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For verified information on the Quarantine Unit Covid-19 Total cases Active cases Total cases coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 of the following authorities Epidemiology Unit cases in 0112 695 112 the world 72,778,115 Health Suwasariya Govt. coronavirus hotline Protect yourself from 33,146 Promotion Ambulance Deaths Cases Deaths 0113071073 Bureau Service USA 16,741,470 306,464 If showing symptoms Covid-19 deaths RECOVERED 1999 1990 0117 966 366 1,621,259 INDIA 9,897,200 143,580 BRAZIL 6,901,990 181,419 Presidential Special Task Force for Essential Services RECOVERED 24,309 RUSSIA 2,681,256 47,391 152 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 8,685 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 51,018,758 FRANCE 2,376,852 57,911 The above statistics are confirmed up until 9.00 p.m. on 14 December 2020 Source: Health Promotion Bureau

New Covid-19 detections Private power purchase agreements HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF SRI LANKA Total Cases Hit by severe

29,508*Stats updated as at 7.00 p.m. on 14 December Cabinet says Covid-19 staff shortage A severe staff shortage is 10,201, and 8,812 files, reported at the Human Rights respectively, whilst two to six Commission of Sri Lanka years were taken to resolve (HRCSL), where a total of 98 posts complaints. no extension fell vacant out of the 118 posts Auditor General W.P.C. approved for the Commission to Wickramaratne said in the report By Maheesha Mudugamuwa He said that the three perform its duties, according to that 21 vacancies out of 22 posts agreements altogether the Auditor General’s Department. of legal officer along with all 47 Cabinet approval has not been granted to supplied a total of 170 MW In the report evaluating the posts of human rights officer extend the power purchasing agreements to the national grid. performance of the HRCSL remaining vacant at the Inquiry already in place with three private power The proposal to extend on fulfilling its functions, it and Investigation Division of companies, The Morning learnt. the power agreements was also revealed that in the the Commission attributed Strict health regulations has been submitted to the years 2015, 2016, 2017 and to the delay in providing The proposal Power Matara, ACE Power Cabinet to meet the power 2018, investigations remained recommendations. for Sri Pada season was submitted Embilipitiya, and Asia Power shortage expected in the incomplete for 3,576, 5,710, Contd. on page 2 The state-sponsored Sri Pada to the Cabinet Sapugaskanda which will be dry season, he said, adding pilgrimage season is scheduled last month to terminated in April and June that extending the power Fall armyworm invasion to commence from 27 December Power extend the next year, Power Ministry agreements was among few following strict health guidelines Ministry purchasing Spokesman Sulakshana other proposals submitted stipulated by the Ministry of Health, Spokesman agreements Jayawardena told The by them. Sulakshana DOA increases Governors of the Central Province and Jayawardena with ACE Morning. Contd. on page 2 the Sabaragamuwa Province stated. Patients arrested for Writ against SLMC field visits appointments back in business With reports of the fall Earlier this month, when theft at treatment centre armyworm (FAW) infestation The Morning contacted the Four Covid-19 patients were arrested Ministry seeks spreading from Ampara and Horticultural Crop Research by the Valachchenai Police for allegedly Kurunegala to Anuradhapura, the and Development Institute stealing electric equipment and dismissal in Court Department of Agriculture (DOA) (HORDI), we were informed bathroom appliances from the Punani The Minister of Health has requested the has increased the frequency of that an integrated pest control Treatment Centre, Police Spokesman Court of Appeal to dismiss the writ petition field visits conducted by agrarian method is in practice to mitigate DIG Ajith Rohana said yesterday (14). seeking an interim injunction restraining the development officers, The the infestation. activities of five members of the Sri Lanka Morning learnt. Contd. on page 2 Medical Council (SLMC). Eswatini PM dies after Three members of the SLMC, including Long-delayed CEP Section III testing positive its former Chairman Prof. Harendra Silva, Prime Minister have filed a writ petition challenging the Ambrose M. Dlamini appointment of the new Chairman and four Construction to of Eswatini died of members. Covid-19 on Sunday Contd. on page 2 (13), according to begin this month a statement from the Government. The Road Development He was 52. Authority (RDA) plans to commence construction work on the long-delayed Section III Mayoress urges of the Central Expressway Project (CEP) at the end of this month, precautions during The Morning learnt. Accordingly, construction until a suitable investor is festive season would be carried out by local finalised through the ongoing Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa engineers attached to the RDA. tender procedures, a senior official The Covid-19 situation has been Human-elephant conflict taken under control to some extent by A 3 km section would initially attached to the RDA told The the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) be allocated to the RDA for Morning. with the assistance of the Army and Sajith calls for construction as a pilot project, Contd. on page 2 Police officials, but precautions should Tourism industry be taken to avoid a third wave in light of the upcoming festive season, Colombo integrated plan Mayoress Rosy Senanayake said. Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said Awaiting final approval last Sunday (13) that an integrated plan should The Sri Lanka health authorities, and be implemented immediately to address the Tourism Development is awaiting their final Prison cluster exceeds issues of the human-elephant conflict in the Authority (SLTDA) approval in writing. country. is waiting for final "This is a health 3,000 cases Premadasa said that Sri Lanka ranked approval from pandemic and the The total number of Covid-19 second globally in the number of human health authorities to health authorities cases reported from the prison cluster deaths due to the human-elephant conflict recommence tourist restricted travelling. has reached 3,087, the Government and first in elephant fatalities, according arrivals to the country. SLTDA Director Therefore, final General (DG) Information Department said. to statistics presented to the Committee on Over 700 shops opened for wholesale trade yesterday (14) at the new SLTDA Director approval should Dhammika Manning Market in Peliyagoda Public Accounts. General (DG) Wijesinghe be given by them Contd. on page 2 Photo Krishan Kariyawasam Dhammika Wijesinghe to recommence See full Stories on page 2 told The Morning that the SLTDA operations," she said. Made In Sri Lanka brand is currently in discussion with Contd. on page 2 Hejaaz Hizbullah Access not Campaign launches today: Minister By Sarah Hannan MSMEs that have been registered with denied: AG divisional secretariat offices. The designated The Attorney The Ministry of Industries, along with the officer has already made a list of MSMEs that General has National Enterprise Development Authority are producing locally made products. They are informed the (NEDA), will officially launch the “Made In also in the process of filling out the necessary Court of Appeal Sri Lanka” brand today (15) at the Galle Face data for these MSMEs. Once the information is that the Criminal Hotel at 7 p.m. submitted to the NEDA, it would be evaluated Press briefing held at Galle Face Hotel yesterday (14) Investigation The announcement was made by Minister of by the specialist committee,” Weerawansa PHOTO Saman Abesiriwardana Department Industries Wimal Weerawansa during a press elaborated. (CID) has briefing yesterday (14). of their inability to have a foothold in the local A specialist committee will review registered The Made in Sri Lanka brand campaign not refused Addressing the briefing, Weerawansa said: market and push their products to the global MSMEs to evaluate whether the businesses will see the launch of monthly trade fairs Hejaaz Hizbullah permission for “Several programmes have been lined up market, the National Enterprise Development qualify to carry the “Made In Sri Lanka” logo held at spaces frequented by the public, with lawyers to meet Hejaaz Hizbullah, who under the ‘Made in Sri Lanka’ brand campaign, Authority (NEDA) has developed a suitable on their product. As explained by Weerawansa, the first trade fair tipped to be held at Arcade is currently being held in connection with which aims to assist the micro, small, and platform that will connect these MSMEs (micro, the colour of the logo used will depend on the Independence Square on a monthly basis, the Easter Sunday terror attacks. medium-scale entrepreneurs crafting local small, and medium enterprises) to businesses extent of local raw material used in the product. starting from 2021. Contd. on page 2 products. Identifying the longstanding issues and consumers alike.” “The NEDA already has a network of Contd. on page 2 2 the morning INTERVIEW/NEWS Tuesday, December 15, 2020 We can't trust the expert committee: Moulana z Apply Buddhist principle of compassion to burial issue

By Pamodi Waravita or cremation. But, Mr. Jamaldeen was We are getting information that they are humane level. It is an unhealthy environment still cremated on 29 March. I appealed to concerned and that they are trying their best that they are creating. A gazette notification issued in April distressed the Muslim community Minister Ali Sabry as well. At that meeting, – we have to wait and see. A few weeks back We are a multi-ethnic, multi-religious due to the introduction of a regulation which stated that all bodies we mentioned that we are even willing someone had told the paper that Minister Sabry country. We have all contributed to the peace of victims who died as a result of Covid-19 would be cremated. This to go ahead with steel coffins for extra had said the policy is reversed, but finally it process that ended the civil war. We are all regulation was introduced despite the World Health Organisation (WHO) safety reasons. But, some ministers such as didn’t happen. There is a lot of disappointment. contributing to the sovereignty and unity issuing guidelines on the disposal of the bodies of Covid-19 victims, Wimal Weerawansa asked us not to make If it changes, it has to be gazetted and the of this country. We are part and parcel of stating that they can be buried or cremated. Muslims make up 10% of it a political issue and pushed for an expert circular has to be printed. This compassion and this country. All that we are asking for is a the country and have been raising their voices against the Government’s committee. concern can come from all the officials. Only simple, dignified burial for our loved ones. policy, and Ali Zahir Moulana, former Member of Parliament and activist, Is the Muslim community disappointed a few people are behaving with a bias. There Do you think strong measures will be has been a prominent figure in this fight since April. in Minister Ali Sabry for not being able to are many Muslim doctors, nurses, and PHIs taken by the international community change this policy despite being the Justice (public health inspectors) working during the against Sri Lanka if this cremation-only He participated in a silent protest over why it can’t happen, we will respect it. But the Minister? pandemic.They are exposed to patients and policy is continued? Have you appealed the weekend where protestors tied white WHO has stated that it is fine to proceed with He just got into politics and he has tried they are afraid that they will be cremated as to Middle Eastern countries for economic cloths around the Borella cemetery where burials. We are even suggesting that airtight, his level best but he is finding it difficult well if they die. sanctions on Sri Lanka due to this policy? the body of a 20-day old Muslim infant, the sealed bags can be used to bury the deceased, by himself. Being the Justice Minister, You recently resigned from the Sri Lanka We are overwhelmed by the support we have youngest victim of Covid-19 in the country, along with other WHO guidelines. We are even he couldn’t serve justice. It is not that he Muslim Congress (SLMC). What are your gotten from the international community. We was cremated despite objection from his prepared to find a dry burial spot, although didn’t try, he just couldn’t. The whole world thoughts on the minority representation of are raising a very reasonable request and we parents. The Morning spoke to Moulana during that is not necessary. We are pleading with is saying that there is no scientific reason Sri Lanka, especially with regard to their hope that the Government will remember that the protest about this policy and the continued the Government to grant this for us. as to why burials cannot happen, but our reaction to the cremation-only policy of the it is there for everyone in the country. fight to reverse it. Is this decision an example of the people are not accepting it. He has raised Government? Are you going to the United Nations The following are excerpts of the interview. Government treating Muslims as second- this issue on social media but he’s not an Political leaders of this country are important Human Rights Council (UNHRC) or seeking class citizens? experienced politician. Some have very in sustaining the peace of this country. We will other external assistance? By participating in this protest, what do Well, I believe that this is a good opportunity undesirable comments about it but we can’t stand by the country and do our duty to it, but International actors have raised their you hope to achieve? for the Government to reach out to the minority blame anybody. we urge that in this situation, the Buddhist concerns against this issue. We are still hoping This is a silent and peaceful protest against community, and fulfil their expectations. Sri Lankans are generally people with a idea of compassion is practised. The SLMC that these democratic negotiations will finally forceful cremations. We must not lose faith in Do you feel that the ban on burials lot of tolerance and patience and that is why was founded on the basis that it will provide lead to a good solution. our country. By tying these white napkins on is a direct discrimination of minority we keep praying that one day this matter will a democratic voice for the community. We do It was reported that the Maldives is the cemetery fence, we hope that it will hang communities, especially the Muslim be accepted and the policy will be changed. not see that happening today. offering to bury Sri Lankan victims on one with the shame of this country. community? There will be a way, if there is a political What do you think are the long-term of their islands. Do you think the community Why is it so important for the Muslim We are hoping and praying for a positive will. Everybody is upset after the cremation effects of maintaining a cremation-only will agree to it? community to bury their dead? Can’t the response from the Prime Minister. The of the infant because both parents tested policy? In our own country, our motherland, all community adapt to cremations, given the expert committee consists of doctors from negative, but the child tested positive only So far, there is not a single shred of we want is a burial. This is something very scale of the crisis? the GMOA (Government Medical Officers’ after the antigen test. The parents wanted evidence to say that buried bodies will ridiculous, if we have to send our bodies abroad There are two main reasons why burial is Association). How can we believe them? to double check with a PCR test, but that spread contamination. There have been to be buried. Our country will be ridiculed if so important to us. It is our obligation to give They have been biased against this issue was denied and the body of the infant was over a million deaths so far, around the another country is willing to accept our bodies. a dignified burial to our loved ones. It is also from the beginning. Doctors are people who forcibly cremated. This is where we need world, and the majority of the deceased is It is ridiculous. When there was a threat to haram or forbidden to destroy the deceased. have to approach any issue on humanitarian justice; the Justice Minister must inquire buried. So it is crystal clear as to why we my life by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil It is God’s creation and we don’t have a right grounds. But we do not see that happening as to whether there has been any kind of are not allowing burials here. The forced Eelam (LTTE), I had to leave the country. to destroy it. We always practise a simple here. It is a very unfortunate situation. negligence from the hospital. This should cremation of the 20-day old baby, without Even then I said that I will rather come back burial, as early as possible. It is the same for I met the Prime Minister on the very first not happen to any other family, it should the consent of his parents has frustrated all to my country and die on my soil. We want a king or a pauper. We do not want cremation day this issue came to light, on 2 April. not be repeated. of us. Everybody has children. All of us to die in this country, that’s how we love it. If to happen without our will. At that time, the Health Ministry website Do you think the Minister will raise this have mothers and fathers. We are asking somebody else is willing to accept our bodies If they can provide scientific evidence as to did state that either method is fine – burial issue more forcefully in the coming weeks? the Government to consider this issue on a to be buried, it is a ridiculous situation.

Contd. from page 1

Rajamaha Viharaya to Sri Padasthanaya on the South Africa two weeks ago for treatment, that the petitioners have also attempted to allocated by the RDA, and the construction Strict health... morning of 28 December through four routes. Reuters reported, after contracting the virus in conceal facts through the petition and presented would be launched to avoid any further delay “Arrangements have been made to hold Accordingly, the procession will travel along November. He had served as prime minister for minor misleading facts. He added there was of the project. this year’s Siripa pilgrimage, allowing a the Sri Palabaddala Road, Balangoda Road, two years in Africa’s last absolute monarchy. no reasonable legal basis to hear the petition, The 34 km Section III, extending from limited number of devotees who will have Kuruwita Road, and Hatton Nallathanni Road. Dlamini is one of several world leaders and requested the court dismiss it without Pothuhera to Galagedara, was to be constructed the opportunity take part and perform the Security and healthcare services teams are to who contracted the coronavirus – including issuing notices. by a Japanese contractor at an estimated cost religious rites and complete the pilgrimage be deployed on all four roads for scrutiny. President Trump, President Jair Bolsonaro of Subsequently, further consideration of the of Rs. 135 billion, via a loan obtained from as per the instructions given by the healthcare Central Province Governor Lalith U. Gamage Brazil, Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic of petition was adjourned until 18 December. the Tokyo Mitsubishi Bank (TMB) in Japan. services and security forces,” Central and Sabaragamuwa Province Governor Tikiri Croatia, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson However, a Cabinet decision was recently Province Governor Lalith U. Gamage told Kobbekaduwa presided the special discussion of Britain – but among very few who have taken to revoke the contract signed with Japan’s The Morning. on the Sri Pada pilgrimage, which is scheduled died of Covid-19. Sajith calls... Taisei Corporation for the construction of Accordingly, it was agreed that the to commence on the upcoming Uduwap Full​​ (The New York Times) “This is a sad and unacceptable situation Section III of the CEP. maximum number of people on the first Moon Poya Day under the patronage of which needs to be addressed immediately Meanwhile, Highways Minister Johnston day of the Sri Pada season, which begins Gautama Sri Padasthanadhipati Bengamuwe through the implementation of an integrated and Fernando said that the stretch of the Central on the full moon day of Uduwap, will be Dhammadinna Nayaka Thera. Mayoress urges... overarching human-elephant conflict mitigation Expressway from Mirigama to Potuhera is limited to 200 (50 people per route). plan. I hope the relevant authorities possess likely to be completed by 31 March 2021. It is compulsory that the pilgrims obtain She expressed these views at an event where the Seoul Metropolitan Government the requisite political will and conviction to The Minister has also directed the Highways a certificate of registration from their Patients arrested... embark on this urgent programme,” he said in Ministry to submit a report on the expressway respective divisional secretariat approving of Korea donated 18,000 facemasks to the The Police Spokesman stated that they were CMC yesterday (14) at the request of the a series of tweets. from Kadawatha to Mirigama, expressing his their participation. arrested on Sunday (13), following a complaint dissatisfaction with its progress. The procession is not allowed to stop at any Colombo Mayoress. by the Chief Medical Officer of the Punani The Government of Korea was represented Fernando said the work on the 32.5 km place; offerings too should not be made on Treatment Centre for Covid-19 patients. Hit by... Pothuhera-Galagedara stretch of the Central the way; only a few vehicles will be allowed by Ambassador of Korea in Sri Lanka Woonjin “The suspects were supposed to be released Jean. Accordingly, a cadre of 118 staff had been Highway will begin before the end of the year. to participate in the perahera, and all food from the centre following their treatment on approved for the vacant positions to fulfil the “We have also allocated Rs. 40 billion for the and beverage dansals will be banned. Saturday (12), but were found stealing the Commission’s objectives. Among them were payment of compensation to those whose lands However, the distribution of masks and equipment of the centre. The suspects were Prison cluster... 22 legal officers, who were to be directly will be taken over,” he said. hand washing facilities can be offered to remanded till 18 December by the Valachchenai involved in the investigation of complaints – – Maheesha Mudugamuwa the devotees by interested parties. It said 147 new cases were reported from the Magistrate’s Court,” he stated. prison cluster among the 650 cases detected a key function of the Commission – and 47 Under strict health regulations, few shops human rights officers. Furthermore, to ensure will be permitted at the Sri Padasthanaya. on Sunday (13). Among them are 103 prison officials. smooth functioning of the Commission, five Awaiting final... Employees of these shops will be subjected Eswatini PM... director-level posts had also been approved. The DG added that health authorities should to regular PCR inspections and health screening The Deputy Prime Minister, Themba Masuku, However, 98 of these posts had fallen vacant also lay out the necessary guidelines for the by the Medical Officer of Health and public notified the country, formerly known as Access not... as at 31 July 2019, due to the Commission’s non- sector’s revival in the event of a pandemic health inspectors (PHIs). Swaziland, of the leader’s “sad and untimely The petition filed by Attorney-at-Law approval of a proper Scheme of Recruitment. like Covid-19. The annual procession of the statue and passing” in a statement on Twitter late Sunday. Chalana Perera, seeking a court order for the Of the 43 executive posts approved, 35 posts, Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of relics of the local deity Saman will take place “His excellency passed on this afternoon while CID Director to grant permission for Hizbullah including all five approved posts of director Sri Lanka (CAASL) has informed civil aviation on the evening of 27 December, which is to under medical care in a hospital in South to access his lawyers, was taken up before and three posts of assistant director, remained authorities around the globe of the proposed be deposited in a special room at the Sri Pada Africa,” the statement read. Masuku added: Appeals Court Justices Priyantha Fernando vacant, representing 79% of the total number resumption of commercial and charter flights Rajamaha Viharaya, and will be later taken by “May his soul rest in peace.” and Sobitha Rajakaruna yesterday (14). of posts at the executive grade. to Sri Lanka, beginning 26 December. the procession that would leave from Sri Pada Dlamini had been moved to a hospital in President’s Counsel Romesh de Silva, – Maheesha Mudugamuwa – Maheesha Mudugamuwa appearing on behalf of the petitioner, claimed that the CID has not provided an opportunity for Hejaaz Hizbullah’s lawyers to meet him. DOA increases... Campaign launches... However, representing the Attorney General, Speaking to The Morning, DOA Director Trade stalls are also to be implemented at Cartoon of the day Additional Solicitor General Susantha General Dr. W.M.W. Weerakoon said: ”In malls in various cities, and at the airports, Balapatabendi stated the CID has not refused comparison to the first wave of infestations as well as international trade centres under permission for Hizbullah to meet his lawyers. that occurred in 2018, this time around, we are a franchise model, which will be operated positive that the extent of crop damage will be by the private sector. far less. The projected crop damage is about 5% The Made in Sri Lanka brand will also Cabinet says... of the total cultivation.” have its very own e-commerce Trade Portal, However, the Cabinet has approved 130 MW Dr. Weerakoon also noted that the delay in which will be made available by June 2021, of supplementary power, he said. cultivating crops, and some farmers not following featuring secure payment gateways and The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) cannot instructions on using the integrated method, enabling local and international delivery go ahead with the agreements without Cabinet had caused the infestations to take hold of the options. approval, he added. cultivation. A digital database of MSMEs will also “We have deployed several teams in areas where be maintained with the assistance of 16 crop damage was reported, and I personally visited enterprise development officers of NEDA, Ministry seeks... the Siyambalanduwa area to see for myself. It was who will manage, co-ordinate, and monitor The petition was taken up yesterday (14) quite commendable to see that some of the farmers activities of 331 development officers who before Justices Arjuna Obeysekera and Sobhitha had followed the instructions, and had avoided are appointed to the divisional secretariats. Rajakaruna. the pest attacks entirely,” Dr. Weerakoon stated. The concept came about due to Covid- During the hearing, Deputy Solicitor According to him, the full extent of the crop 19, with it being discussed during the first General Nerin Pulle, who appeared on damage can only be assessed after the harvesting lockdown by Sri Lanka Trade Development behalf of defendant Health Minister Pavithra period concludes, which is in about two weeks’ Council (SLTDC) Chairman Roshana Waduge Wanniarachchi, pointed out that under the time. and other council members, who suggested Medical Ordinance, the Minister of Health – Sarah Hannan that local traders and entrepreneurs be thus has the power to suspend or remove members empowered. The concept was presented to the of the SLMC. He added that this could not be President, who took it into consideration and challenged before the law. Construction to... issued a debt moratorium for local businesses The Deputy Solicitor General claimed He said the necessary funds would be in the form of relief loan packages. the morning Tuesday, December 15, 2020 3 business Exports dip but trade deficit continues to shrink in October A deficit of $ 514 million was impact of the resurgence of Covid-19 clothing articles, surgical, and other gloves. trend observed since March 2020. Declines Expenditure on the importation of recorded in the trade account cases, although exports of agricultural Export earnings from agricultural recorded in all major categories of imports, intermediate goods declined by 21.4% in in October 2020, which was products continued to grow. Earnings from goods increased marginally by 0.6% in namely, consumer goods, intermediate October 2020 compared to October 2019, significantly lower than the deficit merchandise exports in October 2020 October 2020, on a year-on-year basis, led goods, and investment goods, contributed to driven by a 27.5% decline in expenditure of $ 838 million recorded in October were lower compared to October 2019 by coconut exports (mainly coconut oil this outcome in October 2020. on fuel imports, and a 21.3% decline 2019, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka as well as September 2020, due to the and non-kernel products), spices (mainly Expenditure on the importation of in textiles and textile articles used in announced yesterday (14). sudden outbreak of the second wave of the cinnamon), and natural rubber. Meanwhile, consumer goods in October 2020 was manufacturing of garments. Almost all pandemic that resulted in disruptions to earnings from tea exports declined by lower by 34.4% compared to October other large and small sub-categories of The improvement in the trade balance planned production and support services 1.4% due to the decline in volume of tea 2019, mainly owing to the decline in the intermediate goods also recorded declines. was due to the decline in imports ($ 453 in the country, especially in the garment exports although unit value increased. import of motor vehicles for personal use. Expenditure on fuel imports declined due million), which was greater than the decline industry. Further, adverse global market Other agricultural export sectors, which Expenditure on the import of food and to a reduction in prices of all categories in exports ($ 129 million) during the period conditions for Sri Lanka’s key exports registered a decline during the period under beverages declined by 4.7%. of fuel; crude oil, refined petroleum, and under review. Meanwhile, terms of trade, were aggravated by the second wave of review compared to October 2019, included Import expenditure on vegetables, fruits, coal imports, due to low oil prices in the i.e. the ratio of the price of exports to the the Covid-19 pandemic experienced by seafood, minor agricultural products (mainly seafood, dairy products, beverages, and world market. The average import price price of imports, improved by 4.0% in many countries, leading to low demand for fruits and edible nuts), and unmanufactured cereals and milling industry products of crude oil in October 2020 was $ 41.77 October 2020, compared to October 2019, exports of Sri Lanka. As a result, earnings tobacco. declined. In contrast, expenditure on sugar, per barrel in comparison to $ 66.06 per due to import prices declining at a higher from exports in October 2020 amounted Mineral exports declined by 36.8% in oils and fats (mainly coconut oil), and barrel in October 2019. Volumes imported pace than the decline in export prices. to $ 848 million, which was 13.2% lower October 2020 compared to October 2019. spices (mainly chilli and coriander) imports of crude oil also declined, while refined The cumulative deficit in the trade than October 2019 and 15.2% lower than Exports of earths and stones such as quartz registered increases. Sugar prices in the petroleum and coal increased in October account from January to October 2020 September 2020. and granite increased, while exports of global market were the highest in October 2020 compared to October 2019. narrowed to $ 4,852 million from the deficit Earnings from the export of industrial graphite powder and natural sands declined. 2020 since March 2020 as well as October Imports of investment goods declined of $ 6,451 million recorded in the same goods declined by 16.9% in October Further, export of ores and slag such as 2019, due to lower output in the main by 24.9% in October 2020 compared to period in 2019. 2020, on a year-on-year basis, due to the titanium and zirconium also declined. sugar-producing countries owing to low October 2019, with reductions in all three While imports continued to be restrained weakened performance of textiles and The export volume index declined by rainfall. Import volume and unit values of major categories, namely, machinery under low global oil prices and import garments, and most of the smaller sectors, 2.8% while the unit value index deteriorated both sugar and coconut oil also increased and equipment, building material and restrictions imposed by the Government, including gems, diamonds and jewellery; by 10.6%, on a year-on-year basis in substantially in October 2020 compared to transport equipment, as well as almost all exports dropped in October 2020 due to the petroleum products; and machinery and October 2020, indicating that the decrease October 2019. Import expenditure on non- sub-categories under these three major disruptions to local production and support mechanical appliances. The export of in export earnings was caused by both lower food consumer goods declined by 49.4%, categories. This outcome was partly services following the resurgence of Covid- textiles and garments declined by 18.9%, volumes and lower prices. due to a decline in most types of imports attributed to import restrictions. 19 cases since early October and weak with reduced exports to the US, the EU, and under this category, led by personal motor The import volume index and the unit demand from foreign buyers. other markets. However, export earnings Merchandise imports vehicles. This reduction in consumer goods value index declined by 12.6% and 14.1%, from plastics and articles thereof and Expenditure on merchandise imports was partly attributed to import restrictions. respectively, on a year-on-year basis in Merchandise exports rubber products increased, led by their sub- declined by 24.9% to $ 1,363 million in Import expenditure on certain non- October 2020, indicating that the decrease in Earnings from merchandise exports categories related to personal protective October 2020 compared to October 2019, restricted items, such as pharmaceuticals, import expenditure was caused by both lower suffered in October 2020 due to the equipment (PPE) products such as plastic thus continuing the year-on-year declining also declined. volumes and lower prices. EDB Chairman Suresh Asia Securities Sri Lanka Conference to feature global thought leaders de Mel assumes duties A high-profile lineup of Qviberg in 1996, Martinsson leading global and local has long been an investor in Businessman Suresh de Mel experts in policy, business, the Sri Lankan stock market. assumed duties as Chairman and financial markets are set He founded Tundra in of the Sri Lanka Export to share their insights at the 2011 as a specialist boutique Development Board (EDB) upcoming fourth Annual Sri asset manager, focusing on yesterday (14), succeeding Lanka Investment Conference frontier markets and smaller Prabhash Subasinghe, who by Asia Securities. emerging markets. Among ended his one-year tenure Titled “2021: The Tundra’s early initiatives was early this month. Investors’ Dilemma”, this to set up a specific research Speaking at the occasion, year’s conference will be initiative for environmental, de Mel remarked that he was delivered virtually, and takes Nobel Laureate Aletheia Capital Tundra Fonder social, and governance honoured and privileged to be place in three individual Prof. Muhammad Head of Macro Founding (ESG) analysis. Its detailed appointed as EDB Chairman, sessions, from 15-17 Yunus Research and Partner and Chief ESG analysis of its portfolio and noted his commitment to December. It will explore WIlmot ML Founder Investment Officer companies remains a grow the country’s exports the outlook for the economic Jonathan Wilmot Mattias Martinsson particular trademark for the as the world is going through rebound and financial He is one of only seven The Oxford-educated company. a pandemic, making use of markets in the coming year. individuals to have received Wilmot has over 40 years’ Asia Securities Chairman his experience as a small Nobel Laureate Prof. the Nobel Peace Prize, the experience analysing Dumith Fernando said: “We and medium-scale exporter Muhammad Yunus, renowned US Presidential Medal financial markets, including have worked hard to channel for over 40 years by giving as the father of both social of Freedom, and the US over 30 years with Credit the best of international priority to product and market Businessman Suresh de Mel assuming duties as Chairman of the Sri Lanka business and microcredit, Congressional Gold Medal. Suisse as Chief Global expertise to investors in Sri diversification, the EDB Export Development Board (EDB) yesterday (14) and Founder of Grameen On the same day, Aletheia Strategist for the Investment Lanka. The overseas-based announced. the country by manufacturing Ampara Districts, promoting Bank, will be tuning in from Capital Head of Macro Bank and Head of Macro experts are of particular De Mel holds a Bachelor of designer fishing flies (artificial sustainable organic agriculture Bangladesh for day two of Research and WIlmot ML Investment in the UK Asset relevance at this year’s Science degree in Agricultural sport fishing bait) for export to and responsible eco/agro the conference. The recipient Founder Jonathan Wilmot Management Business. conference, as the challenges Engineering from the the US. The company employs tourism. of the 2006 Nobel Prize for will take the stage to share Swedish-based investment and opportunities for markets California Polytechnic State 200 women in Tangalle, De Mel actively serves Peace will share his thoughts his global market outlook fund Tundra Fonder AB’s in 2021 are closely related to University, USA. He worked Ratnapura, and Nugegoda, on several boards and on taking a creative approach for 2021. In his presentation, Founding Partner and Chief global happenings.” in the US as an agricultural producing fishing flies for committees, government to rejuvenate low and Wilmot will draw on his track Investment Officer Mattias Day one and day two of the and environmental engineer export. and non-government, for middle-income countries in record of predicting economic Martinsson will discuss event are open to the public for 10 years before returning He is also the Chairman the development of regional a post-pandemic world. For recoveries well ahead of challenges and opportunities by prior registration, while home in 1990 and investing of EcoWave (Gte.) Ltd. and SMEs, entrepreneurship, his constant innovation and market consensus, to discuss in investing in frontier day three is open to clients in Tangalle, a post-conflict EcoWave Travels, which are vocational training, labour enterprise, Fortune Magazine the market forces at play and markets on day three. Having only, with limited space for area at the time, to employ social enterprises working relations, responsible tourism, in March 2012 named Prof. how investors can capture begun his career as an analyst the public. Registration may unemployed young women with 200 spice farmers sustainable agriculture, and Yunus as “one of the greatest investment opportunities that and advisor in Russian be obtained via sabeeha@ and earn foreign exchange for in the Monaragala and exports. entrepreneurs of our time”. arise. equities at Hagströmer & asiasecurities.lk. Verité presents youth labour assessment with US support The US has supported female participation in the entrepreneurship opportunities towards a state-supported disengaged being women. emphasised that YouLead interventions to improve youth Verité Research in producing workforce, and to promote for youth in Sri Lanka. maternity leave programme However, nearly one of every is committed to engage in entrepreneurship and women’s its latest youth labour entrepreneurship among The report’s key via tax concessions. This is three disengaged young practical and evidence-based employment in Sri Lanka. market assessment, the youth. recommendations are: to reduce the discrimination women are interested findings of which were USAID Mission Director Moving youth to Own- that women aged 20-40 years in working, and Verité presented to the public via Reed Aeschliman noted the Account Work (OAW) – The face in the labour market, Research proposes a webinar titled “Improving importance of strengthening assessment recommends which stems from mandatory implementing Return-To- Youth Employment and the entrepreneurial mindset rethinking the path to employer-funded maternity Work programmes with Entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka: that can lead to more gainful youth entrepreneurship by entitlements. Verité estimates flexible working options, Insights and Strategies”, on 19 and self-employment of youth encouraging and supporting that this could cost as little to target women who November. in Sri Lanka. He further youth to become own-account as 0.25% of tax revenue (Rs. have left the workforce It was supported emphasised the importance workers before becoming fully 4.2 billion) annually, much for family-related through YouLead, the of increasing women’s fledged businesses. Verité less than other Government reasons, but are now youth skills development participation in the economy estimates that if Sri Lanka can welfare and employment interested in returning to and entrepreneurship and taking effective steps successfully promote OAW programmes. This can lead work. Verité Research project funded by the to create more economic among youth in Sri Lanka, to increased economic estimates that this could US Government’s opportunities for youth through awareness building participation by women, lead to the addition of a development arm, the US to foster sustainable and about OAW and supporting helping to inject more income potential workforce of Agency for International inclusive economic growth. access to markets via the to households, cushioning 243,000 new workers for Development Agency Verité Research Executive usage of digital platforms, the the impact of post-Covid the Sri Lankan labour (USAID). The assessment Director Dr. Nishan de Mel, country may see the setup of job losses, and acting as an market. focused on developing who led the research team, 216,000 new micro and small economic stimulus to the YouLead Project innovative methods to noted that this study aimed to businesses in the future. This private sector. Director Charles improve employment and tap into the extensive body of can also eventually lead to the Engaging disengaged young Conconi concluded the entrepreneurship among research available to devise creation of almost 400,000 women: The assessment programme by thanking youth in Sri Lanka. Findings quick and practical solutions new jobs in the country. finds that disengagement the Verité Research focused on overcoming that the private sector and State-supported maternity from the labour market is team’s efforts and challenges relating to youth other stakeholders can use leave benefits: The assessment a gender problem in Sri USAID for supporting unemployment and low to unlock employment and proposes that Sri Lanka shifts Lanka, with 89% of those this research. He the morning 4 Tuesday, December 15, 2020 business

By Ashani Abayasekara Protecting SL’s jobs and The policy proposal in Sri Lanka’s 2021 Budget to impose a 0.25% tax on the revenue of companies, to set up a “Covid-19 Insurance enterprises during crises Fund”, has raised concerns thought through carefully for it to be circumstances, such as in cases of against job losses – to extend tailored plans on EPF contribution examples provide important insights among many private sector sustainable in the long run. economic shocks. support. Additionally, countries with schedules, including restructuring or in this regard, particularly in industry stakeholders. While the Government – which The funds are managed by the provident fund schemes similar to staggering payments for outstanding allowing for flexible withdrawals They argue that this is a big is grappling with massive debt Central Bank, and represent the those in Sri Lanka have provided contributions. from funds in emergencies. blow to industries already burdens and fiscal deficits – has largest source of investments for extra benefits and introduced more Employers in Singapore are Encouraging more active and suffering in the wake of the limited capacity to assist workers Government domestic borrowing. flexibility. supported via a Jobs Support regular contributions is essential pandemic, and warn that and employers, are there ways in This means that when the India’s EPF scheme, for Scheme, under which they receive for there to be sufficient funds to mandating payment of an which current employment-related Government is cash-crunched, so example, allows a non-refundable a 25% cash grant (up from 8% pre- draw from when needed. One option social protection programmes can are the funds. advance when the Government has pandemic) on the monthly wages in the current context is to allow additional tax can push them be used to provide for both job and The active contributions to and declared a disaster or epidemic, of each employee who is part of the withdrawals from ETF – currently to reverse current measures enterprise protection during crises? usage of the funds have been low which employees need not deposit Central Provident Fund. funded solely by employers – to taken to retain staff, amidst What measures have other countries due to several reasons, including back into their EPF account. An In Brazil, the Government provide assistance during the crisis, dampened business activity taken that Sri Lanka can learn from? poor awareness of the schemes amendment to the EPF regulation increased withdrawal limits from instead of requiring employers to and customer demand. This article examines these issues. and its benefits, and evading following Covid-19 now allows the Fundo de Garantia por Tempo make additional contributions to a or manipulating contribution employees to withdraw up to 75% de Serviço (FGTS) – a fund new fund. The Government’s aim of Current protection for requirements, given the absence of of their savings as a non-refundable which provides account-based Assigning the management establishing a guaranteed fund to private sector workers in any near-term benefits and concerns advance, or three months’ basic cash benefits to employees on and administration of the funds help workers during Covid-19 and Sri Lanka of its sustainability. salary, whichever is lower. The termination of employment for to an independent body is also other future crises is well-placed. Private sector employees in As of end-2018, the EPF had a Government also cut employee any reason – up to BRL 1,045 important to assure a guaranteed Data from the Department of Sri Lanka are covered by the total of 18.6 million accounts, of EPF contributions to 10%, from the (~Rs. 37,000) per worker until 31 return upon retirement, or to draw Census and Statistics shows that Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) which only 2.6 million were active, existing 12%, from May-July 2020. December 2020, which is expected from during emergencies. Creating Sri Lanka’s unemployed population and the Employees’ Trust Fund while only 43% of employers In Malaysia, employees below the to benefit over 60 million workers. more awareness of the schemes rose by 100,000 during the first (ETF), both of which provide a contributed to the ETF in 2017. age of 55 are allowed to withdraw The FGTS is entirely funded by the and different types of benefits they quarter of 2020, along with the first lump-sum payment at retirement. MYR 500 (~Rs. 22,700) per month employer, via compulsory monthly offer will also help encourage more countrywide lockdown in March. Employers and employees Covid-19 policy responses from EPF for 12 months, starting deposits equivalent to 8% of the participation. Increased job losses, however, contribute jointly to the EPF at rates in other countries March 2020, to buy essential goods. employee’s salary. (The writer ([email protected]) is a are often a reflection of enterprise of 12% and 8% of monthly wages, The rapid spread of Covid-19 The minimum EPF contribution Research Economist with research losses too. According to an e-survey respectively, whereas the ETF is has seen governments across the by employees was reduced from Looking ahead interests in labour economics, conducted by the Department of financed entirely by employers, world resorting to unprecedented 11% to 7% from 1 April to 31 Covid-19’s impacts on Sri Lanka’s economics of education, Labour, among a sample of 2,764 who are required to contribute measures to support workers and December 2020, while discussions labour market have made a strong development economics, and private sector organisations, as of 3% of an employee’s salary. Early businesses, including income are also underway to allow certain case for revisiting employment microeconometrics. She holds a May 2020, 53% of the interviewed withdrawals from both funds are support, investments in healthcare, contributors such as laid-off social protection. The country BA in Economics with First Class businesses were closed, and 39% only allowed for specific reasons, job retention schemes, and business workers to withdraw funds. To assist should take this opportunity to Honours from the University of of establishments indicated an such as a permanent sickness or facilitation. Many developed employers, an Employer Advisory introduce reforms to make better use Peradeniya and a Master’s in inability to pay worker salaries. The disability or permanent migration. countries have used already existing Scheme was introduced, which of employment provident funds to International and Development means of generating emergency There is also limited provision for unemployment insurance schemes evaluates the specific conditions support both workers and companies Economics from the Australian funds, therefore, needs to be withdrawal of funds under specified – designed to protect workers of affected companies and offers during times of crisis. The above National University) Institute of Directors holds Unlocking the potential webinar on ‘Heightened Role of Boards’ of MSMEs for economic The Sri Lanka Institute of Directors (SLID), in collaboration with its recovery – Part 2 knowledge-sharing partner Ernst & Young (EY), held a BY AYESHA ZAINUDEEN aged 15-65 had a mobile webinar discussion recently phone. Yet, the uptake titled “The Integrity Agenda Ramesh Moosa Hiranthi Sunil G. Murtaza Small and medium-sized of mobile payments by – the Heightened Role of Fonseka Wijesinha Esufally businesses (SMEs) represent individuals and businesses has Boards”, which focused on controls to cyber compromises (joint ventures). Companies over half of the businesses been slow. To take advantage how directors could steer their and management overrides in Singapore, Hong Kong, in Sri Lanka. They also of these contactless forms of companies with integrity in the and workarounds posed higher Holland, the UK and Ireland provide an important source payments and foster seamless current environment. risks. get the highest FDIs since they of employment for a large part ecommerce growth, we need a The panel comprised “In the current times, the have built a culture of integrity of the labour force. They have greater understanding of why of United Motors PLC, pressure and opportunity to and trust in institutions in those been dubbed the “backbone” SMEs do not take up card Watawala Plantations PLC, commit fraud are heightened as countries,” he added. of the economy in national payments or mobile-enabled and RIL Property PLC is its rationalisation,” he further Panelist Sunil Wijesinha said policy frameworks. Supporting payment options. Chairman Sunil Wijesinha stated. that the majority of boards in this sector and helping small and Hemas Hospitals and Sharing insights from EY’s Sri Lanka do give high priority businesses to grow should ‘Analog’ complements Hemas Pharmaceuticals Global Integrity Report 2020, a to the Integrity Agenda and that be an important part of the also need to be Chairman, Morison PLC global survey which involved it varies according to whether national strategy for post- exchange reserves. For an of its benefits. At the time of addressed Managing Director, and about 3,600 respondents, or not the company is a public Covid economic recovery. economy whose SMEs are survey in 2019, 79% of SME The case for digitising Centre for Poverty Analysis Moosa said that 90% of the listed company or is in a This article is the second said to contribute over half its owners said there was “no SMEs is quite clear. In the Non-Executive Chairman survey respondents believed regulated industry. in a multi-part series by GDP and account for three- need” to use the internet for chaos of a lockdown, or Murtaza Esufally, with EY that Covid-19 posed a risk “Over the last 10 years, the Advocata Institute and quarters of the number of business. This points to a wide even going forward in a Partner Hiranthi Fonseka as to ethical business conduct we have seen the regulators LIRNEasia on what needs enterprises in the country, this information gap that must be contactless future, enabling the moderator. The keynote in their organisations. tightening the regulations. to be done to empower Sri is certainly a compelling case closed if more SMEs are to SMEs to digitise and adopt presentation was made by Commenting on the role Hence, there is a lot of pressure Lanka’s micro, small, medium for encouraging the digitisation operate successfully in Covid- ecommerce will go a long EY’s ASEAN Forensic and of a board director, he said on boards to make sure that the businesses for post-Covid of these businesses. 19 conditions. SMEs must be way in keeping the economy Integrity Services Leader that board directors have a integrity of financial reports economic recovery. In Part given ready access to analog going, and in minimising Ramesh Moosa. The webinar role to ensure performance and business operations are 1, the Advocata Institute But few SMEs are training materials, accessible disruptions in supply of food was an initiative taken by the and conformance and that accurate without any fraud. examined the barriers faced connected in all local languages, on how and other essentials. Digital Institute’s Independent Non- the relationship between There is a huge responsibility by small businesses to While connectivity may to select and set up the digital technologies are, however, Executive Directors’ (INED) these two should be viewed on the boards and senior formalisation and what needs have improved recently due tools they require. The planned no silver bullet. They are one Forum and was extended to all as a symbiotic relationship management. During the to be done to lower them. In to Covid-19 lockdowns, district-level one-stop-shop part of an ecosystem, and SLID members as well as the where conformance supports current Covid times, we have this part, LIRNEasia looks at LIRNEasia’s 2019 survey service centres can provide complementary “analog” needs clients of EY in Sri Lanka. performance which will enable to be careful of the pressure to what is holding SMEs back, showed alarmingly low levels key access points for these must also be met for the sector “In this social media-driven integrity-led organisations to perform, which is much more through the lens of digital of access and use among Sri training materials as well as and economy to grow. The world, we know that adverse flourish. complex due to the incentives exclusion. Lankan SMEs. 91% of SMEs support personnel. general needs of SMEs include news travels rapidly. Any event “Defining what integrity that are being given. I always said they used mobile phones access to finance, simpler of fraud could severely impact means to the business and promote the concept of whistle Connectivity is related for business, but only 65% had Mobile-enabled business registration processes, an organisation’s reputation investing in it; leveraging blowing which can bring about to better business a contact number for customers payments are an the necessary/right amount and will involve a great deal technology and data to great benefits,” he added. performance and suppliers to reach them. untapped opportunity of legal frameworks in place of cost and effort to recover automate, detect, and monitor He also said that while the A 2019 LIRNEasia survey More importantly, the Anecdotally with the for ecommerce (e.g. online from such damaging, adverse risk indicators; transforming private sector has gone to great of SMEs across Sri Lanka data showed that a large Covid-related lockdowns, online consumer protection, revelation. An investigative the compliance function and lengths to introduce regulations showed that businesses number of SMEs remained we have seen a small shift in data protection, etc.), as well process will negatively programmes to be forward- and best practices, it is strongly classified as “high” ICT users unconnected to the internet SMEs taking to some form as sufficient internet use and impact the morale of the looking; and developing recommended that the public performed considerably better and far-removed from the of rudimentary ecommerce, digital skills among consumers. management and employees, a robust crisis response sector follows suit. on a number of indicators such ability to conduct business ranging from taking orders Sector-specific needs (such as and in regulated industries, it capability that would secure Moosa’s presentation was as revenues, profits, number successfully in the new safety- over messaging platforms cold storage and crop insurance will attract very close scrutiny stakeholders’ trust are four followed by a Q&A session of customers, etc. (Figure 1). focused environment. Of the like WhatsApp, to registering in the agricultural sector, by the regulators,” said action points for boards,” said with the participation of Perhaps most interestingly, they SMEs that used mobiles at on platforms like PickMe for example) must also be Moosa while identifying asset Moosa. Responding to the the audience. Questions were also connected to a global the time of survey, just 51% and UberEats. But cashless, considered and addressed. misappropriations, bribery moderator’s request to provide were raised with regard to value chain in some way. used smartphones for business and even better, contactless (The writer is a Senior and corruption, and financial his views on the Integrity the practical issues and the purposes. Moreover, just 40% payments are still somewhat of Research Manager at statement fraud as common Agenda for Sri Lankan panelists responded drawing Globally connected of SMEs said they used the a sticking point. LIRNEasia’s LIRNEasia, which is a fraud schemes. companies, panelist Murtaza from their own experiences. SMEs can boost foreign internet or social media for survey found that by 2019, regional digital policy and He added that the Esufally said that integrity, Finally in her closing revenue business purposes. only 35% of Sri Lankans aged regulation think tank active opportunity to commit fraud credibility, and reputation remarks, moderator Hiranthi Being connected to a global 15-65 had a debit card and across Asia. The Advocata in current times is heightened have always been extremely Fonseka observed that whilst value chain gives businesses The information gap only 3% had a credit card. Institute is an independent by workforce reductions important. integrity and trust are not new access to wider markets, and must be closed Reciprocally, just 6% of SMEs public policy think tank in and displacements which “In Sri Lanka’s quest for to Sri Lankans, the discussion enables them to earn higher While those who did use the had any facility to accept card Sri Lanka. The opinions adversely affected the operation development, we need FDIs on the Integrity Agenda is income. Not only does this internet for business thought payments. expressed are the author’s own of internal controls and (foreign direct investments) actually a wakeup call for give the SMEs a chance to that access was “important” or But the case for mobile- views and may not necessarily segregation of duties; remote and technology transfers to Sri boards to become more grow, but can also help “very important”, those who enabled payments is striking: reflect the views of LIRNEasia working may expose access Lankan companies through JVs vigilant. Sri Lanka boost its foreign did not remained unconvinced By 2019, 87% of Sri Lankans or the Advocata Institute) the morning 5 Tuesday, December 15, 2020 brunch BY NAVEED ROZAIS The Christmas season is well and truly upon us and the Ceylon Artisan Network (CAN) Market, in this festive spirit, has launched the CAN Market Christmas Experience, aiming to promote Sri Lankan artisans and local micro- businesses. The CAN Market Christmas Experience takes place from today (15) till 31 December and marks the return of the CAN Weekend Market following the second wave of Covid-19 infections that hit Sri Lanka in early October. The CAN Market Christmas Potential ways forward for travel, Experience is held in partnership with the Foundation of Goodness, the United tourism, and events with Covid-19 Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Colombo City Centre BY NAVEED ROZAIS Dr. Samaraweera shared that for travellers (CCC) and was created in 2020 by the current procedure is that they take a PCR the Creative Isle initiative to support Aitken Spence Conventions and test before and after each flight, as well as spend creative micro-entrepreneurship amidst Exhibitions in partnership with the Medicare 14 days in quarantine on arrival in Sri Lanka the Covid-19 pandemic and create a National Health Exhibition hosted a webinar before being able to travel freely. Passengers platform and marketplace for local vendors looking at the way forward for travel, tourism, will also need to follow the same procedure to showcase their raw talent and be and events in the wake of Covid-19. when departing Sri Lanka, and quarantine for discovered. The panel consisted of a range of health 14 days when they complete their journey. The CAN Market Christmas professionals including Ministry of Health University of Sri Jayewardenepura Experience is a two-week experience that Director General Dr. Asela Gunawardena, Department of Immunology and Molecular has been spread out to take place across the Ministry of Health (Public Health) Deputy Medicine representative Prof. Neelika Malavige ground, first, and second floors of CCC. Director General Dr. H.S.R. Perera, Ministry shared that the quarantine period is necessary Creative Isle Co-Founder Keshini Ann of Health Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Sudath because of the nature of Covid-19 and its Suraweera explained that this decision to Samaraweera, Sri Lanka Medical Nutrition ability to show symptoms three to 14 days after speak about the experience across CCC’s Association (SLMNA) President and Medical exposure or even later. Prof. Malavige noted common areas was taken with public Research Institute Department of Nutrition that other countries have smaller quarantine health and safety in mind. “We want to Head Dr. Renuka Jayatissa, Colombo Municipal periods and have had no major issues so far, but create a safe shopping environment, while Council Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. stressed that this is a risk that is being taken. adhering to regulations and with adequate The Ruwan Wijayamuni, and University of Sri SLMNA President and Medical Research distancing between stalls,” Suraweera said. Jayewardenepura Department of Immunology Institute Department of Nutrition Head Dr. The CAN Market Christmas and Molecular Medicine representative Prof. Renuka Jayatissa shared that we as locals can Experience will feature over 50 Neelika Malavige. The panel was moderated take steps to boost our own immunity against vendors from around Sri Lanka and CAN by Medicare National Healthcare Exhibition Covid-19, by making use of immunity-boosting will focus on Christmas-related items Chairman and Secretary to the State Ministry vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D (which including handmade Christmas decor of Primary Health Services, Pandemics, and we get from the sun), zinc, and magnesium and decorations; unique, functional art; Covid-19 Prevention Dr. Amal Harsha de Silva. (from leafy greens). Dr. Jayatissa encouraged dehydrated fruit and fruit cocktails; The panel shared insights and strategic employers and employees to put systems in toys, gifts, and stationery for adults direction from a health and safety aspect to place that ensure people get these immunity- and children; novel combinations of MARKET recommence the tourism and events industry boosting vitamins and minerals and increase chutneys, jams, and spreads; a curated under the supervision of health authorities. their chances of beating the disease. collection of home and lifestyle products Christmas Experience Ministry of Health (Public Health) Deputy CMC Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. including batik, tie-dye, cane craft, Director General Dr. H.S.R. Perera explained Ruwan Wijayamuni explained that the CMC ornamental plants, ceramics, metalwork, that the Ministry of Health’s responsibility is aggressively looked at first-level contacts when and sustainable decor and decorations; The Creative Isle initiative launches to keep the population secure from Covid-19. they heard of new clusters in a bid to curb the a variety of festive farm products; a Dr. Perera also noted that Covid-19 is not going spread of the virus. Based on data on population range of handmade soaps and fragrances; festive edition of CAN Weekend Market to go away, and will be a part of our lives for and exposure, they also knew where to expect convenient nutrition options like Like many other platforms, the CAN active shopping week of the year. This the next two to three years. She added that the new cases to surface. Dr. Wijayamuni noted dehydrated soup and ready-to-eat vegan Market has considered trying to create an way, last-minute shoppers also have a way Ministry of Health has put out 42 guidelines that they had been largely successful in keeping curries; local nutritional staples like online space but this has proved to be no to give meaningful gifts that support local with the goal of minimising the spread of clusters contained with the Colombo East and jackfruit and banana blossom brined for small undertaking with over 70 vendors small businesses. Covid-19, 10 of which are applicable to events Colombo West not being badly affected by convenience; fashion and beauty products; spread out all over the island. Surawareera Suraweera hopes that the CAN and hospitality including hotels. She explained Covid-19 infections. and personalised Christmas hampers that also noted that the touch and feel element Market Christmas Experience will give that these guidelines are determined by the Dr. Wijayamuni stressed self-discipline, will make the most memorable gifts. is an important aspect of the shopping shoppers a greater appreciation for magnitude of transmission. They are meant to noting that the most effective way to prevent the The CAN Market Christmas experience and shouldn’t be overlooked. creative entrepreneurship and Sri Lanka’s be relaxed based on transmission and the risks spread of Covid is physical distancing. Experience offers guests a wide range of Suraweera explained that the CAN traditional crafts and skills. “We want the involved, but must be relaxed in combination Dr. Samaraweera, commenting on travel, unique products to choose from. Some Market Christmas Experience has been new generation to acknowledge and be a with precautions and strategies that will help us shared that the safest way forward when travel of the more unusual products include made a two-week experience to allow part of these craft experiences, from batiks function normally. resumes is to practise the bubble concept, homemade wines from unusual bases shoppers the chance to visit in the build-up to tie-dyes, wooden crafts, and similar Ministry of Health Chief Epidemiologist something being practised with the Lankan like beetroot and star fruit; a range of to Christmas, which is typically the most from all around the island,” Suraweera Dr. Sudath Samaraweera shared that it is the Premier League (LPL) which is currently taking soft and cream cheeses; ayurvedic herbal said, adding: “If these crafts are not given Ministry of Health’s strategy to identify cases place, where people stay together while in Sri teas; an aquarium selling fish along with support, they may not survive.” and isolate patients so that they can’t spread Lanka and have minimal contact with locals. the accessories needed for keeping them; Suraweera also noted that Covid-19 to others, and that it is important we He also encouraged locals who frequent groups and a variety of products with a seasonal collaboration plays a key role in helping learn to live with the disease because it will of travellers to quarantine after the group has twist like handmade soaps with snowmen these businesses, extending thanks to CCC not be going anywhere for a couple of years, departed. embedded. for opening their doors with a large heart even with vaccines in play. Dr. Samaraweera Dr. Samaraweera also encouraged hotel Speaking on the second wave of to welcome and support CAN Market stressed that even though the death rate in Sri staff to minimise contact with guests, frequently Covid-19 and its impact on micro- entrepreneurs. Lanka is not high, this is because vulnerable sanitise surfaces used, and take extra measures businesses, Suraweera shared that “‘Tis the season to be merry, but this communities like the elderly and those with like wearing face shields. Dr. Samaraweera recovering from the second wave has has been our gloomiest Christmas in a chronic diseases have so far not been heavily stressed the impact of following standard been challenging because people are still long while. What we can do now is care exposed to Covid-19, and this can change. precautions, explaining that these standard skeptical about getting back out there. “This about each other and make it through,” Other countries that have seen wide community precautions were the most effective way to Christmas is going to be one of our worst-hit Suarweera said, adding that it is now spread are inundated with deaths and those in minimise community spread. Christmases, unless we locally support. The more important than ever to support small need of intensive care, and this is a scenario The Way Forward for Travel, Tourism, small man will have trouble surviving due to businesses. “Every little purchase makes a that Sri Lanka could also potentially face if the and Events with Covid-19 can be viewed in its the overall business situation.” difference for a small business.” threat is not taken seriously. entirety on the Medicare Facebook page.

mirates has welcomed MSN Lounge and Shower Spa, continue to be services have been ramped up to four daily The delivery flight for the newest A6-EVL, its 116th A380, as the talked about around the world. A380s on London Heathrow and daily member of the Emirates fleet was powered first of three A380s to join its Emirates President Tim Clark said: flights to Moscow. The double-decker by a blend of jet fuel and sustainable fleet in 2020. The aircraft arrived “The A380 has been a success story for is also demonstrating its versatility by aviation fuel (SAF). This is the first time Ein Dubai in the early hours of Saturday Emirates, and this is reflected in the strong being utilised as a “mini-freighter” on the airline is using sustainable aviation fuel (12) morning, powered by a blend of customer interest wherever we’ve deployed select cargo charter operations to transport to power an A380. The biofuel used for the conventional jet fuel and sustainable the aircraft over the years. The A380 has urgently required cargo across the Emirates flight was produced from used cooking oil aviation fuel. helped us efficiently serve customer demand network. in Finland. Emirates is scheduled to receive two at slot constrained airports and also on more A380 aircraft later this month, one trunk routes, supporting our long-haul hub Delivery flight partially powered by sustainable of which will feature its long-awaited operations. Importantly, with the space and aviation fuel signature Premium Economy product. technology on this aircraft, we’ve been able our world-class A380 product experience. Emirates welcomes Since its entry into the Emirates to introduce new concepts onboard that have The A380 will remain our flagship for the fleet 12 years ago, the A380 has been the transformed the flying experience for the next decade, and we will re-deploy it on airline’s flagship and a customer favourite, better. We look forward to introducing our more routes as travel demand returns.” captivating the imagination of travellers by Premium Economy experience which will The A380 currently flies to Cairo, providing an unmatched travel experience. make its debut on an A380 in the coming Amman, Paris, London, Guangzhou, Signature elements such as A380 Onboard months, and we will continue to invest in Manchester, and Moscow, and recently its first of three A380s to be delivered in

116th A380 at the Dubai International Airport December 6 the morning Tuesday , December 15, 2020 brunch and EGGNOG PIE of Covid, I had more time on my hands and really wanted to try out something unique.” Regarding her struggle with the pandemic, she said: “It has been very difficult, as the prices for ingredients have increased, and people are hesitant to place orders were seen as an affordable gift, due to Covid, because everyone’s dating back to the medieval ages scared they will get it. I usually where only the rich could afford go to Pettah to buy my stuff, to feast on the richer Christmas like the moulds and decorative puddings. @theconfectionery. You may wonder how the ingredients, and due to restrictions srilanka, a homegrown business that combination of spiced egg yolk and lockdown, it’s been very is run by two sisters, Chamindie and spiked with alcohol came to be. It challenging for me to go about.” Sandali, make packs of the cutest all started with the early medieval She further noted: “The sugar cookies out there! Britain “posset”, a hot, milky, Christmas tree puff-pastry had never Every cookie is painstakingly ale-like drink. Eggnog is a drink been made before, and I tried it with decorated with fine details to we all know and love, but have many fillings, but the best was the represent every element of you ever tried an eggnog pie? Nelu fruits and chocolate one. Usually, Christmas. They spoke about what Weera, a home baker who runs @ we only get savoury pastries, so I makes their cookies the best in town. Classic fudgyfridays, has her own take on wanted to start sweet pastries too, as “What makes our goodies unique eggnog in the form of a pie! they had never been made before. and special is that all the goodies are She spoke to The Morning Overall, I can say it was a success.” baked fresh the night before.” Christmas goodies Brunch about how this innovative She thanked her regular They also mentioned that they dish came to be. “Why not a pie?” customers for supporting her during do undertake customised orders, so she questioned, adding: “I had never these difficult times, and revealed head on over and satisfy your cookie tried eggnog before and wanted to that she will be opening up her very cravings now! try it out and then I thought ‘why own bakery down Buthgamuwa with a twist @theconfectionery.srilanka not make a pie out of it?’ I have Road in the near future. heard that a lot of people don’t like You can even make requests for eggnog because they can taste the what fun shape you want your pastry LOVE CAKE H egg, so let’s try it in a pie.” to be in for the season; the talented m Weera is known for her Samanthika can whip it up for you! e eccentric combinations in her r e @demelbakery e h baked goods. Her gingerbread ’ t chocolate tart is another wonderful s w d combination that just works! CHRISTMAS CAKE n @fudgyfridays h fi Did you know that Christmas er n cake began as plum porridge? People e you ca If you are looking to try out ate the porridge on Christmas Eve, the classic eggnog, you can hit up using it to line their stomachs after a BY VENESSA ANTHONY @foodiecolombo on Instagram, day of fasting. Eventually, butter and This is not exactly a Christmas they’ve been making this drink for flour were added to the recipe, along classic, but this cake is definitely ‘Tis the season to be jolly, and what other way to be jolly than stuffing our faces with some years now and it’s always a hit. with dried fruit, spices, and honey, a hit during the festive season. delectable Christmas goodies? It’s the most wonderful time of the year, when cooks around and it became the cake that we eat Love cake is believed to have @foodiecolombo the country take to their kitchens and the smell of freshly baked goods wafts through the air. religiously during the holiday season. been introduced by the Portuguese The Morning Brunch compiled a list of home bakers on Instagram that make some amazing Natasha Pillai, from the or Dutch, but has evolved into a Christmas dishes with a fun twist! CHRISTMAS PASTRIES Instagram page @bakeitwithnatasha, confectionery unique to Sri Lanka. has her own recipe for this Christmas Praveeni Alahakoon, the owner of classic. “I make my mum’s Christmas @dulce_lk on Instagram, has given BREUDHER of slow. More people were affected, cake recipe and it has been in our this delight her very own twist. but I’m going strong; these days are family for decades.” She reveals the “It’s my grandmother’s recipe, It’s not a Christmas meal if quite busy, so I’m getting ready and procedure behind procuring such a and it’s been in the family for ages,” there’s no breudher on the table! getting busy, staying in line with divine cake, “We use Australian- she shared. “We use the same It’s said to have originated from the Covid protocols.” imported ingredients: the best-quality ingredients that go into love cake, traditional Dutch breakfast cakes She shared an easy recipe that cashews, fresh farm eggs, and high- like cashew nuts, pumpkin preserve, and breads. those of us celebrating Christmas quality butter. All of the ingredients and semolina spices, but the ratios Ashmita Wijesinghe, who at home can indulge in. “It’s the are sorted, cut, mixed, and soaked in are different. When compared with goes by @little.miss.shortcake season of giving and love and essences, spices, spirits, jam, honey, other love cakes I’ve tried, this is on Instagram, does the traditional joy. A very traditional goodie to Pastries and pies have been etc., for a few days, and then mixed much richer. In every bite, you get Sri Lankan delicacy right. bake at home would be cookies. synonymous with Christmas for into the batter and baked at home.” a mouthful of cashew nuts and the “It’s something interesting yet A sugar cookie simply consists of many years now. Samanthika Perera, This cake is truly a labour of cake is not too sweet.” challenging, yet i’ve got a hold of butter, flour, eggs, sugar, vanilla, from @demelbakery on Instagram, love. She added: “We also have Alahakoon also mentioned how it.” and a little bit of almond or cashew came up with an interesting concept a special range of puddings that the pandemic affected her business. She explained that she began powder. You can cut them out in for Christmas pastries. She is famous could be garnished with a touch of “I had limited access to ingredients, “little miss shortcake” during the pandemic opened a door with the any shape you like and have fun for her Christmas tree pastries that are Christmas!” and arranging delivery was a season a few years ago, and has first lockdown, since I was one of with the icing. The icing is super literally shaped in the size of a large problem, since we lacked services @bakeitwithnatasha continued with her calling, which is the first bakers to arrange delivery. easy to make, all you need is butter tree, oozing with fruits and chocolate. that deliver food. So it had a major baking. “I have specialised in pastry I had quite a few orders going on and sugar; whip it up, and add This pastry has layers upon layers of impact on the business.” She and bakery, and I have a Patisserie with the support of a good delivery whatever colour you want. With the decadence, and the combination of CHRISTMAS COOKIES elaborated: “Whoever has tried my Diploma from Prima. I’ve attended system; some of them also helped limited resources available these the fruits with the gooey chocolate is baking always comes back for more. a few pop-ups too and I’ve been me get the supplies that I needed, so days, you can make something amazing. She spoke to The Morning Remember the days when we It’s made with a lot of love! My blessed enough to have interned at it was efficient and interesting.” small, celebrate, and be happy.” Brunch about the concept behind her used to leave out a plate of cookies grandmother is the one who taught some well-reputed hotels.” However, the second lockdown pastries. “I wanted to do something and milk for Santa? Well, that’s me to bake when I was 13 years old, She talked about how the saw things turn out differently, as new, something that hadn’t been tried not exactly where the tradition of and since then, I have been baking.” pandemic affected her. “This she explained: “Things were kind @little.miss.shortcake out before, and especially because Christmas cookies began. Cookies @dulce_lk Share a meal this Celebrate Christmas in Christmas with Barista style with ME Colombo Keeping the true meaning of Christmas that is ME Colombo has taken steps centred on giving, Barista this year is partnering with to ensure its loyal patrons are the SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka to help feed 865 able to celebrate with their loved children under their care. ones with complete peace of mind SOS Children’s Villages is present in 136 under strict safety protocols. The countries with over 70 years of expertise in caring for hotel, which is located in the heart children without parental care all. In Sri Lanka, SOS of Colombo, has instituted daily Children’s Villages have served the public for almost health checks and has mandated 40 years since it first set foot in Sri Lanka in 1981. frequent hand washing and SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka National disinfection of surfaces to ensure Director Divakar Ratnadurai, speaking on the the safety of its staff as well as partnership, said: “SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka guests. ME Colombo’s delivery is happy to have Barista Café as our corporate partner service is also operated under a on board. We sincerely appreciate the efforts made by strict set of protocols designed to From left: SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka Manager of Corporate our corporate partners to make better and brighten the Partnerships Nipunika Ruhunage, Assistant Director of Fund keep food items fresh, along with lives of our children at SOS Children’s Villages. I am Development Gayantha Dalpadado, National Director Divakar customers and staff safe. Ratnadurai, Barista General Manager Dilupa Pathirana, Marketing looking forward to a long-lasting relationship between Manager Anushka Gunatilleke, and Brand Executive Mithma Throughout the month of Barista Café and SOS Children’s Villages that will Samaraweera December, customers can order contribute positively to society by providing a happy cakes and other festive goodies and healthy childhood for children of today who are the purchased at the end of December will be handed over from ME Colombo and have them generation of tomorrow.” to the SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka. delivered to their homes. Baked “While being the largest international coffee Taking the project even further, Barista will with love by the world-class chefs chain in Sri Lanka, we have a corporate responsibility allocate 10% from every item purchased off the at ME Colombo, these goodies are makers of ME Colombo. Kids will Customers can book their tables by towards the community at large, and we firmly believe Christmas Menu during the month of December and perfect to brighten up a moment contacting the hotel on 0702 686 be granted a chance to meet and that together we can enact positive change as our add it to the final tally. This extends the charitable with the family and will leave 813 or 0718 554 306. greet Santa, and families can dine business goals are always beyond mere profit margins. cause to all of Barista’s patrons as well. a lasting impression on anyone while the harmonious melodies of With the ‘Share a Meal’ campaign for December, we To make the “Share a Meal” coupons more fortunate enough to be a guest at in adherence to Covid-19 safety a live band permeate the air. intend to create awareness and build a more reliable, accessible, patrons who wish to support the cause are your table. protocols. “Christmas @ ME” remains user-friendly, and acceptable platform to gather our able to purchase the coupons through PickMe Food On 24 December, ME On 25 December, ME safe and enjoyable for everyone. community to support and help our children who are in and Uber Eats, which give them the convenience of Colombo will host a Christmas Colombo will host a festive To that end, the hotel has ensured need,” said Barista General Manager Dilupa Pathirana. donating while at home. Eve dinner with a five-course Christmas brunch. For just Rs. that Covid-19 safety protocols Under the project, Barista will have tokens dinner menu. Costing just Rs. 4,500 (nett) per person, each will be given priority at all times. available at all of their outlets for purchase. Each token Those who wish to donate or require additional 5,500 (nett) per person, the guest will be treated to a delicious Hence, only a limited number of is valued at just Rs. 150, which is sufficient to feed information may call 0712 38 38 38 or make inquiries at dinner will be accompanied by spread with a special Christmas guests will be accommodated at any Barista outlet. a child for an entire day. The total value of tokens live Christmas carols conducted cake crafted by the master cake both events. the morning 7 Tuesday, December 15, 2020 sports Amazon Prime to bid for IPL and India streaming rights Amazon Prime is looking to expand its cricket programming in India. Indian media said yesterday (14) that Amazon Prime, the internet-based international subscription service, which was launched in 2005, may be going for the jugular by bidding for digital broadcasting rights of the Indian national team as well as the world’s richest cricket league, the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Amazon Prime Video made the first of its cricketing moves last month after it acquired digital rights to telecast cricket matches between India and New Zealand from 2021-26. Currently, Amazon Prime reportedly has more than 150 million subscribers worldwide. It reported revenue close to $ 19 billion (Rs. 3,543 billion) last year alone. Where Amazon stands Amazon Prime’s mother company, Amazon.com Inc., is an American multinational technology company based in Seattle, Washington. Amazon’s main focuses are on e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. Virat Kohli throwing in Australia vs. India second T20I at Sydney on 6 December. In a tantalising move, the internet-based international subscription service Amazon Prime is to bid for digital broadcasting rights of One of the world’s most valuable the Indian national team for the first time brands today, Amazon, is also considered one of the “Big Five” offerings… We’re happy to look platform that dominates the cricket segment in the Indian market – companies in the US Information at each individual opportunity that telecast/streaming segment in the Amazon Prime Video in India, with Technology (IT) industry now, goes by.” subcontinent at the moment. It has its deep pockets, is now focusing alongside Google, Apple, the rights to the IPL until 2022. both the entertainment and cricket Microsoft, and Facebook. Global sports streamer Star TV India also has the rights path for further growth in what is an With the New Zealand cricket to telecast/stream the Board of emerging as well as lucrative market. Significance of cricket deal, Amazon Prime became the Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) The rights to broadcast the IPL first streaming service in India and the International Cricket ‘Tech biggies’ eyeing and the Indian national cricket to secure exclusive rights to Council (ICC) matches until the cricket team expire in 2023 and 2024 broadcast from a major cricketing 2022-23 season. Cricket is presently eyed by respectively. Amazon Prime board. “the emerging tech biggies”, Video’s arch rival Disney+ Hotstar Amazon Prime Video has bet big Hotstar has more highlighted India’s TechRadar has the current telecast rights of on sports globally, live streaming subscribers yesterday, adding that in 2017, them. According to a report in the events like Thursday Night Disney+ Hotstar is expected Facebook Inc.’s $ 600 million (Rs. world-renowned Financial Times Football, the Premier League, to end 2020 with 28 million 111 billion) bid to broadcast Indian (FT) that appeared yesterday (14), ATP (Association of Tennis during the 2018/19 season, and Significance of India subscribers in India; a good portion cricket matches did not succeed. Amazon Prime is considering Professionals) Tour Events, and the Emmy Award-winning Amazon and IPL was acquired over the last two Disney beat both Facebook further opportunities to secure US Open. original, All or Nothing, among Cricket telecasts are major events months of IPL telecasts. Amazon and Sony to secure the rights to popular cricket rights. many others. in the Indian media. Matches Prime, meanwhile, has 17 million broadcast IPL for $ 2.6 billion (Rs. “Expanding into a space which Allowed Fancode Amazon Prime Video had, involving the Indian national team subscribers for Prime Video and 484 billion) that year. Facebook the country loves makes sense,” This in addition to a selection however, allowed an Indian digital get massive viewership across another similar service provider, has, however, a digital content Amazon Prime Video Country of popular “docuseries”, including sports platform for fans, Fancode, various platforms. The IPL is Netflix, has 5 million subscribers. partnership with Sony Pictures Manager Gaurav Gandhi told “The Test: A New Era for to stream the ongoing New another huge draw in the Indian While Netflix India seems to Networks India (SPNI) for the FT. “I do feel that it does add an Australia’s Team”, which follows Zealand and West Indies cricket market. be taking the films and web series Indian national cricket team’s interesting dimension to our overall the Australian men’s cricket team series. It is the Disney+ Hotstar route – another extremely popular current tour of Australia. Badminton brings in franchise league z Lanka Shuttle Challenge 2020 to serve off tomorrow All year long, most of our billionaire entrepreneur Li Ning, national athletes have been in will be SLB’s corporate as well training without a goal in sight. as title sponsor for the LSC 2020. As in most sports, badminton It will bring a largesse in prizes too had its fair share of missed for outstanding performers. competitions, both local and Minister of Youth and Sports international. A frustrating Namal Rajapaksa will be the sojourn in fact, for many players, Chief Guest of both the opening as there was a cascade of and closing ceremonies. cancelled tournaments all over SLB President and McLarens the world. Group Chairman Rohan de Silva Sri Lanka Badminton (SLB) has offered the funds to run the has therefore taken the plunge event, with the prize money and mooted the Lanka Shuttle worth more than Rs. 600,000. All Challenge 2020 (LSC 2020) for teams will receive an appearance its national pool, with a view to fee, while the winners will be assess the current key players. awarded upwards of Rs. 250,000. Teams taking part in Lanka Shuttle Challenge 2020 The Olympics, now saved for SLB’s National Pool and August 2021, would rekindle will conform to MoH guidelines, and junior Nationals, which have Niluka and Dinuka, along Training Committee (NPTC) some hope for world sport and working closely with public also been postponed till early with Sachin Dias, Buwaneka Chairman Palitha Hettiarachchi for SLB, as Niluka Karunaratne health inspectors (PHIs) in 2021. Gunetileke, Thilini Hendehewa, heads the LSC 2020 Organising remains in contention to qualify charge of the venues. Kavidi Sirimanage, and Committee, while Ajith for Tokyo 2020 to represent the Leading players Dilmi Dias, will all be in Wijayasinghe will be country. Six teams of 12 players The six teams are led by the fray. its Event Director, and Thus, the LSC 2020 will serve senior champion players, Sanjeewa Wijesekera will Under strict health off from 16-20 December at with the national pool players ‘Li Ning’, main function as Tournament conditions the SLB and MBA (Mercantile evenly distributed to create title sponsor Referee. This introductory Fortunately, the Ministry of Badminton Association) a fine balance of talent. “Li Ning”, a league is expected to set the Sports and the Ministry of Health stadium courts, with six teams Managers, consisting of SLB Chinese sportswear tone for heightened (MoH) have been supportive in of 12 players, each vying for vice presidents, are heading the and badminton competitions permitting SLB to conduct the recognition and handsome prizes. teams with assigned coaches equipment in the years tournament under strict health SLB has adopted a franchise and captains, all gearing up for a company to come, guidelines. model to add glamour and set high-powered competition over founded by amid the SLB has accordingly put the precedent for an annual event five days. former Olympic pandemic. Niluka Karunaratne together a robust protocol that that will complement the senior The Karunaratne brothers, gymnast and SLB President Rohan de Silva 8 the morning sports Tuesday , December 15, 2020 ICC voting: Last two days Oh Russia! Federer may miss AO Fans can continue to vote online on icc-cricket.com/ Athletes from Russia have taken over from Italy as those responsible for Roger Federer had said yesterday (14) that his recovery from two surgeries awards for the chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip the most confirmed Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs), according to on his left knee earlier this year has taken longer than expected, He is to watch an International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), as Inside the Games reported unsure whether he will be ready for the Australian Open (AO) starting on World Cup match and much more. Nominees are running on Sunday (13). WADA’s newly-published ADRV report for 2018 indicates 18 January. Federer, who turns 40 in August next year, has not played a neck and neck in several key categories, including the that Russian athletes had 144 ADRVs, against 132 for Italy, and 114 for competitive match since losing to Novak Djokovic in the AO 2020 semis. The Men’s ODI Player of the Decade – where Sri Lanka’s Lasith France. Meanwhile, five sports remain far ahead of all others, accounting winner of 20 Grand Slam singles titles, a record he shares with Rafael Nadal, Malinga and Kumar Sangakkara too have been nominated – and Women’s T20 Player of the Decade. between them for more than half of ADRVs. They are bodybuilding (261), said in October that he was practising pain-free, and expected to return to So far, more than 1.3 million fans from across the globe have cast over 5 million total votes. cycling (221), athletics (193), powerlifting (164), and weightlifting (157). the circuit at the first Grand Slam of the year. In Brief GAME CALLED OFF AT CENTURION a photograph with a fan on Saturday DUE TO COVID-19 (12). They used a separate changing A domestic four-day match between room and designated seats in the dugout the Titans and Dolphins at Centurion, in Canberra, and could not join any South Africa, has been called off before celebrations of wickets. MATHEWS the second day’s play, after a Dolphins BARCA TWO SPOTS UP player tested positive for Covid-19. Both squads will be tested to determine if Lionel Messi scored the only goal as specific players need to isolate, and what Barcelona returned to winning ways, the implications are for both the national with a victory over struggling Levante and franchise teams. Between the two in Spanish La Liga football on Sunday OUT OF SOUTH sides, they have six players who are part (13). Barca’s fifth league win lifts them of South Africa’s squad for the two Tests two places up the table to eighth, before against Sri Lanka, which begins at the tomorrow’s (16) home match with same venue, the SuperSport Park, on 26 leaders Real Sociedad from 2.30 p.m. December. local time. AFRICA TOUR FORMER REDS MANAGER FULHAM DRAW WITH LIVERPOOL HOULLIER DIES z Liverpool missed out on the chance to T20 cricket take its toll on Test series Former Liverpool Manager Gerard get on top of Premier League soccer, and Can we have no more Test Houllier died yesterday (14), aged 73. were somewhat fortunate to come away players injured? The Frenchman managed the Reds from with a 1-1 draw from a game in which Just arrived in South 1998-2004 and led them to five major they were second-best for large periods Africa… please can we have no trophies, including the FA Cup, League to an impressive Fulham, BBC reported more of our Test squad injured? Cup, and UEFA Cup treble in 2000-01. on Sunday. Mohamed Salah earned them – Tweet by Sri Lanka LYN, LAWRENCE ORDERED TO their point, firing a low penalty under Head Coach Mickey Arthur KEEP DISTANCE home goalkeeper Alphonse Areola. RWC 2023 DRAW OUT BY REVATHA S. SILVA Brisbane Heat’s Chris Lynn and Dan Lawrence had to keep their distance The draw is now out, and Ireland and Veteran all-rounder from teammates during their Big Scotland will face each other in the pool Angelo Mathews will miss Bash League (BBL) defeat by Sydney stages of the 2023 Rugby World Cup the two-match Test series Thunder, following a possible bio- (RWC) in France. England, finalists in in South Africa due to an bubble breach. Cricket Australia (CA) 2019, will play Japan and Argentina, is investigating after Heat Captain Lynn while 2019 semi-finalists Wales will face aggravated hamstring and Lawrence reportedly posed for Australia and Fiji. injury. “No, he (Mathews) is not going (to South Africa). He has injured his hamstring,” National Selection Committee Chairman Ashantha de Mel told The Morning Sports last (14) The latter stages of Angelo Mathews’ 12-year international career was severely plagued by injuries evening. “There won’t be any addition playing T20 cricket here. Arthur month that his body can no Only in short formats to the present (Sri Lanka Test) has tweeted requesting the longer stand up to the rigours “I’ll definitely keep bowling squad. The 22 (number of authorities not to injure any of Test cricket bowling. He in the shorter formats as long members of the current squad) more players of the Test squad has said that his future role in as possible. But to bowl in Test will become 21,” de Mel added. (see boxed story). the Test team will be only as a matches, my workload would Mathews may be able specialist batsman. be extremely high and it’s very Mickey Arthur worried to be fit, though, for the The 33-year-old, who has demanding when you play The two Tests in South Africa forthcoming home Test series been battered by injuries all three formats,” Mathews are to begin on 26 December. against England starting on 14 throughout his career, has not revealed to the media early this Sri Lanka Head Coach Mickey January. bowled in a Test since 2018 in month. Arthur has already visited Christchurch, New Zealand. Sri Lanka’s two Tests in South Africa and is evidently No more bowling The reason was reported as his South Africa begin on 26 upset by the news that the most in Tests concerns about the physical toll December and 3 January (2021) senior member of the national The veteran Sri Lankan all- from his workload across all at Centurion and Johannesburg, Lionel Messi scored the only goal as Barcelona beat Levante in Spanish La Liga on Sunday (13) Test side is now injured while rounder disclosed only this three formats. respectively. Ranjan Madugalle’s notes on leadership to acquire all the attributes that an ideal INTERCEPTION leader ought to have. It’s a never-ending process, Ranjan is by Malinda right. His leadership days didn’t end when Seneviratne he retired from Test cricket. Leadership is not something that happens only in sports, obviously. There are business Last week, we discussed some leaders, community leaders, clan leaders, interesting observations that Ranjan and revolutionary leaders; people who Madugalle made about journeys. Being a have the responsibility to steer a collective man who has been associated with cricket to betterment. Ranjan did just that as a all his life, as a player, commentator, and match referee of the International Cricket match referee, he must have a lot to say Council. He has given direction, he has set about a lot of things, and not just about standards. His work will outlive him. cricket. Ranjan doesn’t say much, and when he does, one takes note. ‘I’ll never be a leader’ So Ranjan talked about leadership. It never ends. We really don’t know Briefly. This is what he had to say: “Don’t when we would be called upon to lead. ever think that you are not a leader. However, if we erroneously convince The Sri Lanka team at Lord’s, England during their tour of 1988. Ranjan Madugalle, seated third from left, was the Captain. Leaders are made by circumstances. Back row (from left): Aravinda De Silva, Roshan Mahanama, Ranjith Madurasinghe, Hashan Tillakaratne, and Don Anurasiri. ourselves that we are not leaders – that we Leadership is a never-ending process.” Middle row (from left): Saliya Ahangama, Brendon Kuruppu, Graeme Labroy, Athula Samarasekera, Champaka Ramanayake, Amal Silva, Brian Rajadurai, can never give leadership – then when the and Ravi Ratnayeke. moment arrives, we would let it pass. Who Not always a leader Front row (from left): Duleep Mendis, Abu Fuard (Manager), Ranjit Fernando (Coach), and Arjuna Ranatunga knows, we could be poorer, our friends Ranjan should know: He captained his could be poorer. The world too. school team for two consecutive years. with solid support from Ashok He still wasn’t a leader by circumstances”. Ranjan is correct. Don’t ever think you He captained the combined schools teams Jayawickrema (who would captain the He wasn’t a leader then. Neither was He wasn’t the skipper. It is unlikely that are not leadership material. Maybe we against Under-19 teams touring Sri Lanka. team the following year) to deny S. he a leader when, again at the age of 16 everyone thought he had leadership mettle. could add: “Don’t get caught in the ‘I will He captained his club team, the NCC. Sri Thomas’ College. Ranjan scored 71 representing the Sri Lanka Under-19 He may not have thought so either. He be a leader one day’ trap. It’s not wrong Lanka too. And yet he was not always to steer his team to safety. He took on team, he took eight wickets to help his did what had to be done: Showed courage to entertain the idea, but let it not be a a leader. He was just 15 when he first the responsibility of saving the day for team secure the Ali Bhutto Trophy against and determination. Played with utmost fixation. That would detract. As would the played for Royal. Of course, this meant Royal. Pakistan. He wasn’t the official leader. He responsibility. Demonstrated character. opposite – ‘I will never be a leader’.” that at some point, barring injury, he would A similar knock in Sri Lanka’s first wasn’t the Captain. He found himself in the Take things as they come. Be ready. Do captain the school team, simply on the Test match; with solid support from middle of a situation where he could take A never-ending process the hard yards. Seize the moment. The tag basis of seniority. Arjuna Ranatunga, he saved his team on a tremendous responsibility. He proved It’s all about not getting ahead of is always more valuable when others pin it the blushes in the first innings. If not equal to the task. yourself, of not cutting corners when it on you. Keep that in mind too. First Test for a horrendous collapse in the second It’s all about that old saying, “cometh comes to preparation, of doing what the (The writer can be reached at At the age of 16, just a second-year innings, Sri Lanka might have even won the moment, cometh the man”. His record moment demands, and going the extra mile [email protected] or www. coloursman, he led a great comeback its maiden Test. underlines his assertions; “leaders are made for your team. In the process, one is bound malindawords.blogspot.com)