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Maintain Distance, Stay Safe RS. 80.00 PAGES 48 / SECTIONS 5 VOL. 02 – NO. 36 SUNDAY, MAY 31, 2020 www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk HEDGING www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk BETWEEN BANKING SECTOR ENICS: GOVT. AND RICE FORTUNE AND INTEREST RELIEF: CB WEIGHING THE MILL OWNERS COLD SURVIVAL YET TO RESPOND PROS AND CONS WAR CONTINUES »SEE PAGES 8 & 9 »SEE BUSINESS PAGE 1 »SEE PAGE 5 »SEE PAGE 4

With our readers’ health in mind a special antimicrobial ink has been used in the printing of our newspaper HANDWASHING FACILITIES FOR SCHOOLS Ministry short of over Rs. 300 m

BY SARAH HANNAN in schools. At the moment, the the schools which are in rural areas associations and make a request, consistent water supply and would Ministry of Education is left with a that have no way of attracting Chithrananda added. have to seek assistance from these Earlier this week, the Secretary to the Ministry of Education balance of Rs. 100 million. We are sponsors/well-wishers/old pupils’ From the Government’s end, the state institutions to supply water stated that the Ministry was short of funds to allocate for all now considering options to raise associations to build such facilities. Ministry had requested the respective through bowsers. That water is then state schools to build the necessary handwashing facilities and the balance to make the necessary While the Minister on several local government institutions such to be stored in storage tanks that additional amenities. purchases of sinks, taps, water pipes, occasions said that parents will not as divisional secretariats, municipal are to be placed in schools. Even and water storage tanks and then be burdened or required to contribute councils, urban councils, and pradeshiya these storage tanks will need to Offering further insight to The Chithrananda stated: “Rs. 418 million fixing them.” financially to build these facilities, sabhas to facilitate the necessary water be purchased or built at schools,” Sunday Morning, Secretary to the is required to install the necessary When allocating funds for these schools will be allowed to reach supply facilities to schools. Chithrananda noted. Ministry of Education N.H.M. amenities to enable handwashing facilities, the Ministry is to prioritise out to well-wishers or old pupils’ “Some schools do not have a Contd. on page 2 PCR tests to At a crossroads? PHIs slam Health PROTECT YOURSELF FROM COVID-19 Ministry guidelines be doubled z Calls them ‘impractical, z Claims the PHIs BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA Health superficial, and divisive’ were not consulted For verified Promotion Suwasariya information on Ambulance Bureau Service the coronavirus 1999 Health authorities are in the midst of making The Public Health Inspectors’ of the country resuming public (Covid-19) 1990 contact any of Quarantine Unit 0112 112 705 arrangements to increase the number of daily PCR Union of (PHIUSL) on activities during its gradual exit the following Epidemiology Unit 0112 695 112 authorities Govt. coronavirus hotline 0113071073 (polymerase chain reaction) tests being carried out Friday (29) stated that they do not from the existing restrictions for by at least twofold. approve of the impractical health Covid-19. PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES Contd. on page 2 guidelines that were issued in light Contd. on page 2 Telephone 0114354854, Fax 0112333066, 0114733600 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected]

TOTAL CASES ACTIVE CASES GAFFOOR BUILDING 1540 FIND YOUR DAILY DEATHS RECOVERED Everybody tested 776 10 754 ESSENTIALS THROUGH THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 7.00 P.M. ON 29 MAY 2020 negative: MoH SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU All Navy officers and personnel who were COVID-19 residing at the Gaffoor Building have been tested CASES IN THE WORLD and confirmed to be negative for Covid-19. topads.lk Contd. on page 2 TOTAL CASES 5,951,004 VISIT DEATHS RECOVERD ORDER TO PRINT BALLOT PAPERS www.topads.lk 363,023 2,611,820 Hoole perplexed CASES DEATHS USA 1,772,578 103,441 Member of the Election Commission (EC) Prof. BRAZIL 438,812 26,764 UNP Leader and General Secretary Akila RUSSIA 387,623 4,374 Ratnajeevan Hoole said he was unaware as to Viraj Kariyawasam seen leaving Sirikotha following the unanimous SPAIN 284,986 27,119 why the Government Printer had been instructed decision by the UNP Working Committee on Friday (29) to suspend UK 269,127 37,837 to print ballot papers. 99 UNP members Contd. on page 2 PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM STEPS Search for the product AMIDST FOCUS ON HOMAGAMA CUSTOMS SURCHARGE you need on topads.lk No change Polonnaruwa stadium Contact the mobile in fuel prices further delayed number mentioned Minister of Petroleum Mahinda below the product Amaraweera assured that the BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA imposition of a customs surcharge on fuel prices would not have any The construction of the National effect on local fuel prices. Stadium in Hingurakgoda, Get it delivered to your He told The Sunday Morning Polonnaruwa, which began in that the fuel prices would not be February last year after facing delays home through the seller changed under any circumstance, for several years since the project was as the Government did not announced, is yet to be completed reduce the prices during the last by (SLC). two months when the global fuel SLC member Sujeewa prices had come down. Weraliyadda told The Sunday As explained by the Minister, Morning that the opening of the the price fluctuation would be ground had been delayed due to the controlled by the Petroleum coronavirus situation in the country Stabilisation Fund. and it would open within the next #stayhome #staysafe #groceryitem #vegetables Contd. on page 2 three months. #fruit #deliveredtoyourdoorsteps Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning PICTORIAL/NEWS Sunday, May 31, 2020

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Soon after curfew in the and Gampaha Districts were relaxed, people rushed to the Kottawa-Makumbura Former MPs Patali , , and pictured outside the Colombo Crimes Division this week Multi-Modal Transport Hub to get on with their lives

Feeble souls: Despite the repercussions of the pandemic, there is no such thing as “returning to normalcy” for some

An interesting shot of a Buddhist monk eagerly Police officials distributed essentials and Police officials were spotted handing out facemasks in selecting books at a bookshop in Darley Road amenities to residents around Town Hall Pettah

The much- talked- about Gafoor Building in Colombo Fort, which was quarantined after a Navy officer tested Avant-Garde Chairman Nissanka Senadhipathi positive for Beating the heat: A police officer was making an exit from BMICH after providing evidence Covid-19 spotted at Face enjoying an ice Former UNP MPs and Prof. Ashu before the Presidential Committee on Inquiry probing cream under the scorching sun Marasinghe speaking at a press conference at Sirikotha political victimisation PHOTOS LALITH PERERA, PRADEEP DAMBARAGE, SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA, KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM, AND ESHAN DASANAYAKA

GUIDELINES WHEN ACCOMMODATING SHIP CREWS Navy to monitor operations BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA As learnt by The Sunday conditions in the safe houses, around 8-10 people have been “What the Navy does is Sooriyabandara noted. Morning, the Ministry of Health which is a direct violation of social crammed into normal two- make sure that nobody enters/ When inquired about a particular Allegations have been has given authority to the Sri distancing, well-informed sources person rooms, violating all health leaves the premises without any incident reported, the Sri Lanka levelled against “safe houses” Lanka Navy to monitor the crew told The Sunday Morning. guidelines issued by the Ministry of authority. However, it is up to the Navy said it would look into the operated by ships’ agents, transferring programme and the Accordingly, a complaint has Health, the sources alleged. respective ships’ agent to handle matter. under the responsibility of CASA has come forward voluntarily been made by one sea marshal When The Sunday Morning the accommodation. There are When contacted, the respective the Ceylon Association of to help the Sri Lanka Navy. company where it was alleged that contacted Sri Lanka Navy people who were sent for isolation shipping company which had Shipping Agents (CASA) for The safe houses operated by the condition of the hotels were Spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Isuru and some for quarantine, which directed the complaint to CASA, these ships’ agents under the not up to the standard level, as sea Sooriyabandara, he noted that the are two different programmes. refused to provide information to violating Covid-19-related responsibility of the CASA were not marshals were said to be crammed Navy was supervising the crew For quarantine, there are certain media. health guidelines while following the health guidelines, as into a few hotels. transferring programme which is health guidelines that need to be However, attempts made by The providing accommodation to at least one sea marshal company The incident has been reported operated by individual ships’ agents followed and for isolation it was a Sunday Morning to contact CASA crew members of ships. complained about cramped up from Galle and it was said that under the CASA. different mechanism,” Lt. Cmdr. were futile. Contd. from page 1

divide between the general public and the that the customs surcharge imposed by Ministry short... PHIs (public health inspectors), as it seriously PCR tests... Hoole... the Government was similar to the CESS Should any of the private sector tarnishes the trust that was built between the Ministry of Health (MoH) Health “Since there was no clear date set for the tax imposed by the institutions volunteer to build such facilities public and the health authorities. The least the Services Deputy Director General Dr. election, I feel it is a bit premature to order Government before 2015. for schools, they too could reach out the Ministry could have done was get the officers Paba Palihawadana said that it was crucial the printing of ballot papers. What if the Speaking to The Sunday Morning, JSS zonal or divisional educational offices to that were working in the field involved,” to increase the number of daily tests. nominations are cancelled and need to be General Secretary Ananda Palitha said the inquire about which schools have such PHIUSL President M.G.U. Rohana stated. “We hope to increase the current daily recalled? There are many possibilities, so Government did not have any reason to requirements. The PHIUSL urged that the published PCR test number by twofold at least,” she must wait and see how the Supreme Court increase fuel prices. guidelines should be revised to include a said. (SC) rules,” he told The Sunday Morning. “The global fuel prices are still at a low more practical and workable approach, with She noted that with the Government’s On Thursday, the media reported that rate,” he said. PHIs slam... the regulations needing to be gazetted, so that plans to reopen the country for tourism, it Chairman of the EC had given directives to – Maheesha Mudugamuwa “We view these guidelines to be superficial when people fail to follow them, necessary was even more important that the number the Government Printer’s office to print ballot and completely impractical. Some of the legal action could be taken against them. of tests were increased. papers. guidelines that are included will create a A Health Ministry official, speaking to “We certainly have the capacity to Prof. Hoole said the SC proceedings must Polonnaruwa... The Sunday Morning, noted that there had increase the number of daily PCR tests,” conclude first. The ground should be fumigated, and this H. M. Ranjith Wasantha Kumara been minor edits to the guidelines that were she noted. “There is no date set. We must await the got delayed due to the Covid-19 situation in Bandara Niunhella – Sworn as an issued on 27 May and the finalised guidelines Dr. Palihawadana said that at present, ruling given by the Supreme Court as the the country, he stressed. All Island Justice of Peace were re-published as an Annexure II on around 2,200-2,300 PCR tests were being cases being heard are fundamental rights The proposed international cricket stadium the Ministry of Health website, where all carried out on a daily basis. petitions challenging the very same issue – he in Homagama made the news in the last H. M. Ranjith Wasantha Kumara guidelines were compressed into a single – Skandha Gunasekara date of the election on 20 June,” He added. few weeks after it was suspended following Bandara Niunhella resident at 14, Nadun Uyana, Mattegoda, Kottawa document on 28 May. – Skandha Gunasekara discussions with stakeholders, former has sworn as an All Island Justice The guidelines are to be downloaded along cricketers and Prime Minister Mahinda of Peace in the presence of Mr. with the assurance form, which is available Everybody tested... Rajapaksa. However, the Polonnaruwa Mahee Wijeweera, District Judge - on the Ministry of Health website by all Ministry of Health (MoH) Public No change... project was announced in the latter part of Homagama recently. business and service providers, who are then Health Services Deputy Director General At the recent cabinet meeting, Prime 2016, and SLC was granted some 43 acres in He is a past pupil of Ananda College - Colombo, a member of the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka who required to submit the duly filled original of Dr. Paba Palihawadana told The Sunday Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in his capacity Hingurakgoda, Polonnaruwa for the purpose. holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management the assurance form to the area medical officer Morning that only the first individual who as the Minister of Finance approved two The National Cricket Stadium was part of a from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. He has of health. A copy of the same is to be sent to engaged in duties at the building had tested Gazette notifications on the subject of proposed multi-sports complex. completed the Annual Examination of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka, the Certificate the local government authority (municipal positive. imposing the customs surcharge on fuel The construction of the ground of Business Studies, and the Diploma in Accountancy council/urban council/pradeshiya sabha) “Apart from the first positive case prices. commenced in February 2019, even though grade III at Sri Lanka Technical College - Maradana. and another copy should be kept within the reported from the building, all of the The Government has established a tenders had been awarded a year prior, due He joined the Sri Lanka Customs after nine years of business premises. others are negative for Covid-19,” Dr. Petroleum Stabilisation Fund and it is being to issues with the SLC Interim Committee at service at the National Savings Bank and retired as a Superintendent of Customs after service of twenty- The official further stated that the guidelines Palihawadana said. maintained under the supervision of a the time, which did not go ahead with major eight years. are issued to remove the bottlenecks that She said that over 200 naval officers committee comprising Treasury officials. projects and only continued with day-to-day Further, he is a lifelong member of the would be created once the restrictions start to who had had been housed at the Gaffoor It expects to implement a programme to activities, he said. management committee at the Buddhist Association relax across . The official assured Building had been tested. provide long-term relief to the public through The initial estimated cost of the project - Mattegoda serving as an Internal Accounts Supervisor and a committee member of the Social that the Ministry of Health is looking at The Gaffoor Building was completely the repayment of loans obtained by the was Rs. 130 million and so far, Rs. 92 Welfare Society and Community Development completing the necessary documentation cordoned off and all its inhabitants were Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and the million had been spent, Weraliyadda noted. Society - Nadun Uyana. He is a commendable social for these guidelines and will gazette the sent for quarantine and PCR testing after Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). “But we think we can complete the worker who spearheads religious and social activities corresponding regulations at its earliest. a single naval officer who lived in the Meanwhile, the Petroleum Branch of the construction at Rs. 115 million, which is less in the area as well. – Sarah Hannan building tested positive for Covid-19. Jathika Sevaka Sangamaya (JSS) alleged than what we estimated,” he noted. the sunday morning 3 Sunday, May 31, 2020 SPOTLIGHT

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EXPRESSWAY PROJECTS WORTH RS. 600 BILLION

We are incurring a loss for each day we are delaying in implementing already committed projects. If we delay more, we will have to pay double the total cost of the project Running late Senior RDA official z Key projects face time and cost overruns would also be stalled. BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA as per the agreement signed between the two loan and to begin construction, a senior official has to pay last year, soon after the agreements However, the Government has given the parties, Rs. 31.7 billion has to be paid in dollars, attached to RDA told The Sunday Morning. were signed, was Rs. 23.7 billion; delays in green light to the Highways Ministry to go National expressway projects which amounts to $ 169.4 million as per the He noted that the RDA officials would meet paying this had jacked up the cost for the ahead with the CEP Stage IV from worth over Rs. 600 billion are facing agreement. officials of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Government by Rs. 8 billion, he explained. to , skipping the long-delayed Stage delays mainly due to funding However, due to the lack of adequate foreign (CBSL) to discuss the possibilities of receiving He pointed out that delaying the project III from Pothuhera to Galagedara, which was issues and obstacles to reaching reserves in the country, the RDA is yet to receive the $ 169.4 million. any further would lead to more escalations scheduled to be funded by Japan. agreements with contractors, the necessary amount in dollars to activate the However, the initial amount the Government in cost, and in the meantime, the project Contd. on page 11 hindering Sri Lanka’s attempts to fix its deficient infrastructure. As a , two main expressway projects, namely the Central Expressway Project (CEP) and Ruwanpura Expressway Project (REP), and an elevated highway project (EHP) spanning the length of over 374.7 km, are facing time and cost overruns, according to Road Development Authority (RDA) statistics. As learnt by The Sunday Morning, delays in implementing projects for which the agreements have already been signed, are costing the Government billions. “We are incurring a loss for each day we are delaying in implementing projects we have already committed to,” a senior RDA official told The Sunday Morning. “If we delay more, we will have to pay double the total cost of the project,” he stressed. However, the new Government that came to power in November last year has put forward new conditions to curtail any negative impact, including the requirement to obtain the full construction amount prior to starting the project. It also imposed a condition that the repayment period of each loan should begin at least five years after the commencement of construction. In addition, the construction of the project should be completed within three years and during that time, the Government should not be obliged to pay any interest. Most importantly, the Government is focusing more on dollar loans coming into the country rather than other currencies, The Sunday Morning reliably learnt.

Certain development projects for which the finances have already been received can be continued, but that also, only the documentation process can continue until the coronavirus pandemic is fully eradicated Ministry of Finance Director General Priyantha Ratnayake

As predicted by the senior official, these conditions would aggravate the delays as it would be difficult to find financial partners that would be willing to invest 100% of the project value. CEP – further delays Initially, the Government’s plan was to complete the construction of the CEP, which consists of four sections, by the end of 2019. The construction of the 37.3 km stretch from Kadawatha to Mirigama under Section I was delayed due to financing issues on the part of Sri Lanka to activate a loan committed by China. The construction of Section III was delayed by almost four years as the two parties involved – Sri Lanka and Japan – could not agree on the conditions. However, soon after the new Government came into power in November, Section III of the CEP was opened for fresh bids after abandoning the years-long discussions between Japan and Sri Lanka. Section IV of the CEP was to be constructed by China, but no agreement was signed for the construction. Over the past two years, The Sunday Morning has been reporting on the consequences faced by the people affected as a result of delays in providing monetary compensation in lieu of lands identified for the projects, delays in project completion, and its impacts on the national economy. In a new development, as learnt by The Sunday Morning, the Chinese-funded CEP Section I has been hit with a new delay as the Government’s foreign exchange reserves are running out due to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. The 37 km Section I of the CEP from Kadawatha to Mirigama was scheduled to be constructed by a Chinese contractor at an estimated cost of around Rs. 158 billion obtained as a loan from the EXIM (Export- Import) Bank of China. Section I, which is moving at a snail’s pace due to the delay in dispersing the funds of the already signed agreement covering 85% of the contract price, is yet to properly begin construction due to the delay on part of the Government to put forward the agreed 15% of the total loan amount. Under the contract, the Government needs to provide Rs. 31.7 billion to activate the already signed loan agreement. Earlier, this was to be funded by state banks. However, 4 the sunday morning Sunday, May 31, 2020 SPOTLIGHT WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER GOVT. AND RICE MILL OWNERS stocks. Then this week, the Government yet again revised the prices and increased it. This is a Government in charge of a country – not kindergarten. The Government must stand by its decisions. If they change Cold war their mind every time they come under pressure, then it shows its weakness. This Government, in the last month, changed vegetables prices four times in a span of just six days. Why is the Government continues becoming cheap like this?” He then noted that in addition to monopolising the market, the large-scale mill owners were also making huge profits from by-products of paddy and rice. “Also, no one sees the FERTILISER SHORTAGE manipulation of the market by the large mill owners who are making thumping profits. This is because everyone is focused on rice but no Farmers hit by one sees the profits the mill owners are making through the by-products such as rice flour – which they produce as well.” double whammy He said that with rice z Being misled without zPotential of Eppawala returning to the market following the revision this proper solution: Rock Phosphate deposit week, it was obvious to any Farmers considered: Govt. onlooker that the shortage was PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE artificially created and that BY SARAH HANNAN the distribution and transportation of the Government was growing fertiliser should be considered essential weaker. Over the past two months, a services.” BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA He then went on to justify “The multiple changes land extent close to 50,000 Karunaratne reiterated that the their demand to increase rice in rice prices show that this hectares had been repurposed Government had failed to ready the With the Government’s decision to revise rice prices prices by noting that consumers Government is weak. It is for cultivation, the Ministry of necessary fertiliser stocks for the once again, farmers’ associations have charged that had been willing to spend in also causing various problems Agriculture revealed. With the upcoming cultivation cycle during mill owners, particularly large-scale ones, had brought excess for cigarettes and alcohol within the industry itself. pandemic-driven lockdown the Yala season. He also noted that in the Government to its knees by creating an artificial during the Covid-19 lockdown. Farmers are against mill derailing the food supply chain comparison to the Maha season, the rice shortage and forcing a price increment for the “I don’t think the consumer owners. Consumers are angry of the country, the State along extent of land that will be cultivated this commodity. will have a problem with the with retail stores that are selling with eco-warriors encouraged season would be less. newly revised rice prices. This the rice, blaming them for the State-owned fertiliser companies The past several weeks saw electricity on average. Around is a fair price because during increase. So many problems are everyone who had access Ceylon Fertiliser Company Ltd. (Lak a serious shortage in rice, with 90 cents is paid to a worker to lockdown, we saw consumers being caused simply because to unutilised land to start Pohora) and Colombo Commercial many accusing the mill owners produce a kilogramme of rice. buy cigarettes for Rs. 165 a this Government is weak. cultivating. Fertilisers Ltd. (CCF) are only of stopping production and With all that, it costs about stick and arrack for Rs. 5,000 The Government has now What seemed like a bright idea soon responsible for supplying 10% of the hoarding rice stocks to force Rs. 9 on average to produce a a bottle on the black market. knelt before the mill owners,” posed a conundrum to the new farmers requirement of fertiliser, while the rest a change in the government kilogramme of rice. On average, Buying a kilogramme of rice at Karunaratne stressed. with many facing fertiliser and water of the supply is handled by privately control price. a small mill owner produces Rs. 98 to satisfy their hunger is He then charged that the shortages to continue the fieldwork and owned fertiliser companies, Karunaratne On 10 April, the Government about 10,000 kg a day. But the not a big deal,” Attanayake said. Government was also in on ensure the crops are nurtured to their pointed out. announced a control price for amount produced changes each Nevertheless, the All Ceylon the racket as large-scale mill full terms. Amidst that, the Government “Sri Lanka only uses three types rice with a kilogramme of nadu month.” Famers’ Federation charged that owners were also a part of the also promised farmers that they will be of fertilisers: Urea, muriate of potash and samba going for Rs. 90 He then revealed why there the Government had crumbled incumbent regime. provided concessions and encouraged (MOP), and triple superphosphate while keeri samba was Rs. 125. had been a shortage in the under the pressure of mill “The cherry on top is that the them to go ahead and cultivate not only (TSP). Any of these fertiliser types Sri Lanka Rice Producers’ market. owners. large-scale mill owners, who paddy, but also other crops such as should be sold at Rs. 20 per kilogramme Society Director Nishantha “The reason we did not “What we see here is that the have monopolised the industry vegetables, fruits, and legumes. and a bag of fertiliser comprising 50 kg Attanayake said that the release rice or produce rice is Government has buckled under and dictate terms, are a part of Many of the farmers are now getting is to be sold at Rs. 1,000 due to price Government had been misled because the control price of Rs. the pressure of the mill owners this Government. Araliya Rice ready for the next cultivation cycle controls. The contents of these fertilisers with regard to the rice shortage, 90 was too low.” and behaved in a weak, callous is owned by Dudley Sirisena and are raising concerns over fertiliser are made up of potassium, phosphorus, as the shortage was caused as Responding to reports of the manner when intervening in – brother to (former President) shortages. and nitrogen molecules.” a result of mill owners being Government contemplating this issue,” All Ceylon Farmers’ . Nipuna The Sunday Morning spoke to an However, according to Karunaratne, unable to produce and sell rice importing rice as a solution Federation National Organiser Rice Products is owned by official at the Ministry of Agriculture, there is also a type of fertiliser known at the April prices. to shortages, Attanayake said Namal Karunaratne said. former MP Siripala Gamlath, who wished to remain anonymous, as “mixed fertiliser”, which is simply a “The Government was importation would ruin the He went on to charge that the who is to contest the upcoming to inquire whether there was still a mix of urea, MOP, and TSP and is sold misled. We were in agreement domestic industry. Government had been a tool election from Polonnaruwa.” shortage in fertiliser stocks. under various brand names. One such with these control prices and “If the Government begins to of the mill owners since it was The Consumer Affairs “We did have a short supply of brand of mixed fertiliser costs Rs. 165 there was no shortage of paddy import rice, it will dismantle the voted into power last year. Authority (CAA) said that it fertiliser last month as the demand for per kilogramme, which is at this point or rice in the country. During country’s domestic paddy and “Just days after this had been decided to increase fertiliser went up with an additional the farmer is robbed by such fertiliser the last harvest, no farmers or rice industry. It will completely Government came into power, rice prices to maintain the 50,000 hectares of land being used for companies and their retailers. rice sellers took to the streets cripple small and medium mill a kilogramme of nadu which guaranteed price for paddy. cultivation. The Fertiliser Secretariat “They create a fertiliser shortage; to protest that they couldn’t owners. The Government must was Rs. 84 was progressively “To safeguard the farmers, faced a lack of manpower and they increase the prices on the available sell the produce because of protect domestic production and increased to Rs. 110 and samba the guaranteed price for paddy transportation issues due to the curfew stocks and end up selling a bag of the wise decision taken by the industries,” he said. became Rs. 115. Then, due to has to be maintained. In order and was not able to distribute the fertiliser at Rs. 1,200 or more, rather Government,” he said, speaking He went on to say that the the widespread public criticism to do this and to ensure mill available stocks to the farmers on time than selling it at the controlled price of of the prices prior to the change Government should also take of rice prices, the Government, owners can also conduct their as well. But now, there are sufficient the Rs. 1,000. In addition to that, when in April. part in rice production as it on 10 December 2019, met with businesses, we increased the stocks in hand and we have restocked the farmer goes to purchase fertiliser, Then, Attanayake charged would benefit the market. the large-scale mill owners and control prices of rice. This fertiliser in all our storage facilities they are asked to buy the mixed that the April price revision was “With regard to Government requested them to reduce the was what was communicated islandwide.” fertiliser and urea, whereas in reality, the unfair and crippled mill owners. intervention, we welcome it. We rice prices to a two-digit price. to us by the Presidential The official also revealed that the farmer should not purchase the mixed “However, in April this year, say that the Government should The mill owners obliged and Secretariat,” a senior official fertiliser supply was requested to be fertiliser.” the Government for some also take part in producing reduced the prices to Rs. 99 who wished to remain reduced by their advisory panel as they unknown reason decided to rice as this will create healthy and Rs. 98 per kilogramme of anonymous told The Sunday had found out the soil in Sri Lanka Local production considered introduce a control price for competition for the private samba and nadu, respectively.” Morning. contains sufficient phosphorous. While the entire world is facing trade rice and reduced prices; Rs. 90 sector. We have also informed Karunaratne noted. Meanwhile, the Government “We were advised not to issue the limitation due to the halt of production for nadu and samba while the the Government that they He charged that this was said that it was looking at same quantity of fertiliser to the farmers. and restricted border movement, price of white or red raw rice should have buffer stocks of rice a clear indication of the other options as permanent Furthermore, they are to conduct further should the country face a shortage of was brought down to Rs. 85 in case of a sudden shortage,” Government’s fear of the mill solutions for possible future studies and analyse the composition of fertiliser, the country will have to look per kilogramme. Keeri samba he added. On Wednesday (27), owners and questioned the logic rice shortages. soil in different cultivation zones. Based at alternatives to manufacture fertiliser remained the same at Rs. 125. the Government issued another in asking mill owners to set a Government Spokesman on the soil composition, the type of within the country. But they didn’t reduce the price notice revising and increasing reduced price. and former State Minister fertiliser that is to be used in different National Fertiliser Secretariat of paddy. Paddy prices cannot the price of rice. “This move by the of Investment Promotions areas too will have to change.” Director Mahesh Gammanpila recently be reduced because all of the Accordingly, nadu was made Government was completely said The Ministry official further noted revealed that the Government is looking paddy had already been bought Rs. 96 while samba was made wrong because the rice prices that restarting the importation that for years, farmers had been at encouraging farmers to switch to by mill owners. This is the Rs. 98 per kilogramme. Keeri were not calculated in a proper of rice could resolve the mismanaging fertiliser in a way that it organic farming practices, providing problem. Whether it’s the large- samba was made Rs. 120. scientific manner. They left shortage problem. could have potentially changed the soil them the technical assistance to maintain scale mill owners or medium Attanayake, in response the decision of setting a price “In the past, we have done composition, creating an environment their own compositing sites in their and small-scale mill owners, to the revision, thanked the to the very people who were this and know by experience for carcinogens to thrive. Experts fields and also looking at making use of none of us can buy paddy at Rs. Government. producing the rice. Where is that once importation starts, have therefore advised the Ministry of the Eppawala Rock Phosphate deposit 50 a kilogramme to produce and “We thank the Government the logic or fairness in that? all those mill owners and Agriculture to educate farmers on using to source the required phosphorus which sell rice at a Rs. 90 retail price. for their decision to revise rice They did this when there is a sellers hoarding stocks will lesser amounts of fertiliser for their also could substitute TSP. This means the bulk price of prices and increase them. There price formula available to be immediately put it into the crops. “There is a huge demand for rice is obviously below Rs. 90. will be no shortage of rice in followed when setting a control market,” he said. organically grown vegetables, and We could not make any kind of the country from now on. Now, price.” He said that another option Farmers misled switching to this method will help profit this way,” he stressed. we can sell nadu at bulk prices He said that with the revision was for the Government to be All Island Farmers’ Federation (AIFF) conserve the rich soil of Sri Lanka in the Explaining the process of between Rs. 92 and Rs. 94. of the April control prices more involved in the industry National Organiser Namal Karunaratne, future. If we exploit the readily available producing rice from paddy, he Before that, we could not even this week, the Government as well. however, shared a different view. natural resources and the perishable said the costs varied with each sell at any price. That is why we had finally surrendered to the “If the Government plays “The Government has been waste that is generated in the country, mill owner and the seasons. completely stopped production. demands of the mill owners. a more active role, then the misleading the farmer communities for we can manufacture sufficient fertiliser “It takes 1.67 kg of paddy to We will never demand; that “Then on 9 April, the private sector will have to a very long time. While the Cabinet stocks to use within the country.” produce a kilogramme of rice. will cause the price of paddy to Government held a meeting compete. This will make sure Minister debunks our claims on the Gammanpila claimed that the National That alone costs about Rs. 83. fall while rice prices are kept with mill owners and reduced that there is no shortage as well short supply of fertiliser, the former Fertiliser Secretariat has a stock of Then, when you include the high. Now, we have no problem the price of rice to Rs. 90 for as ensure competitive prices State Minster said there is a fertiliser nearly 40,000 tonnes of fertiliser in other production costs such as buying paddy at the guaranteed samba and nadu. After this for the consumers,” he said, shortage in the country. When we state-owned storages. electricity bills, transport, and price to produce rice and sell change in price, the mill owners noting that at present, a few consulted the Fertiliser Secretariat, they Apart from the two state-owned salaries, the cost is much more. at its control price. This has began causing an artificial private sector individuals were said there was a delay in the distribution fertiliser institutes, only another nine Producing a kilogramme of it safeguarded the farmer,” he shortage by refraining from attempting to monopolise the of stocks, which created the shortage. private companies are permitted to costs around Rs. 1.50 worth of noted. producing rice and hoarding market. The farmers collectively suggested that maintain fertiliser stocks in the country. the sunday morning 5 Sunday, May 31, 2020 FOCUS

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BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA opinion of digital media analyst Nalaka Gunawardene, who opined that the The security issues pertaining to citizens database needs more public biometric identification have been debate. debated for many years the world He explained these (currently scattered) over. Many countries/companies information in digital form certainly are using biometrics – physical makes it possible to search and analyse it markers such as fingerprints, facial in various ways, improving development recognition technology, retinal planning as well as emergency responses. scans, and voice recognition However, he said: “While there are clear systems – to ascertain the identity efficiency gains of such modernisation, we as a country must weigh such benefits of its citizens/employees because with two main risks: Unauthorised of the technology’s simplicity and access through hacking, and abuse by ease of deployment. some authorised officials for personal or Likewise, Sri Lanka introduced the eNIC political gains.” (eNational Identity Card) system several He added: “Sri Lanka lacks a legally years ago and now, the project is to be BIOMETRIC IDENTIFICATION guaranteed right to privacy or any further strengthened by including biometric specific law for protecting personal data for citizen identification. The data. A step in the right direction was brainchild of the eNIC, President Gotabaya taken when, in September 2019, the Rajapaksa, is paying special attention then Ministry of Digital Infrastructure to the eNIC project, which is currently and Information Technology (MDIIT) being further developed by the Ministry of released the final draft of the Personal Defence. Data Protection Bill. It defined personal At a meeting held recently at the data as ‘any information that can identify Presidential Secretariat, President Weighing the a data subject directly or indirectly’, Rajapaksa had instructed the relevant and stipulated measures to protect such officials to expedite the project. personal data of individuals that may The new Unique Digital Identity Card be held by banks, telecom operators, (Unique ID) programme would be operated hospitals, and other personal data by an expert team in collaboration with aggregating and processing entities. IT specialists under the supervision of a Unfortunately, this important Bill could presidential task force. pros and cons not be passed and made into law before Parliament was dissolved on 2 March eNICs 2020.” The Department for Registration of z Necessary cybersecurity z eNICs a necessity in He then questioned: “Officials in Persons is the only institution vested with charge of registering persons (NICs) the authority to establish a national persons laws still in the pipeline digital era, says IT experts have been reassuring about taking registry, and thereby an electronic data adequate administrative safeguards. But system for that purpose, and issue NICs. the purpose of streamlining services and would be taken to capture the biometric disabled critical security features of the can anyone guarantee that a database of The Department for Registration of facilitating national security. data of citizens, Gunathilake said, adding software used to enrol new Aadhaar users. 22 million citizens will not misused for Persons has been established under the Speaking to The Sunday Morning, that under the present laws, fingerprints political or commercial purposes? Human Registration of Persons Act No. 32 of Department for Registration of Persons can be captured as biometric data. High security rights activists have been cautioning that, 1968, regulations framed for the purpose in Commissioner General Viyani Gunathilake When asked whether the existing A member of the Advisory Group of the when implemented, it can help create 1971, and amendments made to these legal said the Department had so far issued over features of the card would be changed, he United Nations (UN) Secretary General’s a surveillance state as the data may be authorities. 2.5 million eNICs and the new project said the appearance of the card would not High-level Panel on Digital Co-operation, accessed by the security establishment would include the biometric data of the be changed, and there wouldn’t be a chip Prof. Rohan Samarajiva stated that the and others without any judicial person in addition to the information installed in the card. eNIC is a necessity in the digital era. oversight.” already gathered by the Department at However, concerns have been raised Elaborating on the security of the data He then pointed out that no government IDs have been in Sri Lanka since present. over the safety of collecting data in a collected from citizens, he stressed that the can guarantee the data security of such 1972 and since then, we have had “The new project would be conducted single database, especially in a context necessary government authority should be a database against determined hackers a centralised database. Once the under direct supervision of President where the country has a lacuna in the laws held responsible for data security and new as even some technologically advanced electronic system is introduced, the Rajapaksa. The two projects are similar, relating to cybersecurity. cybersecurity laws are also in the pipeline countries like the US, UK, and Russia only difference will be the availability but in the new project, the biometric Risks to deal with any kind of violation. experience data breaches. of electronic data. Therefore, there was (data) of persons will be included and As explained by Prof. Samarajiva, the He concluded: “In view of these not much of a difference with regard to the basic project design would be done Nevertheless, the collection of data stealing of data from the database could concerns, it would be wise to have a the data collected and decentralisation by information and communication and storing it electronically has its be a major cybersecurity violation we public discussion and debate on this of the data technology (ICT) experts; it will consequences, as there are a number of could face once the biometrics system is involving technology experts, human Prof. Rohan Samarajiva take some time for the Department cases of data breaches reported around the installed. And to prevent such violations, rights experts, civil society groups, and to implement the (new) project,” world. the highest level of security measures professional bodies like The Computer Gunathilake noted. One such incident was reported from should be installed, in co-operation with Society of Sri Lanka.” This project is formulated to give the Highlighting the already implemented India in 2018, and is considered one of the relevant departments. Meanwhile, when contacted by The general public an efficient and good-quality project, the Commissioner General noted most infamous public sector breaches. “IDs have been issued in Sri Lanka Sunday Morning, Public Administration service through the issuance of eNICs with that it had issued a polycarbonate ID card, Named “The Aadhaar Database Hack”, since 1972 and since then, we have had a Ministry Secretary J.J. Rathnasiri noted modern technological security features. and data gathered by the Department had it saw the biometric data and personal centralised database. Once the electronic that the project would be carried out by Under this project, it is intended to been decentralised. information of over one billion Indians system is introduced, the only difference the Ministry of Defence, and the Public establish a national persons registry as a “At present, we are receiving online compromised. will be the availability of electronic Administration Ministry would provide database with biodata of persons of 15 applications for the ID cards and an As was reported by Indian media, the data. Therefore, there is not much of a necessary information to the Ministry of years or above; fingerprints need to be office has been set up at each divisional authenticity of the data stored in India's difference with regard to the data collected Defence. taken as biometric data and a photograph secretariat to gather all the required controversial Aadhaar identity database, and decentralisation of the data,” he added. “The data will be collected by the has to be taken according to ICAO information,” he added. which contains the biometric and personal divisional secretariats and such data (International Civil Aviation Organisation) However, under the new programme, data of over one billion Indians, was ‘Needs more public debate’ would be provided to the necessary standards in order to identify persons for new software would be designed and steps compromised, as the software patch The Sunday Morning sought the departments when required,” he added.

that determination. legally and constitutionally so However, the points that Sri Lanka acts responsibly, highlighted in Article 150 (3) of respecting the Constitution in the Constitution very clearly state relation to public finances. that the President can spend on public services for three months ‘President on Account’ from the date on which the new Meanwhile, speaking to The Parliament is summoned to meet, Sunday Morning, former JVP MP he noted. stressed that “As scheduled earlier, the date the Government did not have any fixed for the next Parliament provisions to withdraw funds from sitting was 14 May. One could the Consolidated Fund through a argue that the President can spend VoA which is not approved by the from 14 May till 14 August. But Parliament. Parliament approved the Vote on Highlighting the fact that the Account till 30 April. So, one approval from the President is could make a similar argument to be obtained for the new VoA, All set for third VoA as to what will happen from 30 Handunnetti said: “If it is approved April till 14 May,” he said. by the President, it should be zProvisions of Rs. 1.2 to 1.4 trillion to be made Elaborating further, Dr. de Silva ‘President on Account’, not ‘Vote stressed that the constitutional on Account’.” Amidst the call for the maintain uninterrupted government unless Parliament shall have Government for allocating finances provisions have reiterated that The whole purpose of the VoA Government to reconvene services until the next parliament is already made provision, authorise without the approval of Parliament. the country could run without a is to obtain parliamentary approval Parliament to approve state summoned and a budget is passed. the issue from the Consolidated parliament for only three months, for public expenditure and the finances, the Ministry of Finance is As explained by Attygalle, when Fund and the expenditure of such Legislative powers which of course is a different President could not decide that, he preparing another vote on account there is a caretaker government in sums as he may consider necessary Speaking to The Sunday argument. said, adding that the only option (VoA) for three more months place, there is a special provision for the public services until the Morning, former Minister and “No law or no person can the Government has at present was starting from next month, The given under the existing laws to expiry of a period of three months economist Dr. be above the Constitution,” to reconvene Parliament and to Sunday Morning learnt. withdraw money under the warrant from the date on which the new stressed that the power to control he stressed, pointing out that pass all the necessary finances. The new VoA, expected to come of the President and as such, the Parliament is summoned to meet.” the finances of the Executive was therefore, unless the President Reiterating the President’s into effect from June, would be the Ministry was acting upon the law Accordingly, a total provision one of the most important powers issues a new date for the election stance on the Opposition demand, third such VoA for the year. specified. of around Rs. 1.2-1.4 trillion that have been vested with the and thereby summons the new Co-Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Speaking to The Sunday The President’s authorisation will be provided for government Legislature. Parliament, he won’t have the Bandula Gunawardana claimed Morning, Finance Ministry would be given for state expenditure comprising both “That is the power of the authority to spend public finances. the President would not violate Secretary S.R. Attygalle said expenditure from the Consolidated recurrent and capital expenditure legislature beyond the making By highlighting all the legislative the Constitution since he has no the Ministry was currently Fund, pending approval of the new under the estimated proposed new of law and the daily affairs of issues, the Opposition urged the authority to summon a dissolved preparing the VoA to raise the Parliament, as per the provisions VoA and government expenditure running this country,” he added. Government to reconvene the Parliament. necessary finances for government laid down in the Constitution, The for the period from June to August Highlighting the ongoing dissolved Parliament as soon as He noted that the President expenditure and the approval Sunday Morning learnt. is provisionally estimated at Supreme Court (SC) case on the possible, with the support of all could only summon Parliament to would be obtained from President As stated in Article 150 (3) of the around Rs. 450 billion, but this fundamental rights (FR) petitions, parties represented in Parliament, announce emergency law. Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Constitution: “Where the President could increase under the prevailing Dr. de Silva stressed that the and to have the essential “But the President has very According to him, the VoA was dissolves Parliament before the Covid-19 situation. ultimate interpretation will be expenditure, including the payment clearly mentioned he has no compulsory to raise finances for Appropriation Bill for the financial However, all opposition political given by the SC and the entire of salaries to the public service such need,” he told The Sunday government expenditure, so as to year has passed into law, he may, parties are up in arms against the country would have to wait for after 30 April 2020, approved Morning. 6 the sunday morning ECONOMY/FOCUS Sunday, May 31, 2020

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BY AGRA RANASINGHE Millions of employees of the private sector have lost their jobs This issue has turned into a ‘political battle’, which is something that should worldwide, and the numbers not happen. Many unions have continue to rise due to the impact already been discussing this, but we as of Covid-19. This is the case in Sri the responsible institution also have Lanka as well, where there have to protect both the employers and their been salary cuts and downsizing businesses across industries. As the private Commissioner General of Labour sector employs the bulk of the A. Wimalaweera labour force of Sri Lanka, this is a major cause for concern. country’s economy, many unions have According to Inter Company Employees’ urged the Government to be more Union (ICEU) President Wasantha concerned about such employers and Samarasinghe, over 200,000 employees in employees. the private sector have already lost their Commenting on the issue, Commissioner jobs, and he alleged that the Government General of Labour A. Wimalaweera told does not pay much attention to the The Sunday Morning that the Labour employees in the private sector. Department has a responsibility to protect both the employers and the employees. Employees losing their jobs “This issue has turned into a ‘political “With the reopening of the country, battle’, which is something that should the major crisis people are facing is job not happen. Many unions have already insecurity in the private sector. This been discussing this, but we as the has affected almost all private sector responsible institution also have to protect companies, and researchers have said both the employers and their businesses. that over 1.1 million employees in If employers have no businesses and if the private sector will lose their jobs. they are not financially stable, and if the Especially manufacturing, apparel, retail, Private sector job cuts employees are asked to stay at home, and wholesale businesses and many more how are they going to pay the salaries and sectors are at risk. provide jobs? We should understand that “After the reopening of businesses from Covid-19 happened all of a sudden and that April onwards, over 0.2 million employees it is beyond our control.” have lost their jobs, especially in large Even the most economically apparel companies. Women of the age of powerful countries such as the US are 50, who can work until they are 55 years in an economic crisis as the number old, have lost their jobs; temporary workers of Americans who have lost their and manpower workers too have lost their jobs have risen to 40 million and jobs. There are certain companies where Piling up unemployment claims in the UK is manufacturing has not started. They have currently at 2.4 million people not given the salaries to their employees z z and they have not informed the employees Will be 300,000 jobs Issue must not be politicised: The loss of jobs in the private sector whether they still have their jobs either.” is an issue that has affected the whole Samarasinghe went on to say that soon: ICEU Labour Commissioner world. Even the most economically additionally, there are more workers powerful countries such as the US are employed in shops and offices and if earlier work. He said that 60% of such workers The Minister of Labour claimed that whichever amount is higher – will only be in an economic crisis as the number of there were 10 workers who were working have lost their jobs this trend will continue Rs. 14,500 or 50% of the salary – provided for employees in companies that Americans who have lost their jobs have in them, now only five or less are asked to to a point where 300,000 jobs will be lost whichever amount is higher – will have not yet started to work. risen to 40 million and unemployment by the end of May. only be provided for employees “Even if it is given, the owners have claims in the UK is currently at 2.4 In addition, Samarasinghe said that in companies that have not yet already started to grant the measure as million people, according to The illegal salary cuts are another issue that has started to work they desire, which is illegal. It is illegal to Guardian. Due to the impact of the pandemic, made the employees depressed at a time cut off the salaries of employees. We have Although certain businesses have all other countries gave three months’ where they are at high risk of losing their from March. It is not fair to do so. They complained to the Labour Department and reopened, there is a large number of salary to employees. But in Sri Lanka, jobs. have cut 50-60% of the salaries of the we request the employees to complain to employees who are still staying at home, even the companies which made “Due to the impact of the pandemic, all employees. Still, the Government has the Department if their salaries have been worried about their jobs. Many private big profits in the month of February other countries gave three months’ salary not been able to grant any relief for these cut illegally.” companies have already closed down have cut salaries, reasoning that the to employees. But in Sri Lanka, even workers.” Employers losing business permanently, leaving many workers companies were closed from March the companies which made big profits in However, the ICEU President further unemployed and distressed, raising the ICEU President the month of February have cut salaries, said that the Minister of Labour claimed As the private sector companies percentage of unemployment in the country reasoning that the companies were closed that Rs. 14,500 or 50% of the salary – contribute a larger percentage to the furthermore.

BY SARAH HANNAN

Facemasks and hand sanitiser Comparing surgical masks gel, while recommended by the health authorities as a preventive and surgical N95 respirators measure to reduce the chance of contracting Covid-19, are also A surgical mask is a loose-fitting, yy Put it over your nose and mouth becoming items with the highest disposable device that creates a and secure it under your chin demand at present. physical barrier between the mouth yy Try to fit it snugly against the When the country went into a and nose of the wearer and potential sides of your face prolonged curfew mode in March, contaminants in the immediate yy Make sure you can breathe any and every available facemask environment. These are often referred easily ran out of stock in a matter of days. to as facemasks, although not all Personal use hand sanitiser gel facemasks are regulated as surgical Use the face covering to bottles too were not spared and masks. Note that the edges of the protect others shelves were been emptied. mask are not designed to form a seal yy Wear a face covering to help Two months later, there is a around the nose and mouth. protect others in case you’re surplus of stocks available with A N95 respirator is a respiratory infected but don’t have known and unknown suppliers, protective device designed to symptoms with social media feeds flooding achieve a very close facial fit and yy Keep the covering on your face with single-use and reusable very efficient filtration of airborne the entire time you’re in public facemasks being promoted. particles. Note that the edges of the Hand sanitiser liquids are readily respirator are designed to form a seal yy Don’t put the covering around available with some suppliers, REGULATING FACEMASKS AND HAND SANITISER around the nose and mouth. Surgical your neck or up on your some of whom are even selling N95 respirators are commonly used forehead them on the roadside off lorries. in healthcare settings and are a subset yy Don’t touch the face covering; But in the long run, will these of N95 filtering facepiece respirators if you do, wash your hands products made with the least (FFRs), often referred to as N95s. amount of consideration to quality The surgical masks and surgical Follow everyday health standards save us from catching a Ensuring safety N95s do share some similarities as habits virus? they are tested for fluid resistance, yy Stay at least six feet away from In this regard, we spoke to the filtration efficiency (particulate others National Medicines Regulatory Hand sanitiser recommended formulas filtration efficiency and bacterial yy Avoid contact with people who Authority (NMRA) to inquire filtration efficiency), flammability, are sick whether the institute is looking into Final recommended products to contain alcohol in the and biocompatibility. Most yy Wash your hands often with the quality of the hand sanitisers as concentrations of active following concentrations: importantly, they should not be soap and water for at least 20 well as reusable facemasks that are ingredients of hand sanitiser are shared or reused. yy Ethanol 75-85% (v/v) seconds each time available in the market. ethanol 80%v/v and isopropyl yy Isopropyl alcohol 74-76% (v/v) alcohol 75%v/v. Cloth face coverings yy Use hand sanitiser if soap and Regulating work in place In line with this, the National Manufacturers are required With the affordability and water are not available “Regulating the formulation of Medicines Regulatory Authority to strictly adhere to this reduction of environmental pollution Take off your cloth face hand sanitisers is already in place (NMRA) requires finished recommendation. in mind, many seem to have opted covering carefully when to ensure the quality of products for the cloth face covers. you’re home that are locally made. The World the market and legal action will be sold for more than Rs. 15 and cosmetics (hand sanitisers) through Since surgical masks and N95 Health Organisation (WHO) had be taken. However, regulating the a N95-type facemask for Rs. email. Therefore, the request with respirators must be reserved for yy Untie the strings behind your given two formulations for hand various types of facemasks that 150. However, this gazette was the scanned copies of the relevant healthcare workers and other medical head or stretch the ear loops sanitisers by using ethanol and the are available in the market is a amended on 16 March 2020, documents was to be emailed to first responders, cloth face covers yy Handle only by the ear loops other by using isopropyl alcohol complex process, Prof. De Silva stating that the control price of the NMRA. are a popular option for the general or ties as active ingredients. We are now noted. The NMRA is only able facemasks will be Rs. 50 and the The NMRA was to grant public. yy Fold outside corners together deploying a team to obtain samples to quality-check the disposable N95 masks must be sold for no temporary WoR to numerous Follow the below steps when yy Place covering in the washing of the products that are available surgical masks and the N95 more than Rs. 325. organisations to supply medicinal wearing a cloth face cover: machine in the market for testing,” NMRA respirators. Considering the prevailing products urgently required to Chairman Prof. Asitha de Silva Gazette No. 2160/28 of the situation, the NMRA decided to counter the challenge posed by Wear your face covering yy Be careful not to touch your explained. National Medicines Regulatory facilitate the submission of requests Covid-19 in order to facilitate correctly eyes, nose, and mouth when If the products are found to Authority Act No.5 of 2015 for Waivers of Registration emergency supplies by providing yy Wash your hands before removing and wash hands be substandard, the NMRA will issued on 29 January 2020 said (WoR) for urgent requirements of abbreviated regulatory oversight. putting on your face covering immediately after removing recall the whole consignment in that a surgical facemask will not medicines, medical devices, and PHOTOS SAMAN ABESIRIWARDENA the sunday morning 37 Sunday, May 31, 2020 FOCUS

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BY SKANDHA GUNAEKARA HEALTH GUIDELINES FOR POLLS With speculation rife over the holding of parliamentary polls and the Government Printer being asked to be on standby to print ballot papers, health guidelines are Still a work in progress yet to be finalised, with costs for the election predicted to EC did not believe it could hold separate pens for each voter to the election on 20 June due to the cast their vote, proper ventilation at least double as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak in pandemic and safety measures within counting centres, using a therein. disposable pen to mark the voters’ Without the official health Sri Lanka. As such, when a date is decided fingers, and health measures for guidelines we cannot make The date of the election itself for the election, it would inevitably transportation. any calculations as we do not is under contention with several be held in accordance with the Other features would be know for sure what additional fundamental rights (FR) petitions health guidelines of the Ministry of stationing public health officers costs there would be EC Chief Financial Officer filed in the Supreme Court (SC) Health (MoH). at polling booths to monitor the E.A. Weerasena challenging the date being heard Accordingly, the MoH revealed implementation of the health currently. that the guidelines were still being guidelines and ensure all safety Saliya Peiris PC, appearing on formulated and that a draft was yet measures are followed. Morning that he expects the cost to behalf of the Election Commission to be finalised. Gamlath said that a mock drill double. (EC) informed the court that the MoH Environment, to ascertain the practicality of the “At the very least, the cost Occupational Health, and Food guidelines and how they would would double from the initial Safety Unit Deputy Director work on the day of the election estimates. But we have to first General Dr. Lakshman Gamlath would be carried out as well. calculate it properly,” he said.

Before finalising the draft, we said that at least another week or “Before finalising the draft, we Meanwhile, EC Director General will do a mock drill to ensure two would be needed. will do a mock drill to ensure all Saman Sri Ratnayake too said that all the recommendations could “We have to discuss all Dr. Gamlath said. distancing between voters when the recommendations could be he expected the amount to double be followed. We expect to carry recommendations in the draft The guidelines would include standing in queue at polling followed. We expect to carry out as well. out the drill in the coming guidelines with the Election various measures for voters and centres or within counting centres, the drill in the coming weeks,” he “We haven’t received the weeks Commission to determine how election officials alike with hand the use of face masks by all said. Health Ministry guidelines yet, Ministry of Health Environment, they can be implemented or if sanitising and social distancing involved in the election, as well as With all these added expenses, but it seems that the costs will Occupational Health, and Food they needed amending. We had a being two of the key elements. the use of hand sanitiser by votersTIMELINE it was FOR likely RESUMPT the total IONcost of the increase twofold, at the least, due meeting on Wednesday (27) but Examples of general and officials alike. election would increase. to the additional health and safety Safety Unit Deputy Director General Dr. Lakshman Gamlath there were still a few contentious recommendations of the guidelines The nitty-gritties would EC member Prof. S. Ratnajeevan measures,” he said. points that need to be ironed out,” applicable to all would be Asocial general timelineinclude in which the resumption possibility of of activities using can take placeH. Hoole is given told below. The SundayAll resumed functions would have to strictlyContd. follow theon newpage 11 normal behaviours. General Measures would apply to all functions listed. The timeline is given based on the current low level of COVID-19 transmission in the country. There are 2 timelines developed for higher risk areas and lower risk areas. The situation should be reviewed weekly or as appropriate based on epidemiological information. In the event of a lower risk area becoming higher risk, the relevant timeline should be adjusted.

‘New Normal’ timelineThe timeline belowfor is coded as follows; resuming activities A general timeline in which resumption of activities can take place is given below. Black – No operations All resumed functions would have to strictly follow the new normal behaviours. Red – Higher restrictions (service providers and/or the recipients to be restricted to less than 50% of capacity with strong adherence to DREAM) General Measures would apply to all functions listed. The timeline is given based on Blue – Restricted (service providers and/or the recipients to be restricted to less than 75% of capacity with strong adherence to DREAM) White – Normal operations with strong adherence to DREAM the current low level of COVID-19 transmission in the country. There are 2 timelines developed for higher risk areas and lower risk areas. The situation should be reviewed TableTable 3: 3: Timeline Timeline for for gradual gradual resumption resumption of activities of activities in low iner lower risk areas risk areas

weekly or as appropriate based on epidemiological information. In the event of a Public activity / service category

lower risk area becoming higher risk, the relevant timeline should be adjusted.

The timeline below is coded as follows; May 18 May 25 June 1 June 8 15 June 22 June 29 June July 6 July 13 July 20 July 27 August 3 August 10 August 17 August 24 August 31

Table 2 2:: Timeline Timeline for gradualfor gradual resumption resumption of activities of inactivities higher risk in areas higher risk areas General measures Physical Distancing D

Public activity / service category Respiratory Etiquette RE

To be practiced throughout Hand Washing A

Face Masks M May 18 May 25 June 1 June 8 15 June 22 June 29 June July 6 July 13 July 20 July 27 August 3 August 10 August 17 August 24 August 31 Transport (should Public General measures Physical Distancing D NOT exceed the Private taxi services

Respiratory Etiquette RE To be practiced throughout maximum seating Hand Washing A Service capacity) 52 Face Masks M Government offices Transport (should Public Private sector offices Supermarkets NOT exceed the Private taxi services

maximum seating Service delivery and other (formal) Shopping Malls capacity) Financial institutions (banks, finance Government offices companies, pawning centres etc) Private sector Supermarkets Clothing/textile shops

offices and other Shopping Malls Agriculture based (formal) Financial institutions (banks, Private/ Other Grocery finance companies, pawning Open market/fairs centres etc) Economic centres Clothing/textile shops Bakery Agriculture based Street vendors Grocery Private/ Other Filling stations Open market/fairs Construction sites Economic centres Salons Bakery Furniture, Electrical, Hardware Street vendors

Public activity / service category 56

53

Public activity / service category

May 18 May 25 June 1 June 8 15 June 22 June 29 June July 6 July 13 July 20 July 27 August 3 August 10 August 17 August 24 August 31 May 18 May 25 June 1 June 8 15 June 22 June 29 June July 6 July 13 July 20 July 27 August 3 August 10 August 17 August 24 August 31 Filling stations stores Construction sites Laundry Salons Tailors Furniture, Electrical, Hardware Communication/ photocopy shops stores Law enforcement Courts Laundry Prison Tailors Communication/ photocopy Health sector Government Hospitals shops Private Hospitals Law enforcement Courts General practitioners Prison Pharmacy Health sector Government Hospitals Laboratory Private Hospitals General practitioners Education Day cares Pharmacy Preschools Laboratory Schools Education Day cares Higher education centres including Preschools universities Schools Tuition classes Higher education centres Social functions Weddings including universities Tuition classes Funerals Social functions Weddings Parties indoor Parties - outdoor, beach

Public activity / service category 54

Public gatherings

Places of worship

May 18 May 25 June 1 June 8 15 June 22 June 29 June July 6 July 13 July 20 July 27 August 3 August 10 August 17 August 24 August 31

Funerals Public activity / service category 57

Parties indoor Parties - outdoor, beach,

Public gatherings May 18 May 25 June 1 June 8 15 June 22 June 29 June July 6 July 13 July 20 July 27 August 3 August 10 August 17 August 24 August 31 Places of worship Recreation Gymnasium Gymnasium Recreation Walkways Walkways Cinemas, theatres Cinemas, theatres Children’s parks Children’s parks Carnivals, musical shows Carnivals, musical shows Swimming pools Swimming pools Entertainment Restaurants (dining -in) Entertainment Restaurant (dining in) Restaurant (take Restaurant (take away/delivery) away/delivery) Pubs, and bars Pubs, and bars Wine/liquor shops Wine / liquor shops Casino, night club, betting Casino, night club, betting centre centre Spas Spas Day rooms and home stays/ Day rooms and home stays/ guest guest house house Hotels and rest houses Hotels and rest houses

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the sunday morning Sunday, May 31, 2020 EDITORIAL/POLITICS

WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER

The major political parties Let’s not persecute are hedging their bets this week, as their fortunes and, in some cases, survival the persecuted depend on the outcome The past week has been the most prolific in the detection of Covid-19 of the legal battle before cases since the global pandemic arrived in Sri Lanka mid-March. The the Supreme Court (SC) on five days from Monday to Friday last week saw over 400 individuals the fate of the dissolved Hedging between being detected with the virus, sending the overall number of infected Parliament and postponed soaring past the 1,500 figure. general election. Although the majority of the new cases have been those returning from the Middle East via especially arranged repatriation flights, the The fact of the matter remains that each one of those who tested positive is (UNP), smelling blood in the a Sri Lankan national and now a patient occupying a hospital bed in the water, lashed out by suspending country. Their collective fate now rests in the hands of the Government the party membership of its of Sri Lanka. What must be kept in mind is that these are people who members who had filed nomination were virtually thrown out onto the streets by their employers and many papers through the Samagi Jana fortune and survival of them had not even been paid their salaries, leaving them at the mercy Balawegaya (SJB) that is led of the Sri Lankan missions for repatriation. by former Opposition Leader Although initially at least one government minister publicly objected to and UNP Deputy Leader Sajith the continuation of the repatriation flights operated by the national carrier, Premadasa. Letters announcing the SriLankan Airlines, citing health concerns, the flights are continuing after suspension of UNP membership a temporary suspension was revoked mid-week. were sent via registered post on the The Middle East has always been hostile territory for Sri Lankan Wednesday (27), to a group that domestic workers, but that has not deterred thousands from flocking includes the vast majority of UNP black box to those countries, essentially driven by sheer economic necessity. MPs from the last Parliament. by Capt. Vasabha Therefore, it is no surprise that these usually hostile employers chose UNP General Secretary Akila to evict their workers en masse on the pretext of Covid-19 while the Viraj Kariyawasam said the move rebuild the UNP anew. These UNP governments of those countries did little or nothing in turn to stop these was aimed at UNP members heavyweights have advocated acts, obviously for reasons of self-preservation. who had sought to be elected to cleansing the party and seeking to Health Services Director General Dr. Anil Jasinghe is on record that Parliament from other political take a loyal UNP faction into an no country should evict the sick until they are healed, citing Sri Lanka’s parties at the forthcoming general alliance with President Gotabaya example of the Chinese tourist who was treated and cured in January. But election. Rajapaksa in the form of a national such adherence to both international and moral conventions is beyond “Any member who wishes to government. most in the post-pandemic world where the doctrine of national interest have his name included in the Others in the UNP wish to supersedes all else. nomination list as a candidate of oppose the Sri Lanka Podujana Over the past two months, thousands of Sri Lankans, mostly workers another political party is mandated Peramuna (SLPP) Government, in the Middle East and students in other parts of the world, have been in terms of Article 3(c) of the and wish to see the UNP and pleading with the Government to bring them home. After exhausting UNP Party Constitution, to obtain SJB factions unite with the other access to official lines of communication, frustrated by the delay caused prior approval from the Working Opposition parties to hold a unified by the suspension of operations by the national carrier and advise by the Committee (WC) of the UNP. front against the Government over health authorities to delay mass repatriation, many of them resorted to The members in question have serious divisions on policy and social media to plead their case. The essence of the message was that not complied with Article 3(c) principle with regard to handling they have been thrown onto the streets by their employers and therefore, of the Constitution, and have the public health crisis and its helpless and at the mercy of the Sri Lankan missions which in turn were not obtained the prior approval resulting economic fallout. not accommodative of their grievances. of the WC. The said conduct Social media was flooded with messages from the Middle East showing of the members has compelled Turn around the harrowing conditions that hundreds of Sri Lankans were undergoing the Leader of the UNP to act in At Friday’s (29) WC meeting, while awaiting the repatriation flights. It was this digital storm that finally terms of Article 3(h) of the Party the UNP Leader insisted that worked in their favour with Opposition politicians taking up the cause. Constitution in order to protect and the UNP would not form a With an election round the corner, it became a case of Hobson’s choice safeguard the best interest of the national government under any for the Government to spring into action. party,” Kariyawasam said. circumstances, and proceeded to Given the runaround these people experienced over the past two months, turn the party upside down, by it was just a matter of time before they became carriers of the virus, having A group of CWC appointing new office bearers SJB Leader and UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe been exposed to various elements and the unsanitary living conditions representatives on and taking formal steps to ratify PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM they had to endure prior to returning home. It can be safely assumed that Wednesday (27) met with the purging of almost two-thirds no human being would ever willingly contract this virus, even if they Prime Minister Rajapaksa of the party’s outgoing MPs Last Tuesday (26) marked (20), when a junior of Presidents are low on the grey matter, and therefore, it is unfair on the part of some and requested the Premier to and provincial council members a major milestone in the Counsel Romesh de Silva, who is politicians to portray them as outcasts after they tested positive for the give nominations to Jeewan from its ranks. The nearly 100 political journey of the representing President’s Secretary virus on their arrival in Sri Lanka. Thondaman, Thondaman’s suspended members of the UNP Prime Minister, who first Dr. P.B. Jayasundera, rushed into When a vocal minister termed these arrivals as a “bomb from Kuwait”, all son, to contest the impending are those elected to Parliament entered Parliament on 26 the ceremonial courtroom to hand hell broke loose with the Opposition joining the commotion and reminding general election from the in 2015 or local government May 1970 – 50 years ago. In over several copies of a letter from him that it was these workers who kept the country’s home fires burning Nuwara Eliya District in lieu of bodies in 2018 who have accepted this time, Mahinda Rajapaksa Health Services Director General by being the top foreign exchange revenue earner. Since then, sanity has demised Minister Thondaman parliamentary nominations from became a political icon with Dr. Anil Jasinghe that de Silva prevailed and the repatriation process is continuing apace. the SJB on 19 March. unprecedented and almost said was an expert opinion that As things stand, there are many more awaiting repatriation and it He also hinted that several The Party Leader appointed a religious grassroots support supported his client’s case that is becoming apparent that the health authorities are scrambling to of these candidates have now new UNP Treasurer, Attorney-at- among the working people elections could proceed under the expand capacity for treatment of positive cases. This was evident by expressed regret at their decision Law A.S.M. Misbah, to replace current pandemic conditions. the declaration of the Hambantota and Teldeniya Hospitals as Covid-19 to sidestep the UNP and are former Minister Dr. Harsha de , and National “As you are aware, Sri Lanka treatment centres last week. seeking to return to the party Silva who resigned in March. Organiser . has been successful in containing Going by the current trend, the need of the hour is to mitigate the onset of fold. “However, acting in terms UNP Chairman and Eight new members were the spread of Covid-19 with a second wave which could be triggered by a mere moment of distraction of Article 3(h) of the Party Deputy Leader Sajith Premadasa appointed to the WC. They are the number of persons infected as in the case of a Covid-19-positive Navy officer being detected in Fort. Constitution, letters have been sent were formally removed from their , former and the number of deaths also The authorities as well as the public must not for a minute make the out to all members who had placed posts. MPs Palitha Thewapperuma, being very low at present, due to mistake of letting their guard down, just because most of the curfew their names on the nomination lists All UNP office bearers' positions Prof. Ashu Marasinghe, concerted efforts being made by restrictions have been removed. of other political parties, calling expired on 31 March following a Shanthini Kohenege, Nalaka the Government and by the health This, no doubt, is easier said than done as it is becoming apparent that for their explanations,” he said, temporary extension provided by Kollana, Chanaka Illeperuma, authorities,” the letter read. most of the precautions that were in place during the lockdown are being adding that any explanation which the Party Leader. Azmi Thassim, and Kasthuri “Based on findings of gradually thrown to the wind following relaxation of the curfew. will be forthcoming from the The Party Leader appointed a Anuradhanayake. All eight are continuous assessments being For instance, crowds can be seen thronging supermarkets, economic members will be placed before the new UNP Treasurer, Attorney-at- considered extremely loyal to made by the health authorities centres, Pettah, and even the Jathika Pola in Narahenpita, which incidentally WC of the UNP at its next meeting Law A.S.M. Misbah, to replace Wickremesinghe, and their votes on an islandwide basis and also is patronised by the more educated and so-called elite class of Colombo. for appropriate action. former Minister Dr. Harsha de would be essential in the event of considering continuous advice Sri Lankans by nature have very short memories and prefer to take the The suspension is a Silva who resigned in March. a renewed leadership tussle if the and guidance given by the WHO easy way out whenever possible. For instance, if not wearing a mask is compromise by Party Leader UNP Chairman Kabir Hashim and general election was stymied by (World Health Organisation), it an option, one can be sure not many will wear one. Ranil Wickremesinghe to please Deputy Leader Sajith Premadasa the SC. appears that the parliamentary Since the pandemic is far from over in this part of the world, every those in his party that wish to were formally removed from their election process could be effort must be made to ensure crowds do not gather in public places at outright purge the SJB faction, posts as well. The WC on 29 May Battling the virus continued whilst maintaining least for a few more weeks and the basic safety protocols are adhered to which makes up over two-thirds ratified the re-appointment of the The Covid-19 crisis and its role social distancing, hand hygiene, by the public through the active intervention of the Police. of the UNP’s parliamentary General Secretary Akila Viraj in the elections became front and respiratory etiquette, and other The funeral of late Minister which takes strength, from the party, and Kariyawasam, the Assistant Leader centre in the SC on Wednesday measures which the people are place today in Kotagala will pose a challenge to the authorities as it is gradually getting used to and will likely to turn into an event attracting thousands of mourners. It is hoped have to continue as a part of their that the authorities will at least enforce the minimum safety protocol daily routine. of wearing a mask, so that it sends a strong message to the rest of the “The health authorities will island that there should be no compromises or exceptions to the rule in provide the suitable guidelines to the fight against Covid-19. the Election Commission (EC) on The Government for its part must be logical in its promulgation of rules request so that the election process and regulations governing the operation of businesses if such measures can be continued. are to be effective. For instance, permission has been granted to hotels and “As there is no vaccine or restaurants approved by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority medicine of choice for Covid-19, (SLTDA) to recommence business, but not others which mainly cater to there is a risk that any country can local clientele. Does it mean that the virus only affects establishments be subject to importation not registered with the SLTDA? These establishments include ordinary and spread of the disease. restaurants and even the sports clubs that sustain various national sports. “In this context, it is They too have hundreds of workers who need to be paid their salaries necessary that regulations apart from the other overheads that have to be met. be gazetted under the If the Government is of the view that alcohol lowers body immunity to Quarantine and Prevention resist the virus, then it should not permit any type of restaurant or hotel of Disease Ordinance with a to sell or serve it, although Sri Lanka would be the only country in the view of long-term prevention world to do so. and control of Covid-19. Therefore, if conformity is to be expected, it is important that rules “In the circumstances, I see and regulations show uniformity. Besides, the thought process in the no reason why the election formulation of rules and regulations should be perceived as logical as process cannot be continued,” otherwise it runs the risk of backfiring on the authorities. It is not only the the letter concluded. returning workers that should not be persecuted but also local businesses Dr. Jasinghe tried to toe the that have endured persecution in the name of Covid-19. line, not stating unequivocally that elections can be held, so as to No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. not contradict his previous stance Fax - 011 2 673 441 conveyed to the EC. General - 011 5 200 900 During a TV programme on the Director Sales & Marketing - 077 3 866 143 state-owned Sri Lanka Rupavahini, Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367620 the senior health official said that E-mail - [email protected] although he had issued health 9 EDITORIAL/POLITICS

WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Hedging between A political legend fortune and survival who changed the directives with regard to At Friday’s WC meeting, The telephone conversation face of the nation holding an election, he firmly the UNP Leader insisted had been very constructive said it should go hand in hand that the UNP would and cordial and in the face of with several other factors such not form a national the Covid-19 crisis, they had z Mahinda Rajapaksa, whom I am as strengthening quarantine government under any agreed to further strengthen laws and introducing this circumstances, and all aspects of the bilateral new normalcy to the country proceeded to turn the relations. fortunate enough to call my father party upside down, by through social marketing. President Rajapaksa BY NAMAL RAJAPAKSA “Without these, if Covid- appointing new office had also appreciated the 19 returns in three more bearers and taking formal opportunity to discuss matters Fifty years ago, on 27 May weeks, it won't be possible steps to ratify the purging of mutual interest with the 1970, the journey of a to do anything, let alone hold of almost two-thirds of Indian Premier and had political legend began. Sri the party’s outgoing MPs elections,” he sternly noted, thanked him for the support Lanka's political destiny adding that everyone including and provincial council extended by India to help Sri members from its ranks changed when Hon. Mahinda the Government and the Lanka face these difficult Rajapaksa decided to Opposition should understand times. India’s gift of 10 tonnes this. Colombo-based Indian High of medical supplies proved follow his father's footsteps “Do not class us into the Commissioner, Gopal Baglay. to be very useful, said the by entering the political same lot as politicians. We Meanwhile, the conversation President in appreciation. arena, representing the do not engage in politics. between Rajapaksa and Modi Responding, Premier Modi Hambantota District. He was We have worked hard in the had also focused on the had noted that even though only 24 years old when he government sector for 30 Indian-funded development it is not easy to manage a was elected to Parliament, as years amid many challenges. projects in Sri Lanka. population of more than 1.3 the youngest MP ever in Sri We have never lobbied for Rajapaksa had sought billion, about 75% of the Lanka's political history. He any politician or any political Modi’s intervention to revive spread of the virus has been entered the political sphere party. Anyone can engage some of the key projects as Sri contained. Mahinda Rajapaksa leading the Pada Yatra in 1992 with one aim, one vision – to This picture in 1992 was published in the Lankadeepa in political dialogues and Lanka is looking at restoring “According to the serve the country, to sacrifice debates, but please don't the economy. The President information I have received, involve us in those,” he said. had asked the Indian Prime Sri Lanka has managed the himself for his people, and The change of the ministries Ministry had immense potential and Speaking further, Dr. Minister to “direct those crisis successfully,” Modi had bring the country up to its back then was interpreted it was given to Mahinda Rajapaksa Jasinghe said: “As the first responsible from India’s side said. true potential. Since then, as Mahinda Rajapaksa being as it was one of the key ministries his career has only revolved officer in the public service, to expedite construction of the Sudden demise sidelined by former President which he had to transform, just as Secretary to the President (Dr.) East Terminal of the Colombo around strengthening the Kumaratunga. Many thought he did with the Labour Ministry. P.B. Jayasundera formally Port as early as possible as it The sudden demise of local sectors and working for it was the end of Mahinda He ended up being one of the best inquired from me on the will be a significant boost to Ceylon Workers’ Congress the public. He realised back Rajapaksa's political career fisheries ministers this country has health situation with regard to our economic landscape”. (CWC) Leader Minister then that Sri Lanka's strategic as he did not represent the witnessed. holding the general election. “I am trying to promote Arumugam Thondaman on geographic location in the fishing community. But what Within months after he took “I responded by mentioning value-added industrial and Tuesday (26) evening left the Indian Ocean was a lifelong people did not realise back over, Mahinda Rajapaksa began the prevailing condition of the agricultural activities,” country's political circles in advantage for all its citizens then was that this Ministry expanding inland fishing and country. It was not done from Rajapaksa had explained, shock. had immense potential and launched “Divara Nivasa”, a a political standpoint,” he said. adding: “And will be happy In the few short hours and that this country could it was given to Mahinda housing scheme for fishermen. prosper and transform into a Love thy neighbour if you could encourage prior to his sudden demise, Rajapaksa as it was one of the No other minister had thought Indian investors to start such Thondaman held several gem, if led strongly. key ministries which he had to of launching a housing project A telephone call between investments, including Indian meetings including transform, just as he did with for the fishing community back President Gotabaya Rajapaksa companies already in Sri discussions with the new Whilst being an MP, Mahinda the Labour Ministry. He ended then; for both those living along and Indian Prime Minister Lanka to increase domestic Indian High Commissioner Rajapaksa took oaths as an up being one of the best the coastal belt and those living Narendra Modi last Saturday value addition in the context in Colombo Gopal Bagley Attorney-at-Law in November 1977, fisheries ministers this country inland. Even today, when I visit (23) saw Sri Lanka appealing of Covid-19 economic and Prime Minister Mahinda at the age of 31. That same year, has witnessed these villages, they value the hard for the extension of $ 1.1 priorities.” Rajapaksa. although he lost his parliamentary work Mahinda Rajapaksa put in billion in urgent financing The two leaders had agreed In fact, his last meeting was seat while contesting from the Sri here did not prefer going overseas and his contributions towards support to manage the impact to continue with the ongoing with the Premier where he had Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), he for employment. They were always this community, stating that he of the Covid-19 pandemic. bilateral projects that bring discussed implementing the made a strong comeback in 1989 home-oriented. However, after was a Minister who understood “If the Government of India direct benefits to people and payment of the promised Rs. after he was re-elected from the much convincing, many of those the mindsets and struggles of could provide (a) $ 1.1 billion prioritise food and health 1,000 daily wage to the estate Hambantota District. During the gap who went for foreign employment the fishing community. He also special swap facility to top securities. sector workers. between 1977 and 1989, Mahinda back then to these two countries launched the vital “Sagara Vishwa up $ 400 million under Prime Minister Rajapaksa, Rajapaksa worked according to the are today grateful to Mahinda Vidyalaya” project, which was (the) SAARC (South who rushed to the pulse of the masses, understanding Rajapaksa as they are well-off initially launched to educate the Asian Association Thalangama Hospital, their difficulties. He stood up for businessmen now. At that time, children of the fishing folk on ocean for Regional where Thondaman was his people who were struggling they blamed my father, lamenting, and marine studies. Co-operation) pronounced dead on during the second youth uprising that while they expected jobs in Most of the Harbour constructions Facility, it would admission, said the CWC in Sri Lanka. When he re-entered the Government, why were they were also started under the helm of enormously help Sri Leader’s last request was Parliament, he knew what this being pushed by him to work in a Mahinda Rajapaksa. For example, Lanka in dealing with to grant the Rs. 1,000 country had to do for its people. foreign country? However today, starting from the Kudawella our foreign exchange daily wage to the estate In 1994, under the Chandrika their children have successfully Harbour, it expanded to the southern issues,” Rajapaksa workers. Kumaratunga Government, taken over their fathers’ businesses belt and then into Negombo and has told Modi over the Thondaman died of a Mahinda Rajapaksa was appointed and are all well settled. To this day, Chilaw. telephone. heart attack suffered at his as the Minister of Labour – his first they visit my father, appreciating his Contd. on page 13 In turn, the residence. His funeral is entry as a Minister on a subject struggle back then. Indian Premier had to take place today (31) in which was very dear to him, as he Then in 1977, after a Cabinet assured that he was his constituency. was a strong voice for the youth reshuffle, Mahinda Rajapaksa committed to helping A group of CWC and the working class back then, was appointed as the Minister of Sri Lanka, saying: representatives on realising the difficulties they faced. Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, a “We are ready to Wednesday (27) met with During his term as the Minister, he subject which he did not have much help under terms that Prime Minister Rajapaksa introduced the “Labour Charter” experience in back then. But being are favourable to Sri and requested the Premier to protect the working class and the fighter that he is, he accepted the Lanka.” to give nominations to uphold their rights as they were the challenge as he knew the fisheries Modi had Jeewan Thondaman, backbone of the economy. He was sector had immense potential and suggested to Thondaman’s son, to a strong fighter for the rights of the the politicians back then had failed Rajapaksa to contest the impending working class and still is to this this vital community. appoint an official general election from the day. He also worked on expanding The change of the ministries back to work directly in Health Services DG Dr. Anil Jasinghe's letter to Nuwara Eliya District in vocational training institutions then was interpreted as Mahinda this regard with the President’s Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera lieu of demised Minister across the country which was a Rajapaksa being sidelined by former Thondaman. significant achievement back then President Kumaratunga. Many The Political Committee of as he foresaw the challenges we thought it was the end of the CWC had taken this were going to face in the future. Mahinda Rajapaksa's decision and the committee Back then, before the world realised political career as he members conveyed the the importance of technical and did not represent message to the Prime vocational training, Mahinda the fishing Minister at his residence Rajapaksa realised its importance. community. But at Wijerama Mawatha, This however, was not taken very what people Colombo. The request was seriously by the Government back did not officially conveyed by CWC then and for him to work on this was realise Vice Chairman Senthil a struggle. back Thondaman. Also, during his term as then The CWC is a constituency the Labour Minister, foreign of the Sri Lanka Nidahas employment was a weak sector Podujana Sandanaya (Sri here. It was a time when going to Lanka Freedom People’s Japan and Korea for employment Alliance). Since the late had just hit the markets, regionally. Minister’s nomination has I remember my father narrating was already been handed over for his experiences back then on how that the Nuwara Eliya District, he went from house to house in this the CWC requested to Beliatta convincing and encouraging substitute the slot with Jeewan people to go to Japan and Korea Thondaman’s name. for employment. Back then, people Letter sent to UNP members who filed Contd. on page 13 nominations through the SJB 10 the sunday morning Sunday, May 31, 2020 hot seat WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER ELECTION MONITORS

ON STANDBYBY AGRA RANASINGHE A decision on whether the election will be held on 20 June or at a later date is likely to be made by the Supreme Court (SC) and the Election Commission (EC) this week. However, local election monitors are on standby to ensure a free and fair election for whenever it is held. The Sunday Morning spoke to the three main election monitoring bodies to assess their preparations for the election and their Social views on the conduct of the political parties contesting. Below are excerpts of The Sunday Morning’s interview with Campaign for Free and Fair Election (CaFFE) Acting Drawing from the election laws, media guidelines can be issued by the Executive Director Ahamed EC to all the media. However, Manas Makeen. when the media is violating election laws, the EC only poses a big How would your organisation instructs to control the state work to monitor and control the media and not private media propaganda activities on social media during the “cooling period”? We deploy officers to monitor is very important and bribing will challenge social media propaganda activities. be done in this election, because Also, we will deploy district parliamentary election candidates co-ordinators, who will then lodge choose provincial council members Rohana Hettiarachchi complaints to the head office. Then, and also the local council members we take those complaints to the to distribute items to the voters. Below are excerpts of Election Commission (EC) and the The Sunday Morning’s other relevant authorities. Do you think granting relief interview with People’s during the pandemic was also a Action for Free and Fair There is no such law, How would CaFFE take action form of bribing? Elections (PAFFREL) but even according to the against the misuse of state Yes, we even made a complaint. present law, you can’t Executive Director resources for election purposes? Although we know that nomination Guidelines bribe voters. Although Rohana Hettiarachchi. We have deployed district time is over, the election date everybody knows that co-ordinators and observers for that. is confirmed and the court How would your happens, no one will be When there is such a complaint, decision is pending. At the time, organisation work in there to present evidence. we confirm it and forward it to the the Government gave Rs. 5,000 From the beginning, needed monitoring and controlling EC and the head of the relevant allowances to the people. What the propaganda activities when the Government department. they did was promote their political on social media during the welfare of Rs. 5,000 was parties. “cooling period”? being distributed, the We have noticed that opinion That was one of the more candidates of the ruling polls on social media are used At the moment, there is no sign of for private serious issues we faced in party took full advantage to promote certain candidates, foreign observers for the election. the last two elections. At the which could result in an unfair Do you think it will affect the last presidential election, we document in 2015 and handed advantage. What are your views? fairness and impartiality of the realised that social media it over to former President Some countries use opinion election? media as well was used during the cooling Maithripala Sirisena and all polls. But the thing is, during the Normally, many foreign observers period for election purposes. the ministers. We compiled presidential election time, we saw come, they monitor the election, We deployed two teams and this in consultation with the many of the candidates who were and give a report. But in Sri Lanka, Manas Makeen appointed a lawyer to monitor EC. Unfortunately, however, organising opinion polls, releasing we have seven or more groups that social media, and looked at they didn’t take it seriously. the results of the polls. That’s not a monitor elections. Four or five of observers. But I don’t think the EC have enough time if the election is to any disinformation being Later, the EC also drafted good thing. We witnessed a situation them are working very well in the has enough time to hold the election be held on the 20th. spread and got daily reports. a document and it went up to where some candidates went to a grassroots level. So I think local on the 20th. Also, a minimum of five Every day, our lawyers took the Cabinet and it was passed certain hospital and got the opinions monitoring bodies can do it well. weeks are needed for the candidates How does the presence of the decisions on whether some by the Attorney General’s and published the results before the for campaigning and now, the time is military affect the fairness and Facebook pages violated Department and Cabinet, but EC issued the results. If the election was to be held on 20 not enough. impartiality of the election? election laws, and reported it again before we could take it June, will your organisation have The military has no power to come to the Election Commission to Parliament, the Parliament Will bribing of voters by enough time to organise yourselves What is CaFFE’s view on the ideal and engage in election activities. (EC) if so. Then, the EC was dissolved. distribution of consumer items to monitor the election to your election date? Police officers are the ones who verified the information, and There is no such law, but and other goods be done in the satisfaction? We are ready at any time and we have the power to engage in election took the respective action. even according to the present upcoming election as well? Yes. We have already deployed have the resources; more than 2,000 activities. We have been law, you can’t bribe voters. Definitely. The general election district co-ordinators and long-term observers. But the candidates don’t Contd. on page 14 communicating with such Although everybody knows Facebook pages to safeguard that happens, no one will be the upcoming election. there to present evidence. From the beginning, when the How would PAFFEREL Government welfare of Rs. opinions, which is also part of a take action against the 5,000 was being distributed, democracy. misuse of state resources for the candidates of the ruling I think the election should be election purposes? party took full advantage. held as and when we receive Will bribing of voters by distribution As we are not the official the go ahead from the medical of consumer items and other goods government body, we can’t At the moment, it appears authorities. There’s no reason be done in the upcoming election as take any action. But once we that there will be no foreign to have an election as soon as well? get the complaints, we verify observers for the election. possible. We had a Parliament What we got to know was that the them and send them to the EC. How do you think it will which is now dissolved, Rs. 5,000 (allowances) were being In some situations, we inform affect the fairness and which could have gone on till used for this election. The EC said that the Police as well. impartiality of the election? September it was politicised. The observers always They (distributors) have engaged in There may be certain issues support a transparent election. bribing voters in this election as well. that may arise with the use When there are more additional sector to monitor whether They may find other ways of doing it. of religious places of worship observers, whether local there are propaganda activities going for election propaganda. or international, it always on. At the moment, there is no sign of Has PAFFEREL informed enhances the transparency of foreign observers for the election. Do the EC with regard to this, an election and encourages How would the CMEV take you think it will affect the fairness or have you taken any the candidates to obey the action against the misuse of state and impartiality of the election? decisions? law. I think PAFFEREL resources for election purposes? I don’t think we need foreign It’s really an unfortunate and CMEV (Centre for What we will do is report it to the observers to ensure impartiality. We situation in this country. Monitoring Election Use of religious Election Commission (EC) because have local observers and we should During the election time, Violence) will be able they are the ones who can take action. have a free and fair election without there are certain times when to somehow manage the considering whether there are foreign places are used for election situation. There may be certain issues that observers or not. propaganda. Religious places places for may arise with the use of religious and leaders should not be If the election was to be places of worship for election If the election was to be held on 20 involved in politics, although held on 20 June, will your propaganda. Has the CMEV June, will your organisation have it is not in the law. We have organisation be able to carry informed the EC with regard enough time to organise yourselves requested the EC to take out the observation of and propaganda to this, or have you taken any to monitor the election to your action. reporting on the election to decisions? satisfaction? your usual standards? Yes, that is one of our Yes, we have enough time. Will bribing of voters by I think it’s very clear recommendations. We have said it distribution of consumer now that the election won’t should stop needs to stop. What’s the CMEV’s view on the items and other goods take place on 20 June. My ideal election date? be done in the upcoming personal view is that the EC We have noticed that opinion We have no idea and we are waiting election as well? will hold the election by the Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu polls on social media are used to for the court to decide it. Unfortunately, in this end of July or first week of Below are excerpts of promote certain candidates, which country, there is no regulation August. In this situation, The Sunday Morning’s How would your organisation could result in an unfair advantage. How does the presence of the of campaign financing. they have to consult health work to monitor and control the What are your views? military affect the fairness and the We have been working on experts. We will follow the interview with Centre for propaganda activities on social Opinion polls are used to by some impartiality of the election? developing a campaign EC’s guidelines and now, we Monitoring Election Violence media during the “cooling period”? candidates and it can be used to gain I hope it won’t affect the fairness of financing regulation for over are ready. Co-Convener Dr. Paikiasothy During the campaigning time an unfair advantage. But it’s also a the election. a decade; finally, we drafted a Contd. on page 14 Saravanamuttu. and on election day, we have an way of people finding out society’s Contd. on page 14 the sunday morning 113 Sunday, May 31, 2020 EDUCATION WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER

Teachers not consulted We spoke to Ceylon Teachers’ Printed learning REOPENING SCHOOL EDUCATION SECTOR Union General Secretary Joseph Stalin to inquire whether the material for Grade school teachers or the trade unions 1 and 2 students representing teachers were involved in the many discussions that were A learning package for Grade held over the past weeks to reopen 1 and 2 students that can be schools. used at home, even without “It is with great disappointment television or internet facilities, that we observed the Ministry of was introduced by the Government Education and the Ministry of of , UNICEF Sri Lanka, Health giving priority to discussions Save the Children, Room to Read, STILL IN with private tuition class tutors, and ChildFund Sri Lanka, in without even wanting to listen to collaboration with the Ministry what the school teachers had to say. of Education and the National The children attend schools and Institute of Education (NIE). interact with the teachers for at least These learning materials have seven hours of their day, whereas been prepared targeting the nearly private tutors will only interact with 6,500,000 students in Grades 1 and RECESS the children for less than two hours; 2 of the primary education stage we (school teachers) understand the out of the total student population requirements of children better than in Sri Lanka and by now, these them (private tutors),” he said. learning materials have been Stalin also noted that even before dispatched to provincial education the schools closed due to the Covid- departments. 19 pandemic, the requirements The learning package would of the school teachers had not help students in Grades 1 and been properly fulfilled by the 2 do the activities related to the Government. He went on to say that subjects of their mother language, although the Ministry boasts that mathematics, and environment in children are now learning online Sinhala or Tamil medium. The z Lack of funds and using smartphones and tabs, it is Ministry of Education emphasised only a fraction of the schoolchildren that it is important and essential and school teachers who have that the parents direct and assist direction adds to delay access to such facilities. their children who are confined to Moreover, some schools do not their homes to use these learning even have a teachers’ break room, materials. for them to rest in between periods Initiatives have been taken to BY SARAH HANNAN schoolchildren,” Chithrananda or even have their meals during the prepare these learning materials reiterated. interval. and provide them to the students of After weeks of discussions, the Ministry of Education has come We need everyone to co-ordinate During the first phase of the Next steps unclear primary grades as one step of the to the realisation that they are short of funds to implement according to these guidelines reopening of schools, children as well financial aid of AUD 1.5 million the necessary amenities to enable schoolchildren, school and adhere to them. Principals, as the school staff are to bring their Stalin also questioned how the announced by the Australian administrations, and the staff to wash their hands. teachers, schoolchildren, school meals from home as school canteens Ministry is planning to provide the Government recently, in order transport providers/drivers, and will not be allowed to commence necessary facilities to all schools, to provide opportunities for the While hand washing is the first Secretary N.H.M. Chithrananda the general public will have to operations to ensure hygiene practices students, and teachers as it lacks children in this country to face step towards Covid-19 prevention, said: “The school system of Sri equally play a part to ensure the are adhered to. The schools will funds. the challenge of the Covid-19 there seems to be many other Lanka involves a lot of stakeholders safety of the schoolchildren also have to temporarily suspend “There are about 4.5 million pandemic and to work positively. facilities and procedures that and we have to look at all aspects Ministry of Education Secretary the school lunch programmes as the children that attend school in UN Resident Co-ordinator in need to be implemented prior to before schools reopen. We had N.H.M. Chithrananda schools will not be able to prepare the Sri Lanka; if wearing a mask is Sri Lanka Hanaa Singer, UNICEF schools reopening. For now, the several discussions with the meals at the school premises due to compulsory for everyone, even Representative for Sri Lanka date to reopen schools seems to Ministry of Health to draft the schoolchildren and teachers.” health guidelines. these children will have to wear Tim Sutton, UNICEF Sri Lanka be undecided with the Ministry guidelines for schools and next In addition, the Ministry will Schools will also be disinfected face masks in schools. The Ministry Education Head Takaho Fukami, indicating each week that they week, we will be meeting the also call the Private Bus Owners’ prior to the date the Government promises that they would provide Room to Read Country Director would take a decision the following Ministry of Transport officials Association, the School Van assigns for the schools to reopen the teachers and principals with face Shevanthi Jayasuriya, and Save the week. to discuss the Sisu Seriya bus Owners’ Association, and the and the support of military officials, masks as well. However, we are Children National Director Julian Speaking to The Sunday service, as well as the facilitation All Island Inter District School health staff, and parents will be yet to see a workable plan and the Chellappa participated in this Morning, Ministry of Education of commuting by train for the Children Transportation Association sought by the respective schools to execution of all these suggestions,” event. Several officers including to discuss the transportation carry out disinfection programmes. Stalin added. Secretary to the Ministry of guidelines on Monday, 8 June, Stalin also stated that officially, Education N.H.M. Chithrananda, Chithrananda noted. the amount that is allocated to Senior Advisor to the Education Stages of a school reopening Ensuring the safety of the build the hand-washing facilities Ministry Dr. M. Upali Sedara, yy Prior to bringing in the staff yy If necessary, a meeting should children from the time they leave at schools is Rs. 80 million and Secretary to the State Ministry of or students of the school, be held for parents and school the house until they reach the although the Minister stated that Education Ranjith Chandrasekara, the entire premises will van/bus operators on the safety school premises will be at the a sum of Rs. 680 million is to be and National Institute of be disinfected and be left measures they need to take hands of the parents, and the allocated to build the necessary Education Director General Dr. for about four days for the from the time the child leaves Ministry of Education requests that facilities, there seems to be a lack of Sunil Jayantha Nawaratna also chemical fumes to clear off the house until they arrive at the parents take the initiative to funds even within the Government participated. from the buildings school or while they are being ensure that their children’s safety itself. transported to school can be assured. Upon reaching Once the date to reopen the at supplying the necessary funds/ yy Necessary facilities will the school premises, the school schools is decided, the teachers equipment for the schools to be established for staff and yy The school can bring in students administrations are to take the Not only teachers but parents are ready to go to the schools a build the required facilities and to students to wash their hands from Grade 10 upwards. Once responsibility for the children and too are asked to attend these week prior to the starting date and purchase the cleaning/disinfecting at the entrance of the school the senior students are in, they provide the necessary facilities, meetings. If the date to start prepare for the schools to reopen. fluids. Schools can be disinfected and hand sanitisers can be can be instructed as to how they from washing hands regularly and schools is not yet decided, Stalin also revealed that these days, just a week ahead from its starting placed at the entrance of the should disinfect their classroom maintaining respiratory etiquette we do not see a purpose for school teachers are summoned for date,” Stalin reiterated. classrooms furniture and school instruments when needed to maintaining these meetings. First of all, meetings by the zonal education The Union also stated that it yy Principals, headmasters, and after use on a daily basis physical distancing and monitoring the Ministry needs to look at directors, and meetings that span is not happy with the way the teachers will be required to yy The rest of the students can mask-wearing. supplying the necessary funds/ for nearly three hours are regularly Ministry is going about with the report to work in the first be brought in later on and the “We need everyone to co-ordinate equipment for the schools to held. guideline preparation to reopen week and they will have to senior students could guide according to these guidelines and build the required facilities “Not only teachers but parents schools, and that it is not clear on discuss how the timetables will them on how to follow good adhere to them. Principals, teachers, and to purchase the cleaning/ too are asked to attend these how the Rs. 680 million stated by be managed along with the hygiene habits and keep the schoolchildren, school transport disinfecting fluids meetings. If the date to start schools the Minister will be effectively seating arrangements for the classrooms clean providers/drivers, and the general Ceylon Teachers’ Union General is not yet decided, we do not see a used to build the necessary students public will have to equally play Secretary Joseph Stalin purpose for these meetings. First amenities, when in reality, only Rs. a part to ensure the safety of the of all, the Ministry needs to look 80 million is officially passed.

Contd. from page 3 Contd. from page 7

was issued in January 2018. Speaking to The Sunday Morning, Highways Still a work... done thus far, especially since the guidelines Running late... The China National Technical Import and Ministry Secretary Ranjith Premasiri, however, have not been issued. Export Corporation (CNTIC) was awarded assured that all delayed projects would be At present, the election is estimated to cost He said that he could not say whether the CEP Stage IV is likely to be awarded to a UK the construction of the 26.3 km Section I of implemented immediately and it would between Rs. 6.8-7 billion. cost would increase. consortium and the Cabinet has already given the REP from Kahatuduwa to Ingiriya in 2016. somehow meet the deadlines given. Ratnayake noted that steps such as social “Additional equipment such as gloves, the approval to consider the technical proposal It is learnt that new conditions had been He explained that a number of discussions distancing would lead to such increases. masks, and hand sanitiser would cost from British consultancy specialist Roughton. communicated to the CNTIC during the were currently ongoing with regard to the “For example, because of social extra, increasing the total cost, but other This was confirmed by the Secretary to the negotiations held recently, and the Chinese financing of already delayed projects. distancing protocols, a class of 30 election factors that we have taken into account as Ministry of Highways and RDA Chairman contractors have so far not agreed to these He also said the Ministry was currently monitors we hold to instruct them on of yet could also reduce the costs. I, as an Ranjith Premasiri. new conditions. evaluating the REP and no final decision had election rules would now have to be held on accountant, would obviously want to reduce Roughton was said to be the management The Cabinet of Ministers that met on 26 been taken yet. two separate occasions as only around 10-15 costs as much as possible,” he noted. consultant of Stage IV of the CEP, and it will July 2016 decided to divide the expressway Meanwhile, Ministry of Finance Director could sit in one class while exercising social He added that the health guidelines were partner a local contractor. Several proposals into four sections and allocated each section General Priyantha Ratnayake said the distancing. needed to finalise election expenses. received from local construction companies to different contractors and proposed to invite Government had not yet signed any new Similarly, a vehicle which transported “Without the official health guidelines, we are currently being evaluated by the authority proposals from them for the implementation contract with any foreign contractor for five would only be able to transport three cannot make any calculations as we do not to award the construction contract. of the project. But there was no certainty of financing the projects. now, resulting in the need for more vehicles know for sure what additional costs there the availability of funding for any sections. He told The Sunday Morning that the and additional fuel costs,” he said. would be,” he said. No decision on REP Subsequently, it was decided to stick to the Government had taken a policy decision to However, he said that there was a silver With regard to obtaining funds, the The REP from Kahatuduwa to Pelmadulla original three sections. go for investment-based funding for new lining as some measures would compel the Government said that it would allocate via Ratnapura (73.9 km) has been divided into An RFP was issued to CNTIC on 1 November development projects rather than depending EC to adopt new methodologies. money somehow. three sections for implementation purposes; 2018 and evaluated by the Cabinet Appointed on foreign loans as the country’s debt ratio “While costs may increase inevitably due “This is an election and the Government Section 1 from Kahatuduwa to Ingiriya (26.3 Project Committee (CAPC). was high at present. to the health guidelines, we must also adopt must make sure the finances are made km), Section 2 from Ingiriya to Ratnapura Cabinet approval had been granted via the “Certain development projects for which the new methods and systems and it is quite available. It is not an option. Elections must (26.2 km), and Section 3 from Ratnapura to Cabinet Memorandum dated on 27 February finances have already been received can be likely that the new systems could become be held as we are a democracy and so the Pelmadulla (21.4 km). 2020 titled “Implementation of construction of continued, but that too, only the documentation permanent and reduce costs in the long run,” Government will find the money one way The feasibility study for the REP, which proposed expressway networks Sri Lanka to process can continue until the coronavirus Ratnayake said. or the other. Where it comes from doesn’t commenced in 2014, was completed in authorise Secretary to Ministry of Highways pandemic is fully eradicated. The workers As such, the total cost could increase to matter as long as it can be used for the 2018, but work on the project was yet to to request CNTIC to provide 100% financing will not return to construction sites and also Rs. 14 billion. election on time,” Government Spokesman commence. The Request for Proposals for the cost of Section I of the Ruwanpura the curfew still remains, even though it has EC Chief Financial Officer E.A. and former State Minister of Investment (RFPs) for the construction of Section I Expressway”. been relaxed,” Rathnayake added. Weerasena said that no calculations had been Promotions Keheliya Rambukwella said. 12 the sunday morning VIEWS Sunday, May 31, 2020

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ONLINE EDUCATION HIT BY LACK OF RESOURCES

A school in Mannar PHOTO © UN-HABITAT SRI LANKA

BY DIANDRA ANNE Amidst the chaos the Covid-19 pandemic has caused the world over, it has managed to shine some light on an interesting topic here in Sri Lanka. Since many were unable to go about their day-to-day lives due to the curfew that lasted over two months, people resorted to going about their tasks from home. How? Through online forums. Technology has indeed proven to be a valuable asset to mankind especially during absolutely terrible times such as the pandemic. Many companies transitioned A problem to online forums in order to carry out their meetings and other important business. But exclusive to certain what about schools? Schools in Sri Lanka A lack of started distance learning some time ago, people but the questions remains as to whether it Gihani Sashima Geekiyanage knowledge is truly effective and if this tiny island have V. Sathila Ushani – Library the capacity or infrastructure to carry out – Senior Beautician at Ramani online education for the students? Fernando Salons Assistant at Jaya Sri Subhuthi National School, Battaramulla To answer these burning questions, The In my opinion, I do not feel as though Sunday Morning asked the general public Expectations the private or international schools will To a great extent, I think online their notions regarding this topic. encounter a problem when conducting education is relatively successful, but I are too high online teaching. However, government do not think we have enough facilities to Aruna Botejue – wildlife schools will face some issues in this support it, especially in certain areas. A conservationist teaching method. There is a mix of the lot of houses only have smartphones, not more affluent as well as the less fortunate laptops or tabs. Therefore, it gets really My answer is no. For instance, in rural children in these schools. Hence, I do not difficult with regard to online education. areas, it is difficult to even get a call believe that Sri Lanka currently has the Everything is done through WhatsApp as there is low coverage. Some of the facilities to carry out online education. because of this. In Colombo, it’s quite children cannot even watch TV as there The reason for this is that children in rural successful but outside of it, not so much. are is signal. So how, in that case, can areas may not have the facilities the kids The reason for this is that people also we expect online education to happen? in the city have. Things like the internet, lack knowledge on how to operate these I know one classic example where a computers, and phones may not be readily devices. Furthermore, they may not even particular school in Udawalawa does available for them. Therefore, I do not have access to it. not even have a multimedia to conduct think online education will be 100% sessions, let alone the internet! This successful. Another reason that as there was experienced when we went there to A problem for the is the rather high number of students in carry out some activities. Therefore, no, one class and only one teacher; so it is not I do not think Sri Lanka has the proper manageable. infrastructure to conduct online education. less fortunate Think about Piumie Munasinghe – senior the others merchandiser in apparel sector Hajarah Minzar – student In my experience, most schools these days conduct sessions through an Unfortunately, here in Sri Lanka, there online system. This system is seemingly are areas which do not have access to successful, although I do not encourage online education. I personally do not see doing this every single day. However, at a the effectiveness of online education in Sri time like this, I think it is quite helpful. The Lanka since we are a developing country only issue, however, is that we may not comprising both urban and rural areas. Even have adequate facilities to facilitate online though we have gradually increased the use education. Of course, most Sri Lankans, of technology in the past two decades in even in the rural areas, have at least a Colombo, Galle, and , it is not enough. phone; so they can somehow manage. But A glimmer of hope We need to think of those in the rural areas. it still does pose a problem. Amasha Divyani Vitanachy – They do not have access to these online student platforms; let’s say in which case they do have access, they will not understand how Holistic solutions Mushrooming Sri Lanka does have the potential to to use it. These are the problems we will be Pavani Boralessa – psychologist carry out online education. In fact, in the encountering with regard to online education. Having to follow recent past, the then Government of Sri I believe as this is a new challenge the solutions at a Lanka took a decision to provide tablets education system is facing, there is no through slow pace and free Wi-Fi mainly for Advanced Level need to transition from physical face-to- Shanika Jayasuriya – Director at (A/L) students. This shows that the country face interaction to an online platform for Marie International Montessori Roshni Hewamallika – has the potential to provide these facilities. Not a herculean the time being. However, given the fact DGM at hSenid Mobile Solutions Also, laptops, phones, tablets, and other that many come from different economic In areas like Colombo, this method (Pvt.) Ltd. devices are readily available in the Sri task statuses in society, the system has to be of teaching is guaranteed to work. But Lankan market. Furthermore, islandwide Gamini Ratnayake – Chairman/MD mindful of how effective these online opposed to that, in other areas such as the I do not think that on a national scale, free internet coverage can also be provided at Willpower Group (Pvt.) Ltd. platforms would be in: (i) Supporting rural areas, there is definitely a problem we have the infrastructure to support with low rates for certain apps which are children who come from families that do with online education. In my experience, online education; but there are a few useful for online education. Sri Lanka does have the infrastructure not have these facilities, (ii) supporting there have been instances when I had learning platforms that can be accessed. However, the lack of knowledge on how to carry out online education. As everyone teachers with the necessary resources to follow up through calls after sending For example, the Grade Five Scholarship to use these technologies together with knows, online education totally depends and training to engage in online teaching, students work through WhatsApp, as the students had a practise exam to which there poverty can be a main barrier. In order to on technology. It is now merely a matter of and (iii) realising the limits of online messages hadn’t been received or seen. was surprisingly very high participation. overcome this, the Government can gazette developing an infrastructure for education by education in terms of student motivation, The success of the online education system The only issue is access to internet and a payment method on an instalment basis putting all required technological equipment engagement, and individual differences would basically vary according to the other devices. There are platforms such as which will allow the children in rural areas together, with audio and video technology. in learning capabilities. Essentially, we geographical areas. At the same time, I feel Zoom that can be used for these sessions. also to actively join in on online education. It is not a herculean task! All we need is should develop a system that would look like for government schools, especially the However, for the moment, the issues that This shows that our country has the dynamic teams with a vision and who are at education holistically, rather than just higher grades, they somehow manage to do some may be faced with are that people infrastructure to have online education for ready to leave the old ways in the past. finishing a syllabus. the work as they know the repercussions. don’t have access to devices and internet. school students. the sunday morning 13 Sunday, May 31, 2020 FOCUS/POLITICS

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FR PETITIONS CHALLENGING DATE OF GENERAL ELECTION EC’s role under microscope BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA Egalahewa pointed out the President’s Counsel Manohara petitioners demanded the cancellation De Silva said it was surprising The Supreme Court (SC) of the gazette proclaiming the this week, taking up the that the EC was requesting dissolution of Parliament and called more time to set a new date fundamental rights (FR) for reconvening the old Parliament, for the general election as petitions challenging the date also questioning how the latter could well as to issue preferential set for the general election, be done if the proclamation gazette voting numbers despite the heard submissions from the was cancelled. SC recently decreeing intervening petitioners as He went on to say that a Parliament that the Commission could well as the objections from that has been dissolved by the President decide independently on an the Attorney General (AG). could not be recalled except in the election date specified scenarios set out by the On Tuesday (26), the SC once again Constitution. Amarasekara, referring to the EC took up the hearing of FR petitions for On Thursday (28), when the cases submission to the court that it would the sixth day where the AG asserted that were taken up for hearing for the decide on an election date once the there were no constitutional provisions eighth day, the SC was told that it health authorities had given the green to revoke the proclamation made by did not have the power to annul the light, pointed out that there was no the President dissolving Parliament. presidential proclamation. stay order issued by the court to the Additional Solicitor General Indika President’s Counsel Gamini EC preventing the latter from setting Demuni de Silva appeared for the AG. Marapana, appearing for intervening an election date. petitioner Ven. Atapattu Kande He said that Commission was A constitutional decision Ananda Thera, who is the Adhikarana maintaining a stance supportive of “The President’s decision to Sanganayake of the Malwatter Chapter the petitioners challenging the election dissolve Parliament was not taken and Chief Incumbent of the Sama date. suddenly. It is part of the matters Vihara, informed the court that it had He also noted that there was no raised by him during the presidential no jurisdiction to interfere in political requirement to reconvene the old election campaign. When he issued exercised his decision in terms of up to the President to decide whether challenging the election date and the EC decisions made by the President of Parliament solely for the purpose of this proclamation, there was no Article 33 (2)(c) read with Article there was an emergency situation in were colluding to postpone the election. the country. handing national financial issues, as such threat to the country and there 71 of the Constitution. the country. President’s Counsel Manohara De Marapana requested the court to the Constitution had the necessary was no obstacle to conducting the “The President has not violated She went on to say the petitioners Silva, representing Prof. Adagama, amalgamate the Doctrine of Necessity provisions vesting power in the parliamentary election,” he said. the fundamental rights of any of should have challenged the said it was surprising that the EC was into the country’s law and include in President to oversee financial matters. De Silva raised these preliminary the petitioners or of any citizen postponement of the general election requesting more time to set a new date the Parliamentary Elections Act, citing Meanwhile, President’s Counsel objections in response to the seven FR of the country when he dissolved by the Election Commission (EC) but for the general election as well as to the need to hold the general election Egalahewa, also appearing for petitions, adding that the petitioners Parliament,” de Silva said. had failed to do so. issue preferential voting numbers immediately. intervening petitioner J. Thurairaja, had failed to convince the court She also submitted a confidential “The Election Commission despite the SC recently decreeing Elaborating on the Doctrine of raised concerns over whether the on how to revoke the presidential document prepared by the State postponed the election in an irregular that the Commission could decide Necessity, he further said that it was EC was answerable to Parliament proclamation issued on 2 March. Intelligence Service (SIS) on the manner and that was what has affected independently on an election date. the basis on which extra-legal actions following the enactment of the 19th The petitions were heard before statistics and information regarding the peoples’ right to franchise,” de De Silva said that this request made and decisions by the state deemed for Amendment to the Constitution. a bench of five judges chaired by the current situation of the Covid-19 Silva said. it look like the EC and the petitioners the restoration of order is found to be Egalahewa asserted that no one Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya outbreak in the country. were working together to postpone legal and constitutional. could provide an interpretation which and comprising Justices Buwaneka The said report, however, had been EC’s stance questioned the election. Marapana then said that the EC, for would result in the EC postponing Aluwihare, Sisira de Abrew, Priyantha read by the counsel of the petitioners. On Wednesday (27), when the matter President’s Counsel Uditha an independent institution, was doing the election. Jayawardena, and Vijith Malalgoda. The Additional Solicitor General was taken up once again, the counsel Egalahewa, also appearing for the all it could to postpone the election. The SC will resume the hearing Additional Solicitor General de further told the court that existing laws appearing for the intervening petitioner intervening petitioner, said that there Thereafter, President’s Counsel of FR petitions filed challenging the Silva informed the court that the were adequate to tackle the Covid-19 Prof. Pandula Adagama told the court was a contradiction in facts presented Kushan De Silva, representing election date on Monday (1 June) at President had properly and lawfully pandemic in Sri Lanka and that it was that it appeared as if the petitioners by the petitioners. intervening petitioner Dr. Gunadasa 10 a.m.

Contd. from page 10 Contd. from page 9 Social media... How would the presence of the military affect the fairness Hedging between... A political... and the impartiality of the election? This was launched under the cooking meals during the fasting Military officers did their best in controlling Covid-19, but Prime Minister Rajapaksa, after Eelam), shielding them from scrutiny, Fisheries Harbour Expansion period. But after realising unless the EC requests it, I don’t think there will be any space commending the move to field Jeewan red tape, or economic anxieties so they Project, which was one of the this food was to be served for for the military. Under the normal process, the Police have to be Thondaman for Nuwara Eliya, assured could do their jobs. This victory led him greatest projects launched in people taking part in the Yatra, it there. the CWC that he would do his best to see to an easy re-election in 2010, followed this country. Multi-day trawling symbolised a new unity between that their wishes are met by the SLPP. by his signature political manoeuvring, also was transformed into a the Muslim and Buddhist What about the use of state media to influence the election? CWC members D. Mathi Yogarajah, that brought him a two-thirds majority in separate industry in Sri Lanka communities in Beruwala, which We are not satisfied about its use; not only state media, M. Romeshwaran, A.P. Shakthivel, Parliament. under Mahinda Rajapaksa as he lasts to this day. but other media platforms as well. I think most of them are A. Philip Kumar, K. Kanagaraj, L. Through a series of excesses, such worked towards its development. Mahinda Rajapaksa's political supporting their own political party. That’s one of the more Barathidasan, and SLPP Chairman Prof. as the 18th Amendment and indulging This created many jobs and legacy has many stories to tell. serious issues we have. I’m not saying that they should be G.L. Peiris and Party Secretary Sagara violent excesses by elements of the changed the destiny of such In 2005, this politician who controlled, but there should be a system to prevent them Kariyawasam were also present at the burgeoning defence apparatus, President fishermen. struggled and sacrificed endlessly showing support, at least in the election period. meeting with the Prime Minister. Rajapaksa saw his popularity wane, Today, Kudawella and many for this country was elected as MR’s milestone leading to his shock defeat in the 2015 fishing hotspots have leading the President, during a time when Finally, will this election be free and fair? Last Tuesday (26) marked a major presidential election, making him the small and medium entrepreneurs the world's most ruthless terrorist I think it’s too early to say. But we have already lost some milestone in the political journey first elected President in Sri Lanka’s because of this industry alone, all organisation was active, raging a of the free and fair conditions. We have to compare with other of the Prime Minister, who first history to be defeated while seeking due to Mahinda Rajapaksa's era. full-fledged war. countries in our region and also the previous elections. However, entered Parliament on 26 May 1970 re-election. What my father did for the ports His presidency was the looking back over the last 10 years, I think the elections are – 50 years ago. In this time, Mahinda Far from treating the defeat as a industry during his term as the toughest challenge as he entered being held better. Rajapaksa became a political icon with permanent fall from grace, Rajapaksa Minister is still being seen and with only one aim – to end the However, even though the EC didn’t issue the preferential unprecedented and almost religious made his comeback by the August felt today. war, to end the bloodshed, and numbers, the candidates have started their campaigns. They have grassroots support among the working 2015 parliamentary elections, winning He knew then that ports could to end the struggle, which no started bribing the voters. So, in many ways, they are violating people and the Sri Lankan heartland. by a huge majority in the Kurunegala emerge as our strongest assets politician back then had been election laws As a leading SLFP opposition figure in District, and leading the Joint and worked on it accordingly. successful in doing. Within the 1980s and early 1990s, he was loyal Opposition and eventually the SLPP into Every ministry, every sector he four years, Mahinda Rajapaksa to SLFP Leader Srimavo Bandaranaike a popular revolt against the Yahapalana touched, he worked tirelessly, led the nation into eliminating and rallied the party together, often Government. The abortive constitutional abiding by his vision. And today, terrorism from our shores. Use of... galvanising his party and the political left coup of October 2018 did little to we are reaping its benefits. The sacrifices he made were What about the use of state media to influence the election? into the streets against the excesses and blunt Mahinda Rajapaksa’s political Another very memorable immense. I remember that day Well, that should be stopped, but it is difficult in terms of how human rights abuses of the UNP-led J.R. momentum. experience worth sharing from in May, in 2009, when the war it should be stopped. We have to try to ensure that the media Jayawardena and While he was barred from contesting Mahinda Rajapaksa's legacy had ended, he came back home organisations practice a degree of self-regulation, in addition to Governments. the presidency by the 19th Amendment is “Pada Yatra” which he with a tear. His tear was for the basic laws that are there. As Labour Minister under President to the Constitution, his political began, up to Kataragama. In those who had died in battle and Chandrika Kumaratunga, he earned popularity was such that his chosen his experiences, he recollects due to the bombs. But then I saw Can public safety be ensured when holding the election, even a place in the hearts and minds of Sri candidate was destined to be the how during the late Ranasingha new courage in my father – to though the country has not eliminated Covid-19 yet? Lankan workers by developing and next President at the November 2019 Premadasa's administration, develop this country and raise it I think the election should be held as and when we receive the singlehandedly implementing Sri presidential election. That chosen the Yatra was to be halted from to its true potential. go ahead from the medical authorities. There’s no reason to have Lanka’s first Worker’s Charter against candidate was former Defence Secretary Wellawatta. However, he scraped This year, as my father an election as soon as possible. We had a Parliament which is the fierce opposition of many in his own Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who with the full- through, with much difficulty, completes his 50th year in now dissolved, which could have gone on till September. party. throated support of his brother and his and as the youthful politician politics, I too complete my 10th As Mahinda Rajapaksa’s popularity party, won a resounding majority at last that he was back then, he led this year in the political arena. I am grew around the country and within year’s election. historic Pada Yatra for the first yet to achieve even a fraction his party, so did his ambitions to lead As his younger brother’s Prime time to Kataragama, to protest of what my father has achieved Guidelines... both. By 2004, he was the prime Minister, the elder Rajapaksa remains against the 1988-89 killings as my journey to work for this What about the use of state media to influence the election? ministerial candidate of choice among the constitutional Head of Government and the political unrest in the country has only begun. But I am Unfortunately, we see that state media is always supporting the rank and file of the SLFP, much to and Finance Minister. country. confident to work for the citizens the ruling party at the time of the election. They always give the chagrin of then President and Party The oft opulent Prime Minister had My father shares a very close of this nation, as I try to follow more airtime for the ruling party. But they have to keep a Head Chandrika Kumaratunga, who had little fanfare to mark his 50th year in relationship with the Marijan my father's footsteps. balanced system; a balanced airtime for all the candidates hoped to nominate her brother Anura parliamentary politics. He has hosted no family from Beruwala. It was I will not let the sacrifices my in every party. We have to also mention the private media Bandaranaike or ceremonies to celebrate the occasion, during the time of the Holy father made for this country go platforms as well. Drawing from the election laws, guidelines to the post. It fell to fellow SLFP and the state media and SLPP have not month of Ramadan that the Pada in vain. can be issued by the EC to all the media. However, when the heavyweight Maithripala Sirisena to go drawn much attention to the occasion. Yatra was to pass Beruwala. This After all, he changed the face media is violating election laws, the EC only instructs to control toe to toe with Kumaratunga and insist The accolade drew barely a mention at family, my father recollected, of this nation and emerged the the state media and not private media. that Rajapaksa be made Prime Minister. this week’s Cabinet meeting, where the cooked meals for all devotees true leader of the Sri Lankan As President from 2005 to 2010, Prime Minister focused on presenting who took part in this walk and citizens. I wish my father all the Can public safety be ensured when holding the election, even Mahinda Rajapaksa hand-selected and getting approved the measures from this, emerged an issue very best and many more years though the country has not eliminated Covid-19 yet? and empowered the team of military sought by late Minister Thondaman at as several Muslim families of dedication for his first love – I think they are all waiting to get a positive message from the and civil service leaders who defeated their final meeting just hours before the back then protested this family Mother Sri Lanka. health sector. the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil latter’s untimely demise. 14 the sunday morning OPINION Sunday, May 31, 2020

WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER POST-PANDEMIC Ideal higher education destination zSri Lanka can thrive for it linger like many others. with its geographically strategic technology, engineering, and By Various study programmes and location. The local culture is mathematics (STEM) streams. Prof. Nalaka examinations are being halted very distinctive and interesting; I also believe that the country presently, but we hope the country a tropical culture that’s loved by must develop more public- Jayakody, DSc will resume and catch up on all visitors. The country is blessed private partnerships to share everything that was missed. immensely with various resources their experiences and develop a With Sri Lanka being With many activities and readily available. All of this and suitable curriculum which satisfies commended for its highly schedules of international schools more makes Sri Lanka the ideal international requirements. successful measures taken being delayed due to the pandemic choice among prospective students Both the state and non-state in containing the novel – for instance the May/June for higher education. higher education sectors should coronavirus which led to sessions of the GCE A/L (both Currently, higher education adapt the sharing economy concept a global pandemic whilst Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel) providers promote Sri Lanka by working towards sharing their many developed nations examinations – there could be an individually within their own resources for maximum capacity effect on those engaged in the non- capacities. The time has now utilisation rather than merely failed to do so adequately, state higher education sector. come for the Government to take competing with one another. it’s an ideal moment for However, with other alternative initiative and promote Sri Lanka the country to be positive measures in place – for example, as an ideal higher education The way forward and turn this crisis into an Cambridge International has destination. The main objective is opportunity, especially when decided to award grades to I am an advisor of the higher to create a conducive and it comes to higher education. candidates using their own education pillar under the Export stimulating environment in the evidence on the student along with Development Board (EDB) and we higher education sphere of Sri Sri Lanka has been trying to evidence from schools – the sector recently developed a five-minute Lanka to attract and encourage achieve the “knowledge hub” status can probably expect a smooth and education promotional video titled foreign students, at least from for a decade now; it’s about time quick revival. “Study in Sri Lanka”. This is a neighbouring countries, which to start acting upon it and make With Sri Lanka being well great start to many things that are would result in significant a real transformation in both the equipped when it comes to yet to follow. foreign exchange inflows. It state and non-state sectors to attract information technology (IT) and Any parent or student prefers would also contribute to the and encourage foreign students, at digital infrastructure, we see to get their qualification from a national economy’s growth and least from neighbouring countries, many higher education providers professionals overseas for professionals to the MoHE Non- university and not from an institute, development. To achieve this, thereby earning foreign exchange successfully implementing advanced education and training State Division. while the non-state sector is full further to all that was discussed and significantly contributing to e-learning, blended learning, and and they return to their home The TNE providers in the of them. To resolve this, I suggest here, the following sums up the the national economy. distance learning methods, which I country to give back and contribute country, for example, need to be that the Government step in and way forward. Here is some of my thought- believe are the future of education. in their respective fields; some monitored because we have no idea classify establishments in the non- Quality standards and monitoring provoking advice and solutions to countries even go on to sponsor whether the affiliated universities state education sector as institutes, need to be strengthened: Sri Lanka achieve this. How has this crisis turned them. are reputed or the quality of university colleges, or universities, should enhance and strengthen into an opportunity for SL? Unfortunately, few who go education is up to an adequate and similar to Malaysia and India. its present quality assurance Overview of higher With every crisis situation comes overseas from Sri Lanka return, acceptable level. For Sri Lanka to Failure to do so will result in mechanisms such as periodic education sector in SL various opportunities and positive because they feel they have wider attain “knowledge hub” status, the foreign students being reluctant to programme reviews and adherence Overall, the higher education avenues that can be explored. Sri opportunities in the foreign country quality of higher education should choose Sri Lanka for their higher to the SLQF for both the state and system in the country is expanding Lanka has been trying achieve or that Sri Lanka lacks a favourable be regulated and standardised. education. I also suggest that local non-state higher education sectors. rapidly. There are two sectors “knowledge hub” status for almost environment or relevant positions For example, when it comes degrees as well as TNE degrees be The Government should appoint here – state and non-state. When it a decade, but due to numerous for them. to pursuing an MBA (Master’s made freely available. an independent quality assurance comes to the state sector, presently reasons, this has been delayed. When a country sends in Business Administration), the commission with immediate effect, 15 universities come under the Although Sri Lanka has academic professionals overseas options offered here are plenty Sri Lanka’s capacity and which will report directly to a high purview of the University Grants promoted the education sector for activities, there need to be and these programmes can be capability to welcome authority or even the President. Commission (UGC). These among many neighbouring measures in place to track them, completed within six months, foreign students Change existing policies: Sri universities accommodated 31,000 countries in the past, the chances and also a stimulating environment eight months, or one year – this To succeed in achieving Lanka needs to adopt new policies new entrants last year, including of students coming here are low with suitable positions needs to be shouldn’t be the case. These “knowledge hub” status, and such as classifying non-state in the subject areas of medicine, as they tend to choose developed made available in Sri Lanka so as programmes need to be at a certain welcoming students from overseas, higher education establishments as engineering, and law. countries as their preferred choice to recruit their expertise upon their level of quality and consistency, Sri Lanka needs to relax its institutes, university colleges, and In addition to four other state of study destination. return. with minimum standards being visa restrictions. This has to be universities, depending on certain universities, 38 technical colleges Many of the developed countries maintained. Only then will we carefully studied and amended criteria, like in Malaysia and and eight university colleges have failed to act upon and contain Regulations to monitor be able to truly achieve the to enable easy access to eligible India. This will allow the sector provide over 185,000 placements – the novel coronavirus in a timely the quality of education “knowledge hub” status we desire. students. to have increased transparency, totalling over 216,000 placements manner and this has resulted in in both state and The visas need to be issued consistency, and governance. – completely free of charge most parents thinking twice on non-state sectors The non-state sector definitely for a minimum number of years Collaborations and public-private annually, well surpassing the whether to send their children The non-state sector has heavily needs adequate support from the coinciding with their duration of partnerships should increase: 150,000-160,000 students who pass overseas. This certainly opens up contributed to expanding Sri Government as their investments study in the country at the very Higher education providers in both the GCE Advanced Level (A/L) an opportunity for the country to Lanka’s higher education sphere and operations are colossal. The least, rather than being issued state and non-state sectors have to examination every year. not only create and sustain a truly in the last decade, with a higher Government can provide them for short periods; the students collaborate with one another, and With the Government genuinely international learning environment capacity to accommodate the various loan facilities, subsidies, should also be allowed to carry share their existing resources and interested in uplifting the standards where parents would be more than growing demands of students. quick approvals for requests, and out and engage in various research capacities to create greater synergy. of these institutes, the higher willing to enrol their children at There is a regulatory body for the much more. There most certainly activities. This can be referred to as a education sector has recently a local higher education provider, state sector, as we’re all aware needs to be a support structure in They should be given the “sharing economy”, which simply exhibited progressive growth, with but to also attract and welcome – the UGC. The private sector place and more engagement and opportunity to obtain a work means collaborative consumption. the delay in policy planning and prospective students at the regional comes under the MoHE’s Non- involvement from the Government, permit, allowing them to work Invite high-calibre academics or implementation now being taken level, with a vision for increased State Division. There have been so as to make processes easier and legally for a certain number the top leaderships alike: Sri Lanka care of. global reach later on. initiatives in the recent years, more convenient by allowing the of hours per week. This will should always prioritise appointing Timely planning and This is an ideal moment for such as the introduction of the Sri State to prioritise and respond to drastically help the heavy shortage sound academic professionals as implementation of policies is Sri Lanka to attract prospective Lanka Qualifications Framework the requirements of the sector. of manpower we face in the decision-makers for the higher of paramount importance for a students, especially from countries (SLQF), which is a nationally country today. education sector. Furthermore, speedy and responsive process in such as the Maldives, Myanmar, consistent framework for all higher All education sectors This will certainly encourage necessary steps need to be taken to achieving its success. , Bhutan, India, Nepal, and education qualifications offered in should come under one or the students, making them feel encourage Sri Lankan intellectuals The non-state higher education China for example, and market its the country, requiring both the state two ministries more comfortable and welcome. currently abroad to return and sector has improved immensely range of local study programmes and non-state sectors to comply. I believe there should only be Discussions are ongoing with the follow a promising, progressive in the past years. However, there approved by the Ministry of Higher However, there is no authority two ministries, one for education relevant higher authorities on this career here at home, including aren’t any sufficient formal Education (MoHE) and recognised to regularly measure or monitor and the other for higher education. matter. Both the state and non- that of research contributions and regulations and standards in place by the UGC, as well as various whether these sectors really Any study programme beyond state sectors have to improve the collaboration. to regularly and periodically transnational education (TNE) comply with the quality assurance year 13 is termed higher education. physical infrastructure provided, Roadshows and promotion of the monitor and maintain compliance programmes where foreign degrees system. Therefore, the Government For instance, study programmes especially when it comes to sector: Sri Lanka needs to appoint and quality in its teaching and are offered here at home. This will should appoint an independent offering qualifications such as student accommodation, and invest a dynamic committee from both training programmes. also enable international students quality assurance commission with diplomas, higher diplomas, etc. heavily in the latest equipment and the state and non-state sectors When Sri Lanka opened its doors to physically study in Sri Lanka immediate effect, which would come under various ministries technology. with a sole purpose of promoting to a free market economy, many and obtain their preferred foreign report directly to a high authority at present and this can be very With parents and prospective the country as a knowledge hub. private institutes mushroomed degree here rather than having to or even the President. confusing, causing limitations in students viewing university They can initiate roadshows, in every nook and cranny of visit the particular country. This commission needs to implementing policy standards. rankings and the image and among other activities, through the the island. With appropriate physically visit institutes and I’d suggest there be just one reputation of the country as embassies overseas in potential mechanisms, the higher education Knowledge and expertise conduct audits and quality checks ministry overlooking the country’s important factors, it’s also critical countries such as Pakistan, Nepal, standards in the country can among local academic periodically, preferably at least overall higher education sector; for both the state and non-state Myanmar, Bhutan, China, the be significantly elevated and professionals once a year. Minimum standards this ministry can have divisions or higher education sectors in Sri Maldives, the Middle East, and improved to the international level. Sri Lanka has conventionally need to be introduced to all higher different secretariats handling sub- Lanka to invest in a wide range of . been on the lookout for foreign education institutions including on areas of the sector. research capabilities and improve (Prof. Nalaka Jayakody DSc How the global pandemic expertise over the many local resource personnel, infrastructure The TNE sector, for instance, their respective rankings. [Cn], MSc [Swe], FNI [UK], affected SL’s higher intellectuals readily available. We facilities, leisure, and so on, comes under no authority, which Having a well-thought-out, FCILT [UK], FIMarEST education have very solid professionals in requiring them to adhere to norms means that any institute with the collaborative action plan with [UK], CMarTech [UK], Master It’s no doubt that the entire various fields of study. and standards of quality in all approval from a foreign-based regard to this will help Sri Lanka Mariner [Aus], presently serves country has taken a hit with the For instance, when taking a teaching and training programmes. university for example, can freely truly achieve excellence in research as the Chairman of The Nautical recent outbreak of the coronavirus look at those in the frontlines of conduct study programmes locally and overall ranking on a regional Institute [NI-UK] Sri Lanka which has evolved into a global the current global pandemic, you The present non-state with no regulations. and global scale. Branch, Advisor – Professional pandemic forcing many nations to can see many Sri Lankans abroad higher education sector Therefore, I believe the TNE Services [Education] of the go into lockdown. working as frontrunners. There are needs to be strengthened sector should also come under a Sri Lanka should focus on Export Development Board The higher education sector so many Sri Lankan researchers, Presently, the non-state higher ministry, which will then monitor new study streams [EDB], Committee Member – Sri in Sri Lanka hasn’t been heavily thought leaders, and scientists in education sector is performing at its eligibility, performance, and We live in a fast-paced Lanka Qualifications Framework affected in comparison to other countries such as Australia, the UK, its best with its current resources, deliverability. environment where digital and [SLQF] review panel [World industry sectors in the country. and the US, giving brilliant advice capabilities, and the minimum innovation dominates our day- Bank], Member of the Committee However, we most definitely and solutions. manpower it possesses. How Sri Lanka can gain to-day activities, demanding a deciding on minimum standards see a delay in many of the planned My personal view on this is that The sector can be really more recognition as a shift from traditional courses and for non-state degree-awarding activities and initiatives due to the we have sufficient expertise locally strengthened by establishing knowledge hub regionally qualifications. institutes – MoHE, and Immediate country being under curfew and the and there is no real need to look for appropriate monitoring and and globally Rather than offering the Past President of the Sri Lanka imposition of travel restrictions; those from abroad unless it’s for auditing mechanisms, and priority Sri Lanka is a really beautiful traditional courses, Sri Lanka Association of Non-State if such measures continue to take something that’s very new to us. should be given to appointing and neutral destination, ideally has to develop and embrace new Higher Education Institutions place, the sector will certainly Many countries send highly qualified academic positioned on the world map study programmes in the science, [SLANSHEI]) the sunday morning 15 Sunday, May 31, 2020 SPORTS

WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Suranjith Silva Trials and tribulations of a first-class cricketer

The chess game begins in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001) z The only man to have Suranjith Silva bio played for SSC but never played for SL Full Name: Suranjith Silva Born: 4 Mar 1975 in Moratuwa Hire that chess guy! BY REVATHA S. SILVA AND VERNON TISSERA (IN Father: Ranjith Silva MELBOURNE) Mother: Meriam Silva When the World Champion Magnus Carlsen played against the rising Polish star Suranjith Silva provides us a classic Siblings: Younger brother Priyanjith and younger sister Roshini Jan Krzysztof Duda in the Lindores Abbey THE CHESS example of how a prominent online Rapid Challenge, an exciting battle first-class cricketer unfortunately Wife: Shayanika de Saram developed on the board. After 37 moves, the CORNER missed out on the big leagues, Current age: 45 years game reached a surreal position; a kind of by Dulan Edirisinghe after painstakingly staying in the Major teams: SL “A”, SL Board President’s XI, SL U-23, position that renders spectators stunned and SL U-20, SL-U 19, SSC, Sebastianites CC, Badureliya CC, the commentators speechless. first-class or domestic game for a BRC, and Lankan CC starting positions of the kings and queens. The very long time. School: St. Sebastian’s College, Moratuwa sight of a queen getting castled was painful. Now living in Melbourne, Australia, in style: Right-handed But when the filmmakers get it right, it’s a the midst of a number of other top former Bowling style: Right-arm leg-break great spectacle. A blitz chess game between Sri Lanka cricketers, Silva’s name comes Sherlock Holmes and Professor Moriarty serves up always in the list of “doomed players” Coaches: Rev. Bro. Nimal Gurusinghe, Frank Cooray, Neil Rajapakse at St. Sebastian’s, and Bodiyabaduge as the climax of Sherlock Holmes : A Game of the 1990s who flourished at the first-class of Shadows, a film directed by Guy Ritchie, level without ever making it into the highest Presently: Runs Melbourne West Cricket Academy and Silva Spin Bowling Clinic in Melbourne, Australia, a keen chess player. acclaim – Waruna Waragoda, Sajith Fernando, in addition to running a sports, leisure, and travel- Ruchira Palliyaguruge, Pasan Wanasinghe, 28 years, it still remains our related company while also being a local agent for Nimesh Perera, to name a few. record. The same year, I was adjudged the Woodstock Sports Following is the first part of the interview best all-island school bowler. Therefore, I of Suranjith Silva with The Sunday Morning was picked for the SL U-19 team for a series Sports (interviewed on Wednesday, 27 May): against . Avishka Gunawardene was Then came a life-changing moment? our and Michael Vaughan led the The first practice match of that Pakistan Tell us a little bit about your start as a touring England. Marcus Trescothick and series was held at the Welagedara Stadium, cricketer. Richard Johnson were also there. Mahela Kurunegala. Duleep Mendis was our Coach No one in my family had played cricket (Jayawardene), Thilan (Samaraweera), and and T.B. Kehelgamuwa was the Manager. Duda – Carlsen in a big way. My father had played a little. Raveendra Pushpakumara were part of our When I played that match, I was only 18 and After 37...Bd1 From my small days, I used to play backyard team. was really inexperienced. Kumar Dharmasena Carlsen lost after 38.Bc5 Kg7 39.Kf2 Rd8 cricket. I played cricket on the beach with a too was playing in that game. That was the 40.Rb7+ Kg6 41.Re7 Rb8 42.Re6+ Kh5 soft ball with friends. Was it then that you got an early call time when a competition had emerged for 43.Kg3, a forced mate. for Sri Lanka? a permanent place for a spinner in the Sri The inimitable Jan Gustafsson, who What was your school career like? In that series, we played three unofficial Lanka team. In my first over Kumar dropped forms arguably the most entertaining chess I played for St. Sebastian’s, Moratuwa right Tests and won the series 1-0. I fared well with a catch off Aamer Sohail at mid-on. (Romesh) commentary alongside Peter Svidler, Sherlock Holmes – Moriarty (fictional game) throughout, from U-13 to 19. I played U-19 both bat and ball. This prompted the selectors Kaluwitharana then missed a stumping chance found the ideal way to explain the crazy position White to play for four consecutive years. In the 1994 Big to pick Mahela, Thilan, and myself for the off my bowling. after move 37. “If this was in a movie, we Holmes concludes the game with 1.Qxg6! Match against Prince of Wales, Moratuwa, Sri Lanka Development Squad in preparation (To be continued next week on The Sunday would complain that they should at least hire fxg6 2.Bxe6+ Kh7 3.Rh3+ Bh6 4.Bxh6 Rf5 I took a match-bag of 10 for 67 runs. After for a forthcoming Pakistan home series. Morning Sports on Sunday, 7 June 2020) one chess player as a consultant!” 5.Rxf5 gxf5 6.Bf7 Qb6+ 7.Kh1 Qxb2 8.Bf8#. Gustafsson’s comment refers to the regular This brilliant queen sacrifice foreshadows occurrence of something that has always what Holmes will finally have to do to get the exasperated chess affectionados – the sheer better of his archenemy. As a bonus, this scene amount of avoidable gaffes and unrealistic features some blindfold chess and an ancient positions in chess scenes of movies. chess clock. A true delight! How to improve your tennis alone For the filmmakers, chess is a fantastic tool. The following is a position 90% of you Whether as an analogy, a metaphor, a plot have “seen”. device, or as a code to explain certain character assume automatically that the players are traits, they love chess. Yet, their indifference to Dinith co-ordinated enough to play the game. But avoid the most elementary of technical errors observing the top players in the world, they is quite astonishing, especially considering Pathiraja spend a significant amount of time at the the enormous budget at their disposal. Chess start of the session doing co-ordination players hate the fact that their game is exploited ON COURT drills. Trying to pin down specific drills as a symbol yet deemed not worthy of that here is a fruitless exercise as there is a minimal effort to get those basics correct. Just With curfew being relaxed to a large extent massive amount of these drills that can hire a chess consultant please! and normal life resuming slowly but surely, be done effectively. A simple scroll in the These errors do come in different flavours but all tennis players must be waiting with baited YouTube will suffice more than enough the most common (and the most irritating!) one breath to get on to the court and start playing Old heroes – SL Davis Cup tennis team of for this subject. is the incorrect orientation of the chess board. tennis again. 1995 in Hong Kong. From left: Manjula Imagine a chess cameo in a film. While the Having been cooped inside a house for Weerakoon, Jayendra Wijeysekera, Lahiru Footwork drills Jayasuriya, and Arjun Fernando regular fans drink in all the suspense, the artful almost two-and-a half months, it will be (Manager L.M. Fernando absent) “Tennis starts with the feet” is the most composition of the whole scene, and whatnot, “paradise regained” when these young players heard mantra among the top players and the a chess player generally has eyes for one thing, get back on court. And in the case of some or a ball rebound net, they can do ball machine coaches. Therefore, whatever amount of time and one thing only – that dreaded dark square Black to play parents, at least, they would also be more drills and ball rebound net drills also. But that a player would spend doing footwork can in the right corner. Even the six-year-olds are than happy to let their offspring onto a tennis since they are not commonly available in only help. Any tennis player would have an taught the pneumonic “right is light”, yet the This comes from the very first Harry Potter court to let off steam after having to control Sri Lanka, the above eight situations only idea of the footwork drills. The specific drills filmmakers often do not make the effort to movie. Winning a game of deadly “wizard them within the house safely for so long. will be discussed below in greater length. needed would defer from player to player. get it right. The Seventh Seal (1957), one of chess” is one of the key tasks Harry, Ron, Quite a few of them might even be relieved Once again, YouTube would be a valuable the most famous chess-related movies ever, and Hermione face as they try to prevent the that the house is still standing after keeping Improving your serve tool of information here. suffers from this error. So does The Shawshank Philosopher’s stone falling into the wrong them inside for almost three months! Improving your serve is one of the easiest Redemption (1994); the greatest film ever made hands. International Master Jeremy Silman was But when these youngsters get back on things that you can do on your own. You Shadow swings according to many. entrusted with the task of creating a dynamic court in the near future – not immediately, as could always take a basket of balls and go to Shadow swings are another training tool position where Ron must sacrifice himself in the Sports Ministry has advised the players the court and serve. And when serving balls which most players underutilise massively. order for Harry to deliver the checkmate. to watch the situation for a bit longer – they it must be noted that, instead of just serving Used and done properly, this is a very Ron is the black knight on g5, Harry the will find a major difference from earlier. That for the sake of finishing the basket of balls, effective exercise which would help the black bishop on a3, and Hermione the black is that the group classes that they were taking it must be done with a particular target in player’s rhythm and timing. There are various rook on f8. Black plays 1...Rc3! 2.Qxc3 Nh3+ part earlier will have get smaller and with mind. It should perhaps be that the players ways that this can be done, i.e. using one (2... Bc5+ 3. Qxc5 Nh3# would also lead to that, the time they can spend on the court will keep a target on the court and aim to hit that racket, holding two rackets together, etc. The a quicker mate, but Harry sacrificing himself get shorter. This is because the coaches now target, and so on and so forth. particular drill will depend on the player’s just won’t do!) 3.Qxh3 Bc5+ and “the boy can only have a limited number of students purpose in doing it. who lived” triumphs yet again. per court for the same amount of time. But Self-feeding drills they still have to coach the same number of Self-feeding drills are another set of drills Fitness drills students. With the result, the time period for which players can practise on their own. The Fitness is important for any sport and not each class has got shorter and therefore the players can just have a ball in their hand just tennis. For that matter, it is important for a From the Koombiyo intro players can spend a shorter time on court. and throw it to where they want, and move healthy life. These drills need no explanation The Sicilian Defence to it and hit it. In fact, these drills, if done or introduction at all. The only thing to The intro of the highly acclaimed Sri Lankan Practising alone properly, would be highly effective for the remind the players is that the drills should drama Koombiyo featured a game of chess. Therefore, the players now have to find players to understand the length of the ball be as “tennis specific” as possible. Impressively, it featured the popular Sicilian an alternative to make sure that they practise and to improve the close footwork. Defence, suggesting the involvement of a chess The white queen moving menacingly towards tennis longer. The only alternative at the Wall drills consultant. Unfortunately, they misplaced the Ron, the black knight moment is to practise tennis alone. In the Serve+1 drills Whilst the four drills mentioned immediately space below, the ways that you can practise This is a straightforward progression from above could be done without the need of any tennis on your own will be discussed at the first two drills. The players can have two particular amount of space, a wall will be length. The only thing that the players need to balls in their hand. Then the player can serve needed to do the wall drills. This is playing have, for certain exercises, is that they should the first ball, come to the ready position, and tennis on the wall. This is another underrated have access to a tennis court, although some then throw the next ball, as if the serve has aspect of tennis. Even the very top players Sr. DIG Dharmaratne boon for Kandy of the exercises suggested below do not even been returned, and move to it and hit the ball. enthusiastically swear to the effectiveness of need a tennis court to practise. In fact, this is an extremely effective way to these drills as they were playing in their junior BY HAFIZ MARIKAR IN KANDY Fernando, another sports lover to the The exercises and drills that you can understand and improve “the attacking of age groups. YouTube is again an effective tool core, Dharmaratne has also played practise on your own can be listed as follows: the second ball” concept. to discover the necessary wall drills. A sportsman and sports lover taking cricket for the University of Colombo Improving your serve What the above discussion proves over law and order in society is a great before representing the Police team Self-feeding drills Co-ordination drills conclusively is that while there are certain in their inter-provincial cricket sign, always. Kandy is fortunate in Serve+1 drills Whilst the first three drills mentioned restrictions in place regarding the practice this aspect as former Nalanda College, tournaments. Senior DIG Co-ordination drills above would need a tennis court, the next of tennis in the country, the players can do Colombo sportsman Sanjeewa Kandy sports has a lot to be done Roshan Footwork drills four drills mentioned here would not need a lot of work on their own, if they have the Dharmaratne took over recently as Fernando but it can be more than really possible the Senior Deputy Inspector General of to do so with the present Police Shadow swings even one. will to do so. Because at the end of the day, Police (DIG), in charge of the Central Province. establishment in Kandy, now led by senior Fitness drills Co-ordination drills are one of the what is most needed is the determination Taking over from Senior DIG Roshan officers like DIG Dharmaratne. Wall training drills most underrated and underdone drills of the player to make the best out of the If the players have access to a ball machine in tennis. The players and the coaches prevailing situation. 16 the sunday morning Sunday, May 31, 2020 sports FA Cup follows EPL New App for fans to cheer from home England look for The FA Cup quarter-finals have been With fans barred from stadiums due to young blood rescheduled for 27-28 June with the final coronavirus restrictions, sporting bodies England yesterday (29) set to take place on 1 August. FA Chief around the world are grappling with named 14 uncapped players Executive Mark Bullingham said the dates how to create atmosphere at matches in a group of 55 that has been are “dependent on all safety measures being and the “Remote Cheerer powered by asked to return to training in met” with venues and kick-off times yet to Sound UD” system has now been made preparation for a revamped be confirmed. The English Premier League in Japan by Yamaha. It broadcasts cheers, boos, and chants from international summer. England are likely separate Test and (EPL) said it is returning to action on 17 June. users’ homes to the stadium via the internet. limited-overs squads to cope with a congested schedule.

WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Cricket should allow limited number of spectators in ground: Percy AUSTRALIA SAYS z ‘Cricket behind closed doors is like having canjee without salt’

Ever thought of having canjee or porridge without salt, or enjoying a “perahera” or a pageant without the drummers? That's how international cricket is without spectators at the grounds, said none other than Percy Abeysekera, Sri Lanka's one-man cheer squad who pioneered the art of cheering in world cricket. Percy, 83, who last December received Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC)'s Lifetime Award for his inimitable contribution to the sport over the last Percy Abeysekera six decades, suggests at least a limited number of spectators should be allowed off the boredom. Sri Lanka has one of way can add some life to the game on the ground when playing resumes the best records in quarantine now. So while not compromising the health ‘NO’ under closed doors owing to the Covid- preparing and sending at least a few requirements," proposed Percy, who 19 pandemic. dozens of spectators sporadically and has cheered Sri Lanka in almost all ICC SAYS "That could be one solution to stave placing them in stands in an organised Test-playing countries. (RSS) ‘WAIT’ ‘Cricket politics turn out to be a chapter out of a spy novel’

BY REVATHA S. SILVA given it up for this year. Thursday’s meeting, in the end, A day after the International focussed more on protecting the Cricket Council (ICC) confidentiality and sanctity of the decided to push back its world governing body rather, than decision whether or not to any futuristic cricket matters, i.e. go ahead with this year’s The T20 World Cup. T20 World Cup in Australia until 10 June, Australian IPL is supreme media said yesterday (29) Media revealed that Australia’s that Cricket Australia (CA) summer season is unlikely to generate profits this year as usual. has already requested They are in fact bracing for a officially that the World Cup mammoth AUD 80 million revenue be postponed for one year. loss. Therefore, Australia needs Present ICC Chairman India’s support more than anything “Cricket Australia has asked the Shashank Manohar else for their financial survival. In International Cricket Council to matters (at its meeting on Thursday the meantime, India wants to have postpone this year’s men’s Twenty20 [28]),” the said report revealed. its money-spinning Indian Premier World Cup for 12 months as the League (IPL) to be slotted into the sport’s global politics turned into Indian domination October-November window by a chapter out of a spy novel,” As we have reported on many postponing the World Cup. reported The Morning Herald occasions, this year’s World Cup “While the official verdict in Australia yesterday, shedding will most likely be postponed till, not from the organisers is that light on the ugly behind-the-screen 2021, but 2022, as India is anyway the tournament will remain manoeuvrings of the global cricket hosting the next edition of the T20 as scheduled in October and industry. World Cup next year. But, it is now November, it is almost certain to revealed that the CA has requested be postponed. This would pave Email leaked to the showpiece event be given to the way for the Indian Premier Indian media Australia next year, not 2022. League, worth more than $ 500 So, why the ICC is still talking “It would be detrimental to cricket million to the Board of Cricket about the possibility of holding if the cancellation of the Australian for Control in India (BCCI), to the October-November event event (this year’s T20 World Cup) claim the window,” Australian unperturbed is a big problem, in is replaced by the awarding of media confirmed. a context where the host country the subsequent T20 World Cup in Money talks, walks, and does has expressed their unwillingness October/November 2022,” Eddings everything. It can easily be to go ahead with the event. wrote in an email sent to the ICC speculated that India will have its “In a bizarre chain of events, Financial and Commercial Affairs IPL this year and ask Australia to a letter from CA Chairman Earl Committee, leaked to The Times have the World Cup either next year Eddings to the ICC Financial of India. or in 2022. Don’t ever be shocked Committee was leaked to Indian In a bizarre turn of events, the ICC if BCCI President Souvrav Ganguly media, sparking the world said in a statement that contingency is elected as the next ICC President governing body to launch a plans were underway to carry on and our Big Brother holding the probe to ensure the sanctity and with the event this year in Australia sway of international cricket for confidentiality of the Board’s in spite of the fact that the CA had many more years to come.

Mahela and Sanga ‘lifted’ our plan Former Sri Lanka Schools Cricket team made some time ago. Association (SLSCA) President “The previous Government Oshara Panditharathna, who now allocated Rs. 200 million for school works at the Ministry of Education, cricket and we were tasked with Former SLSCA President Oshara revealed to media last week that the formulating a development plan. Panditharathna much-hyped national school cricket Ministry Secretaries Kapila Jayalath, Bernard translated that into English. proposal, presented by legendary Ashoka Senani Hewage, and Jayantha That’s the very report that Mahela cricketers and Seneviratne, along with Carlton et al presented (as if it was theirs),” , is one that their Bernard and I made that plan. Later, Panditharathne clarified.

Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 PRODUCTION ECONOMY: THINK SMALL, SRI LANKA »SEE PAGE 3

IS SRI LANKA READY FOR ALCOHOL DELIVERY? »SEE PAGE 8 Sunday, May 31, 2020 businessWITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Central Bank’s Monetary Policy Consultative Committee changed BY CHARINDRA CHANDRASENA Dr. Kenneth De Zilwa was the first Founder/Chairman Udaya Indrarathna Institute of Policy Studies of Sri of the new committee and its appointment to the committee at the have been added to the committee. Lanka (IPS) Executive Director Saman membership proved unsuccessful as The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has changed the beginning of this year. Since then, These 10 members have replaced the Kelegama was the original Chairman the Central Bank told us that they were membership of the Monetary Policy Consultative Committee Raigam Marketing Services (Pvt.) Ltd. former committee which, in addition to of the committee, but following his not willing to divulge the identities of (MPCC), which is in place to enable the bank to obtain views of Chairman/CEO Dr. Ravi Liyanage, Abeyratne and Dr. Wignaraja, comprised sudden demise in 2017, the position neither the former committee nor the the stakeholders of the economy for monetary policy decision Micro Cars (Pvt.) Ltd. Chairman/CEO of business tycoon Sohli Captain, JB passed on to Prof. Sirimal Abeyratne. new committee as it was an internal making. Dr. Lawrence Perera, Nature’s Beauty Securities CEO Murtaza Jafferjee, Lion The changes are believed to have matter within the Central Bank. The idea Creations Ltd. Chairman/Managing Brewery (Ceylon) PLC CEO Suresh been brought about as CBSL Governor behind the MPCC is that it consists of a Reliable sources told The Sunday Abeyratne, who has retained Director Samantha Kumarasinghe, Shah, Ceylon Biscuits Ltd. Managing Prof. W.D. Lakshman, following his cross-section of stakeholders including Morning Business that only two Chairmanship of the MPCC, and Brandix Lanka Ltd. CEO Ashroff Omar, Director Shea Wickramasinghe, then appointment in late 2019, wanted a eminent professionals, academics, members of the previous committee, Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of Java Institute for Advanced Technology Advisor to the Ministry of Development committee which aligned with his and private sector personnel so that which was in place from 2015 to 2019, International Relations and Strategic Chairman Dr. Ishantha Siribaddana, Strategies and International Trade and nationalistic economic policies as the CBSL benefits by their expertise have been retained. Studies Global Economy Programme Access Engineering PLC Managing Economist Anushka Wijesinha, and opposed to the more neoliberal policies and experience in its monetary policy They are University of Colombo Chair Dr. Ganeshan Wignaraja. Director Christopher Joshua, and London former Unilever Sri Lanka Chairman/ of the previous Government. decision-making process. Professor of Economics Sirimal Econsult Asia Managing Director Executive Coaching and Consulting CEO Amal Cabraal. Our attempt to obtain a confirmation Contd. on page 2 Vehicle importers now want to export Banking sector

BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR

Vehicle importers, who interest relief: CB have been effectively driven out of business due to the Government’s vehicle import ban, are requesting for opportunities to join the yet to respond export sector to ensure their survival. BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR income for half a year, creating tourism, apparel, plantation, IT, and institutions, to implement the The Vehicle Importers severe cash flow issues. related logistics service providers. debt moratorium on capital and Association of Sri Lanka Sri Lanka’s banking industry Well-placed banking sector In the same circular, the CBSL interest and a working capital loan (VIASL) has urged the On 22 May, Minister of international vehicle dealers is waiting with bated breath for sources told us that negotiations instructed financial institutions for Covid-19-hit businesses and Government to implement Finance, Prime Minister and auto part manufacturers, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka are underway with the CBSL and to provide working capital individuals. a stable long-term policy Mahinda Rajapaksa issued which could be leveraged to (CBSL) to respond to its request that it is hoped a response would requirements at an interest rate Licensed commercial banks that would convert their a Gazette notification banning establish export businesses to be allowed to charge interest be received within the week. of 4% and waive off interest (LCBs), licensed specialised now virtually redundant vehicle imports into Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka. from lenders under the Covid-19 Following the local spread of payments for at least six months banks (LSBs), licensed finance businesses into export- until further notice, while “These export businesses moratorium, The Sunday Morning Covid-19, the CBSL announced for the aforementioned sectors. companies, and specialised oriented businesses in similar other import restrictions are could include vehicle Business learns. financial relief in late March for According to JB Securities, leasing companies were made industries. imposed only for a period components and spare part The industry made a request selected industries due to the banks expect about 30% of the eligible to participate in this Amidst strict restrictions of three months. This has manufacturing. We could from the CBSL a couple of weeks financial struggles endured as a entire banking industry loan book refinancing facility which on vehicle imports by the left vehicle importers in the even discuss with global ago, to be allowed to charge at result of the islandwide curfew to be eligible for moratoriums, commenced in late March. Government to prevent a industry with no choice but companies and commission least a component of the interest as a resultof Covid-19. meaning banks would lose interest Therefore, with the Rs. 50 possible foreign exchange to survive only on the stocks their plants here in Sri on loans that were completely Issuing a circular on 24 March, income worth about Rs. 94 billion billion refinancing facility crisis, the industry has made they have at the moment. Lanka; if our Government waived off under the moratorium. a few days after the imposition over four-and-a-half months, and factored in, banks would still such a request to ensure that VIASL President Indika implements long-term This request was made to ensure of the islandwide curfew, the Rs. 120 billion over six months. lose around Rs. 44 billion over vehicle importers do not go Sampath Merenchige told The policies to do so, we will banks have sufficient cash flow CBSL announced a six-month A week after the announcement four-and-a-half months and Rs. 70 bankrupt and subsequently Sunday Morning Business invest in these businesses,” to pay interest income to their debt moratorium for affected of the moratorium, the CBSL billion over six months, according close down their businesses due that local vehicle importers Merenchige noted. depositors, as the moratorium as it industries comprising that of small announced a Rs. 50 billion to the JB Securities estimates. to the ban on vehicle imports. have strong ties with Contd. on page 2 stands deprives banks of interest and medium enterprises (SME), refinancing facility to financial Contd. on page 2

Prorating salaries: Apparel Stockbrokers strike gold sector reconsiders options The topmost apparel manufacturers in Sri Lanka with CSE reopening are evaluating whether they should adopt the prorated BY CHARINDRA CHANDRASENA “Compared to last year, what salary scheme formulated by we have seen over the past the Government or choose Stockbrokers have been two-and-a-half weeks has been to pay their employees in raking in big bucks since amazing. Simply amazing,” he full, The Sunday Morning the reopening of the exulted. Business learnt. Colombo Stock Exchange Several stockbroking This is because paying the (CSE) after a seven-week companies are reported to be salaries in full would set an closure on 11 March. reconsidering the salary cuts unhealthy precedent for the introduced in April amidst the industry that smaller players report to the workplace or to the Labour Minister on In fact, earnings have been so economic doom and gloom of with far greater financial work from home. 25 April to provide relief high that stockbroking companies the Covid-19 pandemic. These strain would be expected Small apparel players to employers and prevent have already covered the revenue were originally supposed to be in to follow by their workers, had welcomed the prorated bankruptcies. they lost due to the prolonged place till June, but there is now a putting these SMEs under system and had implemented The system is designed to closure of the market. likelihood that these cuts, which immense pressure. it without delay as it was ensure that every employee “We made up our usual monthly earnings are based on turnover average daily turnover of 2019, were sometimes as high as 40%, The Sunday Morning a major relief to their receives a minimum monthly revenue in just five or six days alone, and the average daily which was well under Rs. 1 will be discontinued before June. Business reliably learnt that businesses, which have been salary of Rs. 14,500, even of trading. Things have been turnover in the 14 trading days billion, and is even higher than However, market analysts the small and medium apparel adversely affected by the if the said employee was excellent,” a stockbroker told up to Thursday (28) has been the average daily turnover in have expressed concern about manufacturers have started curfew imposed islandwide not required to report to the The Sunday Morning Business. around Rs. 1.5 billion. These 2020 prior to the market closure. the massive foreign outflow seen paying their employees on a and the resultant economic workplace or work from home The CSE was closed from 20 figures are in spite of the CSE Colombo Stockbrokers in the market since its reopening. prorated basis, following an stagnation due to the local a single day of the month. March to 10 May and in that seeing its shortest trading day in Association (CSBA) President There has been nearly Rs. 8 agreement reached with the outbreak of Covid-19. The employer is required period, stockbroker revenues history on the opening day (11), Kosala Gamage told us on billion worth of foreign outflow Government in early May. The system is applicable under this system to pay completely dried up in the absence which lasted a mere 38 seconds, Thursday evening that the from the CSE in these 14 market Under this new system, for two months and was such an employee 50% of of trading. However, since 11 allowing a turnover of only Rs. stockbroking community is on days, although that has had no employers do not have to pay included in a list of proposals the basic salary or Rs. 14,500; May, it has been a completely 24.8 million. a much better footing now than impact on the stockbrokers. the full salary to an employee submitted by the Employers’ whichever is higher. different story. Stockbroker This is in stark contrast to the they were last year. Contd. on page 2 who hasn’t been required to Federation of Ceylon (EFC) Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning business INTERVIEW/NEWS Sunday, May 31, 2020

WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Covid-19 and the Colombo Stock Exchange: Looking ahead with confidence The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) resumed stock market 11 and 12 May, both indices have AGMs, Vote by Proxy, and other for some time and we plan to engage achieve financial flexibility by operations on 11 May 2020, following an extended closure as a made considerable ground. The ASPI measures were recommended to in such a campaign in collaboration offering a path to equity-based result of the Covid-19 pandemic. In this interview, CSE Chairman is currently at its highest point since listed companies and are practiced as with the SEC who have been very capital, and given the current context, Ray Abeywardena comprehensively discusses the efforts of the 13 March 2020, which incidentally we speak. welcoming of this idea so far. This financial flexibility is of utmost CSE amidst the Covid-19 pandemic and offers an outlook on the was only two days after the Covid-19 In consultation with the Securities would certainly help in popularising importance to a business. way forward for the Exchange and the market. outbreak was declared as a pandemic and Exchange Commission of the market going forward and would Fundraising has been widely Below are excerpts of the interview: by the World Health Organisation Sri Lanka (SEC), we also offered help us leverage on the growing spoken about recently as businesses (WHO), which should offer you momentary regulatory flexibility to interest in the market we have seen and industries at large learn to How has the market performed What we have seen post some interesting perspective on the listed companies with relation to the as of late. Yet, a campaign of this live with the realities of a Covid- since reopening on 11 May upon recommencing trading is that progress of the index after some timelines for submission of financial nature would also require the support 19-central business environment. resuming operations as part of the discerning investors have made full tough times. statements, enforcement actions, and of the wider stakeholder base in the Traditionally, Sri Lankan businesses Government’s efforts to return to use of the buying opportunity to The S&P SL20 index during the other extensions/waivers to certain market for it to be effective. have turned towards debt-based normalcy in civilian life and revive benefit greatly and we are proud to week starting 18 May established continuous listing rules, considering I strongly believe the stockbroking funding, which I believe in a post- the economy? say that we have investors who see two new all-time records for the administrative and reporting community also has a very important Covid environment is going to be Even before the market the long-term benefits of the market. highest percentage gain in the index challenges faced by listed companies role to play in terms of popularising difficult to access depending on the recommenced trading, we were The market continues to offer within a day. During the same week, during the curfew period. the market, in converting leads and nature and state of the respective confident that there would be buying opportunities to those who have the the ASPI improved by 8.12% while In a different perspective, interested parties into investors, business. Many companies, in fact, interest in the market, given the capacity to buy and hold shares for the S&P SL20 Index improved by recognising the fact that we were and offering the guidance required, would probably look at alternative attractive valuations the market a period of time to benefit from the 15.88%, which was a noteworthy very much in unprecedented times, especially to new investors. sources of funding that would help continues to demonstrate. Although true value of a long-term investment. growth in the indices. we also requested listed companies Stockbroker firms are the client- reduce the debt burden. Equity-based the two market days immediately In terms of foreign investors, we High volumes in terms of turnover, to disclose the impact of Covid-19 facing stakeholder in our industry capital certainly would be something after recommencing trading on 11 have seen a net outflow since which is a reflection of trading on respective business performance/ and probably have the largest role to businesses would be open to. May were somewhat of a decline recommencing operations, which has activity, has also been evident since operations. This we believe was quite play in terms of furthering interest Through the wide-ranging investor and an overreaction as a result of the been in line with the trend we have the market recommenced operations, important in terms of offering the in the market among the public and base in our market, CSE can offer pent-up selling pressure, we saw that observed in most regional markets which has resulted in a Rs. 1.63 investing public clarity and valuable securing investments. I therefore urge companies access to a deep pool of there was some degree of stability and peer frontier and emerging billion daily average turnover perspective as they would reasonably my counterparts in the stockbroking investors and capital via a listing on and normalcy that returned to the markets. since 11 May, which is 35% higher be concerned about the business community to capitalise on this the exchange. We believe the investor market thereafter, when investors However, there is a misconception than the comparable year-to-date impact of such an unprecedented interest and the attractive valuations community will continue to welcome realised there was no need to panic that foreign investors are only daily average turnover of Rs. 1.2 event. The CSE and CA Sri Lanka we see in the market at present to well-thought-out fundraising as we while also realising there was good selling, which is not the case. We billion as of 28 May. The Market (Institute of Chartered Accountants promote stock market investment have seen over the years. long-term buying opportunities. have seen Rs. 3.1 billion worth of Capitalisation has also improved of Sri Lanka) collaborated further aggressively and to the fullest extent On the other hand, the CSE has We have also been emphasising purchases by foreign investors in since recommencing trading, adding in this regard in order to issue a possible. The CSE and SEC can fully the market infrastructure to also on this “once-in-a-lifetime” buying the market since recommencing Rs. 120.6 billion in value, which also guidance note setting out the key engage in popularising the market, support the fundraising requirements opportunity in some stocks and, just operations, which shows that the indicates progress and steps in the aspects of the disclosure to be made yet an actual investment could only of the Government, especially in to offer some perspective, some of attractive valuations the market right direction. by listed companies. be secured through stockbrokers. terms of tapping into public markets these shares have been trading at displays are acknowledged by the Due to increased participation of The response by listed companies As it has been the case in the past, for funding development projects, price levels similar to what we saw foreign investor segment as well. local investors, the contribution of and the wider stakeholders for these the CSE and SEC also, I am sure, etc. and the private participation in prior to 2009 when We have also seen an interest in the this segment of investors to turnover initiatives has been excellent, and stand ready to support the brokering initiatives of national significance. the country was market among Sri Lankans who has crossed 68% over the past 13 they have actively worked with the community to really take our market Very much like private entities, I going through are living or working overseas, days, which is significantly higher exchange to ensure capital market to the masses. expect the Government will also look a war. which is a key segment of foreign when compared to the year-to-date obligations of listed entities are met In terms of promoting Sri Lankan at versatile and alternative sources of We were investors that we have targeted contribution of 45%. Renewed during what was a truly challenging equities in foreign markets, we plan funding going forward, and the stock convinced through our marketing efforts interest among local investors, I period. The CSE is pleased to very actively engage foreign market has the infrastructure in place from the over the years. believe, has been one of the biggest that we have been able to work institutional investors through to make that work. start Locally, we have also seen positives and has the potential constructively to ensure an effective online forums to communicate CSE offers equity-based that the a substantial interest among to re-energise the market if this dissemination of market information the way forward for the Sri fundraising options for companies of market individuals to open new accounts momentum sustains. during this period. Lankan capital market as part of all sizes – from large conglomerates would not and trade. 800 new CDS accounts a confidence-building campaign to SMEs (small and medium- crash. have been opened since 11 May, What measures has the CSE taken Looking ahead, what measures focused on opportunities in the sized enterprises) – through our which is 19% of total accounts to guide listed companies during will the CSE take to popularise equity market. In terms of timing, versatile listing platforms such as opened so far this year, and quite the Covid-19 pandemic? the market locally and to engage we believe that doing this actively the Main, Diri Savi, and Empower substantial considering we are We have been proactively foreign investors? after the parliamentary election Boards. We also offer companies talking about a short engaging listed companies, offering Since recommencing trading, we where there is a clear direction on options to raise debt-based capital period of time. guidance on a number of regulatory have seen a growing interest by the socioeconomic policy and a strong through our corporate debt market, The ASPI (All matters with regard to operating local public to learn about investing and stable government will be ideal, which Sri Lankan corporates have Share Price in the listed environment amidst in the stock market and a new wave considering the strong emphasis often turned to meet their funding Index) at the end Covid-19. Right at the outset of of potential first-time investors, placed on the macroeconomic requirements. We therefore have of trading on the market closure period, we which has been refreshing. This environment by foreign investors. versatile options available to address 28 May closed offered the required guidelines to interest indicates the tremendous I also believe how effectively Sri funding requirements of corporates. at 4,887.16 companies on the steps that could potential upside of our market and Lanka has managed the Covid-19 In consultation with the SEC, we are points while be taken to ensure vital investment- the fact that the public has a strong pandemic in terms of preventing a in the process of considering some the S&P SL20 related corporate information such appetite for investment options that major outbreak within the country, broad listing rule changes to make index closed at as corporate disclosures, financial offer attractive returns. which will be a substantial positive stock market listing a possibility for 2,057.70 points. reports, etc. are disseminated to the A large portion of our efforts to when engaging foreign investors a wider spectrum of Lankan listed Compared to market in an effective and orderly popularise the market, both locally as it would leave us on a stronger companies. the market open manner amidst the unprecedented and internationally, ideally take place footing compared to some of our These proposed amendments on 11 May, as curfew period. through events and direct marketing. peers. Hence, the effort to engage would create new avenues for of 28 May, the Such information was therefore Considering that the present situation foreign investors will certainly take potential issuers to meet eligibility ASPI stands announced to the investor poses challenges to this mechanism, place as a well-thought-out initiative such as through revenue and 315.53 points community by listed companies, we have already adapted towards to effectively communicate the cash flow pathways instead of higher while seamlessly throughout the market online sessions and e-events to create positives of investing in Sri Lanka. profitability, and proposed changes the S&P SL20 closure period. CSE also offered awareness on the market and we to the IPO process creates flexibility Index stands further guidance to listed companies are seeing a good response for these As businesses approach the post- for companies. We are confident 110.28 points on hosting AGMs amidst the programmes. Covid period, it is likely that that these changes when in effect higher. After outbreak, where taking into context On the other hand, an awareness seeking funding will be a top will complement Sri Lanka’s rapidly making a the limitations of hosting public drive for the stock market locally, priority. How can the CSE help in developing commercial landscape CSE Chairman Ray Abeywardena substantial gatherings, the postponement of through a fully fledged integrated this regard? comprising multiple new business decline on the AGM, Virtual AGMs, Hybrid marketing campaign has been touted The CSE can help businesses models and segments.

Contd. from page 1

for sectors affected by Covid-19, all of which are large-scale vehicle importers who have been is financially suffering since the Easter Sunday the country’s export basket. It is estimated that Central Bank’s... involve assistance from financial institutions. in the businesses for decades. For them, moving incidents and as a result, vehicle importers had the apparel sector provides for the livelihood of The idea behind the MPCC is that it consists Financial institutions were instructed to on would be easier as they can recover the money to sell vehicles at lower prices. In addition, in around one million employees and contributes of a cross section of stakeholders including implement a debt moratorium on capital and once their stock is sold when they are mostly left November 2019, a luxury tax came into effect over 44% of the national export revenue. eminent professionals, academics and the interest which includes a six-month moratorium with no debt. and cars were subjected to a price increase of Rs. The sector has been severely impacted due private sector personnel so that the Central on leasing rentals of all three-wheelers, school “Once our stocks are sold, our business will have 75,000-100,000, which was again a blow to the to the prevailing pandemic, with Joint Apparel Bank benefits by their expertise and experience vans, lorries, small good transport vehicles, to shut down. Apart from the large-scale vehicle industry. This blow has been made more severe Association Forum Sri Lanka (JAAFSL) in its monetary policy decision making process. and buses operated by the self-employed, importers, others will face severe financial issues. with the local outbreak of Covid-19. foreseeing an immediate contraction of $ 1. 5 The MPCC assists the Monetary Policy and a moratorium until 30 May on personal Most of these importers have obtained loans and To avoid a possible foreign exchange crisis billion in Sri Lankan apparel exports during the Committee (MPC) set Sri Lanka’s monetary loans and lease rentals valued at less than developed their businesses. Some of them are due to the economic hit caused by Covid-19, three-month period ending in June, compared to policy stance at regular intervals throughout Rs. 1 million. depending 100% on loans,” Merenchige noted. the Sri Lankan Government restricted imports the previous fiscal year. The apparel sector showed the year. The MPC is chaired by the Deputy Moratoriums are not new to Sri Lanka’s Accordingly, loans obtained by vehicle since mid-March, providing exceptions only a 41% decline during the month of March 2020 Governor in charge of Price Stability and banking sector as these have been announced importers are believed to be 75% higher in value for raw materials, pharmaceuticals, and oil. The compared to the same month in the previous year. comprises of Deputy Governor/s, Assistant by the Government since the Easter Sunday than their stocks and therefore once the stocks restrictions will be in place until 15 July. There have been tax cuts across the industry, Governor/s responsible for Price Stability, incidents. Following the 21 April incident last are sold, importers might not have any turnover mainly for employees above the lowest pay Director of Economic Research, Additional year, the Government announced a one-year to settle their loans. grades. The apparel sector is one amongst Director of Economic Research responsible for moratorium on loans and interest payments This situation is expected to get worse even Prorating... five sectors that has been granted with the Money and Banking, Director of International for the tourism industry and in January this further, noted Merenchige, as the panic that has If the employee was required to report to Government’s six-month moratorium and 4% Operations, Director of Domestic Operations, year, the CBSL announced a credit support been created by the recent closure of The Finance work or work from home for only a week in that working capital loan. Director of Statistics and Secretary to the MPC scheme for SMEs. Company (TFC) has led to people withdrawing month, he or she would be entitled to 25% of and the Deputy Director of Economic Research their deposits from finance and leasing companies, the total salary, including allowances. However, responsible for Money and Banking (Alternate, and investing it in assets like vehicles and property. in addition to this, the employee would also be Stockbrokers... Head of Division, Money and Banking). Vehicle... “With this trend, our stocks will finish sooner entitled to either 75% of Rs. 14,500 or 50% There has been high interest from domestic He added that such a policy would immensely than we expect. People have already begun to of what his or her basic salary would be for a high-net-worth individuals and institutional help about 50,000 workers who are directly and purchase vehicles with the full money being three-week period. investors who have been picking up Banking... indirectly employed by the industry as they would settled. This will put us in more trouble,” However, if the employee has worked from fundamentally stable stocks at a bargain due In addition to this moratorium, banks be shifted into these new businesses. Merenchige added. home for an entire month, he or she would be to the departure of foreign investors. This are instructed to provide two other debt According to Merenchige, Sri Lanka has about Sri Lanka’s vehicle industry is one of the entitled to the total salary, as it would be outside interest led the S&P SL20, which includes the moratoriums under the circular issued in 500 vehicle importers who import vehicles as main industries that contributes significantly to the scope of this scheme. CSE’s 20 largest companies, to reach all-time March, along with a number of relief measures their main profession, and about 25-30 of them national tax revenue. Nevertheless, the industry The apparel sector is the largest contributor in record highs twice in the same week. the sunday morning business 3 Sunday, May 31, 2020 ECONOMY

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By Dhananath Fernando Production economy: Why can’t we produce the goods we need? Why do we have to depend on all these other countries? Why can’t we produce world-class brands? Over the years, these have been million-dollar, or to be Think small, Sri Lanka politically correct, million-rupee was not successful. Sri Lanka can move questions. From agri-based towards assembling and creating more economic planning to state-owned Sri Lankan brands when we evolve from our basics, but as we would all agree, our industries that left a stench not only basics are not right yet. This is where the on the economy, but also on the foreign direct investments (FDIs) become shirts and the sarees of the public, critically important. We need to attract one policymakers have ignored or big company to set up here and Sri Lanka botched time and again economic should actively capitalise on post-Covid-19 reforms which could have made dynamics of companies that are forced to Sri Lanka a production-based move out from China. If we attract one economy. good investment for a GPN, the rest will follow. That is exactly what Vietnam did, Let’s get back to fundamentals – attracting just one company as they knew “producing an economic good” and then the tide would turn. “producing it competitively” are two completely different concepts. I can drive Rethink import substitution a car, but I’m no Ayrton Senna or Michael A popular strategy to convert Sri Schumacher. In cricket terms, many Sri Lanka to a production-based economy Lankans can play cricket but only a handful is considering import substitution. As can make it to the National XI. In today’s we have highlighted in this column age, producing an economic good is like previously, most of our imports are capital playing to win at a World Cup. Observe goods and intermediate goods used for how the Australians go about their business many other products (57% of imports are at World Cups. They play to win. If we are intermediate goods and 23.1% of imports not focused and fail to adapt, we will fail as are capital goods [1]). If we are to join a nation. As Charles Darwin said: “It’s not GPNs, the inputs have to be competitive. the strongest but the most adaptable that Otherwise, the output will be expensive will survive.” and uncompetitive. If we are to carry out import substitution, then ideally it has to be based on the competitiveness of the local Rather than producing all parts and components of a complicated final product, countries began producing a small component of a big product in a substitutes but not substitution through a complex procedure complete ban or through exorbitant tariff the world apparel sector and an integrated [GPS]). Everyone is contributing to a small How do we do it? rates for imports. If we are to substitute part of the world supply chain. The apparel component of a complex product and Some Sri Lankans tend to believe that imports through bans and tariffs it would sector competes on price, quality, service, everyone is part of a big value chain (which joining a part of a big production network further impact other local industries due and delivery with the rest of the world and is called a Global Production Network is an underestimation of utilising full Sri to higher costs and regulatory barriers has won due to specialising in high-value [GPN]). Lankan potential of manufacturing all creating difficulties in managing their apparel such as lingerie and swimwear. Sri Lanka’s strategy should be to join components under one roof. Some believe input supply chains. That’s why the word by With the exception of the aforesaid more and more GPNs if we are serious it may hinder Sri Lanka’s ability to create “competition” has significant meaning in example, as a result of not understanding about converting our economy to a world-class brands and labels. Certainly economic vocabulary. the need for producing goods competitively, production-based economy. The good thing not; Sri Lanka can create a Sri Lankan label The best example for this is the we failed to catch up with the fast-growing about joining GPN is that it only requires a brand for a component rather than a final construction industry. Importation of Many centuries ago we produced goods East Asian tiger economies. basic-skilled workforce to join the network. product. It is already done in Sri Lanka. most of the construction raw materials and services for our consumption and all This will lead to earning better income Certain safety and rubber components are subjected to a 60%-plus tariff and as parts and components of that economic Joining a global production for unskilled and semi-skilled workers, that are vital for the automobile sector are a result, our hotel room rates are higher good or service had an ecosystem in network so the poverty levels will be elevated, manufactured in Sri Lanka. The entire compared to our competitive destinations the same country. With the invention of Rather than producing all parts and because for most vulnerable sections of the world is aware that Apple computers are such as Thailand, given the time taken penicillin, arguably the most important life- components of a complicated final society the only tradable good they have is not made in the US and even the product to capital recover is high (there are more saving drug ever discovered, by Scottish product, countries began producing a small their “labour”, and by joining a GPN we itself mentions that it is made in China and reasons contributing to high room rates but scientist Alexander Fleming, the world saw component of a big product in a complex provide the opportunity for them to sell designed in the US. The same is valid for construction cost is one major determinant). a burst in population and Sri Lanka was no procedure. As an example, rather than their labour. Countries like China have the Boeing aeroplanes. So the tourism sector as a whole is exception. Keeping a growing population producing a total computer, companies unique advantage of being able to produce Sri Lanka makes high-end apparel. impacted just because of one single attempt fed, housed, and employed paved the way started producing microchips, transistors, parts and small components of a complex We manufacture for giant brands such as of import substitution in the construction for integrated supply chains to form the and hundreds of other small components in product as well as assemble it and make the Victoria Secrets, Nike, and Adidas. But this industry. world over. large scale. Producing small components of final product due to their large population doesn’t mean that if we launch it under a Covid-19 provides us the opportunity to This is because every country has a large complex products in a gigantic scale and availability of labour at all levels brand name of ours that there will be the convert Sri Lanka into a production-based competitive edge in a particular good or brought the cost significantly down and (starting from unskilled to supervisory and same demand. An apparel manufacturer economy again, but we need to take the service. For example, Germany and Japan as a result, the price of products became super skilled). tried to launch its own brand in India, but correct path instead of being shortsighted have it in cars, Korea in electronics, New reasonable. This process became a common as in the past. We should focus on making Zealand in dairy products, etc. Factors factor in the range of high-end expensive our inputs and outputs competitive and look such as human capital, education, technical products like aeroplanes and even to lower- at the broader picture rather than restricting skills, natural resources, the climate, and end products like sporting shoes. ourselves to micromanagement. trade agreements have a direct impact on Going back to my cricket example, (The writer is the Chief Operating what we produce. Since independence, Sri winning a World Cup means not only Officer of the Advocata Institute and can Lanka has relied heavily on the big three having more talented players but a host be contacted at dhananath@advocata. for foreign exchange, namely tea, coconut, of other elements and individuals which org. Learn more about Advocata’s work and rubber, but failed to make it as an are already operating at a world-class at www.advocata.org. The opinions integrated member of the world supply level. This includes compatible cricket expressed are the author’s own views. chain mechanism due to poor branding turfs, safety and cricketing gear (headgear, They may not necessarily reflect the and value addition. Other countries have pads, gloves, cricket bats, boots, cricket views of the Advocata Institute, or anyone successfully done it. There are French bats), training techniques, professional affiliated with the institute) champagne, Swiss chocolates, California administrators, supplements, and the [1] Central Bank Annual Report oranges, etc. list goes on. In simple words, now the 2019 Table 81 https://www.cbsl.gov.lk/ However, the apparel sector which took production of even a simple component sites/default/files/cbslweb_documents/ off during the post-liberalisation period or a product is shared across the globe publications/annual_report/2019/en/15_ The fact that we manufacture for Victoria’s Secret doesn’t mean that if we launch it under a brand has eclipsed the rest as a major player in (which is called Global Production Sharing name of ours that there will be the same demand Appendix.pdf

‘Home industry first’ approach critical when reopening economy BY INSEE CEMENT SRI LANKA COMPANY consumption need of six million tonnes in a However, currently, the supply is being infrastructure projects. Today, INSEE devaluation of the LKR. Furthermore, the COMMUNICATIONS normal year which we estimate to be around impeded due to the curfew and inter-district Cement maintains around a 40% share in the import ban would carry a positive message The current measures taken by the country 3.7 million tonnes in 2020 due to the Covid- transport restrictions rather than lack of B2B (business to business) project segment to investors looking to invest in Sri Lanka. to control the Covid-19 pandemic are vital 19 impact, with its local production capacity capacity. due to high and consistent quality. INSEE is Domestic cement markets in Pakistan and to sustain the nation’s economy. In the of 7.3 million tonnes per annum. Capacity of the local manufacturers can also capable of customising products based India are severely impacted by the Covid-19 interest of the country’s economic growth, Furthermore, a new local cement be verified through the BOI (Board of on project requirements. The contribution pandemic, creating a serious demand-supply any suspension or temporary ban placed manufacturer is ready to enter the market Investment) as most investments are BOI- made to boost the national economy by imbalance in their local markets, leading to on the importation of essential and non- with a 2.3 million tonne-capacity plant approved; alternatively, anyone can visit locally manufacturing quality cement is excess supply. Such excess supply is then essential goods which can be manufactured being built with a $ 75 million investment the manufacturing facilities and verify the immense. sent to Sri Lanka, which appears to be the locally will help immeasurably in currency in the South, bringing the total local cement accuracy of these facts. This information is Cement manufacturing in Sri Lanka is a easiest target for cement dumping due to stabilisation, boosting local employment manufacturers capacity up to 9.6 million also provided to the statistical department very capital-intensive business where the the country’s close proximity and its limited levels, and supporting local economic tonnes per annum. The new plant is likely of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) asset value of all cement manufacturers adds import restrictions. recovery. Therefore, adopting the “home to open in another three to six months in on a quarterly basis for the compilation of up to Rs. 115 billion sans the new entrant’s The UAE has just announced a 67.5% industry first” approach is critical when Hambantota. This would increase the shared national economic indicators. investments. Cement is imported in two duty on cement imports to protect its reopening the domestic economy to fast value created by the cement producers, Both local cement manufacturers are ways to the country – in bag and bulk form. local industry and to ensure that national track post-pandemic recovery. ensuring that local manufactures have providing a large amount of revenue to the Cement imports in bag form do not need production facilities are well utilised, so as to In the construction industry, nearly enough capacity to cater to the demand, Government through various direct and any investment in assets whereas cement prevent a fall in employment and hampering all the Asian countries are capable of leaving no room for a cement shortage in the indirect taxes, lease payments, royalties, imported in bulk form requires local packing national income improvements. India does manufacturing cement to meet their demand. country for the next few years even with a utility payments, etc. and the value of plants where investments for such plants not allow imports from Pakistan. The reason Sri Lanka and the Maldives are the only reasonable positive growth in demand. investments made to build these factories is would be less than Rs. 1 billion. is clear as India is attempting to increase countries that are importing a substantial The islandwide strong dealer network over Rs. 115 billion. In comparison, the total In the meantime, Sri Lanka remits $ 180 its local production and value addition. It is percentage of their cement requirement. ensures product availability in all areas as its asset value of all cement importers is less million per annum for cement imports to imperative that Sri Lanka also makes this Whilst Maldives does not have cement assets are spread around the country in close than Rs. 2 billion. neighbouring countries, causing the Sri a priority with utmost urgency, especially manufacturing plants, Sri Lanka has more proximity to all the markets and therefore, Being the only fully integrated cement Lankan rupee (LKR) to depreciate. By as it can be easily achieved with the local than adequate manufacturing capacities to both the local manufacturers have sufficient manufacturer, INSEE produces the best- suspending imports, it can reduce foreign manufacturers. cater to 100% of the existing annual cement capacity to cater to the countrywide demand. quality products essential for extensive currency outflow which will reduce the Contd. on page 8 4 the sunday morning business EDITORIAL/NEWS Sunday, May 31, 2020

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The Ministry of Health has issued its “Towards a New Normal” advocacy brief, a set of guidelines to be adopted by key sectors as they gradually emerge from restrictions. The overarching mantra of the The cost of hygiene guidelines is strong adherence to distancing, hand hygiene, For a country that deals with routine wash stations and soap and alcohol rubs, as from climate change. and use of facemasks together outbreaks of infectious diseases, the well as deeper and more regular cleaning Covid-19 health and safety measures with enhanced disinfection and general hygiene practices of Sri Lankans which involves manpower, as well as the have unsurprisingly led to an entirely new sanitation. The little we know of the leave much to be desired. Reinforcing the use of disinfectants and cleaning solutions. set of industries – manufacture of masks transmission dynamics of Covid-19 new requirements, thus, necessitates both Some sectors may even need to invest in and personal protection equipment (PPE), means we are in this for the long physical provisions as well as awareness special equipment to ensure better hygiene. alcohol rubs, hand wash stations and and education, especially among In addition, the Ministry also recommends disinfection chambers, thermometers, and haul, and businesses of all sizes and marginalised communities that lack both thermal checks on staff and visitors to disinfectants. While these businesses cash in types must invest in better safety the adequate resources and knowledge to offices. While many of these are being on current needs, they must always question and hygiene. put the recommendations into practice. mooted as “low-cost interventions”, they how sustainable their current model is. The early and aggressive physical It’s especially important to remember that do involve a considerable cost to already It’s noteworthy that the enhanced security distancing interventions enabled Sri Lanka many frontline workers belong to these THE constrained businesses. Of course, the cost mechanisms we adopted so quickly in the to suppress community transmission low-income communities and their safety of a new outbreak is far worse. wake of the Easter bombings seem to have while continued hygiene measures must be a priority – for everyone’s sake. HEADLIGHT There is also an environmental cost to now been replaced by Covid-19 health became critical in reducing the likelihood The resumption of normalcy, therefore, consider. Disposable, single-use items measures – all in the space of a year. of transmission even if contact occurs. includes a whole new set of costs for are back with a vengeance, tagged to The good news is the country has rapidly Perhaps the recommended hygiene businesses and households. Mask wearing reuse, sometimes over several days, which better safety and easier disposal. There is adapted to this new reality; the challenge practices feel like overreach when has been made mandatory and is being goes alarmingly against advice. Reusable going to be a colossal buildup of plastic is to sustain that enthusiasm. Behavioural authorities insist there is no community policed with much fervour. While there cloth masks, while sustainable, must be waste while the sudden excessive use of changes must be supported by public and spread, but with about two-thirds of those has been uniform adoption of the mask made to a standard to ensure their efficacy chemicals to disinfect will impact our private institutions, but in the final equation, testing positive being asymptomatic, it is rule, the type of mask varies considerably. for the current purpose. soil and groundwater; these must receive personal responsibility remains the strongest both foolish and reckless to assume this The disposable surgical variety comes at a Establishments will now have to ensure urgent attention. We cannot afford to let tool in our fight against this pandemic. We battle is over. significant cost and that cost has meant its handwashing facilities, including additional Covid-19 shift our focus too far away cannot afford to let our guard down. Ceylon Tea meets Former NTB CEO ‘automated withering’ Renuka Fernando to zHow Tea Research Institute is saving tea manufacturers time and money head Dialog Finance BY UWIN LUGODA Former Nations Trust Banking, and Assistant Lanka) Manager – Corporate Bank PLC (NTB) Chief GM – Corporate Financial Banking and Nederlandsche The quality of Ceylon Tea is well Executive Officer (CEO) Solutions. Middenstandsbank (Hong known throughout the world, Renuka Fernando has been Prior to joining NTB, Kong). and has made the product one appointed the Chairperson/ Fernando held the positions In addition to playing of the country’s biggest export Non-Independent, Non- of Vice President/Head key leadership roles in the items. This has given rise to a Executive Director of of Global Transactional corporate sector, Fernando vast tea industry in the country, Dialog Finance PLC, the Services and Head of functions as the Vice financial services subsidiary Consumer Banking at ABN President of the American making it one of the best in the of Dialog Axiata PLC. AMRO Bank N.V. Sri Chamber of Commerce and region. At the time of the Lanka. She has also worked has previously served as However, industry professionals still appointment, Fernando was at Banque Indosuez (Sri the Director of LankaClear strive to introduce more efficient and serving as the Group Chief (Pvt.) Ltd. and Chairperson cost-effective methodologies to the Digital Services Officer of the Sri Lanka Banks’ manufacturing processes; the latest of Dialog Axiata PLC Association (SLBA). She in these is the automation of the tea (Dialog). She has business is also an associate of withering process. experience spanning 39 the Chartered Institute of Tea withering is considered the first years in the banking sector. Bankers in the UK and an and most important unit operation in a Prior to joining Dialog in alumni of the Advanced tea factory as it has a direct impact on April 2020, she headed NTB Management Programme at the quality of the end product. A good- as the Director/CEO from Harvard Business School. quality and precise withering process is 2012 to 2020 and has played Dialog Finance is an essential element in the processing a pivotal role in bringing registered by the Monetary of tea leaves as it ensures the healthy the organisation to where Board of the Central Bank development of aroma and flavour it is today. During her of Sri Lanka (CBSL) compounds in the leaves. stint with NTB, she under the Finance However, the current process played many senior Companies Act No. consumes 49-61% of the total leadership roles 78 of 1988. This electricity used by a factory, along including Deputy appointment was with a lot of time and labour, the latter CEO, Deputy effective from 22 of which is prone to result in manual General Manager May 2020 and has processing errors. (GM) – Retail been approved by The Tea Research Institute of Sri and Consumer the Central Bank. Lanka (TRI) has partnered with A & T Labs to provide tea manufacturers a He explained that due to this, large Dr. Botheju stated that they had better option, one that not only helps factories with around 24 troughs to partner with A & T Labs in a save 40% of the energy consumed consumer really high amounts of commercial partnership in order to during the process, but also ensures energy, with the withering process make a smaller and more appealing unit Samadanie Kiriwandeniya optimum withering of the leaves. being the highest electrical energy before marketing it to factories. “In the manufacturing of black consumer, compared to other processes This new unit comes with several tea, withering is considered the most like fermentation. extra advantages outside of size, as important process, in order to produce In order to control the huge motors in it is easier to control, estimates a retires as SDB Chairperson good-quality black tea. This (new) the troughs, the TRI initially developed more accurate withering percentage automation is completely different a device called the VSD (variable based on airflow control, controls the zLakshman Abeysekera appointed new Chairman from even what other countries are speed drive) in 2002. Dr. Botheju temperature, and can be connected to a attempting. It helps the process by explained that these devices can control smartphone for more efficiency. SANASA Development and retail-oriented boards including being a letting the leaves achieve optimal motors between the capacity of 5-15 However, he stated that in order Bank PLC (SDB) establishment to an SME- Non-executive Director of withering and saves energy in the horsepower, depending on the size of to make optimal use of the device, Chairperson Samadanie focused bank. People’s Insurance PLC process,” said TRI Director Dr. Saman the troughs. This was perfect for the tea factories need to supply it with enough Kiriwandeniya retired from Trained at KPMG early and a Director of JanRich Hettiarachchi, speaking to The Sunday industry as most factories use motors of hot air. the Board of Directors of in his career, Abeysekera Foods Ltd. and NovEx Morning Business. a 10 horsepower capacity. According to the engineer in charge SDB with effect from 22 has held several key Pharmaceuticals Ltd. These automatic tea withering VSDs were able to control the speed of the project from A & T Labs, May 2020, on completion positions in some of the controllers are set to save tea of the fans in the troughs, depending on Anuruddha Tennakoon, the TRI of nine years, according to country’s leading business manufactures a lot of money. Research the extent of withering on the leaves, signed an MoU (memorandum of the Corporate Governance organisations, gaining done by the TRI shows that a factory and according to Dr. Botheju, this understanding) with the company in Regulations of the Central in-depth knowledge and which produces 40,000 kg per month drastically reduced the consumption of order to deploy the product to other Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). experience in the areas can save up to Rs. 100,0000 annually. energy. However, these VSDs had to factories in Sri Lanka. This was disclosed to the of accounting, finance, The project is the brainchild of the be operated manually, leaving room for The cost of the device depends on Colombo Stock Exchange and management across former Deputy Director – Research human error. how many troughs each factory has, (CSE) by the company a different industries. of the TRI, Dr. W.S. Botheju, who did “Sometimes, employees may forget as it will usually cost Rs. 150,000 per few days ago. Samadanie Some positions he has his PhD on the automation of the tea to control the speed at the right time, trough. Tennakoon also stated that the Kiriwandeniya held 5,785 held during an almost withering process. which will eliminate the advantage factories will have to already have VSD voting shares at the date of three-decade career include He stated that he has identified we seek from the VSD – reduction of controllers installed. resignation. Chief Financial Officer at the withering process to be the most electricity consumption and the good The product is set to be showcased Lakshman Abeysekera, Emerchemie NB (Ceylon) important process in tea manufacturing, quality of withering.” to industry stakeholders in a TRI who served as a Senior Ltd., Senior Accountant as it helps reduce the moisture content Due to this, Dr. Botheju stated symposium which will be held in the Director and the Head at Lankem Ceylon PLC, of green leaves by about 55%. This that the TRI decided to develop an next couple of months. The research of the Board Audit and Accountant at process uses machinery called troughs, automated computer programme in on the product has already been sent to Committee, has been Hoechst (Ceylon) which use thermal energy to produce order to control the speed of the VSD, several industry forums in the country appointed the new Ltd. He sits steam and electrical energy to rotate depending on the wither percentage or in order to garner interest. Chairman. He is a cross- on several huge fans. degree of wither. “The approach we have taken is disciplinary expert Dr. Botheju stated that while the cost He explained that they built the unique to Sri Lanka. Other countries who brings a wealth of of thermal energy is bearable for most first prototype for a factory owned by have adopted simple, easy, and knowledge and experience factories, as they mostly use firewood, the TRI itself, and it is still working. sometimes erroneous solutions to tea to his new role as chairman. the cost of electrical energy is fairly However, as it was a prototype, the leaf withering. The TRI approach He contributed significantly high. This is because withering takes product was bulky and not ideal for is much more efficient,” said Dr. to SDB’s transformation around 12-14 hours to complete. commercialisation. Hettiarachchi. from a microfinance the sunday morning business 5 Sunday, May 31, 2020 TOURISM

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By Dr. Nicholas Ruwan Dias and Niresh Eliatamby When and how we should Travel and hospitality, known in Sri Lanka as tourism, is the industry that has been hardest hit by the pandemic and brought to a standstill by both national jumpstart tourism and international travel essential to show the city and restrictions. Part 1 its attractions Being an umbrella industry that 9.Optimise search marketing for brings together approximately The authors have formulated cities – those who are seeking 40 other industries, it is more the following plan for reopening a city break or city to travel than just another industry in the industry: will research their available Sri Lanka. By 2018, it was Phase I Survival: Short-term options through search engines responsible for the direct and – domestic tourism with limited such as Google. Ideally, it indirect employment of 388,487 international tourists. This phase redirects to the city’s website people across the nation, out of would likely be until the end of while searching for words which 169,003 were directly 2020 relevant to a town to read employed (Sri Lanka Tourism Phase II Strengthening: Mainly compelling material. The best Development Authority [SLTDA] domestic tourism with increasing way to do this is through search Annual Statistical Report 2018). numbers of foreign tourists as the marketing. Paid search engine This is of the 8.18 million total pandemic subsides internationally advertisement helps marketers employed persons (including in Phase II Repositioning: to achieve a supported search agriculture) at the end of 2018 Reposition Sri Lanka on the engine result, while various (Central Bank Annual Report global tourism market to attract methods exist such as targeting 2018). high-end customers. This phase unique keywords, which can It is, therefore, crucial to the would commence at a time when enable them to bring organic nation that the tourism industry Phase II has been sufficiently search results into high use be restarted without delay as soon achieved. This will require 10.Financial support – remove as the threat of the pandemic is significant investment taxes and customs duties and brought under control. provide low-interest loans. However, opening up the Catering to existing Every hotel and guesthouse industry too soon to international industry forced to close down is a loss travellers before the pandemic Sri Lanka has a diverse product to the industry and creates a has completely subsided could in terms of hotel accommodation, bigger unemployment problem by far the worst outcome in lead to a larger disaster. and any recovery plan must be to have the active support of local 4.National airline – the 11.Competition! Competition! the historical international in the short and mid terms to entities, both public and private. government should support Competition! – for too long has tourism sequence since 1950 Reopening too soon ensure all these different types If you are a local entity, you are the financial requirements of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry and will bring an immediate It is crucial that the decision are supported. Indeed, as per data responsible for marketing your the national airline, which has operated within a bubble. end to a stretch of 10 years of on when to reopen the country’s of the SLTDA, of the country’s location as a location destination become vital to the tourism With global leisure travel now continuous growth following borders to foreigners be made 40,365 available rooms, only marketing organisation (LDMO). industry with the collapse of at near zero, there will be an the financial crisis in 2009. solely on medical grounds by 25% or 10,856 rooms can be In fact, it is up to anyone who many international airlines enormous effort by all tourism the country’s medical experts, classified as high-end (five- yy Current scenarios suggest that, works in the field of tourism 5.Visas – ensure hassle-free destinations to attract tourists. and not for economic reasons. star, four-star, boutique hotel, depending upon the length management to represent the visa on arrival facilities for We need to keep a close watch With limited numbers of ICU boutique villa, bungalow, heritage of restricted travel and the target area. The marketer’s role is international tourists on what our competitors are (Intensive Care Unit) beds, Sri bungalow, and heritage home). closure of borders, the outlook to promote tourist traffic through 6.Length of stay – provide doing – Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Lanka is not well placed to take As much as 75% or 29,269 remains highly unpredictable different marketing strategies to incentives for tourists, both Maldives, Malaysia, Singapore, on the number of patients that rooms are in mid and low-end (the scenarios are not predicted the target area. As an LDMO, it’s domestic and foreign, to extend Thailand, etc. many countries have experienced. accommodation (three-star, and should not be perceived as not your task just to encourage their length of stay. If each Part 2 of this article will As of 23 May, the total number two-star, one-star, unclassified such) with declines of 58-78% visitors to the destination tourist would stay even half provide a roadmap for digital of global new cases continues hotels, guest houses, home in international tourist travel concerned, but also to supply a day longer, it would make marketing of Sri Lanka’s to rise and is now over 107,000 stays, and hostels). These year-on-year. them with information about the an enormous impact. This tourism industry. per day, while the number of provide income for households y most important attractions in would require both financial Dr. Nicholas Ruwan Dias is a deaths continues to be over that would welcome it in these y The UNWTO panel of experts the particular area. Most hotels, incentives (e.g. “stay three Digital Architect at Aegon Asia 4,000 per day. While the toll in desperate times, and they would shared the opinion that foreign restaurants, and resort managers nights and get the fourth night based in Kuala Lumpur. He holds the initially affected countries also support local economies to demand will recover only in tend to set up their own LDMOs free” deals) and expanded a BSC in Computing from the – China, Iran, Italy, Spain, and at least a small extent. Unless 2021. Domestic demand will for business promotion. activities to keep tourists busy University of Greenwich, a Masters France – is reducing, many more there is significant government recover faster than foreign A variety of individuals and 7.City branding – focus on in Computer Software Engineering countries are joining the list of financial support, these low-end demand across the world. organisations can participate city branding aims mainly at from Staffordshire University, and a the badly afflicted, including properties would not see any Monthly tourist arrivals in city marketing, such as promoting recognition and PhD from the University of Malaya. Brazil, Russia, Chile, Mexico, significant investment during the year-on-year city organisations and groups, unique identity. The “branding” He is completing a second doctorate Peru, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, next two years. but strategic responsibility umbrella of icons, slogans, (DBA) from the Universiti Utara and worryingly India. The US On the other hand, much of the A large number of potential usually is delegated to city colour schemes, and clear Malaysia. continues to head the list at over five-star accommodation is centred effects of Covid-19 on world and marketing or city councils. These messages continues to play Niresh Eliatamby, MBA, LLM, is a 20,000 cases per day. on Colombo and is patronised by national economies are being organisations, including local a crucial role in most of the lecturer in travel trade management Action point: Authorities need higher-end businesspersons and tossed around. At this stage, the enterprises and attractions, can successful marketing strategies and hospitality management degree to strongly consider limiting thus employs a significant number only point on which they agree is have members or stakeholders in cities, which helps to programmes in Sri Lanka at the the countries that it would be of persons. A significant number that it will be bad. The principal and can pay membership fees. differentiate or standout from London Metropolitan University, opening the border to and initially of four-star facilities are in resort source of discord seems to be just Such a group promotes the other alternatives specialising in destination choosing those that are least areas and also employ a large how bad it will be. The response city’s interests, seeking to 8.City websites – build marketing. He worked many afflicted. number. depends primarily on a few encourage tourism and other compelling websites for cities years with SriLankan Airlines factors: How long the pandemic types of city visits. In addition, and towns. A vast number of as a Consultant on Marketing Domestic Tourism Long-term repositioning will last, the extent of business- anyone interested in tourism potential visitors to the city Communications, was the Editor Being an island, the easiest However, it must be distant social constraints, and management, including hotels, are inspired by the internet, of a travel magazine, and authored method to battle the pandemic is emphasised that the industry’s the scale and efficiency of should take a more direct which is why the creation several books on Sri Lanka’s tourism to keep our borders closed. Infection long-term future lies in upgrading government incentives. approach to city marketing and of a convincing website is industry. rates among the recent Sri Lankan the product and repositioning promote the city to attract locals. returnees from the Middle East, the industry in the eyes of global Hotel recovery Tourist arrivals into Sri Lanka Europe, India, and Singapore show travellers. But this will not be With the pandemic’s continuous More local tourists that it is not yet the time to reopen. possible in 2020 and 2021 since impact on travel, it is important The following Eleven-Point Month 2019 2020 %Cha. 2019/20 A single passenger testing positive it cannot reasonably be expected that hotels have a plan to assess Plan is suggested for the short January 244,239 228,434 (6.5) would result in a planeload of over that hoteliers who are struggling both their current and future and mid-term scenarios: 200 passengers being quarantined, to survive would burden states and have an action plan in 1.Digital marketing – greatly February 252,033 207,507 (17.7) which is an added cost and also themselves with loans to invest place. While travel has practically expand digital marketing March 244,328 71,370 (70.8) likely to be a public relations further, although the current low stopped as a result of the Covid- efforts on social media for disaster. occupancy would otherwise make 19 outbreak, in the latter part of both domestic and foreign April 166,975 On the other hand, the daily this the ideal time for expansion, the year and next year, the market tourism. Intuitively, with These are not forecasts. They are scenarios May 37,802 based on the possible opening of national numbers published by our health renovations, and upgrading. is expected to regain ground. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, borders and lifting of travel restrictions in authorities indicate that the only Hoteliers must therefore take and LinkedIn, social media June 63,072 July, Sept., and Dec. 2020, respectively. active cluster is the Navy cluster, Not alone the steps required to prepare itself is an efficient tool which has been contained. Thus, According to the World themselves adequately for to promote cities. It offers July 115,701 it is highly likely that domestic Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) recovery while setting appropriate different features and allows tourism could commence within (May 2020): expectations and KPIs. marketers to achieve different August 143,587 a short time, unless the situation demographics. Social media yy Covid will jeopardise jobs of changes for the worse. Customer relationship posts would help to create September 108,575 100 to 120 million workers management global identification, while for direct tourism. This is Three phases You don’t need a hugely advertising and supported October 118,743 expensive system to do this, posts are commonly although it’s preferable if it is available. Increase visibility November 176,984 a digital system. Even low-end on established travel sites December 241,663 providers can easily do this, and blogs (e.g. TripAdvisor, e.g. a homestay owner can send Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia, Total 1,913,702 out emails to former customers Travelocity, and Orbits) wishing them well during these 2.CRM – ensure every significant Covid times and ask for their hotel has an active CRM patronage when they are ready to (customer relationship travel. management) programme for both domestic and foreign Country local marketing? customers While the several arms of Sri 3.New deals – tie up with banks Lanka Tourism would formulate to provide instalment-basis and spearhead international deals (e.g. an initial payment and national-level strategies, to cover the cost with six marketing specific resort towns months’ instalments for the and individual resorts as well as remainder. This will also ensure Authors’ Model for short-term recovery of tourism restaurants and attractions need continuous cash flow) Source: SLTDA (My, 2020) 6 the sunday morning business FUEL Sunday, May 31, 2020

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BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR A LIOC outlet in Sri Lanka outlets, the highest-ever outlet openings in a single year in FY 2015/16, and commenced It has been an interesting couple exclusive bunkering operations at the of weeks for Lanka Indian Oil Trincomalee Port from June 2015 and Corporation PLC (Lanka IOC). First, commissioned storage of bunker fuels at its it raised its fuel prices despite a Trincomalee Terminal in February 2016. prolonged run of extremely low As the annual report of the Lanka IOC global oil prices. Then, certain noted, the GoSL imposed “Super Gains Tax” quarters of the Government urged during this period year with retrospective the public to boycott Lanka IOC. effect and this resulted in a cash outflow of A few days later, the company Rs. 1.44 billion for Lanka IOC. However, in order to regain investor confidence, the announced a price reduction back GoSL promised that this would be a once-off to the previous price point. This tax and would not be imposed again. 360-degree turn by Lanka IOC has B.S. Canth was the Chairman of Lanka left many questioning IOC’s pricing IOC during this period and was there until rationale and strategy as well as the 2017. The operating profit for FY 2015/16 need for the initial price hike. stood at Rs. 2.5 billion, a growth of Rs. 500 million compared to previous year. It all started on 17 May when Lanka IOC, Indian Oil Corporation’s subsidiary in Sri 200 sheds and 15 years Lanka, increased the price of 92 Octane GOVERNMENT VS LANKA IOC As Lanka IOC surpassed the 200-outlet petrol by Rs. 5 to Rs. 142, while the state- mark, its operating profit too increased to owned Ceylon Petroleum Corporation’s reach Rs. 3.1 billion during FY 2016/17. (CPC) oil prices remained the same. Fuel Meanwhile, Lanka IOC was awarded prices being such a sensitive and politicised Winner of National Business of Excellence issue in Sri Lanka, it was no surprise that Awards 2016 in the Trading Category by this price hike came in for heavy criticism the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri not just of Lanka IOC, but also of the Lanka (NCCSL) and was ranked amongst Government which had till then refused to Pricing conflict the “Top 30 Best Companies in Sri Lanka” lower fuel prices despite the historic lows the in 2015/16 by Business Today. oil prices had been hitting the world over. Lanka IOC commenced bunkering Nevertheless, after much criticism and calls operations from its Trincomalee Terminal for a boycott from the Government of Sri during the year and achieved all-time high Lanka (GoSL), Lanka IOC reduced the price sales of 12,070 MT in the month of March of a litre of 92 octane by Rs. 5 on 22 May, 2017 from its Trincomalee Terminal. Lanka bringing it back to its previous level. IOC also ventured into the new business Lanka IOC’s decision to increase local oil nothing new segment of petrochemicals during the year. prices was heavily criticised by politicians The company commenced lube exports in press conferences as well as the general to Qatar during FY 2017/18, considering public on social media. On 19 May, former zNot the first disagreement, unlikely to be the last potential growth in the area. Bunkering sales parliamentarian and current member of Sri doubled from Rs. 9 billion to Rs. 18 billion Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Dilan over 100 filling stations that were given to loss of Rs. 6.6 billion during this period, aggressively pursue the regional markets in and lubes sales increased by 19% during the Perera called for a boycott of Lanka IOC them by CPC, which gradually increased compared to Rs. 1.9 billion net profit a year the Maldives and Nepal, yielding positive year. Nevertheless, the operating loss during fuel, which according to him is “a good to 150 filling stations in the following year. ago. According to the annual report, Lanka results during the year, lubricant exports this period was Rs. 1.3 billion, the reason way of teaching a lesson to IOC for this ad This was one of the largest investments IOC incurred under-recoveries due to non- more than doubled in 2012/13 as compared being the increase in domestic selling prices hoc price increase”. His request was mainly from India into Sri Lanka at the time. As a realisation of subsidy from the GoSL. This to the previous year. of petrol and diesel was commensurate with made towards the 6.9 million people who massive tax incentive, the agreement entered severely constrained the otherwise good As a key supplier of bitumen, Lanka the steep uptrend witnessed in international voted for President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at into with the Board of Investment (BOI) performance of Lanka IOC and resulted in a IOC‘s bitumen segment enjoyed oil prices, which in turn led to high cost the presidential elections in November last exempted Lanka IOC from Income Tax for drop in market share and outlets. IndianOil unprecedented success, with volumes of procurement of these products, as then year. a period of 10 years commencing from 14 was working on vigorously obtaining early growing by more than 20% for the year Chairman Ranjan Kumar Mohapatra noted. Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) February 2003. the pending subsidy claims during the year under review. A long-term agreement was As per the latest data from Lanka IOC, parliamentarian Sunil Handunnetti then By the time of signing the MoU with with the GoSL. signed with Matrix Bharat for supplies of operating profit for the six months ended on challenged the Government to terminate its IndianOil, Sri Lanka had already agreed The subsidy receivable from the GoSL bunker fuels for one year effective June 31 September 2019 was Rs. 420.1 million agreement with Lanka IOC. This followed to lease its TrincomaleeOil Tank Farm to consisted of the subsidy claimed by the 2012. The company’s operating profit compared to Rs. 979 million last year. a warning from President Rajapaksa on IndianOil on a long-term basis. Furthermore, company from GoSL as compensation for increased to Rs. 2.8 billion in 2012/13, the 11th anniversary of the end of the Civil both IndianOil and CPC agreed to operate the loss arising from the price differential compared to Rs. 1.9 billion the previous SERVO lubricant barrels War on 19 May that Sri Lanka would not and use the total existing and future suffered by Lanka IOC due to price revisions year. hesitate to withdraw from any international downstream infrastructure on a common not being carried out by the GoSL as per agreements or bodies if the country’s “war user principal basis. This effectively the pricing formula entered into by Lanka An excellent year heroes” were targeted by those. Hadunnetti established IndianOil’s involvement in Sri IOC, CPC, and the Secretary to the Treasury. In 2013-14, Lanka IOC continued to retain questioned why, if the President could Lanka’s two terminals in Muthurajawela and The total subsidy receivable from GoSL its 50% market share in the area of bitumen withdraw from such powerful multilateral Katunayake through a joint venture with the amounted to Rs. 3.3 billion, representing the and even recorded a volume growth of 3.2%. organisations, he could not withdraw from CPC. claims from January 2004 to March 2006. With the CPC having finally increased their the Lanka IOC agreement. Moreover, storage and pipeline facilities The long-pending issue of subsidy diesel selling price in line with Lanka IOC However, the noise from both camps has of CPC were transferred into one company payment by the GoSL to Lanka IOC was in February 2013, the latter’s retail sales of subsided since the announcement by Lanka known as the Ceylon Petroleum Storage settled after protracted negotiations during diesel grew by 41% in quantity and 46% in IOC that it would reduce prices back to Terminals Ltd. (CPSTL), of which Lanka FY 2006/07. This resulted in the reduction value in FY 2013/14. the earlier price point. Yet, amidst all these IOC owns a one-third share. The company in loss of Lanka IOC for this FY and an Fuel products continued to be their Oil prices and government policy boycott and termination talk, The Sunday paid $ 45 million to CPC on 22 January increase in retained earnings. As a result, highest profit centre, garnering 75% of the The Sunday Morning Business learnt that Morning Business decided to take a look at 2004 to obtain one-third ownership. Lanka IOC made an operating profit of Rs. total profit and accounting for 73% of the Lanka IOC was not a fan of the fuel price Lanka IOC’s existence in Sri Lanka. Nevertheless, this MoU allowing to 438 million during FY 2006/07 and this total turnover. Sales of petrol grew by 3% formula that was introduced in 2018 by end the monopoly played by CPC in the increased to Rs. 2.2 billion by the end of the in 2013/14. In 2013/14, Lanka IOC also the Maithripala Sirisena Government, as Enter Sri Lanka petroleum sector of the country is somewhat following FY 2007/08. partnered with Laugfs Holdings Ltd. to sell at many occasions, speaking to us, Lanka Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IndianOil) is contrary to the decision of establishing In November 2007, Lanka IOC managed petrol and its Servo range of lubricants at IOC officials noted that fuel prices were not an Indian government-owned, listed oil and CPC in 1961 to end the domination of to commission a lube blending plant in three of their LPG stations. being revised according to any scientific gas company headquartered in New Delhi multinationals such as Caltex, Mobil, and Trincomalee and in March 2008 started Lanka IOC expanded to 167 outlets in methods under this formula and complained and is the largest commercial oil company Shell in the affairs of petroleum imports bunker operations at the Colombo Port. Sri Lanka during this period. Furthermore, that certain local price increases were not in India. In addition to its local subsidiaries in Sri Lanka. Lanka IOC’s entry into the Lanka IOC also began bitumen sales in it replaced an archaic jetty pipeline for enough when compared to the global oil in Chennai and a number of joint ventures in country effectively ended over 40 years January 2010. receipt of petrol and diesel with the latest price increase. the power and energy sector, the company’s of monopoly played by CPC. Lanka IOC technology in China Bay. An additional jetty Nevertheless, when the formula was in foreign subsidiaries are present in Sri Lanka, opened a headquarters office at the World First decade pipeline for receipt of low sulphur diesel effect, there were occasions when Lanka Mauritius, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Trade Center (WTC) in Colombo and began In 2012, Lanka IOC completed 10 years (LSD) was constructed and a storage tank IOC managed to make a profit along with Sweden, the US, the Netherlands, and its operations. in Sri Lanka. In these first 10 years of was modified to store LSD. several quarters where they ended with Singapore. operations, it registered a revenue growth of In this financial year, Lanka IOC opened losses. In May 2018, IndianOil became India’s Listing and subsidy over 46 times, besides consistent growth in 10 new outlets and installed additional Amidst the virtual shutdown of the global most profitable state-owned company for By the end of the second year in Sri petro product sales, according to reports. dispensing units in 19 petrol sheds. The economy, global oil prices hit record lows. the second consecutive year. Its operating Lanka, Lanka IOC was operating 170 retail Lanka IOC managed to add bunker operating profit during this period shot up by However, Sri Lanka’s fuel prices remained income for last year was $ 5.2 billion while outlets commanding a 27% market share. Its operations to its business in 2009 and over 100% to Rs. 5.7 billion compared to the the same. To prevent excessive profits being the revenue was $ 85 billion. oil terminal in Trincomalee at that time was bitumen business in 2010, and this made previous FY. made by Lanka IOC, which would also dry IndianOil’s Sri Lankan journey was Sri Lanka’s largest petroleum storage facility. them a key bitumen player in Sri Lanka up Sri Lankan reserves with the foreign established on 11 June 2002, when a According to Lanka IOC’s Annual Report by the end of 10 years. Within this period, Stock market joy and taxation exchange flowing out of the country, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) 2004/05, its sales turnover during the year Lanka IOC was listed as the number one woes Government increased duty on petroleum was signed between then IndianOil was Rs. 2.75 billion while net profit was company among the listed companies based The highest-ever share price (Rs. 68.30 imports to Sri Lanka with effect from 13 Chairman M.S. Ramachandran and then Rs. 1.9 billion. In 2003/04, the company’s on turnover in the listing compiled by LMD per share) of Lanka IOC was traded on the March. CPC Chairman Daham Wimalasena. operating profit was Rs. 427 million. (Lanka Monthly Digest). CSE during FY 2014/15 and the company Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga was To broad base its activities, Lanka IOC In 2011/12, Lanka IOC commissioned was also assigned the highest credit rating Sri Lanka-India the President of Sri Lanka at the time the launched an Initial Public Offering (IPO) five more outlets on the Anuradhapura- (AAA rating) by Lanka Rating Agency Diplomatic relationship between India agreement was signed. in Sri Lanka during the year, which was Kandy Road, in Bibile, Buttala, Mannar, (associate of CRISIL India). and Sri Lanka has somewhat been strong As per the MoU, CPC divested 100 retail oversubscribed 11.6 times. Naresh Kumar and on the Vavuniya-Mannar Road, and this Lanka IOC was ranked the second biggest in terms of politics, economics, and trade outlets owned by them in favour of IndianOil Nayyar was the Chairman of Lanka IOC expanded the company-owned outlets to 105 listed company in Sri Lanka in terms of mainly due to India being the closest country and assisted the latter to re-assign these during this period. On 22 December 2004, it in addition to 52 franchise outlets. To meet turnover by LMD for the year 2013/14 and to Sri Lanka as well as due to cultural outlets. IndianOil established its footprint in was quoted at the Colombo Stock Exchange the international Euro III norms, Lanka IOC was ranked ninth amongst the top 25 best interaction between the two countries. Both Sri Lanka in the form of Lanka IOC on 28 (CSE). commenced importing Hi-Octane petrol companies in Sri Lanka in FY 2013/14 by countries entered into the India-Sri Lanka May 2003, with it commencing operations in At the end of FY 2005/06, Lanka IOC during this period. Lanka IOC was the first Business Today. Free Trade Agreement (ISFTA) in March Colombo under the patronage of then Indian operated 160 petrol and diesel stations in Sri company to import and market Hi-Octane In auto fuels, Lanka IOC registered a 2000. Petroleum Minister Ram Naik. Lanka, commanding a market share of 22%, petrol meeting international Euro III growth in both petrol by 2% and diesel According to Sri Lankan Customs, Lanka IOC initially invested about Rs. 4 a drop compared to the previous FY. As a specifications in Sri Lanka. by 15%, with significant growth in bilateral trade in 2018 amounted to $ 4.93 billion for its Sri Lankan operations and took result, Lanka IOC recorded an operating In 2011/12, the company earned foreign XtraPremium 95 octane by 15% and Lanka billion. Exports from India to Sri Lanka in exchange amounting to $ 118.6 million, Super Diesel by 28%. In bunkering, there 2018 were $ 4.16 billion, while exports from driven by the exportation of Servo lubricants was a growth of 24% in sales volume during Sri Lanka to India were $ 767 million. to neighbouring markets. Lanka IOC 2014/15 while in lubricant there was an Apart from Lanka IOC, many Indian lubricants had a local market share of 16% overall growth of 11% during the fiscal year. companies have expanded their foreign by March 2012. In 2011/12, it recorded an Lanka IOC signed a high sea sale (HSS) operations to Sri Lanka and this includes operating profit of Rs. 1.9 billion compared agreement with BOI for overseas product prominent companies, food chains, hospitals, to Rs. 769.8 million in 2010/11. During this trading and Indrajith Bose was the Chairman and banks such as Indian Overseas Bank and time, Makrand Nene was the Chairman of of Lanka IOC during this period. Axis Bank. Lanka IOC and he left the company in 2013. Operating profit fell down to Rs. 2 billion The relationship has grown in strength Lanka IOC’s turnover for FY 2012/13 during this period, lower than the previous over the past few months under the grew sharply by 24%, in large part due to two FYs. As reported by the then Chairman, Gotabaya Rajapaksa presidency, along with the growth in sales of LP 90, Lanka Auto this has been mainly due to the taxation by the potential relationship that China – India’s Trincomalee Terminal Pipeline Diesel (LAD), and the company’s bunkering the Sri Lankan Government. greatest economic rival – could build with operations. With Lanka IOC’s efforts to Lanka IOC commissioned 20 new retail Sri Lanka in the absence of India. the sunday morning business 7 Sunday, May 31, 2020 FINANCE/AGRICULTURE

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BY UWIN LUGODA THE FINANCE COMPANY are other companies which are doing very well in the sector. Therefore, he 2020, a year which has left a expects this to have very little impact trail of death and destruction on the overall financial system and other around the world, recently finance company businesses. claimed another victim – The “The closure of this company may Finance Company (TFC). Falls just short of 80 not leave a major dent on the financial Following a decision by the system of the country; I also do not think Central Bank of Sri Lanka that it will erode the confidence of the (CBSL), one of Sri Lanka’s to find an investor once again. people of Sri Lanka.” best-known and oldest TFC also failed to tender a valid However, the closure of the company is objection to the Monetary Board against said to have caused great concern among finance companies is set to the October NOC within the time period depositors of other finance companies as permanently close its doors given to do so. Therefore, TFC’s license well, resulting in some of them pulling a mere week short of its 80th was set to be cancelled from 21 December out their deposits from these companies anniversary. 2019 onwards. and using them to buy land or vehicles. During the press conference to This could lead to a rise in car and On 22 May, TFC was stripped of its discuss the monetary policy stance by land sales over the next few weeks and license and Certificate of Registration the CBSL in February 2020, CBSL months, according to Vehicle Importers as a Registered Finance Leasing Deputy Governor H.A. Karunaratne Association of Sri Lanka (VIASL) Establishment under the provisions of told reporters that having failed to seek President Indika Sampath Merenchige. the Finance Leasing Act No. 56 of 2000, out an investor who could invest Rs. However, in a recent press conference by the Monetary Board of the CBSL. 25 billion to resuscitate the company, held by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna This action was taken after the company Former TFC Chairman Dr. Lalith Kotelawala and turned them around to be viable, quarter loss of Rs. 483.5 million. the Bank was moving to wind down (JVP), former MP Sunil Handunnetti failed to bring in an investor to revive bans on importations of most goods profitmaking ventures within a short By March 2018, the company resorted the company. called for the Government and the CBSL itself within the stipulated time period. except essential commodities. Despite time. Later, the company extended its to disposing of its assets and real estate as “There are also a large number of to come up with a strategy to support The CBSL issued a press release this, the company managed to develop services to include financing of consumer a last ditch attempt to revive its fortunes. depositors who are regularly requesting the 450 employees and the 145,000-odd announcing this cancellation, and noted itself under the guidance of their durables. During this time, the company also called their funds. When you look at the total depositors affected by the TFC’s licence that the company cannot engage in Chairman at the time, Senator Justin for an expression of interest (EOI) from picture of The Finance Company, cancellation. financial business from 22 May onwards Kotelawala. 1990s parties to acquire two international altogether we have 145,000 depositors, He explained that when the CBSL took as all efforts made to revive the company In 1968, the company shifted its In the early ‘90s, TFC became the schools it runs. These were two privately out of that 134,000 depositors have funds over TFC, the company had Rs. 30 billion through different strategies have failed. operations to a fully equipped and first company to be registered with the run schools, one in Galle and another one less than Rs. 600,000, and so if we cancel in deposits, with over 145,000 depositors “Continuity in current status will be modernised office at Ceylinco House, CBSL once it began granting registration in Payagala, by TIS Educational Services the license, we can help 94% of the across Sri Lanka, and out of this, around further detrimental to the interest of the Queens Street, Colombo 1. During this to finance companies that satisfied its (Pvt.) Ltd., which was a 100% owned depositors.” 94% were people who deposited less that depositors and other stakeholders of the period, under the leadership of the then criteria under the provision of the Finance subsidiary of TFC. The Monetary Board finally decided Rs. 600,000. He stated that these were company. Further, the depositors of TFC Chairman, Dr. Lalith Kotelawala, who Companies Act No. 78 of 1988. The company later reported a to cancel the finance business licence people who most likely deposited their were unable to withdraw their money was the son of its former Chairman Justin, During this time, the company staggering loss for the quarter ended issued to TFC with effect from 22 May, retirement savings and work earnings over the last 15 months,” the CBSL noted. the company launched its fixed deposit also became the first non-banking June 2018 of Rs. 743 million. Similar and the company was not permitted to into the company, and are being severely TFC was Sri Lanka’s very first finance schemes, and experienced rapid growth, financial institution to be appointed to this, during the June quarter of 2019, engage in finance business since that affected by its closure. company and was formally a part of the extending its reach across the island and as a participating member of a loan TFC posted a Rs. 1 billion loss, with a date, under Finance Business Act No. “In the current Covid-19 environment, Ceylinco Group. The company was set to increasing profitability. repayment programme funded by USAID total accumulated loss of Rs. 28 billion 42 of 2011. these depositors are already facing a lot celebrate its 80th anniversary yesterday In this decade, TFC also obtained a (United States Agency for International for the firm, by end-June 2019. of financial difficulties and can’t even (30), and was responsible for introducing listing of its ordinary shares from the Development). On 23 October 2019, CBSL issued a Impact on financial system fairly protest against this decision taken some of the most sought-after customer Colombo Brokers’ Association. Notice of Cancellation (NOC) of TFC’s Speaking to The Sunday Morning by the CBSL. Therefore, this decision conveniences in fixed deposits, savings, 2000s license, in order to safeguard the interests Business, former CBSL Deputy Governor is similar to kicking a man when he is loans, leasing, hire purchasing, pawning, 1970s In 2002, TFC obtained its registration of the depositors and other creditors. The Dr. W.A. Wijewardena stated that while already down.” property development, and real estates to After Sri Lanka became a republic in under the Finance Leasing Act No. 56 statement issued by the CBSL explained TFC is the country’s oldest finance Handunnetti stated that when these Sri Lanka. Over eight decades it spread 1972, the company managed to harness of 2000 and ventured into the areas that TFC had not found any credible company, they unfortunately got into depositors initially deposited their money its network across the island, opening 46 the unprecedented opportunities provided of property development, and housing investor to revive the company and the irregular business activities in the early in the company, they did so out of trust, branches and 12 service centres, spanning by the liberalisation of the economy, and and leasing of buildings and industrial company is incurring a loss of around 2000s. As a result, the company’s asset which was further amplified by the across every province. diversified its activities and undertook premises. Rs. 200 million monthly. base became completely eroded and the takeover by CBSL, the state regulator. the financing of gems, industrial raw However, then in 2008 came the company went bankrupt by 2008. However, now that the company is being 1940s material, agricultural machinery, and famous collapse of the Ceylinco Group. “According to the data available in shut down, the depositors are now being On 30 May 1940, TFC became the other imports. Following these dramatic events, TFC the CBSL, the company siphoned their put in a desperate situation. He stated that seventh public company in Sri Lanka This period in time also marked the was handed over to the CBSL in 2009, In my view, it came to a money into some irregular activities. they believe no matter how justified the to be registered with the Registrar of launch of TFC’s first branch, which was after the company was severely impacted position where the CBSL could After which, the company was taken over reasoning behind the cancellation, the Companies. The business’s main focus established in 1976 in Jaffna. Following by the failure of a number of financial no longer keep this company by the CBSL, and a new management Government and the CBSL should have was financing of motor vehicles which the enactment of the Control of Finance institutions within the Ceylinco Group. going, and therefore they have was appointed. From 2008 to 2020, the been more thoughtful of the depositors’ was a service pioneered by TFC in the Companies Act No. 27 of 1979, the The total assets of the company, which rightly decided to write it off company was completely under the mentality during this pandemic climate. country. company then came under the supervision was established over 80 years ago, was CBSL Deputy Governor Central Bank but unfortunately it was “We are suggesting that the of the CBSL. tabulated at Rs. 36.7 billion and total Dr. W.A. Wijewardena not able to make a turn around.” Government give a better relief package 1950s liabilities amounted to Rs. 35.54 billion. Dr. Wijewardena explained that during to the depositors, and listen to their In 1954, the company moved their 1980s Since then, the financial status of the this period, the company did not have issues before making these decisions. operations to the heart of the motor During this period, the company company had been deteriorated gradually, The CBSL said the operation of enough capital or income, and had no But instead, the Government has yet trade at that time, No. 121, Union Place, introduced novel products such as in leading to severe liquidity crises, calling the company in this manner would be outside investors willing to buy the to make any comments on the matter.” Colombo 2, where it continued to confine real estate, easy payments schemes on for intervention from the CBSL. further detrimental to the interests of company by paying out the depositors’ When we contacted State Minister itself to financing motor vehicles, and lands, import financing, and pledge loans the depositors and other stakeholders. money. He went on to state that the Shehan Semasinghe to get the prospered in this new environment for to its investment portfolio. Furthermore, 2010s Therefore, the Monetary Board with company did not even have enough Government’s views, he stated that over a decade. This resulted in TFC they went on to issue worker shares for TFC had accumulated losses of up to its powers vested under the Finance money to pay salaries at the beginning leading up to the cancellation of the being able to pay rich dividends to its employees who had completed five Rs. 22.2 billion by the end of December Business Act decided to cancel the license of this year. license, the President and Prime Minister shareholders, which at times reached years of service. 2017 from Rs. 20.5 billion by end-March issued to TFC. “In my view, it came to a position were both involved in the process and as high as 30%. The ‘80s also marked a time of turmoil that same year. During this time, the However, upon the request of the where the CBSL could no longer keep looked at all the options available to for the finance industry. Due to this, at shareholder funds or equity came down company, the Monetary Board allowed this company going, and therefore they protect the depositors, which mainly 1960s the request of CBSL, TFC took over by Rs. 1.6 billion to Rs. 16.1 billion. The TFC to call for a fresh round of EOIs to have rightly decided to write it off.” consisted of elderly citizens. However, The early ‘60s posed as some of the the failed finance companies such as company’s losses during the December identify a credible investor with valid He stated that, despite its rich history, post cancellation there has been no most challenging years for the company, The Finance & Guarantee Co. Ltd. and 2017 quarter were stated to be Rs. 598.2 proof of funds and a viable business TFC is a very small component in today’s confirmations on a solution as per his as the Government at the time enforced Panadura Finance and Enterprises Ltd., million expanding from a corresponding restructuring plan. The company failed financial sector in Sri Lanka, as there knowledge.

LEARNING FROM A PANDEMIC By Manoj Thibbotuwawa Building a shockproof food system Covid-19 is dealing an unprecedented imported (22%). The domestic production the sophisticated, middle-class population. push farmers to the brink of poverty. As islandwide. Finally, a consumption it off as a temporary shock. Besides the blow to economies around the globe of major food items like rice, meat, eggs, Increasing concerns over access to food a result, future shortcomings in food support of Rs. 5,000 was given to about turmoil it has already created, Covid-19 and the health risk is only the tip of the fish, vegetables, and fruits exceed 88% and food affordability resulted in public production and reduced food availability four million vulnerable Sri Lankans, has shaken the country’s food system to iceberg. Among the many impending of the total supply. Yet, many essential dissent against lockdown measures in are to be expected. Overall, these trends including senior citizens, people with its core, revealing its high vulnerability crises resulting from the pandemic, rising food items such as wheat and canned densely populated, urban areas, especially indicate that the shock caused by the disabilities, kidney patients, and Samurdhi to external shocks. Hence, it is important food insecurity due to lockdown measures fish (100%), pulses (87%), sugar (85%), in places where high numbers of daily pandemic is not just short term, but recipients. to strengthen the food system to face is one of the most critical. The 2020 vegetable oil (79%), onions and potatoes wage earners live. Anecdotal evidence will have far-reaching consequences, However, these efforts are insufficient. future blows. Global Report on Food Crises highlights (70%), and milk products (53%) are suggests that poor households had to especially on vulnerable and marginalised The Government stepping in to control Therefore, Sri Lanka needs a well- that the pandemic is likely to limit access imported. As such, the proper functioning depend on friends and family, use savings, populations. prices and purchase harvest has provided established and permanent mechanism to dietary energy and diversity, safe water, of the food supply chains and the food or get into debt just to buy food. some relief for consumers and farmers. of public food distribution at the central sanitation, and healthcare and will create flow are key elements of food and Government’s struggles However, there have been issues at the level, with clear linkages to provincial high levels of malnutrition. nutrition security. Beyond disruptions On top of a growing health hazard, lower end of the supply chain, with most and local government institutions. Sri Lanka is no exception. While the The prolonged curfew imposed in While Sri Lanka has not experienced the Sri Lankan Government has also vulnerable farmers not being able to Furthermore, a regular monitoring system country has been battered by major natural Sri Lanka in mid-March, in order to countrywide food shortages, the crisis been overburdened with ensuring food sell their produce even at unprofitable should be established to safeguard the disasters and long-lasting civil conflicts, contain the pandemic, highlights the created by the breakdowns in supply security of households. It launched prices, partly due to the exploitation by local food distribution system from it has not experienced a pandemic of this vulnerability of Sri Lanka’s food system. chains is now resulting in farmers several initiatives to help food producers, middlemen involved in the Government’s possible malpractices and to ensure the scale and severity. The food system in Sri Consumers were not able to buy food as losing income and low farmgate prices. distributors, and consumers during the purchasing programme. Also, while effectiveness of government interventions. Lanka has already proven to be vulnerable distribution channels collapsed due to the Traditionally, agricultural markets in Sri lockdown. Agricultural activities were the home gardening programme looks Also, a digital food and nutrition and inefficient in coping with such crises. restrictions on transport and storage as Lanka are not readily available to absorb exempted from curfew restrictions and promising, its real economic impact surveillance system with more frequent Furthermore, malnutrition is a persistent well as the closure of major wholesale the produce at the time of harvesting, and farmers were allowed to continue with will largely depend on whether the data collection should be set up to monitor problem in Sri Lanka with severe regional and retail markets. Food shortages were it has been left to organised traders to their operations. Also, the Government interest shown by people will remain vulnerable populations in order to improve disparities. Policymakers are thus faced exacerbated due to panic buying and purchase crops at relatively low prices. introduced maximum prices for vegetables post Covid-19 and its long-term impact targeting in crisis situations. Finally, the with the dual challenge of mitigating rising food prices of both domestically The widened wholesale-retail price in order to provide relief to consumers on commercial cultivations. The increased demand for digital marketing the short and medium-term impacts of produced and imported food items. These spread too did not benefit the farmers while safeguarding farmers. consumption support programme is platforms should be capitalised at both Covid-19 as well as strengthening Sri issues make life harder for the urban poor who are usually price-takers. Moreover, Meanwhile, it introduced a new poorly targeted, with many vulnerable ends of the food supply chain. Lanka’s food systems in the long term. amidst massive unemployment, especially restricted access to agricultural inputs procedure for the distribution of people not receiving adequate support (This article is based on a chapter This article examines how Covid-19 among daily wage earners. such as fertiliser and seeds constrained fruits and vegetables at the divisional due to the lack of reliable information written for the forthcoming “Sri- could worsen food security issues in the Digital market alternatives such as labour movements, and the lack of support secretariat (DS) level by the Economic required to administer cash transfers. Lanka: State of the Economy country and what measures can be taken online platforms and mobile applications, services and infrastructure have already Centres. Restrictions were imposed on 2020” report on “Globalisation and to overcome these challenges. despite their potential to connect people started affecting food production in Sri the importation of locally grown crops Way forward Disruptions: Reviving Sri Lanka’s during lockdown, failed to deliver, Lanka. Also, inefficiencies in food supply including rice and sugar to strengthen The complexity of the unfolding Economy Covid-19 and Beyond”. Highly vulnerable to primarily due to a lack of capacity and chains could lead to food losses and waste. domestic agriculture. Importantly, the crisis demands well-thought-out policy The writer is a Research Fellow at Covid-19 unfair prices. As a result, initial hopes of All these factors, along with reduced Saubhagya National Programme on responses based on robust evidence. Even the Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Sri Lanka’s food system comprises online ordering and home delivery being demand from domestic and foreign Harvesting and Cultivation was launched if the spread of Covid-19 begins to ease Lanka [IPS]. To talk to the writer via food produced locally (78%) and a solution to the crisis faded even amongst customers and market uncertainties, might to develop one million homegardens off shortly, the Government cannot pass [email protected]) 8 the sunday morning business IDEA Sunday, May 31, 2020

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BY UWIN LUGODA four key areas of manufacturing, possession, transportation, and India is still in lockdown selling, with minor focus on due to the rapidly rising consumption. They went on to state number of Covid-19 cases Is Sri Lanka ready that they are trying to define online observed in the country. The sales within the lines of these laws, resultant lack of mobility and worry that the laws will not be has led to exponential enforced appropriately in the online growth in delivery services setting. for food, beverages, and However, the official explained essentials, among other for alcohol delivery? that these issues will be solved if online sales are limited to only things. However, alcohol was licensed outlets and there is a way not part of these delivery z India becomes first z Tax revenue will z Excise Department to verify the buyer’s age. They services – that is, until last suggested that to avoid giving week. in South Asia boost state income stands firm minors access to alcohol through these deliveries, there should be a On 24 May, several Indian states restaurants in the industry’s biggest The service is currently available two-step verification process. opted to allow the country’s liquor districts are still closed, leading to in Indian cities like Ranchi and “The first step in the verification industry to resume sales, which had lower volumes of sales than usual. Bhubaneswar, and states like process should happen when been stopped for weeks, via home Even with major supermarket Jharkhand and Odisha; it is set to the order is placed, where the deliveries. The state governments chains in the country being open, soon reach the cities of Rourkela, consumer gives their ID number of urban districts like New Delhi the contribution is only about 5% Balasore, Balangir, Sambalpur, to the seller. The second step and states like Odisha decided to of total alcohol sales in the country, Berhampur, and Cuttack. should happen upon delivery of the allow the delivery of both Indian while wine stores and local bars and product, where the delivery partner and foreign liquor and beer. These restaurants contribute the rest, the Excise position has to check if the ID matches the governments came to this decision official said. According to Sri Lanka’s buyer and take a snapshot of it to after seeing the impact of the “Out of the supermarkets, only 67 Deputy Excise Commissioner confirm with the seller. This way, pandemic on the industry which Cargills outlets, 18 Keells outlets, Kapila Kumarasinghe, this kind the process will comply with the directly affects the states’ annual 14 Laughs outlets, and 12 Arpico of initiative is not practical in the current laws.” revenue earned via excise duty on outlets have licences for the sale of Sri Lankan market, and therefore Furthermore, they stated that the liquor. alcohol. Because of this, those sales the Excise Department has already limited access to alcohol through Sri Lanka’s liquor industry also do not even contribute 5%.” instructed leading supermarkets and legal means and the restrictions experienced a similar impact during The official stated that wine store manufacturers on the non-feasibility placed on it is one of the reasons the country’s lockdown period, and customers might have transitioned of the initiative. He explained that the country’s illicit alcohol sales are is yet to fully recover, even though to these supermarkets, but due to such an initiative will go not only rapidly growing. They explained several restrictions have been eased, the limited number of outlets, their against the entire Excise Ordinance, that the total government excise allowing the sale of alcohol. This impact is negligible. The official but also the provisions given in revenue is between Rs. 120-130 impact was especially felt during added that the industry is also being the NATA (National Authority on billion per year, out of which only the month of April, when the affected by products not reaching Tobacco and Alcohol) Act. 60% is contributed from legitimate industry lost its annual Sinhala and outlets in certain regions, especially “The Government will not sales volumes, while the other 40% Tamil New Year and Easter sales. in the rural areas, in turn creating a compromise on all the access- is from illicit products. The collective sales during this gap in distribution. control techniques which are WHO stats from the last 10 years period usually bring in a significant “If you take a look at the liquor currently in operation throughout show that Sri Lanka’s illicit alcohol amount in revenue for the industry, licenses, the total off-premise the country. These have been trade has grown by around 300% similar to that of Christmas; the licenses which are given to bars and incorporated into excise laws after while the legal alcohol trade has industry estimated that this year’s wine stores are about 1,200, and more than 25 amendments due to only grown by 50%. The official loss could be in the billions. licenses given to restaurants amount the pressure and resistance shown attributes these stats to the limited Speaking to The Sunday Morning to around 1,500. All of these places by interest groups in Sri Lanka, in access to legal alcohol compared Business, an official from a are closed in Colombo and other order to control the flow of liquor to the illicit products, and the price renowned liquor manufacturer parts of the Western Province, well as email IDs and UPI (Unified “By enabling home delivery of within the country.” difference between the two since stated that the company had lost therefore we are not getting the full Payments Interface) details for alcohol in a safe and responsible Kumarasinghe stated that the the product that is legally sold is sales to the value of about Rs. 3 flow of sales volume.” receiving orders and facilitating manner, we can generate additional e-sale and delivery of liquor may taxed. The officials stated that the billion, which they were expecting digital payments,” said the Indian business for retail outlets adversely affect access control sale of illicit alcohol increased in to make during this festive season. The Indian example Excise Department in a media while solving the problem of techniques and measures by the the last two months due to the lack “We had high hopes for this Indian states like Haryana and statement. overcrowding,” said Swiggy Vice Government. These techniques of availability of alcohol through (Sinhala and Tamil) New Year. We Odisha have enabled consumers to However, outlets in shopping President – Products Anuj Rathi in come in accordance with WHO legal means. wanted better sales than last New place orders for alcohol either over malls and other containment zones a statement made to media. (World Health Organisation) They went on to say that this Year and we were prepared for the phone, through text, WhatsApp, are not allowed to make door-to- Swiggy had been in talks with guidelines, which recommend also has an indirect effect on illegal this season. Last year, the Easter email, or other online platforms. door alcohol deliveries. several Indian state governments countries put as much access drug usage in the country, as some Sunday attacks had an impact on The deliveries are then set to arrive Home deliveries are set to for home delivery of alcohol from control needed to regulate the synthetic drugs are cheaper than our end-April sales, which was at the consumer’s doorstep within be allowed between 7 a.m. and local licensed retailers since 13 consumption of alcohol. legal alcohol and almost impossible a considerable loss,” the official six hours. 6 p.m. daily. The retailers and May. Afterwards, the company He listed out several excise for the authorities to trace. added. A statement released by the other agencies involved in home partnered with regional retailers and laws that may be violated if the “People go for illegal products The official also stated that this Odisha State Government explained deliveries have to abide by the has trained their delivery partners e-sale and delivery of liquor was because the regulations are only will also lead to a loss in revenue that buyers will have to shell legal provisions which include a online, to ensure that they abide by approved. These included violations enforced on the legal ones and for the local Government, given that out more money to buy liquor, maximum order of two-and-a-half the Government’s recommended of hours of sale, place of sale, types not the illegal ones, making these over 70% of the company’s revenue compared to pre-lockdown, as litres of Indian-made/foreign liquor protocols. of liquor to be sold, age restrictions, cheaper and easier to access.” is settled as taxes. they plan on charging a special and five litres of beer. The State The app has introduced measures transport restrictions, and proximity Referring to a statement made Furthermore, an official from Covid fee, and have increased the also plans to develop an appropriate such as mandatory age verification laws to schools and temples. by Deputy Excise Commissioner an established distillery stated that maximum retail prices of the bottles mechanism to enforce the legal age and user authentication to fulfil Kumarasinghe on the lack of excise the company is estimating a loss of by 50% from the 2019/20 rates. of drinking and other restrictions orders. Customers can instantly Response from the revenue and the loss experienced over Rs. 5 billion due to the halt in Apart from this, the consumers are imposed by laws in the region. verify their age by uploading a industry during these months due to the liquor sales during this season. also expected to pay the delivery The Liquor Traders Association picture of their valid government Seeking the industry’s view on excise tax being a production tax The company had bigger plans charge separately, which is not of Odisha also released a statement ID, followed by a selfie. the matter, The Sunday Morning and not a sales tax, the officials for the New Year, and wanted to supposed to exceed INR (Indian that they welcomed this new Additionally, in order to limit the Business sought the opinion of an explained that there has not been a pick up the liquor sales that dropped rupees) 300. initiative as it prevents the quantity of alcohol being ordered, established alcohol manufacturer sale for the last two months and that in 2017 and continue to stagnate The State Government explained overcrowding aspect of over-the- the app has introduced a OTP in Sri Lanka. They stated that the current volumes they hold will as a result of the tax relief given to that this additional revenue counter sales. (one-time password) which will the current excise laws were first not be consumed; the production of soft liquor in the Budget 2018, the generated from the Covid fee will Despite this, other parties such as be carried with every order, that written in 1912 and so are very alcohol from manufacturers is low, official noted. be spent in the treatment of patients Odisha Congress President Niranjan needs to be provided at the time of outdated and do not suit the current which will in turn affect the future Experiencing such an impact, and suffering from the virus and other Patnaik termed the initiative delivery. requirements of the world. excise revenue too. “The Excise seeing as to how other non-essential related activities. regressive in a media statement. Zomato soon joined the initiative They explained that everything, Department keeps the regulations food and beverage sectors have Retailers in the state are allowed He explained that this was a huge as well, delivering liquor within the from the product range listed to the grey; these are not exposed to the begun door-to-door deliveries in to directly deliver alcohol to opportunity to ensure people quit approved states between 9 a.m. and definitions of the products, and even world and they do not take new order to reduce the impact on their buyers and also through other food the habit of drinking alcohol and 6 p.m. as per the state authorities’ certain licencing models, are not up initiatives to change the existing sales, many have asked why the aggregators and delivery service therefore the Government should instructions. The app is set to only to date and not clearly defined. laws to suit the current context. local liquor industry does not adopt providers. However, the delivery not have allowed liquor sales until include licensed alcohol retailers “There are so many grey areas in This has led to the corruption of the a similar strategy. agents engaged by the retailers the lockdown was completely lifted. who have opted for the service the current excise laws, because it is whole system. They do not even will need to have a “no objection” Elsewhere in cities like Ranchi and are able to complete deliveries not taking a holistic approach; only study how other countries have Current impact certification from the Excise and states like Jharkhand, Indian within 60 minutes. a few random changes have been addressed the situation.” In conversation with The Sunday Commissioner of Odisha. restaurant aggregators and food It has also introduced a new made here and there, but that has However, all said and done, what Morning Business, an official of an “The liquor outlets will have to delivery apps like Zomato and feature called Zomato Wine Shops just further complicated things.” is clear is that Sri Lanka is still a established alcohol manufacturer prominently display their phone, Swiggy began door-to-door where customers can reserve the According to them, the current long way away from activating a stated that wine stores, bars, and mobile, and WhatsApp numbers as deliveries on 21 May. alcohol of their choice. excise regulations only define delivery mechanism for alcohol.

Contd. from page 3 consume products which are more than one month been undertaken in order to support Sri cement imports continue as usual, many Sri country, local cement producers aim to build ‘Home industry... old. More so, no quality assurance mechanisms Lankan healthcare workers, military heroes, Lankans will lose their jobs while our consumers’ Sri Lanka and the futures of Sri Lankans. Even are available in Sri Lanka for those bag cement and communities in their efforts to fight the money is directed to the wages of workers in during challenging times, when the local cement It is also important to note that for cement importers whereby consumers in Sri Lanka are currently prevailing pandemic situation. India and Pakistan. industry faced losses, they continued to support imports, the Government can charge VAT unable to evaluate the quality of the product. In addition, academic-based research and By producing the total demand for cement local employment. (value added tax) only for packaging (for 50 Currently, no large projects consume these development support is provided for young within the country, the local cement manufacturers The Covid-19 pandemic has constituted a more kg cement bags, value addition would only bagged cement products due to this concern of academics, engineering university students, and can significantly contribute close to 0.5% to GDP challenging implication on all local industries be for distribution). Whereas local cement product quality. Whereas local manufacturers technical officers to create a knowledge-sharing growth. Hence, facilitating an environment to and livelihoods. Going forward, the economic manufacturers pay VAT for raw material undergo stringent quality assurance processes collaborative culture in the industry. However, boost local manufacturers across all industries situation is expected to worsen by the fall in production, cement grinding, and packaging and could supply fresh cement to the market. the importers, both bag and bulk cement, have is very vital for developing economies. This local demand, combined with tighter financial and distribution, increasing the percentage of Yet, bagged cement importers earn enormous not made an investment nor provided any relief will further uplift the national economy and conditions. It is now that an approach must be value addition compared to bag importers. In profits while putting zero effort, even though support for the country. open a dynamic, high growth, profitable market, taken to put the country’s and local producers’ implementing the import ban, the Government’s local manufactures can provide better quality The recent Covid-19 pandemic situation has cementing a stronger and sustainable Sri Lanka. needs first. The country needs to rebound faster tax revenue will increase as local cement and value for money. caused a significant decrease in cement demand To discredit local cement manufacturers, now than in a general economic recovery. manufacturers’ volumes increase. Corporate social responsibility activities by and local cement manufactures are struggling big cement importers have stated that local Historically, the world has seen faster economic Opportunistic traders in Sri Lanka saw this the local cement producers have also been one of to sell to cover their minimum fixed cost. In government officials have been misled, and recoveries when local industries prosper and its opportunity and brought in cement under various the key areas that has empowered and enriched a situation where cement manufacturers are national pride embraced by the local cement economic needs are put first; the US and UAE brand names which were then sold within the the livelihoods of communities for over 50 years. struggling for survival, this may lead to a negative manufacturers would forbid this. Local cement are some examples. In these countries, the need country. They can export these products at lower These include supporting the educational needs impact on the people and their livelihood. producers have always put the nation’s interests for national development and interest to thrive prices, similar to how the Indian Government of schoolchildren and providing free cement for Currently, local cement manufacturers provide first, and want to see Sri Lanka flourish and in the local economy are visible. Sri Lanka too is giving subsidies on cement exports. Those the house construction needs of economically direct and indirect employment to around 25,000 grow in a global economy. must adopt the “country first” approach, and products only meet the minimum quality underprivileged families. individuals and more than 3,000 local suppliers It must be clearly noted that, in addition to build the nation by building local businesses requirements, if at all, and Sri Lankan consumers More Covid-19 relief measures have also are dependent on these manufacturers. If bag the significant higher value addition to the and caring for its people. Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 FROM UNDER YOUR FATHER’S ROOF TO YOUR HUSBAND’S »SEE PAGE 4

BEING PRESENT AT WORK POST COVID-19 »SEE PAGE 3 Sunday, May 31, 2020 brunchWITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Your wedding has been ‘pandemicked’ What post-Covid-19 weddings will look like

BY NAVEED ROZAIS PHOTO NEW INDIAN EXPRESS While many, many industries have been hit hard by the effects of the pandemic, a few have come to an absolute standstill the way weddings have. Lots of weddings the world over were cancelled after lockdowns and curfews were put in place in March, with things growing bleaker as time wore on and the long-term ramifications of the pandemic became clearer and clearer. Now, with the ban on weddings How will weddings look though? being lifted, what will the post-pandemic Clearly, the further away your wedding look like? wedding is, the less these regulations will impact you. Weddings in the interim The new world order though may take some getting used to. The Ministry of Health and In light of this, The Sunday Morning Indigenous Medical Services Brunch reached out to Hemant on Wednesday (27) released Dadlani, the Co-founder of The instructions for selected public Banquet Company, a wedding activities/work settings for and event planning company the prevention and control that organises local and of Covid-19. Guidelines for destination weddings. Dadlani weddings state that the number explained that the coming of guests should be 50% of the year will be a lot busier, with seating capacity of the hall, a majority of 2020’s weddings totalling up to a maximum of being pushed to the first half of 100. The Banquet Company 2021. Adequate physical Co-founder End2End Events distancing is to be maintained Hemant Dadlani Managing Director and between different action areas Creative Consultant Melisha in the event, such as poruwa, Yapa shared that while registration, tables and chairs, traditional wedding seasons and buffet area. will still somewhat apply for The number of 2021, we are more likely to see guests permitted should a more “year-round” season. be calculated by the Until the situation settles down management of the hotel and the world figures out what or reception hall based on the “new normal” is, at least, the space, adhering to the End2End Events the scale of weddings will one-metre distance. Seating Managing Director and drastically reduce and 400 to Creative Consultant arrangements should adopt Melisha Yapa 500-guest weddings will not the one-metre policy as well. make a comeback until 2022. Handwashing facilities This will see lots should be provided before of couples opting to use entering the premises and unconventional venues as hand sanitiser bottles can be well as a rise of intimate kept at several places at the registrations with larger reception. receptions being held at a later Food is to be serviced date. by a dedicated staff member Wedding design and at the buffet. No self-serving decor consultant company is allowed. All visitors are 90F Weddings Co- 90F Weddings shared it is encouraged to wear masks. founder Niroshan likely that weddings in the Jayawardena Dance floors are near future will depend more 9NINE discouraged, owing to the fact on locally sourced flowers A first attempt at transmedia that they don’t allow for the required and decor, with non-essential imports physical distancing. Only the bride and being curbed, although how this relates groom will be allowed on the dance to importing items like flowers is yet to floor. A dance group can be allowed, be defined. 90F Weddings Co-founder storytelling in Sri Lanka but with the restriction of a maximum Niroshan Jayawardena also said simple, BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE is yet to present itself in a linear setting, of four dancers and they are advised to elegant weddings are likely to become the currently has begun in terms of character use their own makeup. norm until restrictions are lifted. introductions; opening its universe to the Consumption of liquor isn’t Furthermore, personalisation and “9NINE” is a transmedia, audience in the form of nine characters, allowed. A health and safety officer is philanthropy are also features that we immersive film project nine women share snippets of the nature to be appointed at each wedding and it can expect to become more important to of their person, periodically in nine posts is advisable to have him liaise with the couples, with guests being appreciated which, according to its shared daily on both Instagram and client during preparation for the event. with things like personalised wedding Facebook. Shaking of hands and hugs are to be favours and thank you notes as well as collaborators, is the first Speaking to those attached to the avoided. more couples building in engagement with of its kind. Produced by project, they shared that the way the (Visit www.health.gov.lk for the full charitable causes to their weddings. narrative would come together would be set of guidelines for hotels/reception Nilendra Deshapriya of ││Contd. on page 2 that after familiarising yourself with the halls as well as the clients) “Thanha Rathi Ranga” characters – their nature, emotions, biases, and history – they will all eventually fame, the project will be Nilendra Deshapriya culminate in another platform, either a fresh attempt at creating reality, where eventually the content will through a limited TV series or a final film. fit together like pieces in a puzzle. art for the masses in an An example that is often shared, unfamiliar way. by Deshapriya himself too, is the universe-building works of Star Wars or hile it may be a novel attempt, Marvel/DC superheroes. In the case of the concept of transmedia superheroes, the relative company will storytelling has been in practice release comic books or build on comic W books already released, prior to the release for some time around the globe with the emergence of new media courtesy of the of the final films in an attempt to provide internet. the audience the opportunity to become Not to be confused with the familiar with a character’s backstory. advertising terminology of cross-channel This technique allows the audience to marketing, transmedia storytelling delve deeper into a story, by focusing on is the technique of developing a not just singular characters but by focusing single narrative that spans many user on a larger complex world with multiple touchpoints. The goal is to create an characters and intertwining plotlines. engaging experience for the audience 9NINE, since its inception, has begun Yureni Noshika and blur the lines between fantasy and to flesh out its world. The narrative, which ││Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning brunch ARTS/SOCIETY Sunday, May 31, 2020

WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Contd. from page 1 will be playing the character of “Tanya”. She shared how this project came together and the importance of creating new art that transcends traditional mediums. She said that this time has proven to be ideal for being creative, and stressed also that considering the availability of new 9NINE media to the world of entertainment, it is The characters introduced – the women time to take our art to the next level; the Sri – have been inspired by real-life persons and Lankan market is raw and untapped, and the project is still underway. However, given therefore, there is much potential there. the pandemic situation, delays have made it so She said: “Globally, the industry is faces cannot be given to all, but their stories focused on online content, miniseries, TV are still shared for anyone to follow. serials, etc. and language is not a barrier The stories anymore; we see that with Parasite’s Durga – inspired by Rudrani Devi success.” She added that as such, we must Das, a speech and hearing-impaired woman spend our time and effort in exploring these living the life of a hermit. new technologies, which is one of her main Madhu – a mother of a six-month-old reasons to take part in this project, she infant living with a man who is 20 years shared. her senior. He takes her hard-earned money She said while 9NINE is still in its to satisfy his own selfish needs. inception stages, its audience can start Sushmitha – inspired by an airhostess becoming familiar with its characters now. She added that they are currently marketing who was raped in late 2016. The narrative Yashoda Wimaladharma as Kaveetha follows a woman who lost her father, is the concept and a lot of hype is being feeling neglected by her mother, and is in love. Deshapriya shared that Kaveetha’s built around it; this will be the new wave search of love. character was inspired by an article he of entertainment, to focus on taking our Rithu – a transgender woman came across about a black tigress who was creators to the world, she shared. depicting her internal conflict and the captured and Niromi de Soyza’s novel She also added that the project will be many struggles she faces in a conservative Tamil Tigress. unique in that it will also be available via society. Patalee – inspired by a real-life AR (augmented reality) and VR (virtual Tanya – a nightclub dancer who reality show star. Patalee is a village girl reality) technologies and to facilitate this, works in a spa. She owns a pet snake and whose father’s dying wish was for her they have tech company Arimac onboard. is a melancholic character drowning her to become a successful singer; it is the Yureni finally shared that for her sorrows through excessive substance abuse. story of her pursuit of fame and her trials personally, this would be one of the most, Mahesha – an actress suffering from as she participates in a reality singing if not the most, challenging roles she has a traumatic childhood, with her past competition. taken on and she is grateful to Deshapriya being intertwined with the JVP (Janatha Dharani – a die-hard feminist and for his vision and great professionalism in Vimukthi Peramuna) riots in the island; a rebel who feels as though society is putting together a novel project, something her outward persona is in conflict with her limiting her freedom. She is a film student the Lankan audiences can soon be very inner demons. and likely the focal point character that will proud of. bring the narrative together. Transmedia storytelling captures Kaveetha – a former LTTE conclusion, the story continues in the form the new consumer, and while 9NINE may an audience far longer than any one (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) cadre of fan fiction and world-building. be the first to attempt it, it’s possible that it This time has proven ideal: single piece of art. It allows for audience and black tigress, in her journey of making Storytelling that exists in the form of would spark a new wave of local creatives engagement prior to the beginning of it to Colombo; the struggles she faces Yureni Noshika transmedia narratives has a longer shelf life to overcome their perceived limitations and its intended narrative and even after its and her personal journey in search of We spoke to Yureni Noshika, who and creates more enjoyable experiences for start creating.

Contd. from page 1 Your wedding has been... Flexibility, intimate gatherings, and Sorting out bridals, for example, will memories. It will be a creative challenge become more of a virtual process, with working around the restrictions in PHOTO THE BANQUET COMPANY simplicity designers and brides linking over Zoom place, but adversity breeds innovation, An elite panel discussion comprising or WhatsApp to discuss and finalise so it will be interesting how the post- Sri Lankan vendors, moderated by details while physical meetings are pandemic environment affects weddings wedding and event planner Magical reserved for key activities like fittings. in the longer term. Moments, also addressed what weddings The bride’s process of getting ready When it comes to rescheduling in the coming year are likely to look like on the day is also likely to change, weddings, it is important for couples and what couples looking to get married with fewer people being involved to try as much as possible to keep the later this year and in 2021 should expect. in the process and extended family same vendors when rescheduling or see The key takeaway from this webinar involvement being kept to a minimum to if they can refer vendors they will not was that looking to the future, couples reduce potential infection. be using to other people they know, would need to be flexible with certain In terms of decor, in addition to who are also planning their weddings. aspects of their weddings, such as dates looking at sourcing locally, it will also Many wedding-related businesses are and days of the week. Another big aspect be important to consider how hotel also small businesses looking to make it that will require flexibility will be the regulations and timings will affect the through troubled times. guest count. setup of weddings. More time may be Financially, it is also important to be As noted previously, the option required to set up flowers, thrones, clear with vendors and professionals on of having an intimate registration or poruwas, etc. while sticking to health timelines, budgets, and constraints. With religious ceremony now, followed and safety guidelines. the entire economy taking a major hit, it by a larger reception later once the Simpler decor that can be prepared is likely that budgets will decrease while regulations are relaxed, is something offsite and quickly assembled at the the costs of goods and services will rise. many couples may need to consider. venue will also be a technique that In the planning stage, being mindful Another option that could see increased comes to the forefront in the coming of this will enable vendors to provide traction in the near future is intimate months. couples with the best solutions possible values at its core while finding creative world over, and the pandemic’s travel and physical ceremonies that are live- Pre-wedding shoots are likely to and make weddings truly memorable. ways around the pandemic and its living restrictions leave you wondering streamed to a larger base of family and become more important as these will “The purpose of a wedding is to be aftermath. if this particular aspect of tourism will friends. likely be instances where masks can a public declaration of commitment and bounce back. A recent survey conducted The wedding planning process will be done away. Videography may also enduring love,” shared 90F Weddings, What about destination weddings? by the Destination Wedding Planners also change, with social distancing and play a greater part in the pre-wedding and this will not change. The post- Sri Lanka has been very popular as a Congress found that 57% of wedding minimising infection taking priority. shoot to help couples capture important pandemic weddings will still hold these destination wedding spot for couples the planners believe that couples will opt for destination weddings once the pandemic is over, painting a hopeful picture for the future of destination weddings. The Banquet Company shared this positive outlook and has already started receiving inquiries for destination weddings, some for as early as the later months of 2020. A key consideration for destination weddings, for both couples and planners, is what the travel restrictions are like as well as the protocol for managing tourists entering and leaving the country. The low-down A common theme among planners, vendors, and people in general is that weddings are an integral part of our lives and culture that is fairly immutable. While the pandemic has changed the face of weddings, it is most likely that this is an interim change with weddings adapting to meet travel and living MAGIC MOMENTS FACEBOOK PAGE FACEBOOK MOMENTS MAGIC restrictions, and that as restrictions loosen, weddings will also revert to the status quo. PHOTOS A key piece of advice to couples from planners and vendors is not to underestimate the luxury of time. Book your vendors and service providers now so that you don’t miss out on them by waiting too late. It appears that weddings, like most things in life, also require constant vigilance.

the sunday morning brunch editorial [email protected] 011 5200900 the sunday morning brunch 3 Sunday, May 31, 2020 POST-COVID-19

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BY NAVEED ROZAIS Covid-19 has been life-changing across the board, and working life in Sri Lanka has seen a major shift. Employees had to adapt their routines, along with the businesses, when Sri Lanka made the move to work from home (WFH) virtually overnight, unless physical presence was strictly necessary. But what happens now with the country slowly starting to resume normal life following the nine-week curfew? Most industries in Sri Lanka follow the traditional nine-to-five work schedule and Cyaniq Global has been practising remote format. Some industries, particularly those work way before the pandemic…In the case that work with foreign markets such as the of a lockdown, the expectation of being on apparel manufacturing industry, were already call increased because all conversations that starting to experiment with concepts like would have been conducted in a physical flexible hours for employees and the option space have shifted to video/phone calls of working remotely part-time. Cyaniq Global Creative Director Naturally, companies and industries like Shehani Alles these would have had an edge when it came to making the shift to working from home during the pandemic, it is likely that not only mid-pandemic, but this was far from the will lecturers push for the option to work norm. remotely, but students also, particularly those The pros and cons with long commutes, will prefer the option. A major pro of the shift to remote Having a portion of a company’s Being present at workforce working remotely could also working mid-pandemic was its impact on reducing and controlling infection rates. With benefit companies in terms of infrastructure all non-essential employees staying home, investment. Samarasinha explained: “Most the impact and spread of the virus were companies invest heavily in infrastructure greatly reduced. However, as boundaries like office spaces, and with portions of the shifted, schedules became longer. A large workforce working remotely, it would be part of this is because this is a time of crisis, possible to make significant savings by with employees needing to pull together and reducing physical office spaces.” fight fires on multiple fronts. There would also need to be additional But as things have settled, for traditional support given to remote employees like industries at least, it appears the shift to stipends for internet and electricity costs work post incurred while working from home. working remotely is something that boosts both productivity and quality of life. While remote working has its many benefits, it can also hinder productivity in a different way by creating bottlenecks with decisions being delayed having to work around multiple schedules. The key here would be to create structure, even within a remote working environment, with clear on and off times. This will call for both employers and employees to be more Covid-19 disciplined and self-aware when it comes to Where to draw the line? managing their time and each other. Bringing it all together In light of this, Galle Face Hotel Group effectively communicate with our team Will companies adapt to It will fall on the shoulders of the Head of Legal Affairs Thilani Samarasinha members and clients through various working remotely? companies to decide if they should relook explained that as a rule, workdays tend to be platforms. In the case of a lockdown, the at their status quo. They will need to work While there is no one-size-fits-all shorter due to fewer interruptions and more expectation of being on call increased closely with their teams and HR (human solution for companies coming out of the streamlined and scheduled meetings. because all conversations that would have resources) to see if remote working is an pandemic, there will likely be an increase This isn’t the case for all industries been conducted in a physical space have option for them and to what extent they can in demand from employees to more flexible Most companies invest heavily in though, as we discovered when chatting shifted to video/phone calls.” make it part of their daily routines, while still working schedules and the option to work infrastructure like office spaces, and with with Shehani Alles, the Creative Director The removal of the daily commute has giving their employees the crucial support remotely part-time, particularly now that portions of the workforce working remotely, of Cyaniq Global, a prominent content also changed things, with more employees they need to be able to perform. employees have seen how they can do their it would be possible to make significant creation company. “Cyaniq Global has being able to accommodate meetings earlier “It really is all about finding the right jobs in a remote setting. savings by reducing physical office spaces been practising remote work way before or later in their workday as well as spend balance and having a certain level of In fields like higher education, where Galle Face Hotel Group Head of Legal the pandemic. When it comes to calls and more time with their families while still discipline to get the job done when it’s due,” universities have switched to distance learning Affairs Thilani Samarasinha communication, we have learnt how to meeting deadlines. Alles asserted.

BY SHANELLE BANDARA developed a specific set of guidelines, Speaking to The Sunday Morning of people to 50 by taking a 3x3 m after which the Ministry would submit Brunch, Zimantra Leisure (Pvt.) Ltd. area for each person. Furthermore, Many industries that were hit the guidelines to the Epidemiology Managing Director Migara Gunatilaka upon entering the gym, the clients are with the massive economic blow Unit and doctors to add any additional shared that as a company, they required to scan a QR code and sign a of Covid-19 are reopening their points. have taken quite a lot of preventive declaration form. The form is basically businesses, and Sri Lanka is gradually “The guideline is quite similar measures. a health form ensuring the client has but certainly returning to what the salons have “Observing how not come in contact with to normalcy. Similar received, including foreign countries are Covid-19 in any way. to any industry, it has guidelines such as reopening, we too along Additionally, the been almost two months maintaining the one with the Sri Lankan machines within the gym since any gym has been metre distance. We Government are planning will be sprayed with functional. However, a as gym owners are on issuing a guideline disinfectant hourly or recent turn of events may willing to abide by these soon. We have already once every one-and-a-half show a glimmer of hope (guidelines) because received the draft of it hours, and there will also in the fitness industry. having the business and it covers a wide range be a deep cleaning process According to local closed for so long means of aspects,” Gunatilaka taking place. The trainers news reports, a large we will open in any stated. Continuing, he too are required to wear capacity. Even if we take explained as to how his masks when they are number of internationally renowned bodybuilders five people at a time, we gym was taking their training as well as carry What disappoints will reopen,” she stated. own preventive measures Observing how their personal sanitiser to as well as Sri Lanka me personally foreign countries bodybuilding and fitness Additionally, to ensure the safety of ensure their safety. is that other Weerasinghe mentioned Working out everyone within the are reopening, we Gunatilaka’s humble sports stakeholders have industries like that as for the clients, they premises. too along with request to the Government requested the Government supermarkets are the Sri Lankan to reopen gyms in the would have to schedule With regard to is to give them an exact allowed to open. their time and come into processes, Gunatilaka Government date as to when they country. Furthermore, I understand are planning a press conference in the gym, and once their a solution explained that at would be reopening. that these are time slot is over, they the entrance itself, on issuing a “On the financial side Ragama on Thursday essentials, but How has the pandemic affected the fitness industry? guideline soon. (21) revealed that nearly would have to leave. handwashing facilities of the story, we have even fitness is Weerasinghe explained to which of course we have shown immunity, mental health, etc.” will be provided and We have already 40-plus directly employed 5,000 gyms were non- quite important received the draft operational, resulting in the maximum capacity support.” Moreover, she claimed that body temperature checks people depending on as it plays a key would vary for each She went on to say that in Sri rather than only focusing on a will be carried out, after of it and it covers this venture. We have their owners and coaches role with regard to a wide range of being severely impacted gym depending on the Lanka, literally anyone who has vaccine cure for Covid-19, we which the disinfecting of been paying them for the immunity availability of space. shoe soles will take place. aspects past few months without economically. In this money and a relatively healthy body should also look at boosting our Zimantra Leisure High Octane “For High Octane, Thereafter, when the any return. This is not very same conference, it Fitness CEO could be hired as a trainer, or better immune system to combat it. In (Pvt.) Ltd. was also mentioned that Ashanthi we have 25,000 square yet open a facility, which is a major which case, going to a gym and clients approach the lift, MD Migara sustainable for a very if gyms were to reopen, Weerasinghe feet and it’s divided into downfall. “What disappoints me maintaining fitness would be ideal. the maximum capacity Gunatilaka long duration, especially there would be very strict sections. Based on that, personally is that other industries Unfortunately, those above 60 may would be limited to five without knowing a date,” guidelines to adhere to. we can accommodate 15 like supermarkets are allowed to not be allowed into the gym as they people and floor markings he stressed. He also However, how the fitness industry people comfortably,” she said, adding open. I understand that these are are more susceptible to the disease. will be there to guide on how to stand mentioned that it is disheartening to is going to comply with these rules and that they anticipate that gyms will essentials, but even fitness is quite inside the elevator. see that other industries are opening regulations still remains a mystery. hopefully be reopened by 1 June. important as it plays a key role Going above and beyond When approaching the reception up, except for the fitness industry. In this backdrop, The Sunday with regard to immunity,” she Even though the Ministry of area, it would have a plexiglass to Morning Brunch spoke to a few Lack of a regulatory body explained. Weerasinghe elaborated Health has not officially published the maintain distance. Of course, clients Good out of bad? owners of some renowned gyms in Sri Weerasinghe explained that there that the fitness industry usually has guidelines, Weerasinghe at her gym will be requested to wear a face On a brighter note, Gunatilaka Lanka to understand their strategy in is a difficulty in reopening gyms as a reputation for being solely for the has taken numerous precautionary mask when they enter the facility and informed us that due to this pandemic, coming out of this trying time. there is no regulatory body when it purpose of bodybuilding, which is measures such as machine distancing, move about, but not when they are many individuals have got into the High Octane Fitness CEO comes to the fitness industry in Sri not the case. “We as owners too looking at how trainers are going exercising as you breathe out heavily trend of home workouts. This would Ashanthi Weerasinghe shared that up Lanka, adding: “They have asked us to need to take a strong look at how to work with face masks, and much and the concentration of carbon prove to be beneficial for the industry to date, gym owners have met up with look at that and spearhead something we position ourselves because we more. As soon as the Government dioxide is very high. Hence, that could as more and more people would be officials of the Ministry of Health and where fitness institutes are registered, haven’t really emphasised upon the gives the green light to reopen, they pose another problem. maintaining their fitness levels and have voiced their concerns as well as or some sort of criteria be made, general aspects such as how it boosts are ready to do so. They too have limited the number thereby opening up a huge market. 4 the sunday morning brunch CAUSE Sunday, May 31, 2020

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BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE While marriage and civil status for women come Shazneem Ibrahim shared an from a time when women incident she experienced on 8 April were not afforded the many 2020 where she was the victim of freedoms and opportunities a home invasion. She shared her activism has provided for in story about how a man climbed the present day, it has made it into her apartment on the third so that the social and cultural floor in the dead of the night. landscape has changed and “I felt someone on the bed. The instant yet the mindsets of the general I turned, I felt someone grab me. I tried public remain the same, much to scream but his hand covered my mouth like the many laws we have that and no one heard me. I tried to grab him are yet to be amended from by the neck and squeeze, but he squeezed their colonial text my neck back. That’s when I realised I had to calm down. So I stopped. Once I equal rights; women, regardless of their stopped, he moved off the bed, and I saw civil status, are entitled to those rights and him putting his pants on (I could not see so there has been a fundamental injustice properly since I didn’t have my specs on). on a constitutional level here. “By the time I grabbed my specs, he However, looking into why this was fully dressed. He was dark, thin, and mindset remains, he shared that it all small. The kind of person who seemed stems from the systematic oppression of like he was used to hard, manual labour. the mind, providing that this cannot be My first instinct was to get him out of the addressed with a clinical approach; it must house, away from me. I asked him to leave, PHOTO SAI MADDALI/UNSPLASH rather be addressed at the beginning and but he refused and told me not to shout. not at the end. He kept on talking, telling me how he had In our society, a woman’s civil been watching me from the construction status has become something of grave site a few roads down. How he had seen importance, so much so that many women me from all the way there and had to come go to great extents to avoid being single From under your after a certain age, and this stems from the to me,” she said. Naturally, the authorities were alerted. societal pressure put on her, stating that She stated that her neighbours who had it is somehow unnatural. That stems from seen the man climb out of her apartment the prejudices that are deeply instilled in had called the Police; however, what the minds of the public and their inability transpired with regard to her interaction to see beyond that helps grow this culture. with the Police proved to be most While marriage and civil status for disheartening and disappointing. women come from a time when women “He had left footprints on my floor were not afforded the many freedoms and and fingerprints on the balcony railings.” opportunities activism has provided for in Upon arriving at the scene of crime and father’s the present day, it has made it so that the examining the evidence, Shazneem was social and cultural landscape has changed asked to go to the Dehiwala Police Station and yet the mindsets of the general public the next morning to file a complaint. remain the same, much like the many laws We spoke to Shazneem about her we have that are yet to be amended from interaction with the Police, of which she their colonial text. When once you were shared that essentially she was made to feel unembarrassed in saying bigoted, sexist that her complaint was far too trivial and remarks, now you should feel shame. was not going to be taken seriously, using roof to your However, if you do not, then there you the current pandemic situation as their must detect a problem. reasoning. Prof. Hettige shared that all these pre- However, amidst all this, she shared existing notions and resulting prejudices that one of the main things the officer can be dispelled, for which the media and fixated on was the fact that at the time, education must be behind the change. she was a single woman living alone “We are talking about intellectuals in an apartment in Colombo. “He kept elevating themselves to think beyond questioning me as to why I’m a single prejudices to guide those who consume woman living alone,” she said. “It was husband’s their words beyond their limitations,” clear that he blamed me for what happened There is no acceptable in-between for a woman he said. Public discourse is necessary to and obviously had no intention of dispel prejudice. He said that as an educator and addressing the event that occurred.” Nugegoda cops asked with a wink why the banana republic. We have to look after consultant in sociology, there have been She shared what placated his musings next door man offered his phone to me to ourselves. Don’t count on authorities. Fix many attempts to include the study of on the matter was when she told him that call the Police.” grills on your windows. Have a CCTV sociology in the curriculums in schools; her work was nearby and therefore she Others expressed their disdain and, system installed. Get another lady as a however, this has been denied time and lives here due to convenience. unfortunately, the fact that they were lodger in your apartment.” time again, considering this would result not even surprised at the reactions of the in opening up our minds. A thinking Fellow women aren’t surprised Police, citing how Sri Lankan culture has Can women not rely on authorities society is elevated and harder to deceive, Is there no other acceptable reason made it so that independent and self- meant to protect us all? distract, or control. why a woman may live alone? We sufficient women are a myth and are not The simple fact that many feel the On a closing note, Prof. Hettige stated gathered the experiences of a number of complete without a male in their lives for need to protect themselves with no trust that mindsets cannot be changed overnight, women (Twitter users) who also shared support or protection. in the authorities that are specifically but those in charge of influencing minds similar interactions with the Police. Rusi Devendra: “The main reason appointed to protect the public is a heavily must first make a change for the better in Dilini Algama: “…Once I was in a for me to never move back to SL. The weighted cause for concern. order to dispel these cultural norms, adding three-wheeler and a man on a motorbike patriarchal mindset is real, active, and We posed this question to University also that on the part of those who raise their stole my handbag. The policewoman was strong, and I don’t see that changing in the of Colombo Department of Sociology voice with regard to injustice, those who like ‘are you sure you don’t know the near or slightly distant future. I’m so sorry Professor Emeritus Siri Hettige, who hear them must give them strength and man?’ So, there is that.” this happened to you. However, I’m in no shared his thoughts on the matter with Prof. Siri Hettige elevate them while also being consistent Jeevani Fernando: “Once when I way shocked about this situation or how it regard to its sociocultural context. prejudices that transpire such reactions in their support; you cannot yell once in a reported a theft of my handbag with phone was handled.” Prof. Hettige shared that before we from people, we must stress that as while to be heard, but must be persistent in and tsunami funds from inside my home, Another stated: “We are living in a discuss the cultural connotations and citizens of a country, we are all entitled to your efforts.

BY BERNADINE RODRIGO is a nation with one of the highest archaeological site densities in the whole President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on 22 world. The sites add up to about 250,000 May said a presidential task force would he said, and while these include the 34,000 be appointed under the Defence Secretary There is hope yet for village tanks, ruins, colonial sites, and to conduct a comprehensive survey of other monuments from the country’s archaeological sites in the East and to take recorded history, it does not include Sri measures to preserve these. Lanka’s prehistoric sites. According to Dr. The Department of Archaeology Dissanayake, if prehistoric sites were to be history to be preserved considered as well, this number would rise of Sri Lanka is the guardian of all such monuments of the country’s Dr. Dissanayake shared to the paintings, the most important aspect to about an overwhelming million. heritage. Accordingly, the President is that while these two about conserving historical monuments is He said that settlements in Sri Lanka currently conducting discussions with cities (Anuradhapura and maintaining their authenticity, which will are believed to date back two million years the Department, which is represented Polonnaruwa) and its be done through architectural conservation. and that there is in fact material evidence by its Director General, Dr. Senarath The original form in which the buildings to prove it. However, he is sorry to say that monuments are of immense were created, its primary architectural Dissanayake. importance, there are also many out of these millions of sites, the gazetted Dr. Dissanayake, speaking to The structure, must at all costs remain the same. ones only amount up to about 16,000. He more places within the island Hence, the preservation of ancient ruins said it would take around 10-20 years to Sunday Morning Brunch, explained how that are of equal importance. there are so many monuments in the in these parts, which for decades has been gazette it all. country which need to be attended to, but Hence, the project will be ignored, is sure to be a difficult task. Aware of the fact that our country appreciated that at least some of the sites conducted in the Northern and Dr. Dissanayake shared that the cannot completely focus on one thing, Dr. which are of great value to our country’s Eastern Provinces Presidential Task Force put together for Dissanayake continued: “For a developing heritage were receiving this kind of care. this project will consist of individuals who country, there are other things to worry When it comes to the project itself, areas were largely unobserved and barely can aid in the way of labour, knowledge, about. Funding is the largest problem.” The much is yet undecided due to the fact that cared for as historical locations over three and expertise, the last group of which will Archaeological Department prioritises a there is still more research to be done. The whole decades as a result of the civil war. consist largely of local archaeologists number of sites which should receive more project will not be conducted in the North The type of conservation that needs to be under the department. For other purposes, urgent focus. Dr. Dissanayake shared that Central Province, which houses the cities done, according to him, is twofold. the President along with the Secretary of a great factor they consider when working of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Dr. First, chemical conservation through Defence have promised the full support of on a project is whether or not the item is Dissanayake shared that while these two which paintings and frescoes are properly Department of Archaeology Director General all three defence forces of the country – the in critical condition. If so, it becomes a cities and its monuments are of immense maintained, such as those in Sigiriya. Dr. Senarath Dissanayake Army, Air Force, and Navy. priority. Another factor they consider when importance, there are also many more While these frescoes of the beautiful the natural material used in its composition While Dr. Dissanayake is overjoyed funding a certain project is whether or not places within the island that are of equal women in Sigiriya are the most popular preserve the image when carefully applied at the opportunity to have at least some the location is a World Heritage Site. importance. Hence, the project will be in our country, Dr. Dissanayake shared by archaeologists and other experts. of these timeless valuables under his Dr. Dissanayake remains hopeful, as conducted in the Northern and Eastern that there are around 3,000 more “painting He then spoke about the other form jurisdiction, he spoke about the many some kind of support is being extended to Provinces. sites” in our country which need chemical of conservation that needs to be done. Dr. more that could use this kind of attention. the department to conserve the richness of Dr. Dissanayake expressed that these conservation. This chemical solution and Dissanayake shared that even with regards Sri Lanka, according to Dr. Dissanayake, our country’s history. the sunday morning brunch 5 Sunday, May 31, 2020 HEALTH

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Donation of tablets to the Ministry of Health and respective clinics

BY DR. DINESHANI other challenge was not having HETTIARACHCHI SIRISENA a complete database of clinic patients including their contact With the Covid-19 outbreak, details. Hence, a database needed the prevention and control to be created and uploaded from of non-communicable scratch to the MyDoc system to get the ground running. Dr. diseases (NCD) took a TELEMEDICINE Kumarapeli reiterated that despite backseat. At the beginning being a middle-income country, Sri of the outbreak, the Lanka’s response to the pandemic Government of Sri Lanka Shaping non-communicable has set an example to other nations. enforced strict measures restricting the movement Healing from a distance of people to curtail the Telemedicine has the potential epidemic, and conducting to be adopted in any given situation disease (NCD) care – may it be a natural disaster or clinics could lead to an outbreak epicentre. clinics as the medicine is provided a public health emergency. The MyDoctor app free of charge from the hospitals. key to its successful use lies in As a result, NCD-related As a result of a public- the thorough understanding of the services which included regular private partnership (PPP) with current healthcare needs of the clinics, essential investigations, Dialog, Samsung Global, and country. All things considered, and interventions became less MyDoctor.lk together with the the future of healthcare is one accessible to those who were Ministry of Health, 16 Samsung with many stakeholders and we managed for chronic illnesses tablets including connectivity can foresee a digital revolution in such as heart disease, chronic and the solution were provided patient care. kidney diseases, diabetes, chronic for continuous use for three respiratory diseases, and cancer. years. This will tremendously Telemedicine Crafted against this backdrop, aid to provide continuous care telemedicine services have come to has the potential remotely amid a pandemic such to be adopted in any the forefront in aid of overcoming as this. Furthermore, this app will this gap in patient care. We be available for all Sri Lankans given situation – may spoke to Ministry of Health NCD Ministry of Health NCD Director and irrespective of the mobile network it be a natural disaster Director and consultant community consultant community physician Dr. Vindya Kumarapeli they use, thus enabling the or a public health physician Dr. Vindya Kumarapeli, convenience of accessing their emergency. The key on initiating telemedicine services government hospitals across the regular clinics from the comfort of to its successful use for patients, managed and followed country. Namely: y their home. lies in the thorough up at government clinics. y National Hospital of Sri Lanka, If the patient prefers to use understanding of the Colombo This was to provide specialist and prescriptions in the app for care for those who have undergone future reference. Their doctors a private laboratory to get the current healthcare Co-morbidities and Covid-19 yy National Hospital, Kandy investigations done, the app can Currently, there is mounting a kidney transplant or are on can easily access these health needs of the country yy National Institute for dialysis. Furthermore, this profiles of patients remotely via the suggest the nearest lab. Once the evidence that comorbidities report is ready, it will be uploaded yield a poorer clinical outcome Nephrology Dialysis and service will be extended to other MyDoctor app before commencing Transplantation specialties such as dealing with consultations. to their user profile for easy access Dr. Kumarapeli commended than those without, which is the strong collaborative efforts yy Colombo South Teaching high-risk patients who shouldn’t The app has other features by the patient and their doctor. All evident by the death of a renal these measures will greatly reduce from all parties and gave special transplant patient at the beginning Hospital, Kalubowila get exposed to Covid-19. For that cater to private sector patients; example, it could be a pregnant for example, if the patient prefers the unnecessary risk of exposure mention to the Sri Lanka Society of of the epidemic. Patients who yy Colombo North Teaching to Covid-19. Such interventions Nephrology for the success of this are immunocompromised, such Hospital, Ragama mother with diabetes being to purchase the medicines from a followed up at an endocrine/ private pharmacy, the patient can are likely to increase the efficiency initiative. This is a great example as those suffering from disease yy Kandana Divisional Hospital of consultations. The MyDoctor of maintaining universal health conditions affecting the kidneys, diabetic clinic, or a heart patient simply forward the prescription yy Kurunegala Teaching Hospital who had undergone cardiac to the nearest delivery pharmacy mobile app is provided free of coverage for patients suffering from especially patients who have charge for patients and can be NCDs, especially during a public undergone kidney transplant or yy Peradeniya Teaching Hospital surgery and being followed shown on the app generated up at the cardiology clinic. As via GPS. However, this is not downloaded from both Apple App health emergency where equity those on dialysis (hemodialysis and yy Lady Ridgeway Hospital, such, telemedicine services have applicable to government sector Store and Google Play. in access to essential services is peritoneal dialysis), have a reduced Colombo applications in many fields of unmet. She is confident that the ability to fight infections and yy Karapitiya Teaching Hospital Overcoming challenges PPP established at the initiation other diseases, making them most medicine and the Ministry of yy Army Hospital, Narahenpita Health is hoping to yield its For anyone who has visited a of telemedicine, linking tertiary vulnerable to adverse outcomes clinic at a tertiary hospital, it is no care and patients at home, can be and even death if infected with yy Vavuniya District General benefits to provide universal healthcare. secret that there is overcrowding. continued in the future beyond the Covid-19. Hence, managing these Hospital To overcome overcrowding, needs of the pandemic. comorbidities is critical while yy Anuradhapura Teaching primary healthcare institutions Telemedicine has enabled us to minimising their exposure to the MyDoctor application Hospital This is a mobile-based will take the responsibility of provide healthcare from a distance pathogen. yy Sri Jayewardenepura Hospital telemedicine solution developed following up some routine without compromising the quality Maintaining continuity yy Batticaloa Teaching Hospital by MyDoctor (My Health patients while liaising closely of care, thus bypassing some of the Solutions). This service is with the specialists who are inherent dangers of traditional face- of care As a result of a provided free of charge for treating these patients. This to-face consultations in the wake of Dr. Kumarapeli mentioned public-private patients, especially those suffering will re-distribute the healthcare a pandemic. that this is where technology partnership (PPP) from chronic kidney disease. demand without overburdening came to the aid. As disruptions This app enables doctors to tertiary care hospitals. About the writer in essential medication and with Dialog, Samsung Telemedicine services such as Global, and MyDoctor. directly communicate with their The writer, routine investigations could lead patients via audio/video calls, MyDoc will be helpful especially Dr. Dineshani to detrimental outcomes, where lk together with the the treating physician to issue when the primary care physicians Hettiarachchi NCDs are concerned, this could Ministry of Health, prescriptions, and conducting lab need an expert opinion during the Sirisena, is a have led to an additional healthcare 16 Samsung tablets investigations through this app management process. family physician burden. Several initiatives were including connectivity after a consultation. Hence, it will be possible with a special implemented by the Ministry of and the solution The app also facilitates to refer a patient and get interest in rare Health to ensure those with NCDs were provided for health promotion and awareness another doctor’s opinion genetic diseases were taken care of while social continuous use for while liaising with the Non- while being treated at the and regenerative distancing was maintained. Those three years. This will Communicable Disease Unit of same hospital or centre via medicine currently working who are immunocompromised tremendously aid to the Ministry of Health to send telemedicine. This process will as a lecturer at the Department of were given high priority. A free any health-related information be strengthened by providing Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, telemedicine service via the provide continuous necessary infrastructure such as care remotely amid a to patients. Users will also be University of Colombo, Sri MyDoctor app was established able to upload and maintain all desktop computers to primary Lanka. at 16 nephrology clinics in pandemic such as this their health records healthcare institutions. One Common skin issue often mistaken for cancer ÄÄ I have brown spots over the develop in later adulthood, often after the cosmetic reasons – you can discuss options to needs to be administered in your healthcare top half of my body, which age of 50, and they usually become more remove them with your healthcare provider. provider’s office and the cost is not covered my doctor says are seborrheic numerous with age. They occur in men and Several removal methods are available, by most insurance companies. But it is a safe keratoses and are harmless. women equally, and the condition tends to including freezing the growths with treatment alternative for people who want to What causes them, and is run in families. liquid nitrogen – a procedure known as eliminate seborrheic keratoses and prefer not It’s not clear why seborrheic keratoses cryosurgery. Cryosurgery can be effective, to use the other removal techniques. there a way to prevent more develop, although genetics seem to play a but it doesn’t always work on raised Most of the time, seborrheic keratoses from appearing? role for some people. They don’t appear growths. And after the growth heals, the don’t require treatment. If you notice many Seborrheic keratoses are a common skin to be related to sun exposure or other area of skin treated may be lighter than the growths developing over a short period of issue, particularly in older adults. Although environmental factors, so there’s no obvious surrounding skin. For thin or flat growths, a time, however, or if you see any suspicious they don’t pose any health risks, these skin way to prevent their appearance and growth. special instrument with a sharp blade can be changes in the seborrheic keratoses or in growths can be mistaken for a potentially Seborrheic keratoses do not turn into used to shave the growth off the skin. This other areas of your skin – such as sores or more serious problem such as skin cancer. skin cancer even after several years, and technique is known as curettage. growths that grow rapidly, bleed, and don’t Therefore, patients often seek care from a they don’t raise your risk for developing An approach called electrocautery also heal – see a dermatologist. Those could be dermatologist when seborrheic keratoses skin cancer or other skin problems. They are may be effective. It uses an electric current signs of a more serious skin problem that develop. not contagious. Typically, the lesions aren’t to burn off the growth. Laser treatment can requires evaluation. Seborrheic keratoses usually appear as painful, but they may itch. Be careful not to be used to remove seborrheic keratoses as Lawrence Gibson, MD, Dermatology, brown, black, or light tan growths on the rub, scratch, or pick at them, though. This well. In some cases, a combination of these Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota face, chest, shoulders, or back. They have a can lead to bleeding, swelling, and (in rare techniques may be most effective. © 2020 MAYO FOUNDATION waxy, scaly, slightly elevated appearance. cases) infection. Depending on their size and There is one prescription drug approved FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION AND Some people develop just a single growth, location, seborrheic keratoses can become by the Food and Drug Administration for RESEARCH. DISTRIBUTED BY while others have clusters of them. irritated or bothersome. If that happens – or topical treatment of seborrheic keratoses. This TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. In most cases, seborrheic keratoses first if you would like to get rid of the growths for medication, a form of hydrogen peroxide, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 6 the sunday morning brunch ENVIRONMENT Sunday, May 31, 2020

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BY JITHENDRI GOMES “We never collected animals in national parks”, read the headline of a story in the Russian newspaper ARE WE LOSING Meduza on 15 May. The article was based on an account by Russian national Alexander Ignatenko, who was among three individuals nabbed while allegedly trying to take away more than 500 animals NATIONAL belonging to 23 species along with a large number of plants from Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka. This particular group had been visiting Horton Plains National Park and allegedly TREASURES violated the park rule of not staying beyond the closing time of 6 p.m. It is at this WITHOUT OUR KNOWLEDGE? instance that the park authorities intervened and allegedly found hundreds of collected deny this reality as there are many species specimens with them. endemic to Sri Lanka that are available for Field and conservation biologist Amila purchase in the international pet trade. They Sumanapala, whose research focuses are also available in large scales, which may mainly on the taxonomy, biogeography, also prove that once smuggled, these species habitat preferences, natural history, and may be bred in those countries to increase conservation of insects, shared that the their numbers,” he stressed. accused did receive a heavy punishment in the form of a fine, and didn’t share Appeal to the Govt. further details. Sumanapala is also currently Sumanapala further said that he believes they can propose for the authorities following his Master’s in Philosophy at Environmental lawyer Jagath Field and conservation biologist Former Deputy Director of the University of Colombo (UoC) and is Gunawardena Amila Sumanapala Customs Samantha Gunasekara to continue to work within the CITES and involved with the Butterfly Conservation enlist as many species as possible under Accordingly, there is a lack of this increase their manpower and enhance their Society of Sri Lanka. their endangered groups. In order to do that, knowledge even within the DWC and the training and capabilities. He further mentioned that according to there are certain criteria that have to be met university system. He further confirmed that Problem lies with law enforcement our legal system, all wildlife is protected by and the local focal point of the CITES is the it could also stem from a lack of interest According to Sumanapala, the positive the law and no one has the ability or right DWC. and research being done on these lesser thing is that the laws required to protect to collect and take animals away from their “They have to make a proposal and known insects or the insect group in general. these animals within the country are in habitat or out of the country. Therefore, submit it before the convention (CITES), Furthermore, he mentioned that research is place. Further to this, he mentioned that at any point of time, if someone does this, which meets once in every three years. rarely conducted to identify new species. most of the animals are also protected irrespective of whether they are a foreigner During the convention, it will be approved if under the Convention on International or a local, they are committing a crime that the criteria is met,” he added. What are the laws? Trade in Endangered Species of Wild is punishable by our law and therefore can In the most recent convention, both Environmental lawyer Jagath Fauna and Flora (CITES), a multilateral be fined. Sri Lanka and India have managed to list Gunawardena shared that the mere fact treaty introduced to protect endangered Sumanapala explained that once the a certain type of tarantula found in trees that they broke the park rule of staying plants and animals. The legal framework specimens were collected from them, the as an endangered species under CITES. beyond its closing time is an offence under to stop the illegal trade is in place, but the ones that were still alive were ordered to Interestingly, they are also endemic to the Section 5 of the Fauna and Flora Protection problem actually lies with enforcing it. For be returned to their natural habitat. The two countries, therefore if found anywhere Ordinance. example, every passenger is not checked at Department of Wildlife Conservation else in the world, it would breach the “In addition to this, the collection the customs office, so the traders manage (DWC) had then identified whichever agreement and be identified as an illegal of animals can be punished under this to take specimens out of the country easily, specimens they could and released them as action. This process will help us protect our Ordinance. Also, as they have collected he said. close as possible to their habitat. species found in international arenas. insects that are invertebrates, they have Former Deputy Director of Customs “The identification process of the “This process is something we can violated Section 31B of the Ordinance as Samantha Gunasekara, who was also specimens was done with the UoC and focus on at a national level in order to well. Because they are foreigners and also among those who initiated and led the that is how I got involved with it and reduce the pet trade crime. Apart from this, known to export these collected animals, world’s first biodiversity protection unit contributed to the process,” Sumanapala the Government can also assist with creating they are further violating Section 40 of the (BPU) in Sri Lanka which monitors and informed The Sunday Morning Brunch, interest in these areas, increasing facilities, Ordinance. Even if this is not proved to be controls biological materials and wildlife adding that there were a variety of insects and promoting more research. It is also true, they can be punished for the first three trade at borders, shared: “Preventing that had been collected by this group, equally important to increase awareness violations,” he explained. collecting in the wild is what should be ranging from scorpions to various types of among the people about this illegal activity,” Gunawardena refrained from stopped. In most cases, the animals are kept spiders. he further explained. mentioning the punishment for these alive as it increases the value; there are also Apart from enforcing the law, offences and stated that once the case is some animals that are traded for their body Appeal to the citizens Sumanapala saw additional challenges heard, the judge can decide the size of parts and thus killed. Saving them in the “If you notice something even slightly pertaining to technical issues such as the fine depending on the charge sheet wild will also save the animal’s life.” suspicious and observe that someone is identifying the species once caught. “An and gravity of the crime. When asked Gunasekara’s experience in wildlife maybe collecting specimens, immediately officer may be unable to identify the species about serving time, he explained that detection, investigation, and prosecution has report it to the authorities. This process will correctly or what their natural habitat may jailing foreigners can get complicated and greatly helped build this model. It is also definitely happen with the help of the local be. Because of this, they are also unable to counterproductive as well as become a the first of its kind in the world, putting Sri people. identify the proper value of that species, burden on our systems, adding that it is a Lanka in the forefront of fighting the battle “It is quite unlikely that a foreigner and we may be losing our national treasures possibility nevertheless. against wildlife trafficking. He is currently with little or no knowledge of local areas without our knowledge,” he pointed out. He went on to state that the DWC working closely with the Environmental can come down to an alien environment He went on to explain that our has focused more on this issue throughout Foundation Ltd. (EFL). and begin collecting. They may be even knowledge is limited to the well-known the years, but with the Department being He sees the importance of protecting paying the local people for their assistance. species of dragonflies and butterflies. Even severely understaffed, their capabilities all species in the wild before they make it Reporting such observations at this point with spiders, our identification capability is are limited, which is why Gunawardena to the airport. “Knowingly or unknowingly, makes it easier for the authorities to take quite low, according to Sumanapala. himself has always voiced the need to this illegal trade happens. We cannot action,” asserted Sumanapala.

BY BERNADINE RODRIGO Sri Lankans. He said that while these masks are somewhat a The Centre for Environmental novelty to the general public here, Justice (CEJ), while on a quest to they have been used for a long estimate the positive impacts on the time in a very disciplined manner environment as a result of people by countries such as Japan and being homebound for a significant Careless disposal Korea. The type of masks, he said, period of time, found that we the public must use is not surgical are posed with a new challenge masks. brought on by the disposal of He also noted that we must surgical masks. use reusable masks on a daily basis CEJ Executive Director instead of disposable masks which Hemantha Withanage, speaking need to be incinerated or disposed to The Sunday Morning Brunch, of masks of. He shared this as a response shared that firstly they tested how to the lack of discipline he sees in many in the population of the A new environmental problem? terms of our manner of disposing country had been using surgical waste material, which is evident masks. With a sample population in the above mentioned study of about 500 individuals, they done by the CEJ. He believes that found out that 70% of these people because of the way things are being had used only about one to five disposed of in our country, there is masks within the months of March no doubt it would all collect over and April, 5% had used over 20 time and cause grievous harm. masks, 5% had used somewhere in between 10-20 masks, and 17% had used five to 10 masks, while the remaining percentage had not used any at all. own, but also disposed of properly. When questioned on how they exacerbates the dispose of the masks, it turned out prevailing problem Department of Chemical that 44% of the individuals who of pollution, piling onto and Process Engineering had used masks failed to dispose of CEJ Executive Director Hemantha Withanage Prof. Ajith de Alwis polythene waste. Environmentalist and Senior it properly; some individuals had Withanage was also concerned Professor Ajith de Alwis thinks the even admitted to simply throwing as plastic. Next, the accumulation although items such as masks are for the future, sharing that with general public should understand the masks away, the same way they of clinical masks can cause serious destroyed by clinicians when they it being the monsoon season, the the purpose behind wearing masks dispose of plastics. harm in terms of spreading germs. use it, the general public clearly tendency for non-biodegradable and stop using masks which are Withanage said this kind As Withanage shared, various other lacks the knowledge when it comes waste to get washed away and essentially for the frontline workers of disposal of clinical masks is kinds of bacteria and viruses can to handling these items, which can cause more damage increases. who come into contact with harmful for a number of reasons. linger on these masks and spread therefore cause unwanted problems He and the CEJ would like to let patients of the virus. Firstly, it is non-biodegradable, when irresponsibly thrown away. when it is discarded. Not only people know that it is important He believes the problem is therefore it pollutes the same way He further explained that does this create a problem of its to ensure these products are with the lack of understanding of the sunday morning brunch 7 Sunday, May 31, 2020 GAMES/TOONS

WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Crossword SOLUTION FOR 17 MAY CROSSWORD CLUES 63 Dramatic offering 132 Trac II cousin 32 Approached nightfall 82 In that case 64 Mediterranean capital 133 Walt Whitman 36 “Iliad,” for one 83 Basketball Hall of Fame Across 66 Tats volunteered as one during 37 Second chance coach Smith 1 Swahili boss 68 One of this puzzle’s 144 the Civil War 39 Leaning to one side 84 Stately trees 6 Canasta combination 70 My belt __ 134 Title for fictional detective 40 Reebok rival 85 Cream additive 10 Cockatoo feature 79 Ground cover Peter Wimsey 42 Resting upon 87 Small deer 15 Boring tools 80 “Yess!” 135 Parachute fabric 43 Jewish assembly site 88 Move bit by bit 19 Many a surfer 81 Empower 136 Help grow up 44 Roman garment 90 “When it’s __”: answer to 20 Others, in Latin 82 What may come to mind 137 Printer cartridge contents 45 Grayish a classic riddle 21 Vigor 86 Native New Zealander 46 19th-century diarist 91 Symbol of bondage 22 Acquire, as an advantage 89 Fix, as a toy Down Henry __ Robinson 94 So last year 23 My crayon __ 92 Sleep disorder 1 Lacking talent for 47 Pot-__: “on the fire” 95 “To __ own self be true”: 25 Pay television 93 My cake __ 2 Deserving of French stew “Hamlet” 26 Designated space 97 Shut (up) 3 “All Day Strong” brand 48 Thing of the past 96 Soil 27 Four-wheeler, briefly 98 South Pacific island group 4 Not seen before 50 Lead to 103 Finally registered 28 My ruler __ 99 Parasite 5 Longtime PLO chairman 52 Twining plant 105 A stone’s throw 31 Step on it when you need 100 Benefit 6 Mauritania neighbor 53 Functional 107 Degree to step on it 101 Cookie with a Red Velvet 7 Airline to Israel 57 Look after 109 Apartment building unit 33 Carnival city variety 8 Hard-hit batted ball 58 Legislative body 110 Web message 34 Applies henna to, say 102 Attacks 9 Small antelope with an 60 Snake worshippers, e.g. 112 Harmless, as a lie 35 Mink cousin 104 Climb, in a way echoic name 65 Spanish 51-Across 114 Add splendor to 38 Sack lead-in 106 Direct attention 10 First name in design 67 Tab, say 115 Occupied 41 Mount north of Redding, 108 Soften 11 Wander aimlessly 69 European erupter 116 “See ya” California 111 As we speak 12 Reporter at the front 71 Slow way of speaking 117 Honeycomb compartment 46 Golf course rental 113 Beefy soup ingredient 13 Spread outward 72 Barely ahead 118 Miscellany 49 Blunted sword 117 My knife __ 14 Academic research papers 73 Reckless 119 Cold War initials 51 Text sent with x’s and o’s 125 Genetic material 15 Jellylike alga extract 74 Personality categories 120 Play the first card 54 Cultural character 126 “Need anything __?” 16 Goods suffix 75 Bond that promotes easy 121 Besides that 55 Felt remorse for 127 Fluffy-eared marsupial 17 Stead communication 122 Madeline of “Blazing 56 My needle __ 128 And my champagne __ 18 Start of a football play 76 Baseball’s Doubleday Saddles” 59 Quacked company name 130 Crossword-solving 24 Poured juices over 77 __ Woods, original voice 123 Poet Pound 61 Computer instructions Simpson 29 Bar mixer of Disney’s Cinderella 124 Old Russian autocrat 62 Courtyard 131 Celtic language 30 Director in the theater? 78 “Groovy!” 129 Sonny and Cher, for one

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WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Midas Safety Sri Lanka donates 1.25 million medical gloves Midas Safety Sri Lanka recently to various institutions like local medical Medical gloves provide donated 1.25 million medical officers of health (MOH) offices, public vital protection for gloves worth Rs. 12 million to the health inspectors (PHIs), government healthcare workers and medical Government of Sri Lanka in support hospitals, the Police, and security staff while handling patients of the country’s efforts to curb the forces, all of whom tirelessly fight in the and people with symptoms frontline against the novel coronavirus. Covid-19 outbreak that has brought Medical gloves provide vital protection Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. (Biyagama EPZ), and the entire world to a standstill. for healthcare workers and medical staff Industrial Clothing (Pvt.) Ltd. – Prime A token representing this was handed while handling patients and people with Polymers Division (Seethawaka EPZ). over to Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa at symptoms. In addition, it also donated Globally renowned personal protective his official residence by the officials of Midas gloves to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth equipment (PPE) brands have been relying Safety Sri Lanka. This is in addition to the (Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy. on Midas Safety as a credible private various corporate social responsibility (CSR) Midas Safety Sri Lanka has three label manufacturing partner of industrial activities carried out by the company recently manufacturing plants located at the export safety gloves for over four decades. With to support Sri Lanka’s fight against Covid-19. processing zones (EPZs) under the Board a reputation for consistent quality, industry At the onset of the Covid-19 scare in of Investment (BOI), employing over 3,000 knowledge, and innovative solutions, Midas Sri Lanka, the company initially extended employees, namely Industrial Clothing Safety offers a wide range of products their support by providing medical gloves (Pvt.) Ltd. (Katunayake EPZ), Workwear covering most segments of hand protection. Midas Safety Sri Lanka handing over 1.25 million medical gloves to Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa

Nivea Sri Lanka expands market presence online Nivea has partnered with multiple e-commerce platforms, making its wide portfolio of personal From left: Navy Commander Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva and Ambeon Holdings PLC Vice President care brands now easily (HRM and Commercial Support) Maj. Gen. Channa available to consumers at Minister of Health , KDU Teaching Hospital Department of Surgery lecturer Goonetilleke Dr. Charith Nanayakkara, Milennium IT ESP Director/COO and Ambeon Holdings PLC Group Vice the touch of their fingertips. President Dr. Sajeeva Narangoda, and Dankotuwa Porcelain PLC CEO Channa Gunawardana witnessing Launched across some of the handing over of the steam inhaler to the Ministry of Health the leading e-commerce platforms recently, Nivea Dankotuwa porcelain donates now offers a safe channel for consumers to place orders for their skincare models for the sake of platform. This collaboration customised steam inhalers to essentials online while consumers as it provides will amp up our partnership ensuring contactless greater convenience. with social influencers healthcare establishments Bringing in e-commerce by being a key part of From left: Ministry of Health Medical Services delivery. Dankotuwa Porcelain PLC donated inhaler is ideal for individuals affected II Deputy Director General Dr. Amal Harsha De This service is to complement our showcasing the Daraz some units of their all-new steam by any respiratory tract infections. Silva, Dankotuwa Porcelain PLC CEO Channa available for consumers distribution network by range and its sophistication Gunawardana, Royal Fernwood Porcelain Ltd. partnering with various with esteemed global inhalers to the healthcare sector in Dankotuwa Porcelain donated these Director/CEO Yoshan Fernando, and KDU Teaching across the country and also Sri Lanka. Designed and advised by inhalers to the Ministry of Health, the Hospital Department of Surgery lecturer offers multiple convenient e-commerce partners takes brands like Nivea. We Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) National Institute of Infectious Diseases Dr. Charith Nanayakkara and easy payment options. our brands closer to our are proud to be partners consumers. Sri Lankan and will keep ensuring Department of Surgery lecturer Dr. (IDH), Dr. Neville Fernando Teaching Lanka Navy, in addition to quarantine This initiative aims to give consumers can now get Nivea’s authenticity and Charith Nanayakkara, who specialises Hospital, Homagama Base Hospital, the centres in Sri Lanka. consumers uninterrupted their preferred Nivea effectiveness as a brand in neurosurgery, this modified steam KDU Teaching Hospital, and the Sri Dankotuwa Porcelain PLC, a access to a growing family personal care products that is experienced by more subsidiary of Ambeon Holdings PLC, of Nivea products loved delivered right to their people every day.” commenced its commercial operations by people from across the doorstep with a simple Shoppers can now find in 1984. From superior glazing country, all of whom place click. We would like to their favourite skincare technologies, personalised designs, and their trust on the brand’s thank all our delivery products conveniently on endless options, the company continues ability to care for and partners who have come the websites and mobile to create timeless and modern collections effectively protect any type on board with us in this applications of Cargills, of porcelainware that expresses exclusive of skin. effort.” DailyNEEDS, Daraz, dining experiences for every occasion. Speaking on the Daraz.lk Category Freshbox, Glowmark, Another important feature of initiative, Nivea Associate Head of FMCG Thashma Healthguard, Herbal, Dankotuwa Porcelain tableware is the fact Director of International Haththotuwegama added: Infinite, Kapruka, Keells, that it is safe for all aspects of dining, as Business Sudhanshu “Nivea has been an Lassana, LuxeColombo, the raw materials used for white products Krishna said: “We are now From left: Dankotuwa Porcelain PLC Manager Dimal Dharmasena, Navy Commander Vice Admiral incredible value-addition Store2Door, Takas, and are lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd)-safe and reshaping our delivery Piyal De Silva, KDU Teaching Hospital Department of Surgery lecturer Dr. Charith Nanayakkara, and to our consumers and our Uber Eats. Dankotuwa Porcelain PLC CEO Channa Gunawardana do not contain bone ash. Daraz opens donation portals through Daraz Cares As the whole country battles to limit it possible for everyone to contribute to the who are unable to support themselves the adverse impact of Covid-19, Daraz critical needs of the time. The process is due to various states of lockdown and announced that it has expanded its Daraz simple: Select the donation package, place interruptions to day-to-day life. As Sri Cares portal to help some of the most your order, and select the digital payment Lanka’s biggest online shopping platform, vulnerable groups at present. Collaborating method. Donors will receive a confirmation we have made this option available to with UNICEF (United Nations Children’s e-mail upon receipt of funds. Daraz Cares all our users so they can be a part of the Fund), Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, Heal has collected a donation value of over donations while staying safe.” Lanka, and Leads Sri Lanka, Daraz Cares Rs. 950,000 and provided for almost 625 “The partnership between Daraz allows users to donate to a variety of causes families at present. You can donate online to For Good and Heal Lanka came at a that will support the elderly in their medical charity organisations in Sri Lanka and play time when Sri Lankans from all walks needs, provide medical staff with essential your role in supporting the poor and needy of life needed a helping hand, and as medical accessories, as well as help poor during these times. You can also make we mobilised to assist, having Daraz by households, through the purchase of healthcare support donations online via our side at such a critical time enables coronavirus (Covid-19) donation vouchers donations to the Sri Lanka Red Cross also opened avenues to help families, Daraz Sri Lanka. donors, including those overseas, to join in Sri Lanka. Society via the portal, to support their through the donation of dry rations. In Speaking about the initiative our effort. Directly through this initiative, Through UNICEF Sri Lanka, Daraz initiatives or sponsor a volunteer. There are addition, users can donate to provide and partnerships, Daraz in Sri Lanka Heal Lanka was able to touch the lives of customers are able to support in the also options to purchase a medical voucher therapeutic care for children and provide Managing Director Rakhil Fernando nearly 200 underprivileged families until donation of emergency medical supplies for for the elderly, buy a food bag for a poor sanitary items for girls in a respite home stated: “Daraz is proud to be able to now, and we extend our sincere gratitude front liners and provide water, sanitation, family, or to “save lives” of the medical through Leads Sri Lanka. partner with these groups in their support to Daraz for making us all come together and hygiene facilities in high-risk areas. staff. The value of the donation vouchers towards the medical staff who are out for those in need,” added Amjad Moulana Meanwhile, customers can make direct Both Heal Lanka and Leads Sri Lanka ranges from Rs. 150 to Rs. 5,000, making there in the frontline, as well as those from Heal Lanka.

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