option to select a woman from work, limiting their higher turnover despite continued foreign exits from and over 780 riders reveal that wheeled and three-wheeled driver at least sometimes, and choices, and/or reducing their the Bourse. women who use ride-hailing vehicles, has become an particularly at night or when hours of work. Thirty two per The benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI) gained services are more than 40 per increasingly important part of travelling alone. cent of women who work in the 0.22 per cent (14.15 points) to close at 6,359.99 cent more likely than men to use Sri Lanka’s transportation “Progress is achieved when we private sector reported turning points, its highest since 06 June 2018, while the it as their primary mode of system. However, women face understand the challenges and down work at night due to lack more liquid S&P SL20 gained 0.25 per cent (6.28 transport. The findings showed barriers both as passengers and the constraints related to of safe or reliable transport. points) to close at 2,518.83 points. The daily turnover at the CSE stood at Rs 3.4 billion, higher than the Rs 2.26 billion recorded the previous market day. More than 146.7 million shares changed hands during 22,666 trades. Shares of 268 companies were traded, of which 98 Total of 5.5 M/kg emerged winners ahead of 83 losers. Poverty line jumps Foreigners were sellers for the seventh consecutive session on Thursday (03). Net foreign outflow during of tea auctioned the day amounted to Rs 123 million, as foreigners Rs 7 in October sold stocks worth Rs 137 million as against A total of 5.5 M/kg of tea was again, the strength of the market purchases worth Rs 14 million. on offer this week. There was remained at the lower end. Majority of districts still in Poverty The top ten gainers during the day were Renuka good general demand at irregular Low Growns comprised of Capital, SMB Leasing (non-voting), On’ally, Tess Agro, rates. approximately 2.6 M/kg in the By Mario Andree per month to fulfil the Mercantile Shipping, Lanka Realty, LOLC Ex-Estate offerings were Leafy/Semi Leafy and Tippy basic needs’ as being Development Finance, Laugfs Gas (non-voting), similar to last and totalled 0.68 catalogues. There was good The minimum monthly below Rs 5,091. Lighthouse Hotel and Nation Lanka. M/kg, whilst the quality of general demand. Select Best expenditure per person, Monaragala continued Top ten losers were Blue Diamonds, Beruwela offerings showed no significant OP1’s were irregular, whilst the to fulfil basic needs in to be the poorest District Resorts, Dialog Finance, Mullers, Kelsey, Kelani change. others and BOP1’s were fully October this year, with ‘minimum Tyres, Hotel Sigiriya, Agalawatte, Palm Garden Hotel Demand for the select best firm to dearer. OP/OPA’s too increased by Rs 7 to Rs expenditure per person and Cargo Boat. Dimbulla’s and Uva’s tend to were fully firm to dearer, 5,091, compared to Rs per month to fulfil the weaken. Teas at the lower end of particularly for the improved 5,084 recorded in basic needs recorded at the market were buoyant in the Below Best sorts. PEK/PEK1’s September. Rs 4,794, while Colombo backdrop of the limited were irregular, however, a The Department of remained the richest, availability. Nuwara Eliya BOP/ selection of improved Below Best Census and Statistics with Rs 5,527. Reserves fall by BOPF’s continued to witness a sorts were fully firm to dearer. In highlighted that 60 per In addition, Colombo, strong market for the handful of the Tippy catalogue, FBOPs cent of the Districts Kalutara, Gampaha, US$ 19M invoices that were on offer. Teas together with better FF1s were remained in poverty for Kandy, Matale, Nuwara from the Uva/Uda Pussellawa fully firm to irregularly dearer, the 59th consecutive Eliya, Batticaloa, By Paneetha Ameresekere regions were well absorbed whilst the Below Best and bottom month as of October this Polonnaruwa and around last week’s levels with end FF1s were barely steady. In year, while 40 per cent Kegalle and Ampara The country’s foreign reserves were poorer by US$ price fluctuations mainly the Premium catalogue, prices were above the national were above the national 18.52 million yesterday due to the settlement/s of reflective of quality. were fully firm to last barring a poverty line of Rs 5,091. poverty line. Government of Sri Lanka’s (GoSL ‘s) foreign debt CTC teas too continued to meet few high priced teas which were According to the Sri Lanka’s poverty servicing commitments and/or a maturing swap of with good demand and here irregular following quality. Department, 15 Districts headcount has reduced Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s (CBSL’s) with the recorded a ‘minimum to 4.1 per cent in 2016 market, CBSL data showed. Conversions are based expenditure per person from 6.7 per cent in on the middle rate of the administered ‘spot’ as at 4 per month to fulfil the 2012, according to the p.m. on Tuesday, which was Rs 185.175 to the US basic needs’ below Rs State statistics office, dollar. Reason for high youth unemployment 5,091, while ten were which highlighted an According to latest CBSL data, Sri Lanka's foreign above it. increase of 35.6 per cent reserves have fallen to a 42-month low to US$ A third have no qualifications The Department of in the country’s mean 5,858.50 million as at end October 2020. Statistics pointed out household income per Meanwhile, one month’s forwards, the most By Paneetha Ameresekere Speaking at the debate on the that Ratnapura, month in 2016. popular instrument in the foreign exchange (FX) vote of the Education Ministry in Monaragala, Badulla, According to the World market for the second consecutive day, to yesterday, The reason why youth (ie those Parliament, he also said of those Anuradhapura, Bank, Sri Lanka’s due to CBSL and GoSL controls over the generally youth between the ages of 15 to who enter Grade One, only 65 per Puttalam, Kurunegala, poverty levels might most popular ‘spot,’ as well as on the ‘spot next’ 24), unemployment is high is cent enrol for secondary education Trincomalee, increase from 8.9 per instruments for the purpose of minimising GoSL because 33 per cent of such youth vis-à-vis grades 10-13. ‘What has Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, cent in 2019 to 13 per debt in rupee terms and in an attempt to control the enter the labour market with no happened to the balance 35 per Vavuniya, Mannar, cent in 2020 as a direct rupee in the FX market, held to be trading at Rs tertiary education qualifications or cent,’ the Opposition MP asked. Jaffna, Galle, Matara result of COVID-19- 187.00/187.40 to the dollar in two way quotes at 4 vocational skills, Opposition Wickramaratne further said that and Hambantota had related affects, including p.m., market sources told this reporter. Member of Parliament (MP) Eran only six per cent of those who enter reported ‘minimum both local and foreign Nonetheless, in the five market days to yesterday, Wickramaratna said on Tuesday Grade One, ultimately get expenditure per person job losses. this current key FX instrument, ‘one month’s (1 December). placements in universities. forwards,’ has fallen steeply by between Rs 2.10 and Rs 2.20 (1.14 per cent and 1.19 per cent) in two way quotes and in the calendar year to date, more sharply by between Rs 5.70 and Rs 6.00 (3.14 per cent – 3.31 per cent) in two way quotes, thereby stoking cost-push inflationary pressure as Sri Lanka is an import-dependent economy. Strictures on the ‘spot,’ however, is to the Value addition imperative advantage of foreign investors exiting from the Treasury (T) Bills and T Bond market, as such transact in ‘spot’, thereby making it less costlier for them to buy their dollars when exiting from such a market. ‘Spot’ trades are settled after two market for high value exports days from the date of transaction and in the case of ‘spot next,’ three. The current administered ‘spot’ By Anjali Caldera value additions that help to build perfect location in the East-West rate is Rs 185.00/20 to the dollar in two way quotes. immunity against COVID-19. With maritime highway, Sri Lankan In other negative developments, GoSL’s money Sri Lanka needs more value consumers being health conscious exporters should be the logical printing borrowing costs (MPBCs) fell for the second addition for high value exports organic products from Sri Lanka choice for companies seeking consecutive market day to yesterday, this time by Rs like technology. Electronics and such as banana flour, jack fruit, alternate manufacturing or 101.18 million (0.51 per cent) to Rs 19,725.39 electronic components have a kitul treacle will also have a high sourcing locations. Hence, local million, aided by growing uncertainty and value addition of just 3 per cent demand. exporters need to have deep insecurity, thereby compelling the market to invest and when it is a high value export “The Government should research and analytical skills to in risk free but low returns T Bills and T Bonds, we can focus on this aspect. provide the necessary support craft customised business cases rather than invest in the engine of economic growth, These are some of the views through economic reforms in to differentiate themselves from the more lucrative private sector. Further, GoSL’s expressed by Sri Lanka Export trade and investments and relax other countries. FVMP debt remaining unchanged at Rs 618,121.22 Development Board (EDB) regulations for business while Sri Lanka should not miss this million for the second consecutive market day to Chairman Prabhash Subasinghe allowing the private sector to opportunity as we did in the yesterday; a cause for MPBCs also to remain at the Sri Lanka Economic spearhead this effort”, he added. 1980s and the 90s when Japan unchanged under perfect conditions. Summit 2020. He was With regard to the technology was investing in the rest of Asia. GoSL’s FVMP debt has been above Rs 0.5 trillion commenting on the necessity for Prabhash Subasinghe sector, he emphasised that the We have the potential be for a record twenty third consecutive market day in product diversification for private sector should research authentic with the resources its second dispensation to yesterday, after only a economic revival in the new apparels,” Subasinghe lamented. and build international available. Yet this is not day’s ‘respite’ on 2 November when it went below normal. He pointed out that machinery, collaborations to develop sufficient to survive in business half-a-trillion rupees, then. “Product diversification has not education, agriculture and regional entrepreneurship, to unless we address market Due to the aforesaid external commitments, been seen in Sri Lanka since pharmaceuticals are high value drive new IT related products requirements, identifying market’s net excess liquidity decreased by Rs 3,429 1987. It is the same old exports with a high demand. Sri and cater to the global demand. different customer needs; that is million (1.45 per cent) to Rs 233,606 million commodity based export market Lankan spices and Ayurvedic He also emphasised the need the key component for the yesterday. still available in the country with medicines have a big market at to up skill the country’s sustainability of the business, he tea, rubber, coconut and present with buyers looking at workforce. Sri Lanka being the said. b12 Ceylon FT friday 4 december 2020 news

Sri Lanka Leadership NSB offers financial Awards 2020 Union Assurance assistance for in multiple wins

Union Assurance clinched Aquaculture development multiple awards, including Best Brand and Sustainable National Savings Bank (NSB), expects to help the shrimp Marketing Excellence, at the Sri in collaboration with one of its farming industry by Lanka Leadership Awards, as fully owned subsidiaries, Sri incorporating high tech well as Best Employer Brand at Lanka Savings Bank (SLSB), has methodologies and equipment the Employer Brand Awards on planned to introduce a special and thereby generating more 24 November 2020. loan scheme to offer credit employment opportunities, The Sri Lanka Leadership facilities at a lower interest rate which has become a necessity in Awards and Employer Brand with a view to accelerating the the face of the high demand for Awards are conducted in development of the shrimp prawns in the world market and collaboration with World HRD farming industry. the requirement of further Congress and CMO Global/ With the objective of achieving diversifying Sri Lankan exports CMO Asia and seek to identify a sustainable development in the instead of depending on and celebrate outstanding shrimp farming industry, the Sri traditional exports such as Tea, practices by organisations, Lanka Aquaculture Development Rubber, Coconut and Garments. individuals, and teams. These Alliance (SLADA) was set up 15 Rs one million to Rs 100 million facilities required to duly process NSB Chairperson Keasila awards are an independent years ago. under this loan scheme. and maintain these farms Jayawardena, SLADA Chairman recognition exercise initiated to Permanent members of this According to the Alliance, according to the proper Sarath Kithsiri were joined in the acknowledge organisations that have achieved organisation will be able to farmers undergo many conditions and requirements. discussions by officials of both extraordinary success from innovative and effective obtain loan facilities of between difficulties in obtaining financial With the loan scheme, NSB institutions. marketing practices in Sri Lanka. Jude Gomes, Chief Executive Officer of Union Assurance, stated, “We are deeply honoured to be the recipient of three awards in recognition of our commitment to our customers and our employees. As the first life insurance company in Sri Lanka, we have SLT and Mobitel embarked on a journey of protecting the Sri Lankan Dream, and powered it through enhanced digital launch Green Premier capability, transforming our Brand to meet the demands of the new age.” League 2020 Union Assurance embarked on a journey of transformation to position itself as a new-age, SLT and Mobitel together began a green initiative project customer-centric, digital life insurer in early 2020. In a Ratnapura District’s Tea Industry simultaneously with Sri Lankan Premier League (LPL) 2020 titled context where Life Insurance has trailed other ‘SLT –Mobitel Green Premier League’ (GPL), as a sustainable industries to meet the pace of customers’ ever- environmental conservation project. According to the winning changing needs, the Company launched a bold new score of each team in every match of the LPL, SLT and Mobitel will identity depicting the circle of life, with the tagline BOC assists SME take necessary actions to plant the equivalent number of plants as Your Life, Our Strength, to mark an exciting journey forest restoration at Rajawaka forest reserve in Kalthota, built on the premise of customer-centricity and Balangoda. With an island-wide reach as the national employee engagement. entrepreneurs telecommunications service provider, SLT hopes to inspire sports fans and youth of the country to undertake their own steps Considering the importance of encouraging SME tea factory owners and towards environmental conservation and sustainability. SLT will tea Plantation owners, in the Ratanapura District, towards establishing continuously monitor this project in the next two years with the economic well-being within the industry and the region, Bank of Ceylon has support of the Forest Department to ensure the desired outcomes. conducted a seminar, opening the door for them to discuss about their Furthermore,aligning with Lanka Premier League, SLT has HNB FINANCE financial concerns and arrange tailor made solutions that better serves them initiated the SLT Virtual Premier League (SLT VPL) – an online during COVID-19 adversities. cricket tournament for cricket fans across the country. recognised at Vega The seminar was conducted with the patronage of the bank’s Chairman Kanchana Ratwatte and the General Manager D.P.K. Gunasekera. Deputy General Manager Sales and Channel Management Priya Silva, Deputy Digital Awards General Manager Retail Banking Range 2 Bandara Gurusinghe and Assistant General Manager Sabaragamuwa Province Duminda Dayawansa HNB FINANCE was once again also participated in the discussion. recognised for its excellence in the It was noted that this customer awareness programme was fruitful in digital sphere when it was awarded the many aspects as customers were given a direct forum to table their concerns Arcturus Award for social content and enabling BOC to guide entrepreneurs through fulfilling their true marketing at the annual Vega Digital requirements during these times of COVID-19. Awards 2020. The Awards serve as a The Bank considered it as a national responsibility to encourage the SME benchmark which rewards exceptional sector through financial assistance and enhancing financial management innovations in creative digital media; skills through programmes such as these to boost the financial efficacy of recognising HNB FINANCE for its organisations to better contribute towards the country’s economic unique ‘Ape Gedara Avurudu’ digital development. platform. Commenting on their latest achievement HNB FINANCE Head of Marketing Udara Gunasinghe said, “We are honoured to be recognised for For Three-wheeler and Motor Cycles our ‘Ape Gedara Avurudu’ digital HNB FINANCE platform as we were committed to Head of SLIC Motor Plus presents leveraging digital technology to make a Marketing positive impact on the lives of all Sri Udara exclusive products Lankans during the country-wide Gunasinghe lockdown caused by the pandemic.” Sri Lanka Insurance Motor Plus introduces unique motor The ‘Ape Gedara Avurudu’ platform was launched in insurance products with exclusive benefits for Three- Wheelers a bid to allow Sri Lankans to compete in traditional and Motor Cycles. ‘Motor Plus Rider’ the exclusive motor Avurudu games even as they were confined to their insurance designed for Motor Cycles provides unique benefits homes due to the pandemic-induced, country-wide inclusive of up to Rs 100,000 worth personal accident cover lockdown. (From Left) HNB Deputy General Manager Retail and SME Banking Sanjay Wijemanne, SOS Children’s Villages Brand Ambassador, former Sri Lanka crick- and up to Rs 25,000 worth claim settlement in three working Thus traditional games such as ‘Kotta Pora’, eter and former ICC Match Referee, Roshan Mahanama, HNB Managing Director hours. Motor Plus Tuk, the special motor insurance created ‘Kanamutti Bindeema’, ‘Lissana Gasa Negima’, ‘Aliyata and Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan Alles and SOS Children’s Village National especially for Three-wheelers, has to offer many benefits Ehe Thebeema’, as well as an Avurudu Rasa Pena Director Divakar Rathnadurai at the launch including accident cover up to Rs 100,000, personal, up to Trivia was brought to their doorsteps. Rs 40,000, claim settlement in three working hours and free The platform also provided an opportunity for users towing facilities up to Rs 5,000 per year. to sign up for a raffle draw, the winners of which were To raise funds for SOS Children’s Villages Extending beyond a motor insurance Sri Lanka Insurance randomly selected after the end of the campaign. Motor Plus Tuk and Rider offers cashless settlement facilities Additionally, the platform also offered insight into and a variety of flexible payment plans, accurate on site significant dates and times marked for seasonal HNB launches assessment by a team of technical professionals. Avurudu rituals. ‘Season of Giving’ initiative via SOLO App Abans launches Contributing towards the well- orphaned, abandoned and less being of children who have lost fortunate children and families in parental care in Sri Lanka, HNB Sri Lanka. Having served as Iphone 12 Series in Sri Lanka PLC, announced the launch of the banking partner for SOS Children’s ‘Season of Giving’ fundraiser via its Villages for over 40 years, we have Abans, the authorised reseller and The Super Retina XDR display is digital payment app, SOLO, in witnessed first-hand the positive service provider for Apple products in increased to a capacious 6.7 inches, support of SOS Children’s Villages. impact they have had on the lives of Sri Lanka, launched the iPhone 12 while maintaining a size almost The bank stepped up efforts to so many children in their care. series featuring the models of iPhone identical to iPhone 11 Pro Max. raise funds for the organisation in Therefore, we are delighted to 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12 Available in four stunning finishes of response to difficulties faced by launch this initiative on our and iPhone 12 Mini. graphite, silver, gold and pacific blue, SOS Children’s Villages in funding popular e-wallet platform SOLO, as The new designs feature expansive the iPhone has a 4x increase in drop its operations during the COVID-19 it allows our customers to be a part edge-to-edge Super Retina XDR performance due to the new Ceramic pandemic. Leveraging its expertise of this wonderful process,” HNB displays for a brighter, more immersive Shield front cover. It also comes with on digital banking solutions HNB Managing Director and Chief viewing experience, and a new Ceramic an industry-leading IP68 rating to launched the initiative on SOLO, Executive Officer, Jonathan Alles Shield front cover that provides the withstand water submersion up to six creating the opportunity for users said. biggest leap in durability on an iPhone. metres for up to 30 minutes. The to donate to a worthy cause. SOS Children’s Villages Brand The A14 Bionic, which is the fastest iPhone 12 Pro Max boasts an Ultra As part of the initiative, HNB will Ambassador, former Sri Lanka chip in a smartphone designed by Wide camera with a 120-degreefield of contribute Rs 10 for every cricketer and former ICC Match Apple, powers every experience on the view and a 65mm focal length transaction of Rs 250 carried out Referee, Roshan Mahanama, led iPhone 12 series. Combining an Telephotocamera that increases the by any SOLO user. Additionally, the initiative which was launched advanced dual-camera and the highest total optical zoom range from 4x to 5x. the bank also established an option at a special ceremony hosted at quality video in a smartphone, these The iPhone 12 Mini is the smallest, in the app for SOLO users to HNB Towers with the participation models deliver new computational thinnest and lightest 5G smartphone personally donate any amount of HNB Managing Director and photography features like never before. durability of their models with Ceramic in the world, with a beautiful design directly to SOS Children’s Villages CEO, Jonathan Alles, HNB Deputy The 12 Series also offers MagSafe, Shield, which is made by introducing that is packed with innovative through the Direct Pay option. General Manager, Retail and SME which offers high-powered wireless nano-ceramic crystals – which are capabilities. Available in five striking “As we enter the season of giving, Banking, Sanjay Wijemanne and charging, and an all-new ecosystem of harder than most metals – into glass. finishes of blue, green, black, white we are proud to serve as a partner SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka, accessories that attach easily to the The iPhone 12 Pro Max pushes the and red, iPhone 12 Mini fits all the to SOS Children’s Villages and their National Director, Divakar iPhone 12. boundaries of innovation in order to technology of iPhone 12 into a remarkable work in supporting Rathnadurai. iPhone 12 series increased the give users the most out of their iPhone. wonderfully compact size. tourism friDAY 4 december 2020 Ceylon FT b13 Sri Lanka Tourism Ready for Visitors with Safety Protocols in Place Unique promotional campaigns to brand the destination By Anjali Caldera adventure sports including cycling, She further emphasised that it is travellers back with the international camping, hiking, canoeing wildlife, necessary to adopt contemporary recognition the country has gained in Re-opening the country for tourism Buddhist trail etc.” she added. tourism approaches to promote the recent times. Condé Nast travel is to take place soon in a safe Fernando further revealed that the destination and focus on reaching the magazine rated Sri Lanka as the environment with COVID-19 safety new advertising campaign for Sri consumer with digital and second best country to travel in the guidelines in place. Lanka Tourism has received Cabinet contemporary promotional codes. world. We also received the Safe Travel Airport opening protocol is in the approval and will feature concepts of “Contemporary promotions will take Stamp from the World Travel and final stage, waiting for the approval of wellness, wellbeing etc. Currently, the place integrating with trade partners Tourism Council, “We must capitalise the Health Ministry and the Travel Research Road Map is also being and contributors. This will be a on these plus points,” she said. App version zero is ready and we are developed with the support of MBF chance to work together to attract She recalled that the ‘couch safari’ waiting for the Cabinet approval to Australia. tourists to Sri Lanka.” concept, which was conducted for the include it in the immigration online “We have started to promote the Tourism is a sector that can bounce first time by Sri Lanka Tourism, visa application form, said Sri Lanka Island as a unique experience. Until back as soon as international travel is gained much success. The promotions Tourism Chairperson Kimarli now we have been promoting Sri allowed; the industry has the capacity were done using social media. There Fernando, joining the Tourism session Lanka by telling tourists what you can and is dynamic as a sector which were 7 million viewers during the at the Sri Lanka Economic Summit do in the country. However, in recent constantly faces challenges in a campaign and 11 million impressions 2020 that took place as a virtual times we identified that our volatile environment. on facebook. event. promotions should be based on Sri Lanka has a unique proposition The ‘Safe & Secure’ Compliance “Procurement has already started experience; experience that is that we can share with the world, Certification for local hotels and for all Travel Apps with 5000 sites connected with our culture, traditions Fernando insisted. “The tourism restaurants will continue ensuring including those dealing with google etc. Thus, it is necessary to segment industry has been recently identified that the industry is taking all the maps, ticket purchasing, complaint the markets and brand the as an export industry for the first time safety protocols with regard to COVID filing etc. We have also created a destination based on different market and also granted VAT exemptions.” -19. Over 60 hotels and 12 travel comprehensive tourism database segments in terms of experience According to Fernando we have the agencies have already received the which has 4950 sites for all sorts of rather than regions,” she added. Kimarli Fernando potential to attract international certification.

Predicting Sustained Tourism Resumption in Sri Lanka By Oliver Martin potential until infection rates flatten. nations are either still at the stage Any nascent hope for a resurgence of prioritizing COVID-19 response This memo presents an opinion on in international outbound travel (level 1) or are predominantly when we will possibly see sustained during the December 2020 to April focused only on domestic tourism international tourism resumption 2021 holiday period is very likely (level 2) as case numbers continue from major outbound markets, misplaced. to rise sharply in Q4 2020 in many including North America, Europe, Implication for Sri Lanka: The markets. the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. It key priority for Sri Lanka and other is meant to provide a factual, countries, reliant on inbound So, what now? evidence-based opinion to help guide tourism flows, is to ensure that the In Twenty31’s judgment it would Sri Lanka’s tourism industry as it tourism industry’s voice is heard be unwise at this time to make develops plans over the next three to and understood when important major investments in international nine months. The data presented in policy decisions are made that will promotion and marketing for a this memo is based on publicly help or hinder visitor flows. Sri destination like Sri Lanka which available information and subject to Lanka should engage constructively depends on the willingness of change daily. with influential representative consumers to spend significantly, The global tourism industry has, bodies such as PATA and IATA and in long-haul source markets that perhaps, been hit harder than any support them in working with have been profoundly impacted by other sector by the COVID-19 international health authorities to COVID-19. pandemic of 2020. Nine months on, develop consistent protocols for As things stand, we might expect from the onset of the crisis at a COVID testing that are a vaccine to have been approved global level, destinations all over the internationally accepted and by Q1 2021 and deployed to a world are still wrestling with how to understood by travel critical proportion of the traveller respond – how to plan and execute a consumers. This will be needed for populations in Sri Lanka’s major recovery strategy while the local outbreak. PATA research in spending. when sustained tourism recovery international source markets by pandemic, and the restrictions put Asia Pacific cities highlighted this Implication for Sri Lanka: With will happen in late 2021, early 2022. Q1 2022, allowing for in place by governments across the ambivalent attitude towards tourism tourism so susceptible to the discretionary leisure travel to world to control it, remains very in a post-COVID environment: seven economic climate – and particularly Looking to the future: resume at meaningful levels. On much an everyday reality that has in ten residents supported the long-haul tourism to Sri Lanka prospects for an eventual this basis, Q3 and Q4 2021 would made sustained leisure and continuing promotions to attract from many of its major traditional be the earliest we would business tourism impossible, in all more visitors in the future, but the source markets – this may be return to ‘normality’ are recommend embarking on major but a handful of cases. same proportion favoured putting another reason for Sri Lanka to seek good – but not yet in-market destination promotional Closed borders and quarantines limits on international visitation to rebalance its tourism economy campaigns. Needless to say, these are the most significant practical until the end of 2020. The response towards new, more local source In the short to medium term (i.e. timings remain fraught with obstacles to tourism – but in of many has been to err on the side markets in Asia that may be less November 2020 to December 2021), uncertainty, subject to events and Twenty31’s judgment, there are of caution, and to seek to discourage susceptible to depressed economic prospects for mitigating the spread liable to change. several other factors at play. tourists from visiting, in contrast sentiment in the G8 economies. and impact of the virus and allowing In the meantime, Sri Lanka with the more encouraging message Additionally, Twenty31 strongly a significant degree of normality to should take steps to prepare for Marketplace confusion often being put out by local DMOs. recommends Sri Lanka develop and return to life and travel patterns are sustained tourism recovery. These has inhibited travel Implication for Sri Lanka: The adopt a market segmentation good. Advances in treatment mean steps could include: future viability of Sri Lanka’s approach to tourism marketing and that death rates from COVID-19 • Investigating the market The months of the Northern tourism industry will rely on the promotion to attract a high-value, have already significantly reduced dynamics of countries closer Hemisphere summer saw a cautious ongoing consent of its residents and Intrepid Traveller, likely less price since the height of the first wave, to home as potential resumption of leisure travel (largely the social contract between sensitive and risk averse. The while other treatments are currently substitutes for traditional domestic) that reflected significant residents, the tourism industry, and previous approach of accepting any undergoing clinical trials and look to source markets in North pent-up consumer demand after a government. Engagement will be and all tourists, including from have potential to bring down rates of America and Europe. These long lockdown. But, in late summer needed to reassure those in tourism price-sensitive mass-market charter serious illness and death further. might include North Asia and early autumn this partial communities that all appropriate and packaged tour operators will not Evidence also suggests that latent (China, Japan, South resumption was undercut by steps are being taken to screen contribute to tourism recovery in demand for travel remains Korea), the Gulf region (KSA, widespread resurgences of the virus visitors before arrival and to this highly volatile economic climate. significant. Travel search and UAE) and India. and mixed messaging from public establish and build awareness of booking figures remain well down on • Conducting and most authorities. Inevitably, this has led anti-infection protocols that visitors The ‘second wave’ of 2019 across the world (hotel importantly implementing a to significant consumer confusion, need to follow. But public awareness European and North bookings are down 64% on 2019 in robust, research-based with travellers reluctant to book of the value that tourism brings to Europe and 48% in North America), segmentation to identify international vacations while these communities also needs to be American infections has but recovered markedly after the market segments to target uncertainty remained about whether reinforced. shifted the narrative initial peak of the virus before falling that may be less price- they would be able to travel to a back again after the summer high sensitive and risk averse (i.e. destination, and whether insurance Economic stress has again season as cases started to rise Intrepid Travellers). would cover them if they were not. discouraged many Discussions were ongoing in many again. Still, global travel confidence • Once this is done, Implication for Sri Lanka: Most countries during the summer is on a positive trajectory and will identifying and targeting travel consumers across all of Sri potential travellers months about a potential loosening continue to rise and fall in response airline and travel trade Lanka’s main and traditional The economic decline caused by of border restrictions to facilitate a to virus cases. partnerships to address international source markets have a the pandemic has been profound resumption of something closer to An effective vaccine, of course, is these key segments (i.e. high level of confusion around and sudden, and has had a normal levels of international tourist still viewed as the most likely factor those marketing to higher- tourism: whether they can travel, significant impact on consumer traffic. But the steadily worsening to boost consumer and travel value Intrepid Traveller what happens when they arrive, demand, with many potential infection rates throughout confidence. Recent research, as the segments), with a strong whether their insurance will cover tourists facing sharply reduced September, which some maintain chart below shows, also suggests focus on operators attracting them and how to stay safe. incomes, and an unwillingness to now constitutes a second wave, have that it will also be the main factor authentic-seeking cultural Furthermore, there is a high degree contemplate the discretionary meant that in recent weeks, the behind a return to business travel. and adventure travel of confusion on the protocols around spending associated with a foreign narrative has changed. When tourism does start to consumers, not necessarily testing and quarantine on arrival vacation while their financial Tourism authorities have resume in earnest, in Twenty31’s only mass-market charter back to their respective countries. security is in question. increasingly found themselves on judgment, it is likely to be operators. Destination marketing campaigns There are large segments of the the back foot when it comes to consumers in those countries that • Clearly embracing that the will need to wait until the picture for international travelling population, advocating for policies that would have most effectively suppressed the world and especially the travel consumers becomes estimated at 35% to 65% of total allow travel to resume. The debate virus’s transmission that will be travel and tourism industry clearer. Our strong observation is national consumers, who are price- over testing is a key example. Public among the first to embrace and travel consumer has that current DMO communications sensitive in selecting destinations health authorities have been setting international travel again – likely the changed, and that 2019 is are not resonating with travel and leisure tourism experiences. the agenda, taking the lead from the countries in North-East Asia – South not returning. Sri Lanka consumers and this will be the case These same consumers tend to use World Health Organization, which Korea, Japan and China. Travellers should take the opportunity for at least the remainder of 2020 lower-cost, package and charter- insists on the use of PCR tests as the in the Gulf region may follow, with to evolve, improve and build and into Q1 2021. based vacations, which all evidence ‘gold standard’ (i.e. as opposed to the major source markets of Europe back better in terms of suggests will take until 2022 to 2024 rapid on demand antigen testing). and North America some way institutional changes at Residents of tourism to recover back to anything But the use of these tests in a travel behind. Despite their low levels of SLTDA and SLTPB and communities fear resembling 2009 visitation levels. context presents major practical infections, Australia and New the development and To compound this, the World problems, as they are both costly Zealand may be among the last to implementation of an infection Economic Forum has suggested that and slow. resume international travel given the innovative, evidence-based Despite their heavy reliance on the business travel, including for small- As of 30 October, the major establishment of a travel bubble that tourism development and revenue brought by tourism, many group meetings, conventions and international outbound markets of will last well into 2021. management strategy. local communities have proved trade shows will take until 2022 to Germany, France, UK, Sweden, For now, however, as the The writer is a Partner at anxious at the prospect of welcoming see any form of sustained recovery Canada, the US, Italy and Spain are dashboard of selected international Twenty31 Consulting (an visitors again and the risk of given drastic declines in travel not considered viable source source markets below shows, the international market importing the virus and igniting a budgets and discretionary corporate markets of sustained tourism dominant picture is one where research consulting firm) b14 ceylon ft FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 ADVERTORIAL

Independent, Young & Trailblazing ThirdShift Wins Silver at Campaign of the Year Awards for the Second Year in Row Campaign Agency of the Fastest growing Media Agency in Sri Among the most effective agencies year - Silver - 2019 & 2020 Lanka - 2019 – Global Brands Magazine in Sri Lanka – Effie’s 2019

ThirdShift, the Independent Media values that shape them, the chances of Agency of SHIFT, has done it once a brand reaching consumers on a more again, by winning the Silver award for personalised basis can be null and Media Agency of the Year for the ‘Rest void. of South Asia’ category, at the recently With reference to the Shift Group, concluded CAMPAIGN - AGENCY OF Prasanga said that in today’s brand THE YEAR AWARDS for the second environment which is extremely consecutive year. It is important to competitive and tough, having an note that this win is undoubtedly a Integrated, Digital and Activations arm remarkable feat for the ThirdShift team in one building really helps in tapping who worked tirelessly towards international media agency scene gave a cross segment of talent and insight. navigating through an extremely him a wider knowledge regarding ThirdShift works with many top-notch unpredictable year. media and all its facets and that brands in the country and has earned Bearing in mind that this Media together with his team, he has made the trust and confidence of its clients Agency ventured into the competitive use of that knowledge to create tools for the unique approach of looking at media landscape in Sri Lanka only a that fit the local context, so as to be Media as a tool for Brand Building. mere three years ago, being the more effective. He further elaborated, “What we do at ThirdShift is not your recipient of such a distinguished title “In other words, what we have done is, usual Media buying and planning job. within a short span of time is truly a we have used our knowledge and Well, that is important, and we strive tremendous achievement, and one that expertise to create a unique model of to give our clients the best possible warrants due recognition and high media buying, planning and executing return for their investment. But we praise. While acknowledging this to bring the best ROI to our clients. We also tap into the larger ‘thinktank’ of award, the CEO of ThirdShift, believe our model at ThirdShift is Shift. Since Shift is a full service, Prasanga Jayatunga delved into the about Hand-Crafted Media Solutions.” integrated agency that has a talented success story of his agency and the Lasantha Mallawaarachchi, COO of team of thinkers and creative talent reasons for its steady upward really wanted to focus on was to give Prasanga emphasised that the ThirdShift and the Chief Negotiator, across the Integrated and Digital trajectory. my clients ROI beyond just reach and journey was in no way an easy one. He who works with the Media Houses, disciplines, we often dive into projects He said, “We stepped into the media frequency. Perhaps the yearning to be also stated that it was not easy being navigates through the best deals together, using the overall expertise business landscape back in 2017. By creative within the Media business is the underdog, but he had absolute possible, which in turn translates to in consumer understanding, market that time, I had done my stint in the what drove me to agree with the faith in his young and very talented ROI. He is a firm believer in spreading insight and cutting-edge thinking. All international media agency business Managing Director and Chief Executive team of media experts, who responded the media budget across touch points this gives us the edge to provide our and had been Leader, Mindshare & Officer of Shift, Chrishani Kotalawela to his call, believed in him, and joined and making sure that the message clients Hand-Crafted Media CEO of Media Factory. I was enriched and Sujeewa Samarasekera, when they him on his path of challenging the reaches the consumer in a more Solutions, which is our pride and by those experiences, and the idea of invited me to join them and start norms and breaking the mould engaging manner. USP.” Prasanga added. venturing out on my own had crossed ThirdShift. Sujeewa & Chrishy were surrounding the Media Agency Asantha Kalyananda COO of ThirdShift also bagged 2 Golds, 1 my mind, specifically because I veterans of the industry but had never business in Sri Lanka. Talking about ThirdShift, who comes from a Silver and finalist awards at the believed that I could tailor-make handled media, however, I took the his team, he emphasised the pillars on marketing background, was the coveted Effie Awards in 2019. While solutions and work with clients on opportunity that was given to me and which the Agency has been built on. Former Head of Marketing at NLB. He this achievement at the Effie’s is of Hand-Crafted Media Solutions. At the went ahead with it. I didn’t think it all Prasanga by expertise is a Media functions in the capacity of ThirdShift’s great significance in itself, it must time this was just an idea. But, before through. I decided and gave my word Analytics Specialist who believes, with Media Brand Strategist, strengthens also be recognised that ThirdShift long the opportunity came my way and and it has been a rocking ride. It’s been great conviction, that creativity is the client relationships and strongly received one of this Silver award in I stepped out with the belief that the a lot of hard work, sweat, tears and essence through which media can truly believes that Sri Lanka is a the capacity of a Primary Agency market needed an agency that would sleepless nights. But awards like this reach the consumer and leave a lasting heterogenous market despite its considering that it is usually a look beyond mere scheduling and really reminded me that as a team, we impact on them. For, it is creativity homogenous nature. He also believes Creative Agency that takes home planning. Looking back, I realised that have done justice to our Clients and that can bridge the gap between the that without understanding the such an award in addition to most it was a vacuum that existed, and I Client Brands; the real reason behind consumer and the brand. He also intricacies of the various communities Media Agencies being classified as stepped in to fill it. But then, what I this company’s success.” highlighted that his experience in the in existence, their cultural beliefs and Secondary Agencies. sports friday 4 december 2020 A15

Profile Player : Dilum Sudeera College : Richmond College Galle South Africa to SL youth capBorn Sudeera, on : 2000.10.04 Batting Style : RHB rest ex-skipper Bowling Style : LALS Profile PlayerBatting : Dilum Sudeera Du Plessis against pride of RichmondCollege : Richmond College Galle Matches : 07 Sri Lanka youth cap Dilum Sudeera adjudicated best all-rounder of the Born on : 2000.10.04 Profile England Thilakaratne of Richmond College tournament in 2016/17. He joined BattingPlayerInnings Style : RHB: Dilum: 08 Sudeera Galle has shown consistent all-round Richmond College Galle in 2017 after South Africa have left out BowlingCollegeRuns Style : LALS: Richmond: 178 College Galle performances in the last three sea- his O/L. He represented the under-17 former captain Faf du Plessis Batting sons of the Under-19 Division One team the same year. He represented BornAve on : 2000.10.04: 22.25Profile from their squad for the One MatchesBatting Style : 07: RHB Inter Schools Cricket (Two day) tour- the first XI team in 2017/18. He PlayerHighest :Score Dilum Sudeera : 38 against Mahanama Colombo Day International series nament conducted by Sri Lanka scored 420 runs and claimed 56 InningsCollegeBowling Style: Richmond: 08: LALS College Galle against England, which Schools Cricket Association. wickets in that season. He scored 530Runs BornBattingBowlin on g: 2000.10.04: 178 starts at Newlands on A right-hand batsman and left-arm runs and he claimed 79 wickets in the Friday. AveBattingMatches Style : RHB: 22.25: 07 leg spinner, Dilum commenced his 2018/19 season. He claimed nine Innings : 10 The 36-year-old, who BowlingInnings Style : LALS: 08 cricket career at Karandeniya Central wickets in the match against MahindaHighest Runs Score : 38 against: 617 Mahanama Colombo retired from Test cricket College under the guidance of coach College Galle and was the best bowler BowlinBattingRunsg : 178 earlier this year, is being Matches : 07 Ajantha Kumara in 2011. He repre- in the 114th Lover’s Quarrel annual InningsAveWickets : 10: 22.25 : 40 rested for the three-match sented the college under-13 team big match in 2019. He scored 180 Innings : 08 series after competing in the Highest Score : 38 against Mahanama Colombo forthree seasons (2011/12/13). He runs and claimed 40 wickets in the RunsAve : 178: 617 : 15.43 Twenty20 games against Bowling scored 220 runs and claimed 25 2019/20 season. He missed many WicketsAve BBI : 22.25: 40 : 7/144 against St. Sebastian’s Moratuwa England, which the visitors wickets as skipper in 2013. school matches due to national duty. AveHighestInnings Score : 38: 15.43 against: 10 Mahanama Colombo swept 3-0, and in the Indian Faf du Plessis He was adjudicated best bowler of Dilum Sudeera was selected to the BBM : 10/122 against Thurstan Colombo Premier League for the Squad: BBIBowlinRuns g : 7/144: 617 against St. Sebastian’s Moratuwa the under 20 Inter Central College Sri Lanka under-19 team. He played Chennai Super Kings. Quinton de Kock (captain), InningsWickets5W’s : 10 : 40 : 4 (6/29 vs Thurstan Colombo, 5/58 vs Cricket tournament in 2013. He against Australia, Pakistan and BBM : 10/122 against Thurstan Colombo He joins injured fast Temba Bavuma, Junior RunsAve : 617: 15.43 scored 310 runs and claimed 35 Bangladesh in the Tri-nation 5W’s : 4 (6/29 vsSt. Thurstan Thomas’ Colombo, Matara, 5/58 7/144 vs vs St. Sebastian’s Moratuwabowler Kagiso, Rabada on the Dala, Beuran Hendricks, WicketsBBI : 40 : 7/144 against St. Sebastian’s Moratuwa wickets as a fresher in the inter series,and against West Indies in the St. Thomas’ 5/25 Matara, vs Maliyadeva 7/144 vs St. KurunegalaSebastian’s Moratuwa) , sidelines. Rabada suffered Heinrich Klaasen, George schools’ under-19 tournament in Youth World Cup in South Africa. He Ave : 15.43 an adductor injury earlier Linde, Keshav Maharaj, BBM 5/25: 10/122 vs Maliyadeva against Thurstan Kurunegala Colomb) o 2013/14. played 15 Youth ODI’s and claimed BBI5W’s 10W’s : 7/144: 4 against (6/29: 1 vsSt.(10/122 ThurstanSebastian’s vs Colombo, Moratuwa Thurstan 5/58 Colombo)vs this week and will only Janneman Malan, David He represented the under-15 team 25 wickets. His best bowling perfor- 10W’sBBM : 10/122: 1 (10/122 against vs Thurstan Thurstan Colomb Colombo)o return later this month for Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich St. Thomas’ Matara, 7/144 vs St. Sebastian’s Moratuwa, in 2014, scoring 311 runs and claim- mance was 4 for 34 against Australia 5W’s : 4 (6/29 vs Thurstan Colombo, 5/58 vs the Test series against Sri Nortje, Andile Phehlukwayo, ing 35 wickets. He was adjudicated at P. Sara Oval. St. Thomas’ 5/25 vs Matara, Maliyadeva 7/144 vsKurunegala St. Sebastian’s) Moratuwa, Lanka. Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Tabraiz Shamsi, Lutho best batsman of the under-20 Inter He represented Saracens SC in the 10W’s 5/25: vs1 (10/122Maliyadeva vs KurunegalaThurstan Colombo)) Hendricks and Pite van Sipamla, Jon- Jon Smuts, Central College Cricket tournament in Major League inter clubs Cricket 10W’s : 1 (10/122 vs Thurstan Colombo) Biljon were also all released Glenton Stuurman, Rassie 2014. He claimed 60 wickets in the tournament in the 2020 season and Fared this Season Batting Bowling from the squad on Thursday van der Dussen, Kyle Fared this Season Batting Bowling inter schools’ under-19 tournament SSC in the Major U-23 league tourna-Thurstan Colombo 03 6/29 & 4/93 as the numbers were Verreynne. in 2014/15. ment in 2020. Thurstan Colombo 03 6/29 & 4/93 reduced to 18. (Reuters) He was in the squad of the champi- He thanks former Principal of PrinceFared of Walesthis Season Moratuwa 05Batting - Bowling Fared this Season Batting Bowling on Sri Lanka Schools under-15 team Karandeniya Central College ShanthaSt. ThurstanThomas’Prince ColomboofMatara Wales Moratuwa2503 05 0/406/29 & & 5/58 4/93 - that toured Malaysia in 2015. He led Ariyarathne and current Principal of Thurstan Colombo 03 6/29 & 4/93 WesleyPrinceSt. ColomboThomas’ of Wales MoratuwaMatara 3405 & 20 253/30 - & 4/68 0/40 & 5/58 the school under-15 team in 2015. He Richmond College Galle Sampath Prince of Wales Moratuwa 05 - St. St.Sebastian’s Thomas’ MoratuwaMatara 3225 7/144 0/40 & 5/58 scored 322 runs and took 30 wick- Weragoda, former master-in-charge St. Thomas’Wesley Matara Colombo 25 0/40 &34 5/58 & 20 3/30 & 4/68 Mahanama Colombo 38 3/106 ets. He was adjudicated player of the Ranjith Priyantha and late Kapila WesleyWesley Colombo Colombo 34 & 2034 &3/30 20 & 4/683/30 & 4/68 tournament of the under-20 Inter MaliyadevaSt. Sebastian’s Kurunegala Moratuwa 19 323/14 & 5/25 7/144 Jayalath (Karandeniya Central), S.R. St. Sebastian’sSt. Sebastian’s Moratuwa Moratuwa 32 32 7/144 7/144 Central College Cricket tournament in Nanayakkara, current master-in MahanamaMahanama Colombo Colombo 38 383/106 3/106 2015. He led Galle District Zone 2 charge of Richmond College Galle, Mahanama Colombo 38 3/106 MaliyadevaMaliyadeva Kurunegala Kurunegala 19 19 3/14 & 5/253/14 & 5/25 and was deputy skipper of the Damith Prasanna, former master-in- Maliyadeva Kurunegala 19 3/14 & 5/25 Southern Province under-15 team in charge Richmond College, Coaches Performances the Prima Champions Trophy Inter Ajantha Kumara (Karandeniya Under 19 - Div I (Richmond College Galle) District and Inter Provincial tourna- Central and Richmond), Lakmal, PerformancesBattingPerformances ments conducted by SLC in 2015. Rishan Kavinga, Dinesh Kumara and Under 19 - Div I (Richmond College Galle) M UnderI 19 - DivNO I (RichmondR CollegeHS Ave Galle) 50’s 100’s He scored 502 runs with a century Isuru Anushka, past Cricketers of BattingPerformances 34 Batting39 6 914 80 27.70 5 0 and claimed 103 wickets in the Karandeniya Central, Dhammika M UnderI NO19 - DivR I (RichmondHS Ave College50’s 100’s Galle) under-19 tournament in 2015/16 Sudarshana former head coach of 34Bowling M 39 I 6 NO 914 R80 27.70HS Ave5 050’s 100’s and was adjudicated best bowler of Richmond College, current head 34Batting 39 6 914 80 27.70 5 0 BowlingM I O R W Ave BB BBM 5Ws 10Ws the Division II inter schools’ tourna- coach Lakmal de Silva, assistant M I NO R HS Ave 50’s 100’s ment. He represented the college coaches Umesh Kasun and Umal M34 BowlingI 53 O 866.2R 2101W 160Ave 13.13BB 7/144BBM 11/635Ws 10Ws13 7 under-17 team in 2016, and also the Durage, academic and non-academic 34 M34 53 I 866.239 O 21016 R160 13.13W914 Ave7/14480 11/63BB 27.70 BBM13 57 5Ws 010Ws champion Southern Province under- staff of both schools, past cricketers, 34 53 866.2 2101 160 13.13 7/144 11/63 13 7 19 team in the Inter Provincial two- district coaches in Galle, Southern Bowling In the Youth ODI’s day tournament conducted by Sri provincial coaches, Coaching staff, In theM Youth ODI’sI O R W Ave BB BBM 5Ws 10Ws Lanka Cricket in 2016. He was the officials and players of Saracens SC Bowling In the Youth ODI’s leading wicket taker with 29 wickets and SSC, school teammates, their M 34I I O O 53 R R 866.2W WAve Ave2101BBI BBIBBM160 5WsBBM 13.13 10Ws5Ws 10Ws7/144 11/63 13 7 in five matches. He scored 630 runs parents and his family members. 15 Bowling1515 131.3131.3 508508 25 2520.32 20.32 4/34 4/344/34 04/34 0 0 0 and claimed 112 wickets and was (IR) M I O R W Ave BBI BBM 5Ws 10Ws 15 15 131.3 508 25 20.32 4/34 4/34 0 0 In the Youth ODI’s Bowling NeymarM I O R W Ave BBI BBM 5Ws 10Ws 15 15 131.3 508 25 20.32 4/34 4/34 0 Pablo0 Matera strikes twice Racist posts by Pumas trio as PSG win Argentina Brazilian Neymar scored twice and his compatriot Fred was sent off as Paris St Germain beat 10-man union rescinds Manchester United 3-1 at Old Trafford on Wednesday to throw Champions’ League Group ‘H’ suspension wide open. Shoaib Malik United, PSG and RB Leipzig The Argentina Commission will arrive at a are all on nine points Rugby Union final resolution in the next heading into next week’s (UAR) has few days.” Shoaib Malik final round of games rescinded its None of the trio were in which the sanction named in the matchday English side go against captain squad for Saturday’s Test gives LPL seal to the German Pablo Matera and against Australia at Western club and the two players who posted Sydney Stadium, however, of approval French Paris St Germain’s racial and xenophobic with centre Jeronimo de la champions Neymar in action comments on social media, Fuente replacing Matera as Shoaib Malik has given the Lanka Premier League host but they were left out of the skipper. his seal of approval, a week into the tournament. Istanbul team for Saturday’s Tri- Coach Mario Ledesma said Malik is the most experienced T20 player in the Basaksehir. Nations match against that decision had been made league, having now played 405 T20s, and is among United knew a point would be enough to Australia. in agreement with UAR to the high-profile overseas players in the tournament. secure a place in the last 16 and they really Flanker Matera was shield the players after they He has played in various T20 leagues around the should have wrapped the game up well stripped of the captaincy were subjected to a ‘lot of world, including the Big Bash League, Bangladesh before Marquinhos put PSG 2-1 up in the and, along with lock hate’ over a week he Premier League and Pakistan Super League. 69th minute and Fred received his marching Guido Petti and hooker described as a ‘rollercoaster “Overall, the tournament is going very nicely and orders a minute later. Santiago Socino, ride of emotions’. I›m really enjoying it,” Malik said. “I was talking to It was surprising Fred was still on the field by suspended on Tuesday for “All I can say about these some other overseas players as well and they were that stage having received only a yellow card comments posted three fine players and great praising the whole league. In these tough times following a VAR review of an off-the-ball head-to- between 2011 and 2013 men is that they are great people involved in the league must be given credit. head clash with Argentine Leandro Paredes. which disparaged Black human beings,” he told a The first year is tough for any league. But if we The pair were involved in a strong challenge people and those from news conference in Sydney. support the league, I’m sure, the second year will be later in the first half for which the Argentine was other South American “They have been suffering a better and the third year will be the same. I think I booked, but despite having plenty of options on nations. lot this week, their families was expecting more big names, but with their the bench, United Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer UAR said the players’ have been suffering a lot this personal commitments, they are not there. Definitely decided against substituting Fred, a costly mistake. apologies, combined with week, and it’s really sad to from next year, they will also be the participants in Neymar fired PSG into a sixth-minute lead after a their good behaviour in see. Obviously, they the league.” KylianMbappe shot was deflected and fell kindly to the years since the acknowledge what they did The tournament is being played at Sooriyawewa the former Barcelona forward, who drilled the ball comments were posted, and they are really regretful stadium in its entirety, largely because that into the bottom corner. meant the suspension and ashamed of what they arrangement allowed the tournament organisers to United drew level in the 32nd minute through a could be lifted. did, and we all are.” more efficiently maintain a playing bubble. Players Marcus Rashford shot which deflected off the “The preventive ‘STILL THE CAPTAIN’ also had to undergo seven days of quarantine before outstretched leg of Danilo to beat PSG keeper measures are The UAR said the players the tournament, and many foreign players - KeylorNavas. United created several good chances unnecessary so we have had shown themselves to be including Malik - did not arrive in Sri Lanka early after the break but failed to go ahead. resolved to lift the “people with firm values and enough to train substantially with their teams ahead After good work from EdinsonCavani and suspension of the three worth being part of our of the event. Rashford down the right, Anthony Martial players and reinstate the team”. They had apologised “It wasn’t easy to stay in the room on the fired over the bar from a promising captaincy to Pablo and were helping the quarantine days, but there are rules and regulations position. Cavani was sent through and Matera,” the UAR said in Commission in its inquiry. to follow - we have to respect them,” Malik said. “Of launched an audacious chip over the a statement. Reports in Argentina said course, I wanted to practice before getting into the advancing Navas, but the ball struck the “The disciplinary the UAR’s reversal had been tournament, but I had no time to go through crossbar – Martial’s follow up shot was process continues and the the result of protests by practice sessions and everything. It’s not anybody’s brilliantly blocked by former and current players fault. We are all going through these tough times. Marquinhos. and clubs in the country. (Agencies) (Reuters) (Reuters) Today - 7.30 pm A16 FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER 2020 SPORTS Colombo Vs Jaffna Avishka’s cameo help Jaffna Stallions maintain unbeaten streak Butter fingers cost Galle Gladiators yet another game

BY MUSTAQ SYDEEN young Avishka Fernando who Asitha Fernando came back into three sixes showed immense potential the attack to pick up the all- and one four. Avishka Fernando’s power hitting throughout the innings with important wicket of Minod Despite having guided Jaffna Stallions to snatch another brilliant knock of 84 runs Bhanuka in the 13thover. some big names, another comfortable 5-wicket off 54 deliveries to take his team With 25 runs to win, Stallions Galle Gladiators victory over Galle Gladiators and over the line quite comfortably in lost a few quick wickets, including have failed to live maintain their unbeaten record the 9th match of the tournament. in-form Avishka Fernando’s wicket, up to expectations in the Lanka Premier League. Avishka along with Minod but Sri Lanka Superman Wanidu and deliver the Chasing 170, Jaffna Bhanuka laid the winning platform Hasaranga coming into the crease goods, and are Stallions failed to get the with a 100-run partnership for the at No.5 held his nerve and smashed still to find their perfect start as their second wicket, with Minod playing 16 runs off Mohamed Amir’s first win in the opener Tom Moores a useful hand of 40 runs off 26 19thover to take his team closer to tournament. On the was sent back deliveries. Their partnership helped the winning line, and completed the other hand, Thisara cheaply for 11 runs. the Stallions recover from 26/1 to job in the last over with two balls to Perera and his charges However, that finish strong. With two set batsmen spare. are leading the points Danushka did not at the crease,Stallions found the On the other hand, Galle table with four wins out Gunathilakac bother gaps quite comfortably, before Gladiators got some flying starts of four. through their dashing left hander JAFFNA STALLIONS Danushka Gunatallike, but the GALLE GLADIATORS middle order once again failed to A. Fernando c Jayasuriya b Lakshan 84 carry on to lay a solid platform as D. Gunathilakac Olivier b PWH de Silva 56 Tom Moores b Jayasuriya 11 they were restricted to 170. Ahsan Ali c & b PWH de Silva 29 M. Bhanuka c Lakshan b Fernando 40 After winning the toss and Azam Khan c PWH de Silva b Lakmal 25 Thisara Perera c Sandakan b Fernando 09 electing to bat, Danushka B. Rajapaksa c Perera b DM de Silva 01 Shoaib Malik c Lakshan b Dananjaya 01 Gunathilake and Ahsan Ali put on C. Walton c †Moores b U. Shinwari 31 Wanidu Hasaranga not out 17 a 67-run partnership for the first S. Jayasuriya run out (Fernando/S. Malik) 08 Dhananjaya de Silva not out 05 wicket. Gunathilaka continued his Dhananjaya Lakshan not out 14 Extras (lb 1, w 6) 07 brilliant form in the tournament Extras (lb 1, nb 2, w 3) 06 TOTAL (for 5 wickets in 19.4 overs) 174 with yet another half century (56) TOTAL (for 6 wickets in 20 Overs) 170 Fall of wickets: 1-26, 2-125, 3-145, 4-152, 5-168 off 44 deliveries, which included Fall of wickets: 1-67, 2-110, 3-114, 4-118, 5-152, Bowling: Asitha Fernando 4-0-30-2, Shehan four boundaries to power Galle 6-170 Jayasuriya 3-0-20-1, Akila Dhananjaya 3.4–0-42-1, Gladiators innings for a defendable Bowling: Wanidu Hasaranga 4-0-29-2, Dhanajaya Lakshan 3-0-24-1, Lakshan Sandakan score. Chadwick Walton, played his Dhananjaya de Silva 4-0-27-1, Suranga Lakmal 2-0-20-0, Mohammed Amir 4-0-37-0 first LPL match, smashed a quick 2-0-18-1, Usman Shinwari 4-0-44-1 31 runs off 14 deliveries including Avishka Fernando Dambulla Viiking Williamson, Latham put register comfortable win NZ in control A fine all-round KANDY TUSKERS Kane Williamson made smooth progress and Tom performance by Dambulla Latham was assured, as New Zealand ended a Viiking guided them to a R. Gurbaz c Colombage b Rajitha 15 dominant first day on 243 for 2, having been put in to comfortable 5-wicket win over Kusal Perera c Colombage b Mendis 41 bat by Jason Holder on a pitch whose colour was Kandy Tuskers in the 10th Kusal Mendis c Shanaka b Patel 55 indistinguishable from the outfield. The bowlers, match of the Lanka Premier Brendan Taylor c Anwar Ali b Pushpakumara 13 particularly seamers, were expected to dominate, but League worked off in S.Prasanna c Mendis b Pushpakumara 00 the fans who came to the Seddon Park in Hamilton Hambanthota yesterday. Asela Gunaratne not out 18 got to see a masterclass from their national captain. Kandy Tuskers won the toss Kamindu Mendis c sub (KNA Bandara) b Rajitha 08 On losing the toss, Williamson said he would have and elected to bat. Kusal Mendis Dilruwan Perera not out 00 bowled first. He then proceeded to show how Jason led up front for his team as he Extras (b 1, lb 1, w 4) 06 Holder's decision to bowl could be made irrelevant. smashed 55 runs off 45 TOTAL (for 6 wickets in 20 Overs) 156 Williamson was within touching distance of a 22nd deliveries including four fours Fall of wickets: 1-33, 2-91, 3-125, 4-125, 5-129, Test match century, having batted from the time he and two huge sixes. Along with 6-155 came in the middle. He was batting on a serene 97 at skipper Kusal Janith Perera (KJP) Bowling: Malinda Pushpakumara 4-0-28-2, Kasun stumps, having come in as early as the fifth over. the pair added a 58 run partnership Rajitha 3-0-16-2, Samit Patel 3-0-18-1, Ramesh Debutant Will Young was trapped in front by for the second wicket before KJP Mendis 4-0-21-1, Dasun Shanaka 2-0-16-0, Anwar Shannon Gabriel a ball after being reprieved with a was caught at deep midwicket Ali 3-0-37-0, Sachindu Colombage 1-0-18-0 dropped catch behind the stumps, and New Zealand when he tried to slog one over the leg were 14 for 1 in four overs. Thereafter, Latham and side boundary. Williamson put on 154 runs for the second wicket to After the breakthrough the DAMBULLA VIIKING grind West Indies down. When Latham fell, bowled by Tuskers batting line-up exhibited a peach from Kemar Roach, Ross Taylor joined familiar failings as N. Dickwella c †MDKJ Perera b Patel 04 Williamson and the runs kept coming. The unbroken they once more Upul Tharanga c Prasanna b Gunaratne 19 third-wicket stand was worth 75. faltered at crucial A.Perera c R. Gurbaz b MDK Perera 67 Early rains meant the first session was washed out, periods of the Samit Patel c PHKD Mendis b Prasanna 11 with the remaining two sessions elongated, but game. Tuskers DasunShanaka c Gunaratne b Pradeep 33 although 85 overs had been budgeted for, a pace- collapsed Samiullah Shinwari not out 11 heavy West Indies bowled only 77 despite another Anwar Ali not out 09 extra half hour being tacked on at the end of the day. Extras (lb 2, w 1) 03 At the start, West Indies' seamers couldn't find the TOTAL(for 5 wickets in 19.2 Overs) 157 right length, and allowed Latham and Williamson to Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-42, 3-56, 4-135, 5-142 gauge the pitch better with several balls they didn't Bowling: Munaf Patel 3-0-20-1, DilruwanPerera 3-0- have to get their bats near to. 23-1, AselaGunaratne 4-0-27-1, Seekkuge Prasanna Brief Scores: 4-0-36-1, Nuwan Pradeep 2.2-0-16-1, Naveen-ul- New Zealand: 243/2 (Kane Williamson 97*, Tom Haq 2-0-24-0, Kamindu Mendis 1-0-9-0 Latham 86) vs West Indies (ESPN)

further after Samit Patel picked up the all- important wicket of in-form Kusal Mendis who was caught by Dasun Shanaka at extra cover. Apart from Kusal Perera and Kusal Mendis, all-rounder Asela Gunaratne played an important hand with an unbeaten 18 to take his team to 156 in the allotted 20 overs. In the run chase, Dambulla lads were in control pretty much from the get-go largely thanks to a mature innings from Angelo Perera. After Niroshan Dickwella fell with the score on 4, Angelo along with skipper Dasun Shanaka dealt in boundaries as they put on 79 run partnership for the fourth wicket. Angelo finally found his rhythm and scored an important knock of 67 runs off 49 deliveries to guide his team to victory. On the other hand Dasun Shanaka played yet another captain’s knock smashing 33 runs. With two of the set batsmen back in the pavilion, 13 runs were need with 12 balls remaining. Using his experience Anwar Ali slotted home a straight six over the bowler to level the scores and completed the job in the Dasun Shanaka Anjelo Perera last over with four balls to spare. (MS) Kane Williamson (File Pic)

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