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For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit Health THE WORLD 25,694,157 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 3,092 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 6,213,751 187,825 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 855,941 BRAZIL 3,910,901 121,515 INDIA 3,715,931 65,725 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 1,000,048 17,299 12 2,879 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 17,994,215 PERU 652,037 28,944 THE ABOVE STATISTICS201 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 9.20 P.M. ON 01 SEPTEMBER 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

DELAYED RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION PROJECTS DROUGHT WEATHER Water supply CEB to expedite projects in pipeline to be limited The Ceylon Electricity Board Speaking to The Morning, CEB measures to implement all possible this year, we have already tendered Herath also noted that the delayed The National (CEB) said it has already taken Chairman Eng. said projects in the pipeline, he said. 150 MW of solar and there is another projects including the Broadlands Water Supply and measures to implement the long- there were several issues regarding “We have already signed 150 MW of solar to be tendered,” he Hydropower and Uma Oya Drainage Board delayed renewable energy projects the renewable energy projects, due to agreements with mini hydro power said, adding: “Another 100 MW of Hydropower Projects would be (NWSDB) stated that the including that of mini hydro, solar, which its implementation was delayed. producers. During the past four years, wind power would also be added to completed this year. water supply may and wind power generation. Nevertheless, the CEB is now taking the CEB only added 250 MW, but the national grid.” Contd. on page 2 have to be limited in the coming days. US SANCTIONS ON CHINESE COMPANIES PRAYER ON POYA INTERPOL RED NOTICES gets 14 issued Govt. to The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) obtained Red Notices from the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) on 14 suspects. look at Crime gang member arrested A member of an organised crime gang was arrested other at Maligawatta, stated the Police Media Division (PMD) yesterday (1). Buddhist devotees took part in religious observances for Binara Full Moon Poya Day at the Kelaniya Temple in Peliyagoda yesterday (1) UNP-SJB ALLIANCE options PHOTO LALITH PERERA No official BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA bans them from buying HANTHANA MOUNTAIN RANGE CLEARANCE American products, citing discussions: UNP With the US imposing sanctions on their role in helping the Despite rumours of several Chinese companies recently, the Chinese military construct discussions taking Government of Sri Lanka said it will have to artificial islands in the CEA to report on place between the look for alternatives as the matter should disputed South China Sea. United National be sorted out amongst the two countries. Meanwhile, it was Party (UNP) reported that the and the Samagi Cabinet Spokesman at alternatives, because Chinese Embassy stated Jana Balawegaya Mass Media Minister there’s nothing we can that normal business Hanthana issue (SJB), there still hasn’t been do. This is between the co-operation by licensed BY SARAH HANNAN Mountain Range to cultivate Opposition allegedly clearing any official discussion between the told The Morning that Sri two countries. We still companies or individuals spices. about 19 acres of land in an two parties, UNP senior advisor Lanka couldn’t interfere don’t know the types of from China and Sri Lanka Minister of Environment Amaraweera made this request ecologically sensitive area known Lasantha Goonewardena said. with matters between the sanctions, and this is will not be affected by requested following several media reports as Springhill Estate, 3,000 ft. China and the US, and that a large issue,” he stressed. such unilateral and unjust an in-depth investigation report that were published last weekend above ground, in the Hanthana it should be sorted out by Last week, the US added sanctions from a third from the Central Environmental and after environmentalists raised Mountain Range, to cultivate SEE FULL STORIES ON PAGE 2 the two countries. 24 Chinese companies to country. Authority (CEA) over alleged concerns of a District cardamom. “We will have to look a government list that Contd. on page 2 deforestation at the Hanthana politician who represents the Contd. on page 2 SPECIAL SLFP stands for SLFP marks Vehicle prices 69th anniversary 444 inmates nation’s future: MS z Hosts multi-religious observances skyrocket Former President and Sri its children. To mark its 69th anniversary, the Sri The Vehicle Importers Association pardoned Lanka Freedom Party Below is a translation Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) will host a (VIA) said the prices of almost all vehicles The Government has decided to grant special (SLFP) Chairman of his message that was series of religious observances in Colombo, in Sri Lanka have skyrocketed due to presidential pardon to several inmates who were Maithripala published in Sinhala: Boralesgamuwa, Dehiwala, and Jaffna the Government’s decision to stop the sentenced to jail over minor offences, said the Sirisena, issuing Founded in 1951, the today (2), SLFP General Secretary Dayasiri importation of new vehicles to Sri Lanka Department of Prisons. Thereby, a total of a message on the Jayasekara said. “Former President and for two years. 444 inmates including 18 females have occasion of the has formed a number of SLFP Chairman and VIA President Sampath Merinchige told received this special presidential pardon. Commissioner General of party’s 69th year of governments from time the Executive Committee will attend the The Morning that the prices have gone up Contd. on page 2 Prisons Thushara Upuldeniya operations, vowed to time over the past bodhi pooja at the Bellanwila Raja Maha by around Rs. 200,000-300,000, as there that the SLFP will few decades. Viharaya, Boralesgamuwa, at 6 p.m.” were no new vehicles in the market. always stand for the SLFP Chairman Contd. on Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 future of the nation and Maithripala Sirisena page 2 LOW WORKING STANDARDS CAUSING DOCTOR SHORTAGE

Shortage of doctors RAILWAY UNIONS Refuse to in state sector operate Chinese For a country that needs a capacity of graduate from local universities, only engage in state-run hospitals. 42,000 doctors, Sri Lanka is currently a fraction of them continue to work “There are issues from salaries to the compartments running on half capacity, All Ceylon in state-run healthcare institutions. shortage of support and supplementary Medical Officers Association (ACMOA) “For years, despite many requests staff. The most worrying is that brain BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA from China. The relevant General Secretary Dr. Jayantha made by our medical officers, drain continues to take place, as once the compartments were brought down in Bandara said. successive governments failed to medical practitioner gets their MBBS Railway unions are refusing 2008 and were found to have a Speaking to The Morning, Dr. improve the basic requisites in state- certification, they seek better prospects to operate a number of train substandard braking system. Bandara said that while there are run hospitals in order for people in in other countries.” Dr. Bandara noted. compartments imported Contd. on page 2 enough and more medical students who the medical profession to willingly Contd. on page 2 2 the morning NEWS Wednesday , September 02, 2020

IMPORT BAN

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa stands firm short period of time, measures that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa suburbs due to inflation. Following Presidential Task Force on emphasised that appropriate have been taken to strengthen the the Covid-19 pandemic, the Economic Revival Head Basil measures will be taken to rural economy and uplift the farming Government took steps to deliver Rajapaksa stated that it was reduce the cost of living by community cannot be reversed. the farm produce directly to the necessary to ascertain the amount implementing the decisions During the meeting, the impact of consumers at a subsidised price. He of food consumed by an individual already taken while adhering the rise in prices of several essential noted that continuing this practice in the district and national levels, to a consistent policy without commodities on the economy of the would remove the middlemen and addeding that divisional secretariats moving backwards. urban middle class was discussed in their exploitation and protect both should promote home gardening and detail. the farmer and the consumer. poultry farming in areas under their While noting that the prices of “In order to earn a stable and Moreover, in order to accomplish jurisdiction. several consumer goods including strong income for the rural farmers it and deliver farmers’ produce Officials noted that due to the turmeric have risen due to the who make up about 40% of the straight to the consumers, it was success of cowpea, undhu, peanuts, decisions taken to uplift the local population, we need to develop also discussed to utilise government sesame, kurakkan, and onion agricultural industry and the farming confidence that they would get a high institutes such as Sathosa, Co-op, farming, these items will not have to community, President Rajapaksa price for their produce and assure a Govijana Seva Centres, and security be imported in the future. pointed out that if turmeric and other stable market for them.” forces. Prime Minister Mahinda commodities are imported to control The President went on to say Revamping the islandwide Rajapaksa; Ministers Dr. Bandula or bring down the prices, the desired that without taking such measures, network of Economic Centres and Gunawardana, Dr. Ramesh objective will never be achieved. rural communities cannot be further pointed out that countries by looking after themselves. Their the implementation of a proper Pathirana, and Mahindananda The President made these remarks encouraged to engage themselves in such as India and the US have also living condition and nutritional levels system to purchase farmers’ Aluthgamage; State Ministers at the first meeting of the Cabinet the agricultural sector, also pointing imposed import restrictions in the could be elevated through home produce had also been taken into , Shasheendra Subcommittee on Cost of Living out the difficulty of removing the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. gardening and providing hens and the consideration by the Cabinet Rajapaksa, and Lasantha held at the Presidential Secretariat on existing import restrictions. “The programme to offer job eggs for poultry farming.” Subcommittee on Cost of Living. Alagiyawanna; Secretary to the Monday (31), the President’s Media He in order to control the foreign opportunities to eradicate poverty President Rajapaksa then Furthermore, the President had President Dr. P.B. Jayasundera; Division (PMD) stated. exchange parity rates and to get rid of is expected to uplift the economy highlighted the need for proper advised the relevant officials to secretaries to the respective He stated that even though the high debt burden on farmers, imports of the underprivileged. Samurdhi procedures to address the issues update him once a week on the ministries; and other officials were public is faced with difficulties for a should be restricted. The President beneficiaries will have to contribute faced by the middle class in the market status. present at the discussion.

Contd. from page 1

medicine in other countries over short attacks last year in addition to the luxury Govt. to... tenures with the ultimate aim of improving tax imposed on vehicles by the previous Employment The sanctions have targeted companies their living and working standards. Government in October last year. and individuals involved with constructions – Sarah Hannan The sector was affected once again as the in the South China Sea, particularly the Government rushed to implement measures building of artificial islands as part of the to protect the country’s currency by slapping Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). SLFP stands... a temporary vehicle import ban in April this programme The Embassy also stated that US sanctions, Especially the party leaders who led those year in the face of the Covid-19 threat. which involve typical hegemonic logic and eras, of the likes of late Prime Minister S.W.R.D. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa power politics, have blatantly interfered Bandaranaike and, following his demise, late in China’s internal affairs and violated Prime Minister , should international law and norms governing be particularly remembered. international relations. I respectfully remember all the deceased 444 inmates... commences leaders who sacrificed their lives in various Commissioner General of Prisons Thushara The programme activities during the party’s election campaigns. Upuldeniya noted that the decision was to provide 100,000 CEB to... Representing the leftist and progressive taken with the intention of minimising the employment opportunities The Chairman also noted that the CEB political camp in this country since the 1950s, congestion within prisons. aimed at eradicating poverty would be able to complete all renewable the Sri Lanka Freedom Party has done a According to reports, 83 inmates from the is scheduled to commence energy projects in the pipeline by next year. tremendous job for the development of the Welikada Prison, 54 from the Pallekele Prison, today (2). – Maheesha Mudugamuwa country and the future of the nation in each era. 35 from the Kuruwita Prison, 30 from the The objective of It is also commendable that the Bandaranaike Mahara Prison, 28 from the Anuradhapura the programme is to Government in particular worked to strengthen Prison, and 214 other inmates from a total of empower those who live CEA to... international relations. 29 prisons islandwide have been granted the in absolute poverty with The Hanthana Protectors’ Association alleged Sri Lanka Freedom Party governments special presidential pardon. no formal education and that the area was being cleared for cultivation have always done a great job of nurturing These prisoners, over the age of 65 years, had skills through the Multi- or development since 27 August 2019, and indigenousness, nationalism, and patriotism. been convicted of minor offences for failing to Purpose Development Task that nearly two acres of land had already Also, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party has always pay fines and have served half their sentence. Force established by the been cleared. stood for the independence and unity of the The Prisons Commissioner General stressed Government, stated the According to the National Environmental country. that inmates who were convicted of murder, President’s Media Division Further, all recipients During the six-month Act No. 47 of 1980, Extraordinary Gazette It should be recalled here that during the theft, rape, child abuse, and other serious crimes (PMD). must be permanent residents continuous training Notification No. 1641/28 dated 27 February era when led the party, will not be granted Presidential pardon under As per the PMD, job of the area of application. programme, a monthly 2010 prohibits the planning and implementation the military took action to defeat the LTTE any circumstances. recipients are selected on Accordingly, only one allowance of Rs. 22,500 will of development work in the Hanthana and bring peace to the country. the basis of the following member per family, who be paid and following the Mountains above 3,000 ft. without prior Also, the victory of the Sri Lanka Freedom criteria: meets the aforementioned successful completion of the approval. The CEA also fixed a signboard Party in the 2020 parliamentary election from Refuse to... Unskilled workers who qualifications, will training programme, trainees denoting the same. the Jaffna District should be noted as a historic “Around 100 such compartments were have no formal education be considered for the will have the opportunity to According to the Extraordinary Gazette victory of our party as well as an important brought down in 2008; from the time these or with education lower opportunity. The recipient’s be appointed to an accepted Notification, the area above the 3,000-ft. factor in the national politics of this country. were brought down, they’ve had issues with than a GCE Ordinary Level vocational programme will permanent government contour line can be used only for reforestation I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude the brakes,” Railway Guard Union General examination qualification be decided based on the position in their own and existing perennial crops including pepper to the people of Sri Lanka for sending 14 Secretary Manura Peiris told The Morning. Must not be less than 18 available job opportunities in residence area with a non- and tea. SLFP candidates to Parliament in the 2020 He said that following years of protest, the years of age and not more proximity to the applicant’s primary skilled salary of Rs. Hanthana Protectors’ Association Secretary parliamentary election and I would like to state Department of Railways finally removed some than 40 years of age on the residence and their choice of 35,000 and allowances. Amit Senanayake, speaking to The Morning, that the SLFP will always stand for the future of these compartments from operation. “Of closing date of applications field for training. After a satisfactory and said: “If any work was to be done in the area, of the nation and the children born tomorrow. the 100, only around 50-55 are still running,” Unemployed member of Further, a training uninterrupted career record the approval of the Hanthana Environmental he shared. a family eligible to receive programme will be of 10 years, they will be Protection Area Management Committee “But we have strongly asserted that we do Samurdhi benefits but does conducted at the training eligible for pension, the would have to be obtained, but no permission SLFP marks... not want to operate these as they pose a serious not receive it, or a member centres in the same area of PMD said. had been obtained for such clearing.” “We will be remembering our late founders danger to human lives.” of a family receiving the applicant’s residence or However, employment He added that several attempts were made to and invoke blessings to the party members, Samurdhi benefits but is at nearby training centres. will only be awarded based clear the area during the last Government and its supporters, and the citizens of Sri Lanka unemployed Following a successful on the above criteria and despite strong protests by environmentalists, tomorrow (today),” Jayasekara elaborated. Water supply... An unemployed member training, the applicants will any form of bribery will the clearance work continued. Religious observances will be carried out at This is due to the prevailing weather of a family with elderly, sick be employed in their area result in immediate rejection “We made a complaint to the Kandy Police the following religious institutions: conditions, according to the Board. parents or differently abled of residence or in a nearby of the job opportunity, the and (via) the Police Emergency Hotline Accordingly, the NWSDB requested its yy 9 a.m. – Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, members of family area, stated the PMD. PMD stressed. regarding the environmental damage. Although customers to be sparing in the use of water. Jaffna the Police Emergency Response Unit visited the site, they could not take any action as yy 10 a.m. – Dewatagaha Mosque (Shaikh they had to inform the Polgolla Office of the Usman Waliyullah Shrine), Colombo 7 No official... Central Environmental Authority.” yy “Although the SJB is making statements Cartoon of the day CEA Chairman Siripala Amarasinghe said 12 noon – Infant Jesus Church, about potential meetings scheduled with our a team was deployed on Monday (31) to Colombo 2 senior members, none of those meetings have investigate the location and filed a report with yy 6 p.m. – Bellanwila Raja Maha taken place yet. the findings, which would then be handed Viharaya, Boralesgamuwa “A group will meet our present Leader over to the Minister. y at Sirikotha today (2) y 7.45 p.m. – Sri Venkateshwara Maha to discuss the way forward. Vishnu Moorthy Kovil, Dehiwala “However, we are far from finalising Shortage of... the correct candidate to be appointed as He suggested that a lot of restructuring Vehicle prices... party leader, given the current situation,” needs to happen in the healthcare sector; Goonewardena noted. it is not only the medical officers that are “The market is responding to the demand. – Sarah Hannan in short supply but also other staff as well There’s a high demand for new vehicles in that would ensure that the hospitals function the market but there’s no supply to match at an optimum level, he added. the demand. Due to this, vehicle prices have Crime gang... When asked about the association’s increased drastically,” he explained. The arrestee is a male named Mohamed thoughts on suggestions the previous According to the VIA, the price hike would Thajudeen Mohamed Shahul Hameed. Government made pertaining to bringing remain unchanged until the government ban Nearly 6 g of heroin was also found on in medical practitioners from India or other on vehicle importation is lifted. the suspect. countries to fulfil the medical workforce Sri Lanka’s automobile import sector had requirement, Dr. Bandara said that Sri Lanka to face numerous challenges over the past produces sufficient medical practitioners few years; last year, the sector faced major Sri Lanka... every year, and because the government price increases due to the imposition of stiff The suspects in question are wanted in Sri fails to improve their working conditions, luxury taxes which resulted in a massive drop Lanka for various crimes and are currently they decide to leave the country. in vehicle demand. hiding overseas evading arrest, stated the He also pointed out that some medical Furthermore, the sector also experienced Acting Police Media Spokesperson. officers take leave so they can practice a drop in sales following the Easter Sunday the morning Wednesday, September 02, 2020 3 business Amana Takaful appoints Inflation rises for food but dips Shehan Feisal as CEO Amana Takaful PLC (ATPLC) announced the for non-food items in August appointment of Shehan Feisal as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with effect from 20 July 2020. As the new CEO, Feisal’s vision for ATPLC encompasses improving customer service, the value chain, and introducing a 360-degree approach for stakeholders. He will also focus Amãna Takaful CEO Shehan Feisal on aligning ATPLC’s brand miscellaneous classes of portfolio to meet customer insurance, including claims and requirements which is an reinsurance,” the bank said. increasingly important aspect, Feisal was also a team especially given the challenging member of Amãna Takaful for economic landscape in the over nine years where he was country amidst the Covid-19 a key member of setting up the pandemic. company during its inception “Shehan Feisal has gained a back in 1999. In the recent past, Food inflation (YoY [year-on-year]) increased to reputation as a result-oriented, Feisal has held the position of 12.3% in August 2020 from 10.9% in July 2020, The monthly change of change in the CCPI August 2020. growth-driven leader with over Head of Commercial (Technical whereas non-food inflation (YoY) decreased to 0.8% CCPI was recorded at 0.0% decreased to 4.1% in August The core inflation 25 years of extensive technical P&C)/Chief Underwriting in August 2020 from 1.5% in July 2020, according to in August 2020. This was 2020 from 4.2% in July (YoY), which reflects the and managerial experience Officer for Allianz Insurance the Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI). due to the setting off of the 2020. This was mainly underlying inflation in in the insurance industry, Lanka Ltd., where he was price increase of 0.1% in driven by the statistical the economy, remained having worked for both local reporting directly to the CEO The Statistics Department during the month. Within the the food category with the effect of the high base that unchanged at 3.2% in and multinational companies. as well as the regional office said that prices of coconut, non-food category, prices of price decline of the same prevailed in August 2019. August 2020. However, During his longstanding career, in Singapore. Prior to his stint vegetables, and turmeric items in the health (payments magnitude observed in the The change in the CCPI annual average core he has specialised in several at Allianz Insurance Lanka, increased in August 2020 but to medical laboratories) non-food category. measured on an annual inflation declined further to areas including underwriting he was the Assistant General prices of fresh fish and limes subcategory declined during Headline inflation as average basis remained 3.8% in August 2020 from of property and casualty, Manager (AGM) – Technical at recorded significant declines the month. measured by the YoY unchanged at 4.8% in 4% in July 2020. medical, marine, motor, and Janashakthi General Insurance. CSE holds webinar on IT Uber package delivery service companies going public launched in Colombo Uber on Monday (31) and receive packages to their launched its new package friends and family or order delivery service called “Uber items from shops, all from the Connect”, which will allow comfort and safety of their Colombo’s residents to send homes. Uber Connect is a and receive parcels from each prime example of how we are other and also order items adapting our platform to meet from shops within city limits, the needs of our communities, without having to step outside which still need to practice the comfort and safety of their social distancing as we emerge homes. from the pandemic, along All packages should be with creating new earning transportable on a two- opportunities for our drivers.” wheeler vehicle, weigh under Uber said Connect will 5 kg, be securely sealed, and A user handing over package to be delivered by Uber Connect adhere to all rules and not include prohibited items guidelines laid down by The Federation of for those companies that have or more at the point of such as alcohol, recreational location. Customers can also and have the items delivered the Government and local Information Technology matured to some extent, there listing.” drugs, or dangerous and illegal share the delivery status with at their doorstep. authorities. All driver partners Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS), is no better option to financing Companies have also been items, Uber said. the recipient of the package. In Uber Sri Lanka and South have been given virtual Colombo Stock Exchange than going public. The reason given the opportunity of Similar to on-demand case customers want to order and East India General guidance to maintain strict (CSE), and Information and being, it not only gives you listing on the Diri Savi board trips, customers will be able items from nearby shops, Manager Subodh Sangwan health and hygiene standards Communication Technology flexibility and speed in future by demonstrating a revenue to continue monitoring the they can simply put the shop said: “We are thrilled to be and to avoid direct contact Agency (ICTA) recently rounds of financing, but it of Rs. 350 million for the trip’s progress prior to pickup, address as the pickup location, launching Uber Connect with customers during conducted a webinar will allow you to understand financial year immediately en route, and at the drop-off place the order over the phone, which will help users send delivery. titled “Financing Digital the true value of your preceding the date of the Transformation: Is Going organisation.” initial listing application and Public the Next Step?”, CSE CEO Bandaranaike a market capitalisation of Rs. focusing on how companies shared perspective on 2 billion at the point of listing, in the IT industry can now the rationale for the CSE he added. Sampath Bank launches 8th tank consider a stock exchange to revamp its listing Speaking from an listing in view of the recent requirements to cater to investment bank’s perspective, changes to CSE listing an ever-evolving business NDB Investment Bank restoration project eligibility. landscape in Sri Lanka Head – Corporate Advisory Sampath Bank PLC’s The discussion focused on consisting of modern and Nilendra Weerasinghe noted “Wewata Jeewayak” the expansion of the eligibility dynamic business models the progressive steps taken programme broke ground criteria for an initial listing of particularly seen in the by the CSE to encourage tech on its latest project focusing shares on the main board and technology space. He went on companies to raise capital on the Kindagalla Wewa in the Diri Savi board which will to state that these new changes in the public markets and Bibile. now enable a wider spectrum are now well placed to attract went on to say: “We need The programme is a part of companies to qualify for a a wave of tech companies to more private capital flows of the bank’s community listing. the local stock market. to support SMEs (small and capacity-building initiatives The webinar featured capital CSE Chief Regulatory medium enterprises) and that aim to provide market and tech industry Officer Wijayawardhane, start-ups to make it to the big sustainable solutions to experts including FITIS highlighting these new league. In doing this, policies ensure a dependable supply Chairman Abbas Kamrudeen, avenues for companies, stated: which incentivise private of water for dry zone farmers ICTA Director/Legal Advisor “Companies that ideally could capital investments into angel to cultivate their paddy land Jayantha Fernando, CSE not look at a listing on the and venture capital fund-like and harvest during both Chief Executive Officer main board as a result of the structures could catalyse this the Yala and Maha paddy (CEO) Rajeeva Bandaranaike, three-consecutive-year profit space, having a significant seasons, annually. Through CSE Chief Regulatory Officer requirement now have other impact on the broader the project, the bank aims to Representatives of Sampath Bank and other invitees inaugurating the tank restoration project by Renuke Wijayawardhane, and options. Companies with economy.” promote organic farming as a ceremoniously breaking ground PickMe Founder/CEO Jiffry positive net assets for two Renowned tech viable means of maintaining has a surface area of 15 tanks around the island. Zulfer. financial years could list on entrepreneur and PickMe a sustainable livelihood acres and currently provides Together with technical ICTA Director/Legal the CSE with an aggregate CEO Zulfer identified the through agriculture. water to 62 acres of paddy support from the Department Advisor Fernando stated that net profit after tax for three stock market listing as an ideal A structured undertaking land, benefitting 60 farmer of Agrarian Development global success stories have years, an alternate which exit option for investors and to rebuild the tanks that have families. Post restoration, the and Department of helped catalyse a shift among does not require companies private equity firms investing suffered neglect and ruin tank will supply 262 acres Irrigation, we are very proud private company leadership to be profitable for three in start-ups. He went on to due to the passage of time, of farming land with water, to be able to restore these toward viewing public consecutive years.” note that having the stock the “Wewata Jeewayak” thereby directly benefiting tanks, thereby uplifting the markets as a more welcoming Wijayawardhane also market listing as an option programme has seen the 260 families. The restoration lives of the people in the place to raise capital. He went on to say: “To broaden and a possible exit mechanism restoration of seven tanks, to work will be executed under area and enabling a return also went on to state that the the entry routes, we have will help the growth of the date, namely; Udamaththala the supervision and technical to a historic and effective stock market engine should also introduced revenue start-up ecosystem in Sri Wewa in Lunugamwehera expertise of the Agrarian irrigation system.” be recognised as a tool within and cash flow options in Lanka by attracting a wider (2001), Ilukpelassa Development Department Currently, the tank’s bund this ecosystem which, if addition to the two profit- audience of investors who see Wewa in Thanamalwila in Monaragala with the has been damaged and its correctly used, could pave the based routes. Companies the value of a market-based (2002), Konketiara Wewa villagers forming most of the Sampath Bank PLC Chief height is not enough to way for not only companies to could now demonstrate exit mechanism. in Hambantota (2002), labour force. Manager – Branch Banking maintain the required water grow but for the economy at either an aggregate revenue The CSE said it invites Dematawa Wewa in Speaking about the Rohana Aluthgedara speaking at capacity for both seasons. large to grow as well. of Rs. 3 billion for three companies to connect with Panduwasnuwara (2014), bank’s “Wewata Jeewayak” the inauguration ceremony Furthermore, the tank’s Sharing remarks at the financial years or positive it to discuss how they can Halmillakulama Wewa in programme, Sampath a lot of responsibility and spill has been damaged, webinar, FTIS Chairman operating cash flow after now tap into public funding Nochchiyagama (2017), Bank PLC Group Chief such a meticulous process thereby greatly reducing its Kamrudeen said: “When it adjusting for working capital to spur on the company’s Ambagahawewa in Human Resource Officer may affect the lives and water retention capability. comes to financing, there are for two consecutive years. growth agenda. Details on Kahatagasdigiliya (2018), Thusitha Nakandala said: livelihoods of the people The restoration work, many options companies can The revenue and cash flow eligibility of listing and the and Dhanyawa Wewa in “It is challenging for the residing in the area. which includes excavation evaluate from bootstrapping, route could be explored process could also be obtained Divulankadawala (2018). villagers to shoulder the Right from inception, we of the tank and rebuilding angel investors, debt capital, by companies capable of through www.cse.lk or by Located in the Kokunnewa entire burden of renovating have been working with of the tank bund and venture capital, to private demonstrating a market sending an email to maalik@ area in the Monaragala and reconstructing these government authorities and spill, is estimated to take equity. But my belief is that capitalisation of Rs. 5 billion cse.lk. District, the Kindagalla Tank tanks. This task requires local communities to restore approximately three months. the morning 4 Wednesday , September 02, 2020 brunch Organic Supermarket by Green Care launches Mal Organic products

2020 Green Care Organic DNA to not only provide these recently announced the launch products, but also to educate A highly anticipated collaboration of “Mal Organic” products the wider market on the value at their flagship store, as Mal and importance of using organic both Marians and Daddy is not set BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE What: Marians and Daddy 2020 Organic (Pvt.) Ltd. launches its produce.” to be like other “attached shows” export-quality products to the In addition to the launch When: 4 October 2020 where artistes are featured one set On 4 October 2020, musical local market. of Mal Organic products to Where: Havelock Grounds at 6.30 p.m. after the other, but audiences will An internationally the Sri Lankan market, at legends Marians and Daddy be presented with the opportunity certified organic company, Mal Green Care Organic, the brand will be taking the stage at to witness a true medley between Havelock Grounds at 6.30 who’s involved to take part in the music of the two bands. The Organic is an export company is also celebrating its three- upliftmenting live band music. established in 2010, employing year anniversary introducing p.m. in an event organised concert is set to be a true musical Perera added that they have gone amalgamation – definitely something over 50 staff. They began their organic cosmetic products and by the music concert to great lengths to ensure the event the audience will not expect, he business with the export of has become Control Union- management company will be Covid-19 safe and that concert- emphasised. coconut and coconut-based certified. Bourne Innovations. goers will have no reason for concern. Despite having performed on the products, mainly organic virgin Mal Organic Concluding They will be carrying out all necessary Bourne Innovations Director/ same stage together, both Marians coconut oil, to the European Director N.S.M. Mendis added: health and safety precautions, CEO Janith Perera shared with The and Daddy will also be collaborating and conduct temperature checks Union (EU), the UK, New “We are pleased to partner with Morning Brunch that the event in this way for the very first time, and while also documenting all persons Zealand, United Arab Emirates Green Care Organic on this promises to deliver an overall the event is further elevated in that attending the show to ensuring (UAE), and Indian markets, venture, as we look forward to different experience – something that this would also mark the first time a security remains tight. with operations in the UK uplifting the organic product would be beyond what concert-goers local concert featuring local artists This collaboration is set to and Malaysia, a factory in market with our export-quality have become accustomed to. will be held at the Havelock Grounds. Bourne Innovations Director CEO be a generational music infusion, The event is highly anticipated Perera said that they are honoured to Kuliyapitiya, and plantation in products. We don't see why Janith Perera Perera shared, noting that the music considering that this collaboration be a part of a moment in history and Embilipitiya. the local market should not performed at the show will set was last seen six years ago when industry within the island; they have they hope that audiences will receive Green Care provides have access to internationally itself apart from any other musical industry veterans Marians came never failed to draw in a crowd and the event well. 100% organic produce and standardised products. Sri collaboration we have experienced across the youthful Daddy and sell out shows, Perera said, adding The Sunday Morning is the print has continued to support Lanka is rich with organic prior. He said the alliance between together held their first exclusive that Daddy, who recently celebrated media partner for the event. community livelihoods, with produce and it is our prerogative collaboration where they performed their 10th anniversary via their 2019 both its founders describing to make it accessible to our to over 3,500 concert-goers at the concert “Aaley 2019” at the Nelum the store as a community local community.” heart of Negombo. Perera shared that Pokuna to an audience nearly 6,000 strong, has shown that together they market “where people and food Green Care Organic the event was a memorable one and matter”, making a positive initially began in 2016 with since then, there has certainly been a are one of the most desirable duos keen interest brewing in seeing these imaginable. impact on the communities and the intention of supporting two greats take the stage once more He also shared that during these stakeholders of Green Care. the green society, showcasing together. trying times where the entertainment Speaking on the launch, and promoting their products.​ ​ Perera shared that Marians, who and event industry has plummeted, Green Care Organic Founder Since then, they have amassed are celebrating over three decades of it is a social responsibility to N. Rathnayake said: “At Green a strong following and have music, has remained one of the most support artistes, while this is also an Care Organic, we strive to keep become Participatory Guarantee recognisable names in the music opportunity for fans and everyone improving our product offering System (PGS)-certified for and range. It is in our company organic food.

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE taking health and safety precautions. He said that they have maintained a CHEAPER THAN THERAPY On 13 September, Botanik will be certain level of capacity so that the necessary hosting “Cheaper Than Therapy!: A night physical distancing guidelines can be of comedy under the stars!”, a comedy followed; they also try not to serve drinks night featuring comedians Anderson Haran, over the bar counter and have demarcated Divakar David, Noori, Vinu Petha, Nigel the floor seating area so that guests are at a A night of certain distance from one another. He said Wayne, and Aruna Fernando in partnership with HaHa Lanka, from 5-11 p.m. that Botanik only takes walk-ins if they are not at capacity. The event, which was previously listed to be on 30 August, had to be rescheduled, Isaac shared that this approach has We try to provide new experiences for our translated well for their patrons, as they comedy under and Botanik Assistant Manager – Branding patrons. During the curfew time, we did and Marketing Clifford Isaac shared that realise that the establishment is taking their a lot of online events, and post curfew, health and safety seriously. He also said they are taking measures to ensure the event it has been no different goes smoothly on the 13th, Sunday. that this way, with the reservations being Botanik Assistant Manager – Branding representative of how many customers the stars! and Marketing Clifford Isaac they will have, it has been easier and more effective for their preparations, adding that He said that they thought of hosting as things have been difficult coming out of a comedy night because it would be a the lockdown and they are still recovering, different experience to what audiences are there is no room for excess. used to at restaurants, and would be a great He said that they have had to make opportunity for a break from the monotony many adjustments, including curbing their and to have a few laughs. menu; they have held on to their fast-moving In addition to this, Botanik is running dishes but were forced to largely localise the an eventful calendar for their patrons, with menu, which, thankfully, their patrons have He also shared that they chose to go the month of September set to bring more understood, and have liked so far. with HaHa Lanka as they were able to curate exciting new activities such as a series of He added that like most people in the a list of comedians, and Botanik will be master classes where patrons can take a peek industry, they too are trying and doing their providing all the necessary amenities for the into the inner workings of a select few crafts best with regards to events and food and performers. The six comedians will each like bartending, where they will be given the beverage to ensure they “hold on to what perform a 15 to 20-minute set, and alongside opportunity to mix and blend some cocktails. makes Botanik, Botanik”. the event, Botanik will be carrying out some Isaac shared that they hope to also bring in promotional offers for their patrons including experts from other crafts like chefs, and even combo rates on beverages and snacks. have a class on music production and mixing. Isaac said that mid-pandemic, Botanik Speaking about the effects of the has gone to great lengths to ensure that pandemic, Isaac shared that Botanik has their customers are provided a diversified taken many precautions when it comes experience at their venue. “We try to provide to their operations, and if you’ve visited new experiences for our patrons. During the the venue since curfew was lifted, you’d curfew time, we did a lot of online events, and have noticed that they do create a lot of post curfew, it has been no different,” he said. awareness with regards to the necessity of 5 the morning sports Wednesday, September 02, 2020 Reason why Raina left CSK South Africa cricket in turmoil Osaka lucky, but Now Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Owner Narayanaswamy South African cricketers, in a strong-worded letter not Gauff Sriniwasan has chastised Suresh Raina for leaving CSK camp yesterday (1), condemned what they described as “politics Fourth seed Naomi Osaka overcame a in Dubai before the start of the Indian Premier League citing and self-interest” in their game's administration. Cricket scare to beat fellow Japanese Misaki personal reasons. This indicates two things. One is that the in South Africa is in turmoil after the resignation of Cricket Doi in three sets, avoiding a major main reason why Raina left could not be his uncle’s brutal South Africa (CSA) President Chris Nenzani and Acting CEO shock at US Open tennis yesterday murder but his displeasure with the facilities he had in Dubai. Jacques Faul, who replaced his sacked predecessor Thabang (1). But teenager Coco Gauff was not Secondly, how money talks in the IPL. Srinivasan said: "He’ll Moroe. The body’s AGM was postponed on Monday (31) for lucky, as she was ousted by 31st seed certainly realise that he’s going to lose about 11 crores." “review of governance” but the players are really unhappy. Anastasija Sevastova on Monday (31). Aluthgamage CID responsible hooks Aravinda de Silva once again! for inconclusive z Implies ICC is lying, a pvt. TV channel paid to hold up investigation on 2011 WC final Former Sports Silva was interrogated Minister Mahindananda by the Special Aluthgamage revealed an Investigations Unit in array of controversial issues July, he craftily turned inquiry: SLC regarding his previous the inquiry towards the fixing allegation on the players, such as Kumar z Affiliate clubs question SLC over investigation on 2018 TV rights deal 2011 World Cup cricket Sangakkara and Mahela final in Mumbai where Jayawardene. BY REVATHA S. SILVA India beat Sri Lanka by six yy He added that Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) wickets. That was on the when players were live television talk show said the Criminal interrogated by that unit, “Salakuna” aired by Hiru there was displeasure Investigation Department TV on Monday (31 August) and opposition created Aluthgamage showing his (CID) should be held night. among the public. letter on the 2011 World Cup final to ICC CEO Haroon Lorgat responsible for not y properly conducting its y There, he mentioned the yy “A certain private TV counter campaigning channel wanted to stop for an inquiry on that investigation on the 2018 with regard to his last alleged fraud relating the proceedings of the final from the ICC in June's fixing allegation investigation,” he further to SLC television rights 2012, showing a copy Former Sports Minister Faiszer Musthapha The CID arrested SLC Chief Financial Officer Piyal causing drop in his complained. of that letter addressed money running into $ (on left) with Kamal Pathmasiri, Competent Dissanayake in November 2018 over attempted financial votes in his electorate in Authority to SLC under Musthapha in 2018 fraud on TV rights money running into over Rs. 30 million yy He, most significantly, to the then International 183,000 – equivalent to Kandy. Cricket Council (ICC) about Sri Lankan Rs. 30 claimed he had asked CID succumbing to continue the investigation,” coalition was facing a yy The then Selection CEO Haroon Lorgat. million. political pressure! they argued, indicating the debilitating internal fraction by Committee Head yyHe also said he was the The present SLC Committee “We (SLC Committee) were CID would have succumbed to then. Aravinda de Silva one who took cabinet headed by Shammi Silva has not handling the financial external political pressure. Govt. needs to vehemently denied to approval and drafted been of the opinion that the matters then. They were solely put the much-hailed Act shady deal – regarding the under the Competent Authority CID investigation held find out now into the team while up abruptly No. 24 on sports Sony TV rights payment for (CA). The said effort had been This dubious television rights including some lesser corruption, which was the 2018 South Africa tour of made to divert the money to In 2018, following an initial matter later became a central known players. eventually passed in Sri Lanka – happened during an overseas account through investigation, the CID arrested point in the Committee On “Sanath was batting Parliament in 2019. the tenure of Competent hacking the SLC computer SLC’s Chief Financial Officer Public Enterprises (COPE) well against the Authority Kamal Pathmasiri, system,” a senior SLC Ex-Co Piyal Dissanayake. Yet, the report on the SLC. Indians then,” he said. yyHe said Kumar Sangakkara had argued who was appointed by then official told The Morning Sports inquiry did not reportedly come Did then Sports Minister yy Sports Minister Faiszer last week. to an end and no wrongdoer was Musthapha, who is now a When Sanath’s before the Special Musthapha. But some of the brought before justice. member of the ruling coalition issue was raised Unit that a 2011 matter It was alleged that some representatives of SLC Then, Musthapha, who again, have a hand in the attempt by him at a certain cannot be investigated dubious party had attempted affiliates have argued on represented the Sri Lanka to corrupt that deal? Did he meeting, de Silva via an Act passed in to divert those monies to an Monday that the finances Freedom Party (SLFP) of influence the CID investigation secretly signalled 2019. offshore account without were still under its Treasurer the previous Yahapalana to stop it abruptly? D.S. de Silva, the then Head of the yyAluthgamage the knowledge of the SLC Lasantha Wickramasinghe Government, gave way to Harin The cricket fans here have showed his amazement Committee. The dubious (who is still SLC Treasurer). Fernando of the United National a right to find out who tried to Sri Lanka Cricket Interim Committee, at how such a serious attempt was then brought to Pathmasiri looked into only the Party (UNP) as the Sports send Rs. 30 million in public investigation had light by Sony itself creating a administrative affairs of SLC, Minister in December 2018. money to an unknown account in not to take that issue up, Aluthgamage ended in just two huge pandemonium. they had pointed out. That was the time when a foreign country. If such issues weeks. The issue has been one of The current SLC Committee SLFP’s Maithripala Sirisena are to become “eternal secrets”, said. World the most contentious ones has then argued that proper severed his relations as the that may not augur well for the Cup Organising yyHe said it is now taken up at SLC’s Annual investigations on the matter President of the country, present Government, which Committee Head Suraj up to the Attorney General Meeting (AGM) held could not have been made due with Prime Minister Ranil has come to power pledging Dandeniya was witness The 3 July ICC media release General to decide to that, he added. stating there is no record of any whether the case should on Monday, 31 August, at to the influence of Musthapha. Wickremesinghe, the Leader unbiased and transparent rule in letter requesting an inquiry into Hilton Colombo Residences. “CID was not allowed to of the UNP. The Yahapalana every sphere of society. yy He said that when de the 2011 World Cup final be taken up again or not. Sports world in turmoil…again! SPORTS z Amidst Covid-19, social injustice continues to overwhelm world of sports too

WATCH American sprinters Tommy Smith (centre) and their seasons immediately. Osaka decided to play her semi-final John Carlos, who won gold and silver medals, With LeBron James taking the after making her protest. These are by Dinith Pathi respectively, in 200 m, wore beads and black lead, alongside the Bucks, two other almost unprecedented actions from gloves on upraised right hands with their heads NBA play-off games, three Major sports stars. This could only be hung as the US national anthem was heard The world is a strange place in the background, in honour of the lynching League Baseball matches, three equated to the much-talked-about these days. The normalcy craved by victims at the 1968 Mexico Summer Olympics WNBA fixtures and five Major protests by the Black athletes at the everyone seems further away than League Soccer (MLS) games were 1968 Mexico Olympics. ever. postponed after player-led actions On one hand, the coronavirus is in response to the shooting and the Amid all this is Covid-19 ripping through the world in ever- Civil protests seeking justice for civil unrest that followed. The world of sports and the world increasing numbers with more Jacob Blake Those MLS matches included that of politics have always been very ferocity. On the other, every day it is pertinent to try to examine the of David Beckham’s Inter Miami uneasy partners. But normally, we hear about one tragedy or more impact it has had on the world of side, with their Atlanta United clash athletes would always try to stay somewhere in the world. sports. not going ahead. apolitical and give safe answers to This is especially true in the US. Athletes and leagues across the questions regarding political events. While the coronavirus is raging US have taken a stand in the past Similar to Munich But, lately, athletes have become unchecked in the country with the week or so after Jacob Blake was Olympic protests more politically active and have highest number of infections in the shot seven times by police officer Apart from this, Naomi Osaka been trying to convert their celebrity world, the country was recently Rusten Sheskey in front of his also decided against playing appeal to causes related to social racked by protests emanating as a own children. Blake’s shooting her semi-final at the Western & justice. result of the killing of George Floyd has resulted in a list of major US Southern Open tennis tournament It is an individual choice whether in Minneapolis. Women’s National Basketball possible. Then, there was another sporting events being called off in New York. All play at the US it should be done or not. And the Association (WNBA), National tragedy that struck US sport. That across the States with athletes Open warm-up event was suspended argument of whether it does good Jacob Blake after Football League (NFL), National is the shooting of Jacob Blake in protesting against racial injustice last Thursday (27 August) as the or bad can be argued until the cows George Floyd Hockey League (NHL), U.S. front of his three sons in Kenosha, following the police shooting. Association of Tennis Professionals come home. But it is happening all In these tough situations, most Soccer, and also the much-famed Wisconsin. (ATP), Women’s Tennis Association the same in the current environment. people tend to turn towards sports National Collegiate Athletic Sporting protests (WTA), and the International Tennis With all this, the coronavirus is activities and competitions as Association (NCAA) competitions. Major sports events The Milwaukee Bucks made their Federation (ITF) stood in unison raging all over. Financial difficulties a source of comfort. In the US, All these were trying to find a called off again point by boycotting their NBA play- with the athletes and their right to are cropping up where normalcy there are world-renowned sports way to have their competitions Since the incident is under off clash with Orlando Magic. This protest peacefully. seems further away than ever. The competitions such as the National in a safe atmosphere while being judicial review, this writer has no was followed by the LA Lakers and As of late, the NBA teams have sports world is in turmoil once Basketball Association (NBA), as competitive and attractive as intention of commenting on it. But the LA Clippers voting to suspend voted to complete their season and again.