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TOTAL CASES For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit THE WORLD 6,310,891 Health Suwasariya PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 1,643 Promotion 0112 695 112 CASES DEATHS Ambulance DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 1,841,698 106,281 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 374,732 BRAZIL 514,992 29,341 RUSSIA 414,878 4,855 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD SPAIN 286,509 27,127 11 811 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 2,870,911 UK 274,762 38,489 THE ABOVE STATISTICS821 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 11.30 P.M. ON 1 JUNE 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

LOCUSTS INVADE FARMS IN KURUNEGALA WHEN TOURISTS ARRIVE IN THE COUNTRY No quarantine, only PCR tests

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA negative PCR test was a prerequisite for tourists to be allowed into the country, but that No quarantine procedures will be followed they would not have to endure a quarantine Govt. urged to for tourists arriving in the country, but process. rigorous PCR testing is to be carried out “A negative PCR test when applying for before and after their arrival. a visa is a must. Once they arrive, they Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism and have to take another PCR test here as well. Aviation Siripala Hettiarchchi said that a Contd. on page 2 prevent spread REOPENING TOURISM INDUSTRY PM sworn into z Pest attack feared to z Farm in Kurunegala z Endemic species, be worst than ‘sena’ raided by locusts under control: Govt. Small tour late Thondaman’s BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA to the AIFF, and the locust Outbreaks have been reported groups expected portfolio attack was only reported from from Gujarat, Rajasthan, As swarms of locusts raided a farm in Mawathagama, Mawathagama in Kurunegala. Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Prime Minister was Kurunegala, panic gripped farmers urged the Meanwhile, Department of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar in August yesterday (1) sworn into the ministerial Government to take immediate steps to control the Agriculture Director General Pradesh. Last week, the Delhi is to reopen international tourism portfolio of Livestock and Rural Community pest attack as they claimed it could be worse than the M.W. Weerakoon said measures Government issued an advisory by initially allowing small tour groups to travel Development which was formerly held by have already been taken to contain to farmers to spray pesticides and the country by August, The Morning learnt. late . “sena” caterpillar. the spread of locusts. keep a possible attack at bay. Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism and Rajapaksa was sworn in as the Cabinet Speaking to The Morning, the country. However, he noted that the Meanwhile, experts have Aviation Siripala Hettiarachchi told The Minister of Social Empowerment and Estate All Island Farmers Federation “This can be even worse than the locust found in Mawathagama is warned of huge crop losses if Morning that it had been decided to allow Infrastructure Development before President (AIFF) National Organiser sena caterpillar and this is similar to endemic and not the desert locust the swarms are not stopped by only small tour groups to enter the country Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the Presidential Namal Karunaratne warned the the Indian locust,” he noted. which is already destroying June when the monsoons will lead for tourism at the beginning. Secretariat yesterday. Government to control the pest However, there was no crop cultivations across India and to a new season of sowing rice, Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 attack before it spread around damage reported as yet, according Pakistan. sugarcane, cotton, and other crops.

GENERAL ELECTION SL records 11th Seas the day! Covid-19 death Health guidelines The 11th death from the Covid-19 virus was recorded yesterday (1), the to be finalised Ministry of Health said. The formulation of health Occupational Health, and Food Safety The deceased was said to be a guidelines for the upcoming general Unit Deputy Director General Dr. 45-year-old male who had arrived election are to be finalised in the next Lakshman Gamlath said that the final in the country from Kuwait. two weeks, The Morning learnt. draft was currently being amended. Ministry of Health Environment, Contd. on page 2 Rain in seven provinces FR PETITIONS ON ELECTION zRough seas towards the northwest SC order on With the southwest monsoon condition gradually spreading proceeding today over the country, the Department of Meteorology forecasts showers The Supreme Court (SC) at 3 p.m. at-Law Charitha Gunaratne, the in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, today (2) is to announce whether it will Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), Central, North Western, and Southern grant leave for the fundamental rights journalist Victor Ivan, and the Samagi provinces. (FR) petitions filed challenging the date Jana Balawegaya (SJB) filed FR set by the Election Commission (EC) petitions challenging the date for Former Minister Ajith Mannaperuma along with parliamentarians S.M. Marikkar and Hirunika Premachandra visited for the general election, it is learnt. the general election set by the EC. the Mount Lavinia beach to inspect the washing away of sand which was allegedly caused due to improper steps taken to fill the coast Seven parties including Attorney- Contd. on page 2 Trains and buses PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE increased The Ministry of Transport CCCRM DENIES ALLEGATIONS CHAMPIKA ACCIDENT CASE IN 2016 Services Management this week issued directives to the Sri Lanka Railways (SLR) and Sri Lanka ‘Only beach phase washed away’ AG instructs CCD to Transport Board (SLTB) to increase the number of trains and buses to The Department of Coast been washed away. Defending the beach nourishment arrest former Police OIC facilitate travel for people returning Conservation and Coastal As told to the media by CCCRM programme, the CCCRM denied The Attorney General (AG) involving former Minister Patali to work and are accessing essential Resource Management (CCCRM) Director General B.K. Prabath the allegations of failure of the has instructed the Director of the , which took services. denied the allegations levelled Chandrakeerthi, the cost of the entire project, also claiming that Crimes Division (CCD) place in 2016. against the controversial million- Mount Lavinia beach stretch was the Government fund spent for the to obtain a warrant and arrest the Ranawaka, who was a minister at rupee-worth beach nourishment around Rs. 110 million, and the Mount beach stretch has not gone former Officer in Charge (OIC) the time, was involved in an accident SEE FULL STORIES programme claiming that only the total cost of the project was Rs. to waste. of the Welikada Police Station on in Rajagiriya where a motorcyclist ON PAGE 2 beach phase of Mount Lavinia had 890 million. Contd. on page 2 charges of fabricating false evidence was critically injured. in the case filed over the accident Contd. on page 2

ANOTHER EXPLOSIVE REVELATION BY NISSANKA Assassination plot revealed DILAPIDATED BUSES z Former Navy Chief Ravindra z Digital evidence submitted to Pvt. bus owners Gunawardena accused commission backing allegations It was revealed at the Presidential Senadhipathi told the PCoI that former State and were able to scare off the seek assistance Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) Navy Commander Admiral Ravindra assailants,” he told the Commission. zLPBOA requests compensation/loan to repair probing political victimisation Wijegunawardana had sent naval He said this assassination attempt during the former Government that officers to carry out a hit on him. had been carried out due to his BY SARAH HANNAN Association (LPBOA) President a former Navy Chief had attempted to “On 31 December, he sent two opposition and activities against the Gemunu Wijeratne, speaking to assassinate the Avant-Garde Chairman of his naval security officers with moves to dismantle his maritime Private buses are yet to resume The Morning, said that since the in addition to more evidence coming a 9 mm gun each to my residence security operations by state actors as operations as bus owners are buses were left stationary for over to light. in Kotte. Fortunately, my personal well as his objections to the seizing of burdened with gathering funds to two months, it would result in dead Avant Garde Maritime Services (Pvt.) Avant Garde Maritime Services bodyguards, who are also former the floating armory M.V. Mahanuwara repair their buses. batteries and corroded engine parts. Ltd. CEO Major (Retd.) Nissanka Senadhipathi (Pvt.) Ltd. Chief Executive Officer military personnel, were armed by the Navy. Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Contd. on page 2 PHOTO LALITH PERERA (CEO) Major (Retd.) Nissanka with weapons legally given by the Contd. on page 2 2 the morning OPINION/NEWS Tuesday, June 2, 2020

BY COL R. HARIHARAN by such conduct, Modi did not mince words when he drew Xi’s attention to Even as nations are in the the incident in his statement at the end midst of fighting Covid- of the talks. And Xi took note of it. 19, Indian and Chinese Simmering standoff Former Foreign Secretary and troops have been locked Ambassador to China Nirupama Rao in an eyeball-to-eyeball fellow at the Institute of International that generally pass for the LAC. This summed up the present situation in her confrontation in eastern Relations of the Shanghai Academy of makes the present standoff in Ladakh tweet on 25 May: “Given absence of Ladakh for nearly three weeks. Social Sciences, as saying that Galwan strategically more important for both line of separation and mutual distancing This seems to be the biggest Valley was not like Doklam because it China and India than Doklam was. between sides, no jointly highlighted standoff after the 73-day was in the Aksai Chin region of southern India had deferred improvement of areas of difference of perception of LAC, Xinjiang. So, if India escalates friction, border road connectivity, particularly we are bound to see more such incidents Doklam standoff on the its military could pay a heavy price. in unpopulated regions of Ladakh and which now, additionally, have potential Sikkim border in August 2017. So far, parleys between the military Arunachal Pradesh, till 2011. The Chinese to turn into armed confrontation and Since April 2020, Chinese troop commanders in Ladakh have not yielded took full advantage of this to occupy conflict.” concentrations close to the border had results. However, diplomatic efforts are more and more territory to buttress their India will have to take a serious been noticed. However, the confrontation on to defuse the situation. After making Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Pancha claim. Shyam Saran, then NSA, was look at China under Xi, which is more was triggered when they physically tried standard comments to buttress their Rathas complex in Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu in October 2019 reported to have submitted a report to aggressive and ambitious. It is in a to prevent Indian troops patrolling the territorial claims, the Chinese have given An important milestone in these relations sides in accordance with the agreement the PMO (Prime Minister’s Office) on hurry to become a global power and Pangong Tso Lake on 5 May. In the tentative signals of a thaw. This was was the signing of the Border Defence on political guiding principles.” He also Ladakh in which he said the PLA had create a new world order on its own fisticuffs that followed, troops used evident from Chinese Ambassador Sun Co-operation Agreement (BDCA) on suggested that both countries needed to “incrementally” occupied nearly 640 sq. terms. At the same time, Xi is under iron rods and sticks, in which 100 were Weidong’s conciliatory statement on 24 October 2013 during PM Manmohan improve levels of military and security km area at DBO, Chumar, and Pangong tremendous international pressure on reported injured. 26 May. Singh’s visit to China. It put no restrictions exchanges and co-operation, which was Tso Lake. Media reports alleged that he many fronts after Covid played havoc Though local commanders from both From past experience of such on India developing border infrastructure followed up. Even Covid-19 did not halt had stated that the entire Depsang Bulge with global trade and the economy. The sides met and agreed to disengage the confrontation, followed by conciliation, or enhancing military capabilities there. interaction between the two countries. was now inaccessible to India. US is spearheading a global campaign to next day, the standoff has now spread to it is going to be a long haul before the Against this background, 2019 may They went ahead with the “Hand in Chinese intrusions across the LAC hold China responsible for the spread of Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley, Demchok, troops stand down in Ladakh and return be considered a very constructive one. Hand 2019”, the eighth edition of the came at critical moments. China’s the virus due to its opaque public health and Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO). Both sides to normal activity. However, given the It saw interaction between the two India-China joint military exercise on muscular assertions in the Ladakh region practices. have massed troops, with the potential to complexity of India-China relations at all countries at various levels starting with counterterrorism and disaster relief. The have increased in frequency, particularly China’s diplomats have become explode into an armed conflict. levels, our country is unlikely to lower the Mamallapuram informal summit in objective of it was to build and promote after India started 61 infrastructure raucous in their response to them, Indian troops clashed in these places its guard any time soon. October 2019 where PM Narendra Modi positive relations between the two armies. projects to improve connectivity to the earning the sobriquet of wolf warriors. during the 1962 war with China. This After the 1962 conflict, it took nearly met President Xi Jinping. Evidently, the The PLA (People’s Liberations Army) western, central, and eastern sectors from China’s “one country-two systems” is underlines their strategic importance three decades for India-China relations to two leaders were trying to build upon contingent of 130 troops from the Tibet 2011 onwards. under severe strain after Hong Kong’s to our national security, particularly move from confrontation to cordiality. An their constructive engagement at the Military Command participated in the In April 2013, when the Manmohan quest for autonomy started getting after China and Pakistan stepped up agreement on the Maintenance of Peace Wuhan informal summit a year earlier. exercise. Singh Government was getting ready for out of hand. Taiwan has elected for a their strategic co-operation during the and Tranquillity along the Line of Actual The positive vibes created at Wuhan In the same month, the 22nd round of a general election a year later, Chinese second time President Tsai whose party last decade. Control (LAC) in the border areas was managed to patch up, if not mend, the talks between the special representatives, troops intruded into the Depsang Bulge, stands for independence and the US has Estimates of troops on both sides vary, signed on 7 September 1993. During frayed relations after the standoff at National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit a table-top plateau, threatening to cut off announced it would resume arms sales from 2,000-5,000. But the difficult terrain President Jiang Zemin’s visit to India in Doklam at the Sikkim-Tibet-Bhutan Doval and China’s State Councillor Wang 750 sq. km of northern Ladakh. After to Taiwan. Tensions are at a new high in and high altitude makes the deployment November 1996, India and China signed tri-junction. But a month before Xi’s Yi, was held in Delhi. They involved the a 23-day standoff, they withdrew after the South China Sea as China is trying of even 500 troops at a time tough, an agreement on confidence-building participation in the Mamallapuram most complex part of the negotiations – Indian diplomatic efforts at the highest to consolidate its control over the sea, according to some generals with hands- measures along the LAC. It provided for Connect, Indian and Chinese troops agreeing on a framework to resolve the level. brow-beating smaller neighbours like on experience in the region. Another border security and confidence measures were involved in a scuffle on the banks dispute in all sectors. After that, the final This intrusion was strategically Malaysia, Philippines, and Vietnam from clash took place between Chinese and between the two countries. It called for of Pangong Tso. Though it was defused step will be delineating and demarcating significant as it was just 35 km from exploring offshore gas and oil resources. Indian troops on 9 May at Naku La in military disclosure when they undertake after talks between the commanders from the boundary in maps and on the ground. the Karakoram Pass at the tri-junction These vulnerabilities of China could north Sikkim; 10 soldiers were reported border exercises and for the reduction of the two sides, it was a stronger reminder In spite of all the bonhomie, why of the India-Pakistan-China border and be turned into opportunities for India, injured. The clash occurred even though troop levels in the border areas. It also that no amount of bonhomie can wish does China create a military crisis in overlooks the Siachen Glacier-Saltoro with a mix of deft diplomacy, show there was no major dispute between allowed them to observe and inspect troop away the border disputes acting as a drag Ladakh when India is on the back foot Ridge to the west and the Indian of strength and imaginative trade and the two about the international border movements in each other’s territory upon on bilateral relations. fighting Covid-19? The answer lies observation post at Chumar in the east. economic policy. That is the only option in Sikkim. This would indicate that the invitation. This agreement built mutual However, Xi did not raise or discuss in the importance of Ladakh for the Equally significant was that the Chinese for India because it works better than Chinese are reminding India about its trust, though border incidents continued. the Kashmir issue, though Pakistan PM strategic security of Xinjiang and Tibet, intrusion took place before China’s empty rhetoric or muscle-flexing when vulnerability. However, both sides handled them away Imran Khan had made a number of visits which form China’s longest land border Premier Li Keqiang’s scheduled visit the country is already under tremendous On 18 May, China accused India of from media glare. to Beijing seeking China’s support to with India. This is not the first time on 20 May 2013. pressure from the pandemic. “trespassing and illegally building defence During Premier Wen Jiabao’s visit to internationalise it after India abolished that Indian troops manning the border Even as PM Modi extended a red (The writer is a military facilities” in Galwan Valley. Chinese India in April 2005, the two sides signed the special status of J&K (Jammu and here have confronted Chinese troops carpet welcome to Xi during his maiden intelligence specialist on South Communist Party tabloid Global Times an agreement on political settlement of Kashmir). After the Mamallapuram transgressing the LAC because they do visit to India in September 2014, the Asia, associated with the Chennai mentioned that China had enhanced the boundary issue, setting guidelines meeting, Xi said: “We will seek a fair and not accept its alignment. However, on atmosphere was marred by confrontation Centre for China Studies and the control measures throughout the border in and principles to the boundary issue reasonable solution to the border issue the ground, Indian and Chinese troops with Chinese troops intruding across International Law and Strategic Ladakh. It quoted Hu Zhiyong, a research through equal and friendly negotiations. that is acceptable to both sides in to both have been maintaining patrolling limits the LAC in Ladakh. Apparently irked Studies Institute)

Contd. from page 1

traditional tourism hotspots. The plan digital evidence of former CIABOC as to reduce overcrowding on SLTB As said by the CCCRM Director due to time constraints. No quarantine... is to bring them down straight to the Chief Dilrukshi Wickremesinghe, buses during peak times. General, the Cabinet approval for the Dr. Gamlath has been tasked with There will be no quarantine. But Mattala Airport and then go along the allegedly confessing that the Yahapalana Accordingly, SLR increased the project was received on 8 May 2018 formulating the Health Ministry more random PCR tests will be done,” coast or through the southern districts to Government was taking political revenge number of trains that will operate this and the current Cabinet approved the guidelines for the parliamentary Hettiarachchi said. the east coast. This way, we can touch on him and the Rajapaksas. week up to 37 yesterday (1), while awarding of the contract to the Danish election, in consultation with the Election Furthermore, he said the Sri Lanka Yala and Udawalawe Parks as well,” In the voice recording of a telephone 35 trains are to operate today (2) and company in January this year. Commission (EC) and other connected Tourism Development Authority he said, pointing out that this enables conversation between Senadhipathi and tomorrow (3). Meanwhile, CCCRM Senior Engineer groups. (SLTDA) would be issuing Covid-19- tourists to enjoy the country while also the CIABOC Chief, the latter can be SLTB Chairman Kingsley Ranawaka of Coastal Design and Research Sujeewa – Skandha Gunasekara free certificates to hotels. keeping clear of densely populated areas heard saying that had she known the noted that the number of buses will Ranawaka said the project was planned “The SLTDA would be certifying and high-risk zones. legal cases filed by the CIABOC against be increased to 5,000 from this week and implemented by the CCCRM, which hotels that have followed the health – Skandha Gunasekara Senadhipathi would affect his maritime onwards in order to facilitate travel for was under then Minister of Environment SC order... guidelines and are covid-free,” he said. security services business, she would not passengers travelling to work. President . The further hearing of the FR petitions have gone ahead with filing such cases According to the National Transport “The Cabinet decision to go ahead with commenced for the 10th day last (1) Assassination... against him. Commission (NTC), about 3,200 this project was taken on 22 January this morning. PM sworn... Senadhipathi told the Commission that – Skandha Gunasekara privately owned buses are expected to year by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa The FR petitions are heard before Thondaman, 56, passed away last former Minister of Health Dr. Rajitha be added to facilitate inter-provincial and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa’s a bench of five judges chaired by Tuesday (26 May) after he suffered a Seneratne had told the media the former travel. SLR General Manager Dilantha Government, and it was carried out in Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya heart attack. Navy Commander had asserted that the SL records... Fernando stated that the number of March through Rohde Nielsen. It was and comprising Justices Buwaneka operations of Avant-Garde Maritime He was treated for the virus at the trains was increased with the Ministry rushed through during the curfew because Aluwihare, Sisira de Abrew, Priyantha Small tour... Services were carried out illegally. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the of Transport permitting persons to use there would’ve been opposition from the Jayawardena, and Vijith Malalgoda. Further evidence was given to the Homagama Hospital where he had trains as a mode of transport to attend local fishing community,” Ranawaka The Attorney General (AG) on behalf “Small tour groups will be easier to effect that the Commission to Investigate succumbed to the disease. to essential services. noted. of the President, EC Chairman Mahinda handle and keep track of. It will also be Allegations of Bribery or Corruption A total of 19,593 commuters had However, in January this year, the Deshapriya, and EC Members N.J. easier to plan tours and such for a group (CIABOC) had allegedly filed cases booked their seats for this week to Cabinet of Ministers approved the Abeysekara, and Prof. S. Ratnajeevan rather than have individual tourists going against Senadhipathi to extract false Rain in... travel to work, while commuters are awarding of a € 4.4 million contract for Hoole have been named respondents of all over the country,” he said, noting evidence against current President Showers or thundershowers may occur also allowed to purchase tickets from beach nourishment, based on a proposal the petitions. the importance of following Covid-19 Gotabaya Rajapaksa. in several places in the Eastern and Uva the departure railway stations after submitted by the Minister of Environment guidelines. “The first two officers of the CIABOC Provinces and in the Polonnaruwa District necessary identifications are verified and Wildlife Resources. It was planned He said they hope to reopen the airports that interrogated me clearly told me after after 2 p.m. as the wind speed increases by the respective station masters. to dredge sand from the deep sea to Pvt. bus... and thereby the country for tourism by questioning me about my business that up to 40 kmph, at times, over the island. A total of 14 trains are to operate on nourish a stretch of the beach spanning “Buses have two batteries and most 1 August. Hettiarachchi went on to say all my operations had been carried out Showers or thundershowers could the main line with trains leaving from Angulana to Mount Lavinia as well as will need replacements that will cost that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has legally. They are not in the employ of the occur in several places in the deep and Kandy, Polgahawela, Rambukkana, the Calido beach in Kalutara. closer to Rs. 100,000. Moreover, parts requested that tourists be flown directly CIABOC anymore. Thereafter, an officer shallow sea areas extending from Mannar Kurunegalam, Mirigama, Veyangoda, – Maheesha Mudugamuwa might need replacement as well, which to Mattala (the Rajapaksa Hambantota named Pushpakuamara told me directly to Batticaloa via Puttalam, Colombo, Gampaha, and Ragama to Colombo are in short supply and have increased Airport) and to promote non-traditional that he was told by the CIABOC Chief Galle, and Hambantota. . A total of 13 trains are to operate on in price by 15% following the tax destinations as a measure to avoid high- to get false evidence that could be used Winds will be southwesterly and wind the coastal line with trains leaving from AG instructs... hike. It is bad enough that they (bus risk areas. to prosecute the current President and in speed will beat 30-40 kmph in the sea Beliatta, Galle, Aluthgama, Kalutara He had allegedly fled the scene and owners) lost their income for two “The President has requested that we return I would be left alone allowed to areas around the island. Wind speed can South, Panadura, and Moratuwa to later produced his driver in court as the months and are now faced with these look at new locations such as Arugam continue businesses,” he said. increase up to 50-55 kmph at times in the Maradana. individual who had been driving the additional maintenance costs before Bay and Trincomalee rather than the In addition, Senadhipathi also submitted deep and shallow sea areas off the coast Six trains will operate on the Kelani- vehicle at the time of the accident. the bus can be put back to operate,” extending from Puttalam to Mullaitivu Valley line with trains leaving from The former Minister was arrested and Wijeratne noted. via Mannar and Kankasanturai, and sea Avissawella, Padukka, Kosgama, remanded in December 2019 over the Furthermore, he stated that people are areas off the coast extending from Galle Maharagama, and Homagama to accident on the instructions of the AG, not willing to use public transport as the Cartoon of the day to Batticaloa via Hambantota. Colombo Fort, while one train on the and was later granted bail. virus is still present, fearing they cannot The deep and shallow sea areas off the northern line from Maho to Colombo adhere to health guidelines when using coast extending from Galle to Batticaloa Fort and three trains on the Puttalam public transport. Even the few buses via Hambantota and Puttalam to line from Chilaw and Negombo will Health... that are operating on certain routes do Mullaitivu via Mannar and Kankesanturai also operate. “We are having meetings with all the so as they need to earn a living, despite can be rough at times. The other sea areas relevant parties involved in the election the journeys not turning a considerable around the island can be fairly rough at process. Last week, we had discussions income. The association has also times. Temporarily strong gusty winds ‘Only beach... with the Police and are making requested their insurance agents to at up to 70-80 kmph and very rough seas The Director General said there was amendments to the draft, following the least look at arranging a compensation can be expected during thundershowers. no truth to the allegation that Rs. 890 observations,” he said. payment for the loss of two months’ Naval and fishing communities are million worth of sand was washed away. He said the final draft would be work. In addition to that, they have also requested to be vigilant in this regard. The million-rupee project came to light completed as soon as possible. informed the Government about their last week after images of the stretch of the “We hope that within the next two plight and requested it to consider at least Mount beach that was washed away to weeks we can conclude; maybe even soft loans, so that they could purchase Trains and... the sea began to circulate on social media. before that. It all depends on how the the necessary spare parts and replace The Ministry had also requested the According to the CCCRM, the meetings go and how the amendments the batteries of the buses before they Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association purpose of the programme was to need to be done,” he said. are put to use. (LPBOA) to consider deploying buses artificially nourish the stretch of the He noted that some exercises such as The LPBOA further stated that at least to ensure passengers could travel whilst eroding beach extending from Mount a mock drill on the implementation of 4,000 such buses need to be repaired maintaining the health guidelines as well Lavinia to Dehiwala. the guidelines may not be carried out before they are used for public transport. the morning 3 Tuesday, June 2, 2020 business SLIM launches ‘Restart Sri Lanka’, national initiative ICTA fires back to re-engineer businesses The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), as the national body for marketing, initiated at Weerawarana “Restart Sri Lanka” recently zSpreading ‘falsehoods’ seeking ‘personal gain’: Jayantha De Silva under the auspices of the Prime Minister Mahinda The Information prior to his appointment, and those views were always its employees, rather than Rajapaksa and the patronage and Communication was suddenly expected to be a welcome, but I can’t watch “allowing one or more board of parliamentarian Namal Technology Agency of typical board member. multibillion-rupee tenders for members to exercise executive Rajapaksa to provide the Sri Lanka (ICTA) has De Silva termed the blog driving licenses or for issuing functions”, which would impetus for Sri Lankan categorically denied the post a “deliberate move to train tickets go by without “create confusion” amongst businesses to reinvigorate alleged irregularities mislead the media and public”, seeing how we can do them staff and ICTA’s stakeholders the economy following the alluded to by Dr. Sanjiva saying ICTA has acted purely in the most modern way (and and also “jeopardise the the unprecedented impact of as a technical advisor in the not just bringing 20-year-old collective accountability” of the Covid-19 pandemic. Weerawarana in a blog said two tenders and has taken foreign tech), how we can do the Board. SLIM volunteered to post following his no part at all in the tender them at a far lower cost, and “What is even more support and shoulder the resignation from the processes. how we can use them as an disturbing is the manner national responsibility ICTA Board on Saturday “Dr. Weerawarana’s actions opportunity to create or build a in which Dr. Weerawarana of mentoring the local (30 May), calling them of deliberately trying to local business,” Weerawarana handled his resignation, businesses and SMEs and falsehoods for personal create doubt in the minds said. which smacks of an attempt take proactive measures Restart SL logo gain. of the public on the digital De Silva went on to say that to smear the good reputation to counter the coronavirus way that you should look governance plan for the nation Weerawarana’s resignation of the ICTA Board. This threat to become more at life. Let’s all rise to face “The falsehoods of this story is mala fide, inflammatory, was inevitable. “We believe has been done with the resilient against future the challenges and find need to be exposed as they are and defamatory,” De Silva his leaving was inevitable, release of various reports to shocks and disruptions. a new way to sustain a nothing but a ploy of those added. due to the positions taken the media, which has been The attempt and bright future in one spirit, seeking personal gain,” said The blog post hinted that by Dr. Weerawarana on how subjected to edits even after accomplishment through the as one nation and one ICTA Chairman Jayantha De ICTA had opted to carry the Board should act and they were publicly posted, new initiative is to reinvent country. ‘Restart Sri Lanka’ Silva, adding that the agency out projects using outdated operate, rather than reaching due to inaccuracies contained and re-engineer multiple provides a platform to is considering what actions it technology and incurring an common ground with others therein. His public statement segments of the economy to create a positive mindset should take in this regard. unnecessarily high cost. to ensure that ICTA functions is contrary to his letter of sustain their operations with as well as to reinvent and Technology evangelist “I also helped review in a cohesive manner as one resignation handed over to the help of the “Restart Sri re-engineer SMEs and and WSO2 Founder Dr. various projects that Cabinet team.” the appointing authorities, in Lanka”. Sri Lankan businesses. Weerawarana resigned from directed towards ICTA and He added that the which he clearly states that he “People and businesses, Being the national body for the Board (of ICTA), saying sometimes gave radical views Board’s vision is to build is resigning solely because of including SMEs, are marketing, SLIM always that he was not allowed to be on how to do them (or how a sustainable and inclusive personal reasons,” the letter welcome to harness the understood the current “hands-on” as had been agreed not to do them). I don’t think organisation which empowers added. support extended through need of the country and ‘Restart Sri Lanka’ in SLIM President addressed it through a Roshan Fernando discovering the ‘new national initiative with normal’ and devising and empower the sectors to value-added programmes by winning strategies to never give up and never let building a positive outlook John Keells Group supports prosper. SLIM hopes and go,” SLIM said in a press among people, and this time looks forward to connecting release. under the direction of the the local businesses with SLIM President Prime Minister’s Office to Sri Lanka’s battle against Covid-19 the assistance of leading Roshan Fernando stated: overcome the pandemic experts in the business “Challenges are part of our crisis. Let’s usher in a fresh The John Keells Group, government hospitals with Ja-Ela, Nawagamuwa, Asia Pacific Alliance for and marketing fraternity lives. Creating opportunities innovative world with through its CSR entity the donation of personal and Avissawella. The Disaster Management to guide, mentor, network, out of challenges is the positivity and courage!” John Keells Foundation protection equipment (PPE) PPE requirement for PHI (A-PAD), and its staff, (JKF) as well as different to strengthen the safety of of Peliyagoda, Mabole, distributed over 2,000 packs group companies, has the frontliners battling the Mahabage, Sedawatta, of essential goods to needy supported multiple relief pandemic and to minimise Seeduwa, Enderamulla, families in Mattakkuliya, NDB Reduces Lending Rates efforts including critical their exposure to the virus. and Avissawella was met Kolonnawa, Thimbirigasyaya, infrastructure development, PPE donations were made by John Keells Logistics. Kirulapone, and Narahenpita strengthening the safety of to IDH and the Teaching Furthermore, Elephant House and another 649 packs in and disburses Saubhagya Loans those in frontline services, and Hospital at the Kotelawala together with John Keells Matara, Chilaw, Maho, The National Development resulting from the COVID interest rates and all other provision of immediate relief Defense University (KDU), Office Automation supported Marawila, Kurunegala, Bank PLC recently 19 pandemic, it is necessary applicable charges of loans to affected communities. the Homagama Base Hospital the donation of a photocopy and Thanamalwila in announced a reduction of to provide businesses with to all sectors of the SME JKF in collaboration with the support of Ceylon machine to the MOH office collaboration with the lending rates across the board access to funds at affordable segment. with South Asia Gateway Cold Stores (Elephant House), in Kaduwela. TSF assisted Government Medical Officers’ in line with the downward rates. He further noted Additionally, the interest Terminals, Deutsche Bank, and Base Hospitals in Neluwa in disinfecting the Neluwa Association (GMOA). Keells trend of interest rates in Sri that the bank has already rates on personal loans, and Melstacorp PLC and Hiniduma in collaboration Hospital and public areas of supermarkets with the support Lanka. Accordingly, NDB implemented the directions Home Loans and NDB’s supported the establishment with Tea Smallholder the Neluwa town. of the Sooriyaweva Divisional has reduced its interest rates of the central bank in special offering of the of a Molecular Diagnostic Factories (TSF). Keells Many low-income families Secretariat also donated 300 across the range of lending lowering the overdraft rates pensioner’s loan – Aachara Laboratory at the National supermarkets donated PPE to were severely affected in packs of essential goods products by over 1.50%. of SME clients to 13% and Loan have also been Institute of Infectious the District General Hospital the immediate aftermath of among community members Hence, customers in new pawning rates to 12%. reduced. Diseases (IDH) towards in Gampaha and the public the lockdown in Sri Lanka. in Sooriyawewa, which some of the critical growth The SME segment, which Meanwhile, NDB Credit meeting the urgent need health inspectors (PHI) in the JKF, with the support of included long-term suppliers segments may avail of forms the backbone of the Card customers can also of the time to increase the . Elephant House and Keells of fruits and vegetables to better rates to accelerate Sri Lankan economy, is enjoy a rate of 15% for local testing capacity of Sri Lanka JKF, with the support supermarkets, distributed Keells supermarkets. their growth. The Bank also the segment which will transactions up to Rs. 50,000 following the Covid-19 of TSF, also donated PPE 10,000 packs of essential JKF, Elephant House, continues to provide support be impacted the most in as opposed to the normal rate outbreak. This collaboration among PHIs in Neluwa and provisions free of charge to Keells supermarkets, to the customers who are an economic down turn. of 28%. enabled a temporary lab Hiniduma. Elephant House families identified by the Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, affected by the COVID- Hence it is imperative In addition, the Bank is facility to be operational at and Keells Food Products District Secretary/Government and Cinnamon Red Colombo 19 pandemic through debt that the banks support this also extending a moratorium IDH from 29 March 2020 donated PPE to medical Agent of Colombo among also donated essential food moratoriums and facilitating segment by making funds on loan repayments to while the permanent facility, officers of health (MOH) communities in Slave provisions and hydration aid new funding. available at concessionary eligible clients so that cash which was declared open in Pannala, Ja-Ela, and Island, Thimbirigasyaya, for IDH staff, armed forces, Group CEO, Dimantha rates. Accordingly, while generated in the business can on 28 April 2020, further Avissawella; hospitals in Mattakkuliya, and and other social service Seneviratne noted, that in the overdraft rate has been go towards stabilizing and enhanced IDH’s testing Sandalankawa, Seeduwa, Kolonnawa. Union Assurance, organisations in the immediate order for the country to reduced by 2%, NDB growing the business in the capacity and turnaround time. and Nawagamuwa; and with the assistance of the aftermath of the Covid-19 recover from the current also offers a number of short term rather than using The foundation also assisted police stations in Pannala, Colombo District Secretariat, pandemic. economic slowdown concessions on the fees, that cash to repay bank loans. Dialog hands over fully functional ICU to Negombo Hospital

Dialog Axiata PLC, in less than a accumulated for facilitating this district’s month, concluded the immediate civil hospital with a fully functional ICU reconstruction and provision of equipment complex in this current time of need and to establish a fully functional Intensive for long-term direct lifesaving activities.” Care Unit (ICU) at the Negombo District Also commenting, Dialog Axiata General Hospital. This concludes the first PLC Group Chief Executive Supun step taken in the pledged Rs. 200 million Weerasinghe said: “We are pleased to have towards the urgently required ICU capacity concluded the critical ICU development at development in hospitals selected by the the Negombo District General Hospital in Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical less than a month, in our efforts to further Services during the Covid-19 pandemic. support healthcare providers with their The civil reconstruction and critical ICU direct lifesaving activities. The completion development funded entirely by Dialog of this project, which is part of the larger Axiata established a fully functional ICU mission of the Rs. 200 million pledged complex with a Medical Intensive Care by Dialog to support and expand the Unit (MICU) and a Surgical Intensive country’s healthcare systems, significantly Revealing the plaque during the inauguration ceremony of the fully Explanations underway of the functionality of the fully functional ICU. Care Unit (SICU) to accommodate 10 functional ICU complex at the Negombo District Hospital. From left: From left: Minister , Supun Weerasinghe, Ministry of increased accessibility to intensive care to new beds complete with state-of-the-art Secretary to the Ministry of Health Dr. S.H. Munasinghe, Private Secretary Health Deputy Director General of Health Services Dr. Amal , the general public, enabling not only the ICU equipment advancing the hospital’s to the Minister of Health Kanchana Jayaratne, Minister of Health Pavithra Kanchana Jayaratne, Negombo District General Hospital Director Dr. Nihal treatment of Covid-19 patients in a time capability to admit more patients. This Wanniarachchi, Dialog Axiata Group Chief Executive Supun Weerasinghe, Weerasuriya, and Additional Secretary (Medical Services) to the Ministry of of crisis, but also continues to support all and Axiata Group Berhad Chief Executive of Telecommunications Business Health Dr. Sunil de Alwis ICU development by Dialog Axiata will and Executive Vice President Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya other patients in need of critical care, in the further enable a higher chance of survival long term.” for admitted critical patients in the long “Dialog Axiata took great efforts to during the Covid-19 pandemic, we have the hospital in this crucial time of need.” Additionally, Dialog Axiata is also in run, lessen the pressure on medical staff provide a fully functional ICU to the a responsibility to save the public from Secretary to the Ministry of Health the midst of completing the second stage treating patients with acute illnesses, and hospital. This marks a monumental common acute illnesses such as dengue Dr. S.H. Munasinghe further stated: of the pledged Rs. 200 million to establish add greater value to the training of doctors moment in history where the development fever, now a long-term possibility with “An individual’s health is their greatest a fully functional ICU at the Homagama in intensive care whilst also further acting of a fully functional ICU complex was the completion of the fully functional ICU wealth. Dialog’s colossal efforts show us a Base Hospital. These efforts are integral as a catalyst to improve healthcare systems completed in less than 30 days. On behalf complex. Thus, we extend our sincere company’s ability to greatly contribute to milestones achieved in Dialog’s mission of in the district. of the Government of Sri Lanka, I would thanks and appreciation to the unwavering public welfare and as a result create greater expanding the country’s healthcare systems Commenting on this occasion, Minister like to state my sincere gratitude to Dialog. efforts of Dialog Axiata and everyone who prosperity in their long-term health. Dialog to provide critical care services and of Health Pavithra Wanniarachchi stated: Much like the lifesaving efforts practised was involved in this dedicated service to is abundantly blessed in the goodwill it has accessibility to intensive care for patients. 4 the morning OPINION Tuesday, June 2, 2020

A peaceful demonstration was held outside the Colombo Mayor’s residence on 29 May, requesting the release of the dogs removed from the Viharamahadevi Park

REMOVAL OF COMMUNITY DOGS FROM VIHARAMAHADEVI Animal activists question Mayor over missing dogs On the afternoon of 29 May, animals last year. Here, a proposal for at night and the neighbourhood around the while out feeding the dogs at sterilisation programmes to be executed park also informed us that they bark and Viharamahadevi Park, Anusha by the Government was suggested. were very active around 1 a.m. to 3 a.m. David, an animal welfare activist Furthermore, the meeting adjourned on the They and the residents bordering the park for the last 40 years, noticed a agreement that if any problems arose in seemed to think that there were nefarious significant decrease – almost 99% relation to stray dogs in Colombo, a few activities such as drug pedalling going – in their numbers. On inquiring of the activists present would be informed. on and having the dogs there acted as a as to why this was so from park Ultimately, the proposal was not followed deterrent to such activities. In fact, they officials, she was told that they had up and the agreement amounted to nothing informed us that with the dogs around, they been taken away by the Colombo as none of the activists were notified felt safe. However, Otara organised and despite the Mayor’s assurances. Shilpa sterilised over 30 dogs in and around the Municipal Council (CMC). On further denies that the activists in the community park. inquiring the purpose of taking group had been invited to assist with the Our next visit was the children’s park away the dogs, they had replied halfway houses and fostering programme, in the Mutwal area. When the security saying they did not know. or even informed prior to the incident. guards realised we had come to check on Otara proceeded to reveal Rosy’s sudden the dogs, they actually became hostile and David then proceeded to do four rounds urgency to relocate the dogs and find them informed us that they had four dogs that of the park and much to her dismay foster homes, despite proper solutions were vaccinated and sterilised and that discovered that only three adult dogs and being proposed during the meeting last they are no problem to any one and guard three pups were left in the entire park. A year. Panchali Panapitiya stated that the park after 10 p.m., once it’s closed, minimum of eight to 10 adult dogs whom CNVR (catch-neuter-vaccinate-release) from druggies who would jump in. We she was familiar with were no longer there. programmes is the only humane solution assured them that we had no intention She then immediately contacted a senior to regaining control over the population of of taking them anywhere, and when we official at the CMC, whose name could stray dogs and that it is, in fact, the agreed- walked around, we saw the dogs being fed be divulged if required, who told her the revealed intentions of the implementation dog which cannot be released due its upon method between the Government by visitors too. All this happened in 2018 Mayor had ordered that the dogs be taken. being spread to other locations. nature. Also, the CMC has not put down and animal welfare organisations. Otara when the dialogue basically broke down However, he too was not aware of the any stray dogs in the last few years and announced that drastic actions such as as we saw nothing was happening on the purpose behind it. David then contacted The Mayor’s response will not be doing so in the future. This is this are hurtful to the animals and as a part of the Mayor’s Office and the CMC, Prasanga, who also feeds the Park dogs. The Mayor, however, resorted to a fact well known by all animal welfare compassionate nation, this act opposes and we continued to do our best to keep Prasanga too contacted a CMC official delaying her statement until the situation groups. the expectations of Sri Lanka’s concerned the population under control and ensure the who again said this had been done at the came to light. Late morning/early “What we hope to do is develop our citizens. animals were fed and safe. Mayor’s request. The official had gone afternoon of 30 May, she addressed the halfway house facilities which will be a The issuing of this order has caused on to say that they at the CMC disliked claims in a letter issued by the Mayor’s holding place for stray dogs until foster citizens to recall the 2018 incident Visakha Tillekeratne incarcerating innocent animals but had no Office. homes can be found for them. We have involving Rosy calling for dog catchers. On 30 May 2020 afternoon, activists choice but to comply with orders. Below are excerpts of the letter: invited animal welfare activists to discuss Shilpa stated that Rosy had also claimed and citizens gathered before Town Hall to “This statement is a response to the steps we like to take in this regard and also that she’ll be visiting the pound in 2018, protest for the release of the dogs. Proper various false allegations being made on obtain their valuable input and assitance to only to go back on her word. health instructions were followed by all social media that all stray dogs including better manage these facilities (sic). protesters who diligently wore masks and Why are you targeting innocent all those in and around the Vihara Maha “We trust that this has shed light on what gloves and responsibly practised social Devi Park are being rounded up by the has actually happened and will put things distancing. animals? Have you been to the dog pound? Do you know the meaning of CMC and will be put down. in perspective. Madam Mayor, what are you doing “Let us explain what the actual situation “The Mayor will also be making a From time immemorial, there have about the real problems that beset this a pound? Have you any knowledge of been dogs at the park which animal what we welfarists have faced in this is. During the curfew time due to the non- inspection visit of the facilities presently country such as: (i) Filthy municipal availability of food, many stray dogs were housing the dogs today and will give the welfare activists have fed, sterilised, markets including Manning Market, which pound? Where were you then? Do you and rehomed. As of today, 98% of know the trauma these animals go congregating at around the Vihara Maha necessary instructions to upgrade the is abominable, (ii) lack of street lighting Devi Park and were being fed by the CMC facilities if required (sic).” these dogs are missing since 29 May (despite being a woman and street lighting through when they are being caught? Anusha David and the Mayor herself. Due to the lack being so important, what are you doing Visakha Tillekeratne of food during those times, there was a Animal welfare activists to make women safer, especially when large congregation of dogs at the park in raise their voices A week after she took office, Ira de travelling at night?) (iii) bad roads, (iv) Then proceeding to send the Mayor a addition to the dogs which were resident Anusha David Silva, Lalani de Silva, Lorraine Bibile, pen cesspits, (v) blocked storm drains, (vi) WhatsApp message pertaining to this on around that area from before (sic). From time immemorial, there have been and myself went to meet her in order to lack of proper street cleaning except in a WhatsApp group that both the Mayor “There have been mounting complaints dogs at the park which animal welfare appraise her of the community animals Colombo 7, and (vii) corrupt officials? and David were on, she pleading with her to the park administration from park users, activists have fed, sterilised, and rehomed. in Colombo. She wanted us to give a Why are you targeting innocent animals? to explain why this had been done and the general public, and from the park As of today, 98% of these dogs are missing proposal to humanely manage them. She Have you been to the dog pound? Do you why when Mayor Senanayake is very well workers themselves that some of these since 29 May. also appointed one person from her team know the meaning of a pound? Have you acquainted with both herself and Otara dogs are aggressive and have chased after The dogs are so timid that they will not to liaise with us. The second meeting any knowledge of what we welfarists have Gunewardene they had not been consulted both walkers, cyclists, and even children. even eat the food I put down for them until included Otara, Shiona, and Iromi from faced in this pound? Where were you then? by her or the Mayor’s office in this regard. In Also, eight ducks who were resident in the we have moved well away by which time the AWPA (Animal Welfare and Protection Do you know the trauma these animals go fact, Ven. Sobitha Thera too tried contacting park have also been attacked and killed by the crows have eaten most of it. Yes, they Society) and Dr. Dharmwardane and his through when they are being caught? Who the Mayor with no response. When there dogs. do bark, but even my dogs at home bark team from the CMC. At the meeting, Dr. were the posh damsels who were walking was no response, David contacted Lakshika “Due to this, the Veterinary Department when they see me and run after me. As Dharmwardane assured us that all the and then asked you to remove these De Silva, who is a close friend of the Mayor, took measures to identify the more for the dogs eating the ducks, I’m afraid unsterilised dogs in Colombo will be innocent beings? Please be accountable and asked her to inquire as to why this had aggressive dogs resident at the park and anyone with any sense will not rear ducks systematically operated and that he does for suffering. Please release these dogs taken place. The Mayor had then told De relocate them temporarily until a more in a public place where they are prey to not need any help from the AWPS for this immediately. Silva who in turn conveyed her message to permanent solution can be found. As a humans, dogs, and other animals. As for purpose. We offered our support. After a David, saying that the dogs indeed had been matter of information, two dogs were aggression, in my 30-plus years of feeding few months, we realised that the situation Where are the missing dogs? taken to the dog pound and were well taken removed, as they were identified as being dogs at the park, I have not witnessed this. was not getting any better because of the “At the time of writing this article at care of, adding that Thisakya Senanayake aggressive. All other dogs remain in the Aggression is the last resort people stoop numerous calls all of us were getting about 12.30 p.m. on Sunday, 31 May, 98% of was personally supervising the feeding area. Therefore, the stories floating around to when they have nothing else to say. If a abandoned mums and puppies. park dogs are still missing despite claims rounds for the pound. that all dogs from Vihara Maha Devi Park dog is aggressive, it is mainly due to fear We informed the Mayor and another that they have been brought back. I know Gunewardene stated that upon contacting have been removed and to be eventually and this aspect can be dealt with by those meeting was called, this time with the each and every one of these dogs and I can the Mayor on the night of the 29 May, the put down is false and that orders have gone with the experience to do so. Carting them Council members as well. Some of the easily identify them,” said David. latter had blatantly denied issuing the order out to remove all street dogs is also false. off to the Dog Pound is not the solution. complaints were about the park in Crows David has also contacted Manekha and had claimed that the Police had taken Anyone who care to visit the park today or In fact, dog pounds are obsolete, but then Island and another in Mutwal (Modara). Gandhi, the world-renowned animal welfare the dogs to the pound on their own accord. even did so yesterday would have observed Sri Lanka does not even have an Animal Otara and myself made an appointment activist, as well as Dr Chinny Krishna, the Gunewardene had expressed her scepticism that there still are dogs in and around the Welfare Bill. and went with Dr. Dharmwardane to check Founder of the Blue Cross of India which as the Police had actively supported the park (sic). out the actual situation in both places. has animal shelters across India, who until animal welfare activists during curfew and “For your further information, there are Sharmini Ratnayake The dogs in Crows Island were very few; recently was a Board Member of WSPCA, had assisted in swiftly gaining curfew passes presently four dogs in the CMC facilities, Otara and Shilpa Samaratunge revealed there was a pack of about eight dogs with to assist in this matter. to continue the feeding rounds. She had of which three are for sterilisation, four for that a meeting was held between the the security, vaccinated and sterilised and (This article was sent by Rescue further declared that Mayor Senanayake had observation as they have bitten people on Mayor and several activists regarding very friendly, but they told us that they Animals Sri Lanka Trustee known about the dogs being rounded up and the street, and one extremely aggressive the welfare of Sri Lanka’s community turned guards after the park was vacated Anusha David) the morning 5 Tuesday, June 2, 2020 brunch Chatting live with BLOK AND DINO On the importance of creating quality content BY NAVEED ROZAIS The Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) hosted a live conversation with phenomenal content creators Gehan Blok and Dino Corera on Sunday (31 May), discussing the journey of “Blok & Dino” and what it takes to produce engaging, high-quality content in the Sri Keells donates Lankan market. Blok and Corera have become household names through their safety gear to YouTube platform Blok & Dino as well as their experience in theatre and media. As highly sought-after content creators working with a diverse range Colombo PHIs of brands, Gehan and Dino discussed Keells Super has taken an additional step, the challenges of digital marketing along with their efforts in safety standards and content creation. Sri Lanka’s content The beauty of content creation so that it can engage with viewers in-store for customers and team members, to Creating content post Covid-19 is that good content will never stay longer, they noted. also ensure the safety of the Colombo public The Covid-19 pandemic creation landscape hidden. Regardless of boosting and Experimenting is also vital to health inspectors (PHIs) by donating 100 has shown the importance of When asked about the biggest promoting posts, truly good content a creator’s success. Accordingly, if personal protective equipment (PPE) kits and digital content, with an increase challenges they face as content will always make an impact and go some things work and some things face shields. In collaboration with the John in demand for all forms of creators, Gehan and Dino explained viral, and even though it may take won’t, creators should be willing to Keells Foundation, Keells made this timely digital content from YouTube to that the majority of their content is some time to happen organically, take risks and find out what works donation to the Colombo PHIs who are playing streaming services. This also gives brand endorsement content, adding a good content creator’s work will for them. There will be bad days a very important role in the front lines by good content a chance to shine, that while this gives them an edge in always speak for itself. and failures, but it’s important to despite shifts in how people will the quality of their production, it can persist. maintaining public safety during this Covid-19 sometimes be a challenge in keeping pandemic period. be creating content in the interim. What aspiring content Furthermore, small businesses In the case of professional true to their own brand identity while creators can do shouldn’t underestimate the In the months face masks was also digital content creators like Gehan also meeting the objectives of their importance of digital marketing of March and April, fulfilled by providing partners. Both Gehan and Dino urged and Dino, who work with large aspiring content creators to work to either; knowing how it works and Keells supported many the hospital with 500 companies and large production Another challenge facing the which platforms work best for you community efforts KN95 masks, identifying content creation market in Sri Lanka their strengths – to try everything, crews, the pandemic is going to but also to be aware of limitations is crucial in building and driving where the supermarket the importance of the mean a shift in the way they do is the lack of quality digital content, businesses. chain donated 20 safety of essential service although they are very hopeful that and work with someone who has the things. strengths they don’t. Collaborating tonnes of vegetables workers. Keells also Crews, for example, will be local content will improve in the Be fearless to the armed forces, distributed 300 packs of future given that making content is with other creators is very cut down drastically in number important, regardless of field. The power of good content is in the National Institute essentials to farmers and for the time being. The latest becoming easier with more accessible its story and how it comes together. of Infectious Diseases families facing lockdown and affordable technology. The Sri Another key piece of advice to Blok & Dino video (which comes aspiring creators was to focus on Sometimes the most offhand idea (IDH), and also charity in Sooriyawewa, a out next week) was made with Lankan audience is also becoming can end up becoming a truly strong organisations just before location that Keells has more discerning; as passionate film the quality of content and make sure a production crew of only five the story works to its best potential. piece of content. It’s all about being the lockdown. A request been sourcing fresh people including Gehan and Dino enthusiasts, the duo hopes that this willing to take that risk and see from the Gampaha produce from for eight will mean good things for local Build memorable characters and as opposed to crews of 16 people stories and keep content timeless where it takes you. District Hospital for years. or more. cinema as well. ASK a doctor ‘Do not expect to run Can diabetes affect Q your kidneys? Yes, it can. There are multiple A ways in which it can affect your kidneys. It can harm the at 100% immediately’ filtering units of your kidneys. The filtering units of the kidneys are called glomeruli. Each kidney has around What’s getting back to the grind going to look like? 1.2 million such units. Prolonged BY NAVEED ROZAIS high levels of blood sugar can cause damage to these filtering units, leading The lockdown has been a to the appearance of albumin (a type stressful time all around, of protein) in the urine where it should but for some, if not many, not be. It can also damage the blood it has also been a chance to vessels carrying blood to the kidney by making them narrow and clogged. take a step back, breathe, Without enough blood, the kidneys and reflect. With work become damaged. and school schedules Diabetes can also cause damage to suspended, many have been the nervous system that sends signals able to work from home and from your brain to all other parts of spend more time with their your body, including your bladder. families. The nerves let your brain know when your bladder is full. But if the nerves Now that life is slowly of the bladder are damaged, you starting to get back to normal, Clinical psychologist may not be able to feel it when your it is likely that many of us are Dr. Suhaila Shafeek Irshard bladder is full. The pressure from a apprehensive about the coming practise self-care. Looking after full bladder can damage your kidneys. weeks, and adjusting back to the yourself and doing things like If urine stays in your bladder for a daily grind. eating healthy and getting some long time, you may get a urinary tract The Morning Brunch spoke exercise can work wonders for infection (UTI). This is because of to Clinical Psychologist Dr. your mental state. Self-care also bacteria, which grows rapidly in urine Suhaila Shafeek Irshard, to get means self-compassion. Give with high sugar levels. Most often, her thoughts on how to make the coupled with fear for our health workplace scenarios. These may important and being otherwise yourself a break and take things at these infections affect the bladder, easiest transition back to daily life. and wellbeing. not be accurate but will create a flexible is a powerful way to keep your own pace. but they can sometimes spread to the “There has been a rise in sense of what to expect. your mental balance. The risk of infection is still kidneys. reports of anxiety over the last Back at the office: What will Do not expect to run at Other tips are reaching out real, so make sure to follow few months, with roughly three it be like? 100% immediately; this is a time to colleagues and friends and health and community guidelines; ANSWERED BY peaks. The first was at the start of change and adjustment, and seeing how they are feeling and they’re in place for a reason, even After months of relative Dr. Dineshani of the lockdown amidst all the calmness, going back to the office, self-compassion will be more what they are anticipating. Many if they may seem ridiculous. They Hettiarachchi MBBS, uncertainty at that time, the with all its people, sights, sounds, important than ever. people are anxious and connecting are in place for your safety and MSc Regenerative second was at the one-month mark and pressure, can end up being Letting go of preconceived meaningfully can help everyone. those around you. Medicine, MCGP, SEDA of the curfew with people very notions is also very important. For those with strong anxiety, (UK). Dr. Hettiarachchi is overstimulating, particularly a family physician and a worried, and the third and last one considering that both employers Posts on social media may see if your workplace can offer a Be kind, be responsible lecturer at the is what is happening at present, and staff are already stressed by state that lockdown is a time to way for you to ease back into a During this time, many Department of Anato- now that the curfew is lifted and have achieved X, Y, or Z, but physical work schedule like a mix people will feel a sense of my and Human Genetics the pandemic. Unit, Faculty of Medicine at the University life is resuming,” Dr. Irshard said. To overcome any anxiety perfection is an ideal that is very of physical and remote work. unrealness and shock. Remember of Colombo. Email Dr. Hettiarachchi on This rise of anxiety is not of returning to work, Dr. Irshard hard to live up to. While it is that this is temporary, and in the [email protected] if you have any unexpected, as we are going recommends simple exercises more than okay to have specific Self-care is key meantime, be kind, to others and more questions you’d like answered here. In times of turmoil, always through a time of great change like mentally rehearsing possible goals, focusing on what is truly yourself. the morning Tuesday, June 2, 2020 sports Hamilton standing alone ATP apologises Orange cards but no “I see those of you who are staying silent, some of The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) chock-tackles you the biggest of stars yet you stay silent in the yesterday (1) apologised after their official World Rugby has approved 10 optional law midst of injustice. Not a sign from anybody in my Twitter shared a video which included a trials designed to reduce the risk of coronavirus industry which of course is a white-dominated homophobic slur – “why tennis players so transmission when the sport fully returns. sport.” Who said so? Six-time F1 world champion extra”, adding “the moaner”, “the grunter”, and The laws, mainly aimed at recreational rugby, Lewis Hamilton, a proud, responsible son of a “the sissy” – considered a derogatory term for include the possible introduction of orange Black British (pictured), who has been moved by any effeminate person. “Such language has no cards, reducing the number of scrums during a the anti-establishment protests now in the US. place in the inclusive environment we strive for in our sport,” ATP said. game and removing the choke-tackle. Kandy YMCA chess this week

BY HAFIZ MARIKAR IN KANDY

The Young Men’s Christians Association (YMCA) World Challenge Chess 2020 is set to go digital in Kandy on 6 June. This will be to commemorate the 176th anniversary of the Kandy YMCA, which also runs the oldest active chess club in Sri Lanka. The series of tournaments begins on 4 June at 7 p.m. This series of online chess Uva Next's tournaments will be conducted has been a member of Kandy Liaquath on 071 6837716 celebrates a wicket with as a concept of Kandy YWCA YMCA chess team since the or Amara Sankajana on 071 his teammates at the President Rev. Fr. Saman 1990s. 6051899, and follow the inaugural SLPL tournament Perera and Ishan Wiratunga, For further details, our Facebook page of the Kandy in August 2012 one of its board members who readers can contact Shiraz YMCA. SLPL in August! z SL team on-ground practices begin today as SLC plans to have its franchise league 11 weeks from now BY GAYASHAN WITHANARACHCHI Dambulla International Stadium, period, sources had revealed earlier. Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Plans are now underway at Sri Kandy, and Mahinda Rajapaksa International Arnold the Tournament Lanka Cricket (SLC) to organise the Cricket Stadium in Sooriyawewa. Director? Lankan Premier League (LPL) from Six umpires from the International Cricket The Sri Lankan version of the Indian 15 August to 4 September, SLC Council (ICC) panel will join four local Premier League (IPL), which was initially sources revealed yesterday (1). umpires for officiating in the 23 matches. named the Sri Lanka Premier League (SLPL), was first held in 2012 with the participation The five-team (or franchises) tournament Media rights and player of seven franchises. Uva Next under Thilina will allow each single side to have six auctions Kandamby won the first title. But the event overseas players. The total number of players SLC CEO Ashley de Silva said yesterday became defunct thereafter owing to various in each franchise could be 16. they will look into the possibility of having reasons, making Sri Lanka the only major Test The coaching staff can go up to 10, participation of some spectators at the event, playing country sans any local T20 franchise including the two main coaches who need after observing the situation at the time of the league. When ideas were afloat last year to have prior international experience and tournament while following the guidelines to revive the SLPL under the stewardship worked in an international league before. provided by the health authorities of the of SLC’s current President Shammi Silva, country. former national player and present television Matches, venues, and umpires “We will start the auction of the foreign anchor Russel Arnold was earmarked as the The LPL will consist of a total of 23 players after finalising on the media right Tournament Director. matches. The first round will be conducted in sale of the tournament,” de Silva explained. “We will appoint a Tournament Director Sports joins ‘George Floyd protest’ the league format. The matches are to be held The television rights of the LPL are not for this August’s tournament. But we are yet Bundesliga striker of proud Black origin takes a knee yesterday (1) in protest of the ruthless murder of at four venues: R. Premadasa International included in the SLC’s ongoing selling of to finalise as to whom we are to appoint,” George Floyd in the US, which was a disgrace to humanity in itself Cricket Stadium in Colombo, Rangiri broadcasting rights for the next three years de Silva added. Those who kneel are actually standing peoples, the first nations who were slaughtered) INTERCEPTION and violence (the nation was built by the labour of enslaved people and for those who don’t know by Malinda history, Abe Lincoln wasn’t against slavery, he Seneviratne wanted to shift labour from the cotton fields to factories). There was systemic racist violence before Lincoln. It was there with the Ku Klux Klan. It was there in 1999. It was there in 2006. Colin Kaepernick knelt. He didn’t kill And it was there on 25 May 2020. anyone. He was protesting. The San Francisco George Floyd, 46. He died in Minneapolis 49ers quarterback sat down in the third police custody. An officer was caught on video preseason game of the 2016 season when kneeling on the handcuffed man’s neck, even the US national anthem was being played. after he pleaded that he could not breathe and He explained: “I am not going to stand stopped moving. Protests erupted all over the up to show pride in a flag for a country US. The Police responded. Violently. In one that oppresses black people and people of instance, a cop car ploughed through protestors. colour…There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away Making a stand against with murder.” something What was it all about? For those who didn’t Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James posted know or didn’t want to know, knowledge a photo of the officer kneeling on Floyd’s neck came in September that year. Terence along with one of Kaepernick kneeling during Crutcher and Keith Lamont Scott were shot the anthem. Here’s the caption for the Instagram dead by the Police. Kaepernick stated: “This post: ‘This... Is Why.” And he asked: “Do you one of Floyd, who is alleged to have written is a perfect example of what this is about.” understand NOW!!??!!?? Or is it still blurred a bad cheque. There’s one of a white man He would kneel during the anthem prior to to you?? #StayWoke.” who kidnapped one and killed two. Says it every 49ers game that season. Kaepernick and Bron are iconic for multiple all, doesn’t it? reasons. They are both sportsmen. Personalities. Sport. Winners. Losers. Is it as simple as Amadou Diallo incident in 1999 Kaepernick knelt. He was in fact standing that, though? No. It’s brutal. It’s racist. We are If you are black in the US, you are twice for something. He was also making a stand talking of two men. They both knelt. One stood as more likely to be killed by the Police. against something. The police officer knelt. for something and the other stood opposing And black people make just 13% of the US He was standing for something that many that something. George Floyd is dead. He is population. If anyone dares say that there’s no York City Police Department plain-clothed into him. He did not carry a gun. A jury in police officers and the entire American system not breathing. institutionalised and brutal racism in the US, officers – Sean Carroll, Richard Murphy, Albany, NY acquitted them of all charges. stands for. Racism. Brutality. It’s a sport. Well, Do we understand now? Do we? Do we? that person is not doing the math. Edward McMellon, and Kenneth Boss. It was it could be called a sport. Or is it still blurred? I remember a man named Amadou Diallo. a case of mistaken identity, apparently. When US history is one of theft The writer can be reached at: On 4 February 1999, this 23-year-old Guinean Diallo reached to get out some identification, It didn’t begin in 1999, though. The history Do we understand now? [email protected] or www. immigrant was shot and killed by four New these decorated officers (no less!) put 44 bullets of the US is one of theft (land from the native Consider the inset picture here. There’s the malindawords.blogspot.com