www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk MONDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2020

For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES ACTIVE CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 of the following authorities Epidemiology Unit CASES IN 0112 695 112 THE WORLD 67,038,103 Health Suwasariya Govt. coronavirus hotline PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 27,877 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS 0113071073 Bureau Service USA 14,995,863 287,894 1999 If showing symptoms COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1990 0117 966 366 1,537,409 INDIA 9,660,894 140,367 BRAZIL 6,577,177 176,641 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERED 20,460 RUSSIA 2,460,770 43,141 140 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 7,280 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 46,405,664 FRANCE 2,281,475 54,981 THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 8.00 P.M. ON 6 DECEMBER 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU TOTAL CASES COVID-19 PATIENTS A SEMBLANCE OF NORMALCY

24,036*Stats updated as at 5.45 p.m. on 6 December Focus on COVID-19 Deaths rise to 140 Director General of Health Services pvt. sector (DGHS) Dr. Asela Gunawardena yesterday (6) noted that the total number of Covid-19 deaths rose to 140. Russia begins treatmentDr. Gunawardena said that BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA vaccinations the private hospitals have Russia is starting its Covid-19 The Health Ministry is considering a request made the request and once vaccination programme, with clinics made by private hospitals to allow them to treat the discussions conclude, a in the capital Moscow inoculating Covid-19-positive patients, Director General of decision would be made. those most at risk from the virus, BBC Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena said. As of now, only government reported on Saturday (5). hospitals are allowed to treat He told The Morning that no yet but discussions are ongoing Covid-19-positive patients. Christmas decorations for sale on the streets of yesterday (6) SL focuses on final decision has been made to evaluate the possibilities. Contd. on page 2 PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA elimination in 2021 MAHARA PRISON CLASH EARTH TREMORS IN KANDY Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena has said is Rights group appeals focusing on eliminating Covid-19 from the country in the year 2021. UN Special Rapporteurs GSMB keeps Bahrain also The Committee for Protecting Rights of Prisoners 8,000 inmates to be released approves vaccine (CPRP) has sent an urgent At least 8,000 inmates remanded for drug use are Bahrain said it had approved the appeal to the UN Special to be referred for rehabilitation after completing their a close watch emergency use of a Covid-19 vaccine Rapporteur on Torture and quarantine period and completing PCR tests, The BY SARAH HANNAN seismometers installed at “We have a team deployed developed by Pfizer and German Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Morning learnt. the Victoria Reservoir during in the area, who have been partner BioNTech, Al Jazeera reported. Degrading Treatment or Contd. on page 2 At least four minor the weekend, the Geological continuously monitoring the Punishment and the Special seismic activities had Survey and Mines Bureau activities.” Number of recoveries Rapporteur on Extrajudicial, Rights Council, last week, riots that killed 11 inmates and been recorded on the (GSMB) stated. Contd. on page 2 Summary, or Arbitrary following the aftermath of injured 107, as of 2 December. exceeds 20,000 Executions of the UN Human the Mahara Prison Complex Contd. on page 2 The number of recovered Covid- INMATES OVER NARCOTICS CHARGES 19 patients increased to 20,090, the Former Minister Epidemiology Unit at the Health Call for special CID officials Rehabilitation Ministry said on Saturday (5). T.B. passes away probe commission increased to 25 to be expedited Former Minister T. B. Isolation in several GN A special commission should be appointed The number of Criminal Investigation Rehabilitation of inmates who were Ekanayake passed away to look into the recent incident at the Mahara Department (CID) officials probing the imprisoned over narcotics-related charges will at the age of 67 years, divisions to be lifted Prison, the National People’s Power (NPP) Mahara unrest has been increased to 25 from be expedited, said the State Ministry of Prison according to family sources. The isolation status of several areas said yesterday (6). Addressing the media at 12, Police Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana Management and Prisoners’ Rehabilitation. Ekanayake held in the Colombo and Gampaha Districts the party head office, NPP Leadership Council said yesterday (6). Contd. on page 2 several positions in the including and member and Attorney-at-Law Lal Wijenayake As of last morning, he said 116 statements Government as a Minister would be lifted at 5 a.m. today (7), said that shooting unarmed prisoners at the had been recorded from the inmates and MATTALA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT and Member of Parliament. Army Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra Mahara Prison was a very serious incident. prison officials at Mahara over the unrest. Contd. on page 2 Silva said. Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 Discussions to Three new areas to be Inmates’ bodies being identified recommence UNP appoints Bodies of six inmates who identified initially on Friday were of residents from isolated in Colombo died in the recent unrest (4), and another four bodies Ja-Ela and Hunupitiya, operations Three new areas in Colombo at the Mahara Prison have were identified later. , who had been Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga Acting Sec. including two grama niladhari (GN) been identified by their Police Spokesperson DIG remanded over narcotics- on Saturday (5) said that the Government is Shyamal Senarath has been appointed as divisions of Hunupitiya and 60-Watte family members. Ajith Rohana said the two related charges. having discussions with international airline the Acting Secretary of the United National would be isolated from today (7) Two bodies were bodies identified initially Contd. on page 2 companies to commence operations at Mattala. Party (UNP), noted UNP Deputy Leader onwards, Army Commander Lt. Gen. Contd. on page 2 Ruwan Wijewardene. Shavendra Silva said. Contd. on page 2 The two GN divisions of Hunupitiya ISOLATED POLICE AREAS UNREGISTERED TOURISM STAKEHOLDERS in and 60-Watte in OVERCROWDING IN BUSES „ y , and Kokila Road : y Dam Street yy Mutwal yy Keselwatte Give concessions says NPP in would be isolated from yy yy Maligawatte New plan to 5 a.m. today. yy yy The National People’s Power who have not registered. yy Aduruppu Street yy (NPP) on Saturday (5) said the NPP MP Vijitha Herath said there SEE FULL STORIES ON PAGE 2 yy Slave Island: yy Wellampitiya: Government should provide were more than 3,500 registered address issue Wekanda and Salamulla GN concession not only to the guides, but only about 1,900 of Arrangements have been made to operate Hunupitiya GN division and divisions Laksandha registered stakeholders in the them have been given concessions. two buses at the beginning of each journey COVID-19 AMONG INMATES yy : Sevana Housing tourism sector but also to those Contd. on page 2 from today (7) onwards, said State Minister Wanathamulla Complex of Vehicle Regulation, Bus Transport Services GN division yy : and Train Compartments, and Motor Car South of Ferguson Spreading Road and Randiya Airport reopening Industry Dilum Amunugama. Uyana Housing Contd. on page 2 Compex at fast pace yy Cinnamon further delayed: SLTDA Gardens: Programme to The Sri Lanka Association of 60-Watte zCommittee to review Airport Opening Protocol Medical Laboratory Technologists yy Wellawatte: zFinal decision from Ministry of Health yesterday (6) alleged that the Covid- Kokila Road clean up 103 rivers 19 virus was spreading among the „ Gampaha District: The Sri Lanka Tourism batch of citizens are to receive A special programme to protect the inmates of the Prison at a yy Wattala: Kerawalapitiya, Development Authority the vaccination early next cleanliness of 103 rivers will be commenced Hekiththa, Kurunduhena, very fast pace and it is not practical Evariwatte, and (SLTDA), following last year, the Tourism Ministry in January under the patronage of President to face it with PCR tests alone. Welikadamulla GN week’s discussion with the and the SLTDA is hopeful Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Minister of Environment Association President Ravi Divisions Minister of Tourism, has that this will once again Mahinda Amaraweera said. Kumudesh said that it was a wrong yy : proposed the Airport Opening allow international Contd. on page 2 Peliyagodawatta, decision to stop antibody testing at Peliyagoda – Gangabada, Protocol, The Morning learnt. travel to resume, present and as a result, inmates who Meegahawatte, and With several countries hopefully in the are not currently infected would also Pattiya-North GN divisions announcing that they are first quarter of become infected. yy : approving vaccinations 2021. Welegoda-North GN Contd. on page 2 division developed for Covid-19 Contd. SLTDA Chairwoman prevention and that the first on page 2 Kimarli Fernando 2 the morning NEWS Monday, December 7, 2020

Contd. from page 1

this to the attention of the Welisara Magistrate or post mortem has been conducted. and as a result, a large amount of trash is being Focus on... on 2 December,” Perera revealed. The incident has even been reported in discharged into the sea as well as the surrounding SL focuses... However, a few private hospitals were given Statistics for 2020 appended to the letter of international media and as a result, these facts environment of the rivers. The Minister expressed these views at the 31st approval to conduct PCR tests under strict appeal will cause the issue of Sri Lankan human rights Therefore, this programme will be implemented Special Session of the General Assembly in response guidelines, where it was made compulsory that On 2 December, at least 11 prisoners were to be raised again in the eyes of the world, he said. with the support of the general public, giving to the Covid-19 pandemic, which was held last they inform the Government about the positive reported to have been killed and more than 100 Therefore, the NPP called on the Government official responsibility to the relevant authorities Thursday (3) and Friday (4). cases and immediately transfer the patients to injured after tensions arose in the aftermath of to conduct a legal inquiry into the incident and to for the cleanliness of the rivers from the beginning. Minister Gunawardena said the mechanism and government hospitals. Representatives of private detainees in the Mahara Prison (Gampaha District) appoint an impartial commission of Supreme Court Accordingly, the Minister emphasised that this strategic plan the Government has currently deployed hospitals last week met with the authorities to demanding that Covid-19-positive detainees be judges to look into the Mahara Prison incident. will be continued as one of the main projects, to respond to the pandemic while maintaining discuss providing treatment for Covid-19 patients separated. The number of those killed and injured – Maheesha Mudugamuwa named “Surakimu Ganga”. normalcy in daily life, consists of 10 pillars. in private hospitals. may rise. On that day, 176 inmates and seven “They are national level co-ordination, planning, officials in the Mahara Prison were reported to and review as the first pillar; raising awareness among have tested positive for Covid-19. CID officials... Airport... the public about the risk and active participation of GSMB... On 21 March, two detainees were killed in Statements have been recorded from 45 prison Speaking to The Morning, SLTDA Chairwoman the society in the mitigation process as the second; We must reiterate that as the expert committee Anuradhapura Prison after protests broke out officials, 11 medical doctors, seven nurses, and Kimarli Fernando stated: “We are still looking supervision, rapid response, and detection as the that submitted the report on the previous tremors, related to Covid-19. Prisoners were fearful of 53 inmates. to open airports in January. However, tourism is third; monitoring at the ports of entry and inland there was no correlation to the limestone quarrying Covid-19 infections due to prison overcrowding “The CID team intends to record all important not the decision maker as it’s a health pandemic transportation routes as the fourth; strengthening the that is taking place,” GSMB Chairman Anura and were upset by the decision to stop visitors, as evidence from all inmates and others, to trace, in and hence, await feedback from the Ministry of laboratory system as the fifth; control and prevention Walpola told The Morning. family members often bring homemade, nutritious respect of the conspiracy at the Mahara Prison Health on the protocol that was prepared with the of the spread of the virus as the sixth; adequate The three seismic activities that took place on food. On 18 November, a detainee was killed at and who aided the conspiracy,” the DIG said. input of health officials.” handling of patients as the seventh; expediting Saturday (5) had occurred between 4 p.m. and an overcrowded special quarantine facility for Fernando noted that the health guidelines which facilities to all the healthcare services as the eighth; 7 p.m. in the vicinity of the Victoria Reservoir. remand prisoners (Bogambara) as he and some were issued in June this year still stand to be valid, continuation of the essential health services as the Seismic activity of a magnitude less than two others had tried to escape. Inmates’... and reiterated the importance of having strict ninth; and ensuring social security and continuation points on the Richter scale was reported in An 82-year-old inmate was reported to have He also noted that the four bodies that health protocols to ensure the safety, not only of economic activities as the 10th,” he said. Aluthwatta, Digana, the same morning, according died of Covid-19 in November. More than 1,000 were identified later were of residents from of Sri Lankans but also international travellers. In addressing the socioeconomic impact caused to the GSMB. prisoners and some prison officials were reported Minuwangoda, Anguruwathota, Weliweriya, “We believe that all institutions that are eagerly by the pandemic, he said the Government has However, all tremors have measured magnitudes to have tested positive for Covid-19 in November. and Enderamulla. waiting to reopen their doors to international granted financial relief and dry rations to over six less than two points on the Richter scale, the According to a media report on 29 November, “The autopsies of the four bodies identified tourists had ample time to adapt to the given million families and vulnerable groups, established GSMB further noted. more than 10% of prisoners on whom PCR tests by the relatives will be conducted by the Chief guidelines and were able to put it into practice when a Covid-19 Healthcare and Social Security Fund, Seismic activity under two on the seismometer had been conducted had tested positive, while the Judicial Medical Officer of . The bodies Sri Lankans were travelling to such destinations and provides financial facilities to local businesses. was reported from the Ambakote area on 29 overall average of those confirming positive to have been placed at the mortuary until the court during these months,” Fernando opined. “We have November at around 8.45 p.m. PCR tests was less than 3% in Sri Lanka. delivers an order with regard to the disposal of to date certified 92 establishments; accommodation Walpola said that such minor seismic activities If allegations of attempted escapes and violence the bodies,” he said. providers and tour operators, with the Safe and Bahrain... are to be expected due to weathering, with the by inmates are true, two key questions arise; A total of 11 inmates had died in the incident Secure Certification to service and accommodate The approval last Friday (4) makes Bahrain the area mainly composed of dolomite marble and was excessive force used by armed prison while 106 others and two prison officials sustained international tourists for the first 14 days. We would second country in the world to grant emergency-use charnockite rocks. Since the charnockite rocks officials against unarmed inmates and what are injuries. It was also revealed that eight of the continue to audit and award certifications in the authorisation for the vaccine, the Bahraini national are resistant to weathering, when pressure is the conditions in prisons that have led to the deceased inmates had been positive for Covid-19. coming weeks,” Fernando explained. news agency BNA reported. released along the marble bands, seismic activity behaviour of inmates? In addition, rapid antigen tests carried out on the Moreover, the following steps are in place to The UK became the first on Wednesday (2). is recorded. – Sarah Hannan hospitalised inmates confirmed that 38 of them ensure the health and safety of travellers, both “Bahrain has approved the Pfizer/BioNTech Studies continue in the site to understand the are positive for the virus. foreign and local, who will be accessing services Covid-19 vaccine that will be used for high-risk reactions to the weather changes that the area’s Unrest at the Mahara Prison broke out on 29 in the tourism industry. groups,” Bahrain’s National Health Regulatory soil and mineral deposits are undergoing. 8,000 inmates... November when a group of inmates attempted Global recognition: Sri Lanka received the Authority (NHRA) said. The immediate challenge Walpola also noted that in other countries, they Newly appointed State Minister of Prison to escape the facility following a conflict with Safe Travel Stamp from the World Travel and for Bahrain would be the conditions in which the generally release the pressure that is built between Management and Prisoners’ Rehabilitation Lohan prison officials. Prison authorities had opened Tourism Council, reflective of the sound protocol vaccine must be kept. They must be shipped and two rock layers through artificial methods, and Ratwatte, soon after assuming duties at his State fire to control the situation and a team of Police implemented by Sri Lanka Tourism. This includes stored at ultra-cold temperatures of approximately Sri Lanka does not have the technology to do the Ministry, had called the Army Commander, the Special Task Force (STF) personnel was deployed the independent auditing firm KPMG’s “Safe and -70℃ (-94℉). Bahrain is a Middle East nation that same at the moment. IGP of Sri Lanka Police, the Director General of to assist the prison authorities. Secure Certification” that provides global travellers regularly sees temperatures in the summer of about Health Services, the Commissioner General of Subsequently, a massive fire had broken out the comfort and confidence that Sri Lanka has 40℃ (104℉) with high humidity. Bahrain does Prisons, and the ministry officials to discuss the at the prison after several inmates set fire to the taken all the necessary steps to ensure safety. have a state-owned carrier, Gulf Air, that it could Rights... ongoing matters and how the Covid-19 prison health office, a storage area, and several other QR code: Certification includes a QR code that use to transport the vaccines. In the nearby UAE, In the letter of appeal, CPRP Chairman and cluster could be brought under control. places within the prison. will permit guests to provide feedback on health the Dubai-based long-haul carrier Emirates has Attorney-at-Law Seneka Perera has stressed the “I have requested from the Ministry of Justice The fire had raged on until 3 a.m. on 30 and safety protocols being followed by their hotel already said it is preparing its facilities to distribute importance of addressing causes that lead prisoners and the Department of Prisons to expedite the November and was completely extinguished and service provider, which will enable continuous vaccines at ultra-cold temperatures. to try and escape and protest. In particular, to PCR tests on inmates in the next 10 days as there with the help of six fire trucks. assessment, besides inspection by the public health The vaccine also requires two doses to be given urgently take measures to ensure rights of prisoners are over 50% of inmates who are yet to be tested Two prison officials were also held hostage inspectors and regional health officers. three weeks apart. Bahrain had already granted and protect them and prison staff from Covid-19. for Covid-19. We are also looking at referring at by protesting inmates. However, they were later Awareness and training: Several training emergency-use authorisation for a Chinese vaccine Perera in the appeal stated that at least four least 8,000 inmates, who are serving a sentence rescued by the authorities. sessions were conducted on pandemic preparedness made by Sinopharm and has inoculated some 6,000 other prisoners were reported to have been killed due to their involvement in the narcotic trade, for Authorities later revealed that the rioting for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) designed people with it. That vaccine, an “inactivated” shot in Sri Lanka this year due to riots that erupted due rehabilitation,” Ratwatte told the media. inmates had also broken into the prison’s medical and rolled out together with S4IG Australia. made by growing the whole virus in a lab and then to Covid-19 preventing and visitor restrictions, The State Minister is also looking to consult section and consumed the stored pharmaceuticals Covid-19 guidelines training was conducted, killing it, also is in use in the UAE. adding that an 82-year-old inmate had died of the Attorney General on the legal provisions to including the ones used to treat mental illnesses. partnering Market Development Facility (MDF) Covid-19 and more than 1,000 prisoners have amend the sentences and refer these inmates to According to them, this resulted in more violent Australia and The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka been confirmed Covid-19 positive. rehabilitation rather than imprisoning them. conduct among the inmates. (THASL). Pandemic preparedness for SMEs was Number... Moreover, around 12 suicides have been reported On Saturday (5), Ratwatte had visited the designed and rolled out with the support of the The total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases as this year in prisons, with most appearing to be Welikada Prison to observe the situation, during Asian Development Bank. at Saturday was 27,228 and the number of patients suspects who are alleged to have used and/or which he had requested the inmates who were Rehabilitation... Airport Opening Protocol: A detailed Airport under medical care stood at 7,008. traded drugs and/or illicit liquor. protesting on the roof for days to come down and Thereby, the State Ministry, together with the Opening Protocol has been developed in the last “It appears that prison authorities are not heard their concerns. Department of Prisons, will be taking steps to several months and presented to the Minister of providing professional support and care for Following the discussions with the inmates, fast-track the process, on the directives of the Health. Another committee was appointed on 4 Isolation in... such persons and not putting in place adequate Department of Prisons officials, the Ministry of Attorney General. December to review the protocol, which would In Colombo, the isolation of the Bloemendhal mechanisms to prevent suicides. There are also Health, and the Ministry of Justice, are to look The decision was reached during a meeting held possibly delay the opening of airports. police area and the Wijayapura grama niladhari concerns about the lack of nutritious food, the at four methods that would reduce congestion last Friday (4), focused on the growing numbers “In conclusion, as this is a health pandemic, (GN) division in the Wellampitiya police area is to restricting of visits from family members without in prisons; pardoning detainees suffering from of Covid-19 infections in prisons. we are guided by the health officials and are be lifted this morning. In Gampaha, the isolation of adequate alternative communication facilities, and complete disabilities and chronic diseases and According to reports, nearly 8,000 inmates hence unable at the moment to dilute the health the Kelaniya police area is to be lifted at 5 a.m. today. the deployment of special commandos trained those over 75 years of age, releasing prisoners remanded over narcotics-related charges are protocols, unless of course the Ministry of Health The isolation of the Wattala and Peliyagoda police for armed conflict to prisons,” Perera noted in that committed minor offences on bail, looking currently held in prisons. gives us covering approval to relax the health and areas would also be lifted today, except for several the appeal letter. into long-standing issues of prisoners in terms State Minister Lohan Ratwatte has instructed safety protocols. Meanwhile, we will continue to identified GN divisions in them. “Though there were some prisoners released of providing them necessary healthcare and the officials to take necessary measures to refer support our stakeholders to ensure the safety of Accordingly, the Kerawalapitiya, Hekitta, immediately after our letter, large numbers of new expediting PCR tests, and seeking approval the inmates who complete the rehabilitation all and reach out to support you to thrive in the Kurunduhena, Evariwatte, and Welikadamulla inmates were admitted to prisons afterwards. It from the President to implement a four-year process to PCR tests and to then place them new normal that we face at this time,” Fernando GN divisions in Wattala and the Pattiya-North, appears that prisoner releases and preventing the amnesty period and release qualifying inmates under quarantine. concluded. Meegahawatta, Peliyagoda – Gangabada, and Covid-19 outbreak in prisons had been forgotten on reasonable grounds. The Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation – Sarah Hannan Peliyagodawatta GN divisions in Peliyagoda would until the outbreak of Covid-19 in prisons last Centre, the Bogambara Prison premises, and other be isolated from today onwards. month. It was only just before the latest killings suitable locations will be utilised for this purpose. Meanwhile, the Welebada-North GN division in that the media reported that some measures may Call for... The State Minister also gave instructions to Discussions... Kiribathgoda would also be isolated. be taken in the coming days to release prisoners,” He further said that all prisoners are in the move the Covid-19-infected inmates to one prison Speaking in Parliament, the Minister said both The Army Commander said the isolation of other Perera stated. custody of the Government and the brutal killing and provide them with the required medical the and Mattala airports would be areas except for those mentioned in Colombo and The CPRP urged the UN Special Rapporteurs of prisoners under government protection is a facilities. used to bring down tourists once the country is Gampaha would be continued until further notice. to inquire into the latest incident and to call on very dangerous situation. reopened for tourism. the Government to practise, restrain and abide by Wijenayake alleged that an incident took place He said 15,039 passenger operations were national and international laws when responding at the Welikada Prison a few years ago and that Former... handled at the Mattala Airport so far this year. Three new... to any tensions in prisons. 28 inmates had been killed there, but no fair He served as the Deputy Minister of Cultural Meanwhile, he said the Government would The isolation of Mutwal, Kotahena, Grandpass, “Eight of those killed were subsequently reported investigation had been carried out so far. Affairs, Minister and Deputy Minister of also develop the Jaffna and Batticaloa airports. Aduruppu Street, Dam Street, Keselwatte, to have tested Covid-19 positive and we are also He also said that despite more than five days Highways, and Deputy Minister of Education Maligawatte, Dematagoda, Maradana. worried that if their remains are cremated, that having elapsed since the Mahara incident, during his political career. The Wekanda GN division in Slave Island, the may hamper criminal investigations to hold those the Government has still failed to conduct a Give... Wanathamulla GN division in Borella, the Laksanda responsible accountable. We have also brought preliminary inquiry and no magisterial inquiry “This needs to be expanded to include the Sevana Housing Complex, the Salamulla GN UNP... unregistered stakeholders in the tourism sector Division in Wellampitiya, the South of Ferguson Shyamal Senarath is also the Executive Director as well. The job security of the employees should Road, and the Randiya Uyana Housing Complex Cartoon of the day of Sirikotha presently. be ensured,” he said. in Mattakkuliya is to be continued. New plan... Russia... Spreading... He added that the National Transport Commission Russia is using its own vaccine Sputnik V, He emphasised the need to expedite the process of (NTC) has been instructed to operate two buses in which was registered in August. identifying patients and examining all inmates at the accordance with the schedule, especially during Developers say it is 95% effective and causes Welikada Prison, considering the status and size of school and office hours. no major side effects, but it is still undergoing the inmates, adding that only the mobile laboratory “We recently allowed a fare revision as well mass testing. Thousands of people have already – the instantaneous antibody method – could be used for buses to carry passengers according to the registered to get the first of two jabs over the as the best alternative. number of available seats. However, there still weekend, but it is unclear how much Russia Kumudesh also alleged that prisoners being are complaints that some routes are overcrowded. can manufacture, BBC said. Producers are only transferred between prisons, despite instructions We have informed in writing that such buses expected to make two million doses of the vaccine from the Ministry of Health against this, was also should be arrested immediately, and action by the end of the year. Moscow Mayor Sergei causing the spread of Covid-19 among inmates. would be taken under quarantine laws,” the Sobyanin, who announced the programme early He also said that more attention should be paid State Minister said. on last week, said it was being offered to people to prisoners suffering from tuberculosis, AIDS, and in the city of 13 million who work in schools and mental illness in prisons. the health services, and social workers. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa Programme to... He said the list would grow as more of the He said this while addressing the Ministerial vaccine became available. Consultative Committee on Environment held An online registration service allows city Deaths... in Parliament. residents in the above professions aged 18-60 Three males, aged 98, 80, and 71 years old He pointed out that many of the rivers in the to book free appointments at 70 sites around succumbed to the virus, increasing the total to 140, country are being polluted at an increased rate the city. the DGHS stated yesterday. the morning Monday, December 7, 2020 3 business The Sri Lanka Association for Software Services Companies (SLASSCOM) announced that it has launched the Artificial SLASSCOM launches Artificial Intelligence (AI) Centre of Excellence (AICx) with the aim of positioning Sri Lanka as a key competency centre for AI in Asia. Intelligence Centre of Excellence SLASSCOM Director – The AICx initiative is chaired by Dr. Sri Lanka which encompasses AICx will serve as a platform for Operations Shevan Goonetilleke Romesh Ranawana – a Clarendon several high-level objectives those who are advocates in AI and believes that AI-related technologies Scholar with a Doctorate in AI from including increasing awareness and passionately involved in different can benefit Sri Lankan industries and the University of Oxford and a adaptation of AI in both the public focus areas to come together and businesses, making these industries leading pioneer in AI research. and private sectors, showcasing the help drive the AI agenda for Sri more efficient and competitive, “We will focus on those areas capabilities of AI for the greater Lanka. The AICx will be driven by globally. which are relevant, impactful, and good, incentivising fundamental and an Advisory Board and an Executive “The SLASSCOM AICx would have long term value for Sri Lanka. applied research in AI, identifying Committee comprising eminent support building a talent pool in The CoE (Centre of Excellence) niche opportunities, and attracting academics, industry professionals, Sri Lanka that is well placed to will extend its reach through general leading global technology and AI and technology enthusiasts who build AI-based solutions to help awareness programmes on AI so companies to set up operations in volunteer. The AICx has already laid uplift all industries in the country, that those outside the technology Sri Lanka. the groundwork for this vision by thereby enabling better productivity, industry can understand the value With this initiative, SLASSCOM engaging with global leaders in AI lower costs, and increased global of AI and how it can help them. said it will take steps to organise to help catapult AI growth and create competitiveness.” The CoE will also attempt to its AICx infrastructure and more opportunities for Sri Lanka. The AICx initiative is headed by bring together those who can best framework to drive its aims of SLASSCOM Chairman Channa SLASSCOM Board Director Nuwan benefit from AI-based systems with building competence and capacity, Manoharan stated: “This initiative Perera, a longstanding advocate of companies, startups, and institutions identifying AI use cases in products will be a key step for SLASSCOM SLASSCOM Chairman Channa Manoharan AICx Chairman Dr. Romesh Ranawana formulating the AICx, who stated: who can build these systems,” Dr. and services, establishing funding in its aim of becoming a catalyst for “Sri Lanka has an opportunity to Ranawana noted. and resources, creating market growth and adoption of AI in Sri will drive the country’s attributable while influencing responsible use of be a thought leader in the AI space SLASSCOM took a pioneering opportunities to network and Lanka, while working towards the AI revenue generation. The AICx AI. Through the launch of the AICx, while leveraging the full benefit of step in Sri Lanka by hosting the AI share success, institutionalising growth of existing AI products and envisions to open new academic we are accelerating the journey of the technology to create jobs and Asia Summit in 2018 and 2019. AI research, and commercialising services, while catapulting the launch avenues in AI to promote original Sri Lanka becoming an AI hub in the to improve growth prospects of the SLASSCOM also published a and implementing policy and of new products and services which academic research and patents, all Asia-Pacific region.” country.” framework for an AI Policy for responsible use.

Samsung Sri Lanka announced that it recorded its highest-ever Samsung SL records its Three priorities for sales turnover of Rs. 3.5 billion in November 2020. highest-ever monthly sales Samsung has more 5G patents export-led manufacturers than any other company and was of Rs. 3.5 b in November the first company to receive the BY STAX INC. incentivise on-shoring and near- Tier-2 and Tier-3 suppliers. US Federal Communications happy to consolidate our leadership shoring to bring supply chains On the back of geopolitical Commission (FCC) approval for as the number one smartphone Following the Covid-19 closer to home. While these tensions and manufacturing its 5G network equipment. Over brand in Sri Lanka for seven pandemic, the supply chain markets will continue to be a diversification measures, global the years, Samsung has unveiled consecutive years because of the focus of global markets has large part of our export basket producers have been leaving smartphones, wearables, and love and trust consumers in Sri shifted. Historically, there were in the near-term, Sri Lankan China, with the US, India, and accessories and most recently, the Lanka have shown Samsung. We four primary factors that were businesses must focus on building Japan announcing schemes company launched the foldable have always believed in pushing considered in developing the relationships with leading Asian incentivising this shift. The main Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2. the limits of mobile technology sourcing supply chain – cost, brands and companies to diversify rationale for supply destination In today’s world where mobile and set the benchmark for what the quality, quantity (bulk), and our export revenue base. Tourism selection are production costs security is a critical issue, Samsung smartphone can be. Over the years, reliability. Now companies are did a similar shift more than a (labour and energy), trade said its mobile security solution we have continued to break new increasingly looking at three decade ago when we reduced our relations, and proximity to demand Samsung Knox provides a secure ground, improving and expanding additional factors: geographic reliance on the European markets markets. Though Vietnam has environment for corporate data and the smartphone experience with diversification/profiling, and enticed travellers closer to disproportionately attracted apps for all Galaxy devices. gaming with authorised and Google each new device. This, along with traceability (visibility), and a home from India and China. investor interest, Sri Lankan “It protects both business and games, essential to play games our strong network of authorised combination of bespoke and bulk. Following the global supply manufacturers should proactively personal privacy from one device on Android smartphones,” the dealers, and our loyal customer On the back of this global supply shocks at the beginning of the target buyers seeking to diversify without the need for third party IT company said. base have ensured that we always chain shift, Stax has explored year, firms are reorganising their supply chains beyond China. protection. Samsung users have Its Samsung Members platform come out on top as we continue these priorities for export-led operations with resilience at (Stax Inc. is a management the guarantee of secure personal is a growing community of Galaxy our efforts to transform the mobile manufacturers in Sri Lanka, as the core. Everything from consulting firm, headquartered in data thanks to official Google professionals that offer all-round landscape in Sri Lanka and the detailed below. capacity planning and inventory Boston with offices in Chicago, applications and services that support, feedback, and analysis. world.” According to the World management to supply logistics New York, and Colombo. With ensure personal information is It offers services customers Earlier this year, Sri Lankan Economic Forum, by 2030, 60% and production methods are being more than 25 years of experience, not disclosed to third parties. All need from Galaxy-related tips to consumers voted for Samsung of new economic growth and 90% re-evaluated to ensure businesses Stax advises some of the world’s Samsung devices offer authorised troubleshooting in one easy-to-use Sri Lanka as the “Most Loved of the 2.4 billion new additions to can withstand shocks, even if largest public and private Google Maps, YouTube, Play Store, app, together with access to other Electronics Brand” in Sri Lanka the middle class will come from short-term efficiency may have corporations, private equity firms, and other Google services, ensuring information, tips, and the latest for the second consecutive year in Asia. In a bid to support local to be sacrificed. Traceability is and their portfolio companies that users avoid errors, lags, and product news. Brand Finance Lanka’s review of manufacturing and build supply key in building resilience, with across a broad range of industries terminations of Google services and Expressing his views, Samsung Sri Lanka’s most valuable brands chain resilience, North American companies extending their scrutiny covering 40-plus international the risk of losing applications and Sri Lanka Managing Director featured in LMD’s Brands Annual and European Governments will beyond their primary suppliers into markets) data. They can also enjoy non-stop Kevin SungSu You stated: “We are 2020. Latest iPhone 12 99x celebrates its founders and product owners Technology company impactful digital products customer stories, I realise the series now at Dialog 99x announced the while drawing on global depth and full extent of your launch of “Celebrating differentiators.” relationships with Norwegian impactful digital products” He added: “I would businesses through the years. – a collection of stories like to dedicate this book I am impressed by the extent recognising their clients’ to the people of 99x, the of collaboration possible passion, courage, and Xians, both present and despite physical barriers experiences in building past, whose commitment and how you have adapted “market-winning digital to build impactful digital culturally to make this work. products”. products forms the other I also see so many clients The book was presented to half of the story. I must fondly recollect the warmth Norwegian Ambassador Trine 99x Founder and CEO Mano Sekaram (left) presents the “Celebrating also thank our clients who and hospitality visiting Sri impactful digital products” book to Norwegian Ambassador Trine Jøranli Eskedal by 99x CEO Jøranli Eskedal willingly supported us in Lanka. I sincerely hope we and Founder Mano Sekaram. this publication. I can see the will have the opportunity to The publication contains 12 introducing the book, stated: relationships, which have passion you have for your travel once more and enjoy stories featuring founders, “I’m delighted to share sustained and grown over product, the bond you have seeing people in person entrepreneurs, and product this collection of stories the years. We have built over with our teams, and the love during 2021.” managers, and how they have highlighting our clients 150 digital products during you have for Sri Lanka on Headquartered in Sri kept their products relevant and their achievements. the past 15 years with our every page.” Lanka, 99x is a technology Dialog Axiata PLC, the are priced at Rs. 209,990, Rs. to their customer needs while Personally, these are clients. These examples will Ambassador Eskedal company co-creating only authorised eSIM service 224,990, and Rs. 249,990, conquering new markets. more than just stories inspire you to see the reality commented: “Reading digital products for the provider for Apple iPhones in respectively. The iPhone 12 Mano Sekaram, but a chronicle of our of co-creating and innovating through each of your Scandinavian market. Sri Lanka, has launched the Pro is available in 128GB latest range of the 5G-ready and 256GB, priced at Rs. iPhone 12 series. Dialog said 268,990 and Rs. 294,990, Wire producer Lanka Special its offering of 4G VoLTE, respectively, whilst the Steel Ltd. (Lanka SSL), a VoWiFi (Wifi calling), and iPhone 12 Pro Max is fully-owned subsidiary of the Lanka SSL launches Permaweld eSIM capabilities are the available in 128GB and E.B. Creasy Group, recently “perfect” accompaniments 256GB, priced at Rs. 294,990 introduced “Permaweld” brand to the latest iPhone 12 range, and Rs. 319,990, respectively. welding electrodes for all general brand welding electrodes range delivering superior voice call Dialog Club Vision purpose welding requirements. distributor. We look forward to Thusitha Kuruppu. and video call quality. members have the added Permaweld brand welding a strengthening relationship that Laxapana Batteries PLC is a The new iPhone 12 lineup, benefit of redeeming their electrodes will be distributed will reach greater heights in the leading LED lighting solutions including the iPhone 12 Pro, loyalty discounts when islandwide by the hardware future.” provider, having pioneered the iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone purchasing an iPhone division of Laxapana Batteries “We are very confident of application of LED technology 12, and iPhone 12 mini is 12 device from Dialog. PLC, another subsidiary of the Permaweld as the new welding in the industry back in the early now available for purchase Customers are also provided E.B. Creasy Group which was electrodes have already gained 2000s. via www.dialog.lk and at with the convenient payment established over 70 years ago. high tractions with the product Established in 1995, Lanka selected Dialog Experience method of purchasing the Lanka SSL CEO Pravin De being accepted remarkably SSL is an ISO 9001: 2015 Centres islandwide. latest iPhone on monthly Silva said: “It is with great well by the welders throughout and SLS 139: 2003-certified The iPhone 12 mini is instalment plans at 0% pleasure that we launch the new the country. This new addition company and has a long- available in 64GB and interest – up to 40 months ‘Permaweld’ welding electrodes along with all other products standing with TATA 128GB, which are priced at with leading credit cards. range to the Sri Lankan market. manufactured by Lanka Special Steel Ltd.’s Global Wire India Rs. 184,990 and Rs. 198,990, Additionally, customers can And joining this incredible Steels has created a rich product (GWI), being the sole agent respectively. The iPhone opt for an attractive trade-in journey with us is the well- basket for our distributors and distributor in Sri Lanka for From left: Laxapana Hardware Distribution Manager 12 is available in 64GB, offer from Dialog for their respected and reputed Laxapana throughout,” said Laxapana all of its premium-quality wire Thusitha Kuruppu, Lanka SSL Head of Sales and Marketing 128GB, and 256GB, which existing iPhone. Batteries PLC as our sole Hardware Distribution Manager products. G. Pathinayaka, and Lanka SSL CEO Pravin De Silva the morning 4 Monday, December 7, 2020 brunch BY NAVEED ROZAIS to take action and contribute to cause, be it through time, energy, volunteering efforts in any way knowledge, or networking. International Volunteer Day UN and WHO SL celebrate they can, be it out in the field or WHO Sri Lanka (IVD), is an international from behind their screens. Representative Dr. Razia Pendse observance that was UNDP Sri Lanka Resident and UNV Sri Lanka Country Co- Representative Robert Jukham ordinator Sharmalee Jayasinghe mandated by the United shared his own experiences as a spoke about volunteering amidst Nations (UN) General International volunteer, noting that the current the backdrop of a pandemic. Assembly in 1985 and situation in the world, being Dr. Pendse shared that WHO is celebrated on 5 a crisis, brings out the best in had declared 2021 the year of December each year. people, with adversity bringing the healthcare workers, sharing It’s an opportunity to out human empathy, compassion, that the heroes of the pandemic celebrate volunteerism and Volunteer Day 2020 and solidarity, and that the were the frontline functionaries, encourage governments to increase in volunteerism seen this healthcare workers, and security support volunteer efforts year may have something to do personnel who rose above the and recognise volunteer with being faced with a challenge. call of their duties to keep people contributions. with landmark Minister of Health Pavithra safe. Dr. Pendse also noted that Wanniarachchi spoke about how the pandemic had brought out For IVD 2020, United Nations volunteerism is an integral part of inspiring levels or solidarity, Volunteers (UNV) Sri Lanka Sri Lankan culture and tradition, community engagement, and and World Health Organisation online event always evident in times of crisis. service to others – the core (WHO) Sri Lanka, with partners, Wanniarachchi also shared that principles of volunteerism.She hosted a live event to thank it is an important part of the added that volunteers have made volunteers and celebrate their national agenda to create change tremendous positive impact, efforts despite all the challenges in mindsets by championing from supporting with the creation at hand. This was the first time behavioural change and that of strategic response plans to that IVD had been commemorated volunteerism is a very powerful enabling, empowering, and virtually. way to achieve this. engaging their communities. The live event was hosted Sarvodaya Shramadana Jayasinghe shared that by Vraie Cally Balthazaar. The Movement President Dr. Vinya the role of volunteering came live event featured messages Ariyaratne also spoke about Sri into play with people getting of appreciation from speakers Lankan resilience, sharing that together in solidarity to support including UN Secretary General when Covid-19 was first reported vulnerable communities. Antonio Guterres, Minister of in March, traditional forms Jayasinghe also noted that while Health Pavithra Wanniarachchi, of response were not possible the impacts of volunteers can UN Sri Lanka Resident Co- because of the very nature of the sometimes be small, the impacts ordinator Hanaa Singer, WHO situation, although this didn’t these volunteers have on the Sri Lanka Representative Dr. stop volunteers from finding a communities around them are Razia Pendse, United Nations way. Dr. Ariyaratne noted that long lasting, adding that the Development Programme (UNDP) going forward in the new normal, impacts of volunteerism are Sri Lanka Resident Representative we will definitely need to come often hard to capture because Robert Jukham, UNV Sri up with new strategies, reorient of the spontaneous nature of Lanka Country Co-ordinator ourselves, and bring a new volunteering. Sharmalee Jayasinghe, Sarvodaya meaning to volunteerism, even if The IVD 2020 also Shramadana Movement President these are as simple as working one highlighted local inspiring Dr. Vinya Ariyaratne, former metre apart in open environments volunteer stories from all around Sri Lankan Cricketer and for the time being. the island, honouring both sharing that volunteering is the celebrating one billion volunteers gender, expressing his heartfelt International Cricket Council Former Sri Lankan Cricketer volunteer organisations and backbone of our society and around the world who are appreciation to Sri Lankan (ICC) Deshabandu and ICC Match Referee individual volunteers who have deserve our heartfelt thanks, affecting change through moral volunteers making a difference in Roshan Mahanama, and Deshabandu Roshan Mahanama gone above and beyond this year adding that IVD is an opportunity influence, hope, and compassion these uncertain times. International Federation of Red spoke about his own experiences in various fields to support and to support the efforts and in the face of one of the biggest UN Sri Lanka Resident Co- Cross and Red Crescent Societies volunteering, offering words of empower their communities and contributions of these tireless emergencies the world has known. ordinator Hanaa Singer spoke on (IFRC) Asia Pacific Region encouragement to those who those around them. volunteers the world over. Ong also shared that volunteerism the importance of volunteering, Volunteering Officer Jaryll Ong. are considering volunteering, The IVD 2020 live event IFRC Asia Pacific Region creates social connections that explaining that volunteering is a UN Secretary General explaining that you don’t need to can be viewed in its entirety on Volunteering Officer Jaryll sustain humanity regardless of powerful tool to drive sustainable Antonio Guterres commented on have money to volunteer and that the UN Volunteers – Sri Lanka Ong shared that IVD 2020 was age, geography, ability, and development, encouraging people volunteering in a global context, there are many ways to support a Facebook page.

Hilton Colombo’s Christmas calendar is full, bursting with a jam- packed schedule throughout the month Hilton Colombo of December. Bring the kids to say hello to Father Christmas and pose for beckons you to come a selfie together as he wanders around the lobby from 20-24 December from 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m., or from 11 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. Keep your eyes open for Santa Claus at on Christmas Day. And while you’re Graze Kitchen at it, visit Café Kai with its life-sized ‘Home for with pumping music, flowing liquid, gingerbread façade for all your holiday and extravagant vibes, where you will goodies from mince pies, cookies, and welcome 2021 with fireworks and macarons to Christmas pudding and merriment! more, including festive hampers that L.A.B. will toast to the New make the perfect gift. Take a break Year with some fabulous cocktails, from cooking and let our chefs lay Christmas’ mocktails, deejays, and live your home table with turkey, rotisserie music by Miracle and an a la chicken, derby chicken, leg of ham, carte menu from 7 p.m. onwards at Australian lamb, beef prime rib roast, a minimum charge of Rs. 7,500 per and traditional sides. head. Over at Graze Kitchen, New You will notice a Christmas spring Year’s Eve will unveil an assortment in your step with all the amazing artists of flavours with seafood, soups, grilled lined up to serenade you! Make a date meats, carveries, desserts, and festive with violin-flute duo Lydia and Tilanka favourites from 7 p.m. till midnight at the lobby every night at 7.15 p.m. till at Rs. 8,888 per person. You can also 8 p.m. from 10-25 December. Catch celebrate the end of the year with Colombo’s best choirs from 8 p.m. to family and friends at Curry Leaf, Nokia 3.4 8.45 p.m. at L.A.B. with the Old Joes tucking into home-cooked local fare Choir on 20 and 21 December, Voiced from 7 p.m. till midnight at Rs. 3,988 makes its debut Out making an appearance on 22 and per person. 23 December, and Choro Calibre Lost for gift ideas? Fill those stockings spreading joy on 24 and 25 December. with Hilton Colombo vouchers for in Sri Lanka Meet up with friends for festive afternoon tea, dinner at Graze Kitchen, HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, announced high tea at L.A.B. every afternoon from an overnight stay for two, or keep them the launch of the Nokia 3.4 in Sri Lanka, continuing what 20 to 31 December to enjoy open for your loved ones to pick their it sees as a successful journey in reliability, design, and the lazy chats while munching on treat. best of Android in a durable, value-efficient package. handcrafted Christmas nibbles on around the world, it’s a feast for all Kick things up a notch: Come The Nokia 3.4 comes packed with a powerful tiered platters and sipping a cuppa at senses! Celebrate Christmas Eve with stay over and let the warm hospitality processor – the newest Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 460 just Rs. 3,988 for two. And come dusk, friends and family from 7 p.m. till of Hilton Colombo envelop you in mobile platform – bringing a strong performance upgrade L.A.B. is the place to be – sip or swig midnight at Rs. 8,888 per person, and five-star service, culinary delights, and at a more accessible price point. The first in its series our vibrant cocktails and mocktails countdown to Christmas one mouth- festive entertainment while you live with punch-hole display and a triple-rear camera with an while “drinking” in the nightly live watering bite at a time. On Christmas the best Christmas experience in town. ultra-wide lens and AI imaging, the phone also features a entertainment by Flame, Rock this Day, sit down to a traditional Yule Enjoy one of three residential packages two-day battery life. Country, and Miracle from 8 p.m. lunch from noon till 3 p.m. at Rs. 6,888 which includes Christmas Eve dinner The Nokia 3.4 comes with Android 10 OS and the onwards. per person, and keep your eyes open for at Rs. 24,388 per person or Christmas SunsetBlu will host the Hilton Colombo New Nokia smartphone Android promise, receiving three years Santa Claus! Graze Kitchen will then Year’s Eve Party at the poolside Day lunch at Rs. 22,388 per person or of monthly security updates and two years of OS upgrades. lay out an indulgent Christmas Day cocktails for you. SunsetBlu will also Christmas Day dinner at Rs. 23,388 per All of this is wrapped up in a premium design with Nordic- dinner from 7 p.m. till 11 p.m. at Rs. serve a la carte Christmas fare to the person with F&B credits to the value of inspired iridescent colours, staying true to its Finnish roots. 7,888 per person. sounds of great music for Christmas Rs. 14,000 for a double and a Christmas HMD Global Chief Product Officer/North America If you’re a curry bunny, the curry Day lunch from noon to 2.30 p.m. and gift from Santa too! Vice President Juho Sarvikas stated: “With the new Nokia and seafood buffet at Curry Leaf is dinner from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. And Plan your month with Hilton 3.4, we wanted to stay true to what made its predecessor for you – dig into savoury Christmas when you think Christmas celebrations Colombo because it’s going to be a successful, but also push the boundaries on what features turkey, fresh seafood delicacies, are over, it’s time to dress up for the buzzing one. we can include on a phone. The Nokia 3.4 gives you and decadent desserts on 24 and 25 new year! SunsetBlu will host the Visit the Special Events Desk at more power, more screen, and more freedom to push the Gingerbread houses and more delicacies December from 7 p.m. till midnight at Hilton Colombo New Year’s Eve the lobby from 10 to 31 December or await you boundaries of your creativity thanks to the ultra-wide Rs. 3,988 per person, and nod along to Party at the poolside with deejays call +94 2492492 to book early to avoid lens and AI imaging, and its signature two-day battery Pay homage to the glory of the Calypso beat of our resident band. Kapila, Naushad, Hiranya, and Sushan disappointment as reservations are life lets you make the most out of your day. We are also Christmas, feasting at Colombo’s most The latest hangout at Hilton Colombo, spinning all-time hits to dance away limited. introducing new colours to the portfolio – inspired by the buzzing restaurant, Graze the newly launched SunsetBlu, will the remaining hours of 2020! Enjoy a It’s been a Grinch of a year, and beauty of the Nordic nature we all know and love. All of Kitchen, where the culinary team be donned in Christmas cheer, and gala international dinner buffet from 9 this December you deserve everything that supported by our Android promise – as always, pure, of Hilton Colombo has recreated the those looking for merriment with a p.m. onwards finishing with breakfast nice and a little bit more! So come over secure, and up to date.” gastronomic equivalent breezy vibe, look no further! Celebrate at Rs. 9,888 per person; kids under to Hilton Colombo; come “Home for The Nokia 3.4 is now available in Sri Lanka and of Santa’s workshop. From Christmas Eve with live entertainment five come in free and those from six Christmas”. comes in Fjord, Dusk, and Charcoal colour options with succulent roasts with traditional from 7 p.m. till 2 a.m. and let our to 12 years of age enjoy 50% off. This For more details, visit www.shop. 3/64GB memory and storage configurations. trimmings to holiday desserts from mixologist Ash whip up some sensuous corkage free evening is going to be one hiltoncolombo1.com. the morning 5 Monday, December 7, 2020 sports Daryl Mitchell fined Rojas, Duplantis, World Coe felicitates ‘1968 Mexico Trio’ The International Cricket Council (ICC) yesterday (6) fined Athletes of the Year World Athletics President Sebastian Coe highlighted New Zealand pacer Daryl Mitchell 15% of his match fee for Sweden’s 21-year-old pole vaulter Armand on Inside the Games his support for athletes taking a use of an audible obscenity during the recently concluded Duplantis (pictured), who set two world records knee at next year’s postponed Tokyo Olympics by giving Test against the West Indies in Hamilton. In addition to this, this season, became the youngest-ever Male the annual President’s Award to the trio who famously one demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record. World Athlete of the Year winner on Saturday protested on the podium at the 1968 Mexico Olympics The incident occurred in the 62nd over on Saturday (5) when (5), with the Female World Athlete of the Year – Tommie Smith, Peter Norman, and John Carlos. Mitchell used inappropriate language as Jason Holder was award going to Venezuela’s Yulimar Rojas, who “The bravery, dignity, and morality of these three men running between the and in close proximity to him. set a world indoor triple jump record. continue to inspire athletes from all sports 50 years on.”

BY REVATHA S. SILVA The Sri Lanka squad for the South Africa Test series, In Brief starting on 26 December, second and final Test begins on Friday (11) at will most likely be named Wellington. today (7) by the newly SA’s Covid AUTUMN NATIONS CUP FINAL elected National Selection Committee, headed by England beat France 22-19 in the Autumn . Nations Cup final last night at Twickenham. England Owen Farrell landed the “We have not decided yet to crucial penalty to seal the match for his team. retain the already announced squad situation ‘VOICE OF GOLF’ IS SILENT (for the South Africa tour) or made any changes to that. We are sitting Peter Alliss, former golfer and legendary BBC in our first meeting tomorrow commentator, passed away yesterday (6) at the (today),” De Mel told The Morning age of 89. Alliss, known as “the voice of golf” to Sports yesterday. fans around the world, has been synonymous The other members of concerns SL! with the BBC’s golf coverage for more than half the new National Selection z Two England players z SA vs. England first z SL’s squad for SA a since 1961. Committee appointed on Friday test positive ODI postponed again to be named today STARC LEAVES AUS T20 (4) are Chaminda Mendis, SQUAD Pramodya Wickramasinghe, Ranjith Madurasinghe, Nilmini Thisara SL’s next Hardik Pandya’s match-winning knock Pacie Mitchell Starc has been withdrawn last night made India proud as a Gunarathne, Hemantha Devapriya, T20I nation from Australia’s T20 squad on compassionate and Uvais Karnain T20I Captain! grounds due to a family illness and will miss PANDYA ROARS INDIA’S T20 the final two matches of the series. It has not ODI postponed again will be ASCENDANCY been confirmed when Starc will rejoin the Meanwhile, Cricket South Africa appointed as the new Sri SCORES: squad. The Aus Test squad is due to link up (CSA) and the England and Wales Lanka T20 International Australia 194/5 (Matthew Wade 58 in 32 in Adelaide next week ahead of the opening Cricket Board (ECB) yesterday Captain, The Morning Sports balls – 4x10, 6x1, Steven Smith 46, Moises match of the series on 17 December. decided to cancel their ODI series learnt yesterday (6). Current Henriques 26, Glenn Maxwell 22; Thangarasu SCHUMACHER JR. IS opener which was due to take skipper ’s future Natarajan 2/20) ‘OVERWHELMED’ place in Paarl. The match was first participation for Sri Lanka is India (won the toss) 196/4 in 19.4 overs scheduled for Friday (4). That was in doubt. (Shikhar Dhawan 52 in 36 – 4x4, 6x2, Hardik Mick Schumacher will graduate to Formula after South Africa player Heinrich Malinga didn’t participate Pandya 42 n.o. in 22 – 4x3, 6x2, Virat Kohli 40 1 with team Haas next year as Formula 2 Klaarsen was tested positive. in the recent Indian Premier in 24, Lokesh Rahul 30; Mitchell Swepson 1/25) champion, despite a difficult final race of the The decision had been taken after League (IPL) nor the ongoing All-rounder Hardik Pandya guided India to a season in Bahrain this weekend. The German two England players and two staff Lanka Premier League series-clinching 2-0 lead against Australia in finished 18th and won the title by 14 points members of the hotel the England (LPL), conceding he has not their second T20I last night in Sydney. India from Britain’s Callum Ilott, who was 10th team stayed in tested positive for begun his training due to the needed 14 off the final over and Pandya hit in the race. Schumacher, the 21-year-old Covid-19. coronavirus outbreak. Perera debutant Daniel Sams for two giant sixes on son of F1 legend Michael, said he was “a bit has previously captained Sri the leg side to win the game with two balls to overwhelmed”. Two English players test Lanka in T20Is during 2017-18 spare. This leads India’s victorious T20I into Boland Park confirming that the first ODI was abandoned yesterday between KENYAN KANDIE BREAKS positive 10 matches. South Africa and England in nine matches, losing them HALF-MARATHON WORLD After the two hotel staffers all. KIWIS THRASH CARIBBEANS RECORD had tested positive, the England Zealand Cricket (NZC) during reconsidering the tour. A senior Sri Lanka Cricket IN FIRST TEST players and management have their series against West Indies (SLC) official said yesterday Kenya’s Kibiwott Kandie set a new world undergone an additional round of and Pakistan. CSA’s views that no decision has been taken SCORES: record for the half-marathon with a stunning PCR tests on Saturday evening as Pakistan who are already Meanwhile, medical advice so far officially on appointing New Zealand 519/7 dec. victory in Valencia. Kandie took 29 seconds off a precaution. there in New Zealand have been from both the CSA and ECB the Sri Lanka T20I Captain as West Indies 138 and 247 all out in 58.5 overs mark set by compatriot Geoffrey Kamworor in Following the test results, two virtually punished by NZC for noted that the match couldn’t take there are no matches scheduled (Jermaine Blackwood 104, Alzarri Joseph 86; Copenhagen last year, to complete the 13.1 members of the England touring breaching bio-secure protocols place yesterday. A decision on the for the country in the next few Neil Wagner 4/66, Kyle Jamieson 2/42) miles in 57 minutes 32 seconds. The 24-year- party have returned unconfirmed by not allowing them to train remaining matches in the series months. West Indies were thrashed by an innings and old won by five seconds from Uganda’s Jacob positive tests. The players and outdoors, while putting them will be taken once the results of the 134 runs, with more than a day and half to go, Kiplimo. management are now self-isolating under strict quarantine rules. tests are ratified independently by Thisara at Hamilton yesterday (6). Windies resumed Perera ROMAIN GROSJEAN TO MISS in their rooms until further advice Kiwis are to start their series medical experts. their second innings at 196/6 but were bowled FINAL GP from the medical teams, it was (T20I) against Pakistan on 18 CSA Director of Cricket out in less than 18 overs, in spite of a stiff reported. December after completing their Graeme Smith said: “CSA is resistance displayed by Jermaine Blackwood Romain Grosjean will miss the final Grand Test series against Windies on 11 doing everything in our power and Alzarri Joseph, who made 155 for the Prix (GP) of the season as a result of the burns SA’s bio-secure December. to ensure that our top priority, seventh . Neil Wagner and Kyle Jamieson he suffered in his fiery crash in Bahrain last bubble weak? Sri Lanka are to leave for South which is the health, safety, and wrapped up the innings before lunch after weekend. Grosjean wanted to race in Abu The development only indicates Africa on 16 December. SLC is welfare of players, support staff, the fall of Joseph. The victory was mainly set Dhabi next weekend to close off his F1 career that the bio-secure bubble in reportedly concerned about the and all involved in this series is up over the first innings knock of 251 by New but will return home for further treatment on South Africa is evidently weak current development in South safeguarded. With that in mind, Zealand Captain Kane Williamson. The latest his injured hands. Brazilian Pietro Fittipaldi, and fragile when compared to Africa but we found out that no we have made the joint decision to victory extended New Zealand’s unbeaten who is standing in for Grosjean in yesterday’s the bubble maintained by New decision has been taken yet on cancel today’s match.” home win streak to an impressive 14 Tests. The (6) Sakhir Grand Prix, will race instead. The cost of Olympic pipe dreams estimated that Rio de Janeiro spent around $ 20 billion to host the 2016 Games and SQUARE incurred losses to the tune of $ 2 billion. Prior to that, London spent $ 14 billion to host the Summer and Paralympic Games CUTS in 2012. Since 1996, only Beijing has not by Sudat Pasqual lost money while hosting the Summer Olympics. The only way a city could expect to Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa’s profit from hosting the Olympics is if 2021 budget proposals included Rs. the city doesn’t have to spend billions 2 billion to mount a bid for the 2032 for infrastructure, as is the case of Los Olympics. It is good to hear that the Angeles. Sri Lanka is not Los Angeles. To Prime Minister is thinking big and aiming make a serious bid for the 2032 Olympics, high. Nevertheless, one must question Sri Lanka will have to spend billions of the economic clarity of such grandiose dollars. In 2016, Rio spent $ 16 billion and ambitions of a nation in the midst of the cost is likely to be significantly higher a pandemic which has contracted the in 2032. Even if Sri Lanka is able to limit It is estimated that Rio de Janeiro spent around $ 20 billion to host the 2016 Games and incurred losses to the tune of $ 2 billion. The Games were supposed economy by an estimated 7% and per to carry Brazil to new financial and athletic heights. But what was left behind was a country shrouded by corruption, debt, and broken promises, said the cost to $ 20 billion, it would amount capita income by 6%. Reuters in 2017 to approximately 25% of Sri Lanka’s 2020 The World Bank (WB) estimates GDP. that more people of South Asia will be Other contenders for Olympics Real cost of any credible bidding countries such as Germany, China, added to the ranks of extremely poor These numbers suggest that Sri Lanka Bidding for Olympics is a costly venture Indonesia, and Qatar. A losing bid will, Investing in useful projects than any other region in the world. The is facing massive economic pressures and where applicants typically spend $ 50-100 which at this stage looks almost assured, Obviously, Sri Lanka cannot and should main economic sectors of Sri Lanka; is ill-positioned to contemplate fanciful million. The Rs. 2 billion assigned in will be costly. Tokyo, which bid for the not indulge in projects of fancy such as textiles, tea, and tourism have all shrunk ventures such as hosting the Olympics. the 2021 Budget amounts to slightly 2016 (Rio) Olympics unsuccessfully, is this that guarantee massive expenses dramatically in the first two quarters Currently, Germany, Qatar, Indonesia, over $ 10 million. If Sri Lanka is serious estimated to have lost $ 150 million in that and financial losses. It would be almost of 2020. Import-driven sectors have and China are the serious contenders with about making a credible bid for the 2032 effort. The same city spent $ 75 million for criminally negligent to do so at a time slowed down to a trickle due to import India, Italy, England, Holland, and South Olympics, the minimum initial budgetary the successful bid for the 2020 Olympics. when a significant number of people in the restrictions. According to Labour Korea also showing an interest in the allocation needs to be in the region of Rs. 9 country are struggling to make ends meet. Department figures, the country had lost Games. That is a very crowded field and billion, not Rs. 2 billion. Sri Lanka is not Los Angeles The money needs to be reallocated to 400,000 jobs in the manufacturing sector Sri Lanka will have to bid against all or Then there’s the remote likelihood of Hosting the Olympics is exponentially projects that guarantee tangible benefits to alone. some of them. Sri Lanka succeeding in their bid against costlier than the bidding cost. It is the people of Sri Lanka.