What has 2020 taught Protect yourself from travel Covid-19 influencers?

Active cases Total cases thursday, December 24, 2020

38,638 Rupee records Tokyo 2020 deaths RECOVERED highest depreciation budget rises to 8,572 in six months Rs. 2,929 billion The above statistics are confirmed up 184 29,882 »see page 3 »see page 7 until 9.30 p.m. on 23 December 2020 Source: Health Promotion Bureau »see page 5

Covid-19 East Container Terminal Burial of Covid-19 dead Deaths rise to 184 Experts Committee One more Covid-19 death was reported last night (23), bringing the total deaths in Sri Lanka to 184. to make final call Lalith Weeratunga to Adani stake to z President directs oversee vaccine imports committee headed President’s Chief Advisor Lalith Weeratunga has by Health Minister been assigned to oversee the co-ordination process to decide of importing the Covid-19 vaccine. increase later? z Cabinet also UN support to obtain vaccine calls on Experts With several countries having started Covid-19 z Clause in MoC z Original stake Committee to decide Co-Cabinet Spokesman vaccination, the United Nations (UN) has assured and Mass Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella Sri Lanka its support for procuring, distributing, worries trade unions expected to be 49% By Maheesha Mudugamuwa and administering the vaccine. led to the matter being referred By Dinitha Rathnayake India's largest port developer Adani Group is the The Government is yet to take to the Expert Committee once People asked not to frontrunner to become the partner of the ECT of the Sri a final decision on the issue of again, according to Co-Cabinet Trade unions attached to the Colombo Port Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), with SLPA having shares allowing burials for Muslims who Spokesman and Mass Media resist testing are agitated over a clause in the Memorandum of 51% and Adani holding 49%. Therefore, the unions die of Covid-19, as the discussions Minister Keheliya Rambukwella. The Police yesterday (23) requested people of Contract (MoC) of the East Container have expressed concern that the Government could held at the recent Cabinet meeting Contd. on page 2 leaving the Western Province not to express any Terminal (ECT) which leaves room for the rely on this clause to increase Adani’s shareholding resistance when the authorities conduct rapid Government to increase the shareholding of long after signing the agreement to make the company Cremating Covid-19 dead antigen tests at exit points of the Province. its private partner following the signing of the the majority shareholder. partnership agreement. Contd. on page 2 MPs hold protest outside All seven continents Borella cemetery hit by virus Several MPs of the Samagi Coronavirus has reached the Antarctic continent, TUs seek meeting with President Jana Balawegaya (SJB) yesterday which had so far been free of Covid-19. Port trade unions said they are looking Terminal (ECT) of the Colombo Port. out by other employees of the Sri Lanka (23) took part in a silent protest forward to holding discussions with the The unions also pointed out that Ports Authority (SLPA) as well. held outside the Borella Cemetery Rapid antigen testing President regarding the East Container operations in the ECT can be carried Contd. on page 2 and urged the Government to end mandatory cremation of Covid areas revealed victims’ bodies. Public Health Inspectors’ Union of Sri Lanka ‘Burial is our right’ SJB MPs Rajitha Senaratne, SJB Leader Sajith Premadasa Secretary M. Balasooriya yesterday (23) announced Kumara Welgama, Mujibur (centre) at the silent protest held the 11 locations where random antigen tests are being Samagi Jana Rahuman, Mano Ganesan, Harsha outside the Borella Cemetery Balawegaya (SJB) de Silva, Eran Wickramaratne, yesterday (23) conducted for those leaving the Western Province. supporters and groups of Muslims protested and Kabir Hashim took part in have allowed burial of Covid 582 more discharged against the forced the demonstration. victims except for Sri Lanka. cremation of Covid-19 Ganesan said many countries Contd. on page 2 victims in Colombo after recovery yesterday (23) The Ministry of Health yesterday (23) said that PCoI on Easter attacks Photo Pradeep another 582 patients who previously tested positive Dambarage for Covid-19 have recovered and been discharged Over 1,500 from hospitals within the last 24 hours. Public asked not to visit statements recorded Sri Pada in Jan The Special Police Unit of The public has been requested to refrain from the Presidential Commission engaging in pilgrimages to Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) in of Inquiry (PCoI) probing into January 2021, said the Nuwara Eliya District Secretary. the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks said it recorded statements See full Stories on page 2 from over 1,500 witnesses so far. Curbing drug rings The five-member Presidential Measures to be Commission was appointed by then-President Maithripala strengthened in 2021 Sirisena on 21 September 2019. Former President Operations to curb drug rings will be Contd. on page 2 Maithripala Sirisena further strengthened next year, according to Defence Secretary Kamal Gunaratne. Destroying flora Contd. on page 2 Mahara Prison clash Electricity bills Enact laws to punish Relief period Postmortem report culprits: Cardinal for tourist hotels submitted to court Severe lightning Archbishop of Colombo Government should take necessary The relief period to settle electricity Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has said steps to formulate a programme to The report of the experts’ yesterday (23). The decision bills for the year 2020 for hotels registered laws should be enacted to severely protect forests in accordance with committee on the postmortems regarding the disposal of the under the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Advisory issued punish those who destroy the flora the Constitution itself. Laws should of another four inmates who remains is expected to be Authority (SLTDA) has been extended. The Department of Meteorology warned that in the country. be enacted to severely punish those died during the Mahara Prison delivered on 30 December, Minister of Power Dullas Alahapperuma thundershowers accompanied by severe lightning The Cardinal expressed these who destroy the flora in this country. unrest was submitted to the according to media reports. said yesterday (23) that the extension is are likely to occur at several places over the island. views during a courtesy call If the ecosystem of the country Wattala Magistrate’s Court Contd. on page 2 until 31 December 2021. Accordingly, several places in the Sabaragamuwa by Foreign Minister Dinesh could be protected by doing so, our Contd. on page 2 and Western Provinces and in the Galle, Matara, Gunawardena at the Cardinal’s water resources would be in great and Nuwara Eliya Districts are expected to be official residence on Tuesday (22). demand, during future world water Challenging Z-score Full report on 30 Dec affected by this weather condition. “Our country is being deforested shortages,” the Cardinal stated. The complete report of the by retired High Court Contd. on page 2 on a large scale. It has to stop and the Contd. on page 2 SC dismisses petitions committee appointed to look Judge Sarojini Kusala The Supreme Court last morning (23) into the unrest at the Mahara Weerawardena and consists Anusha Pelpita ordered to dismiss the petitions seeking Prison is expected to be of Chief Legal Advisor an interim injunction to suspend the handed over to the Minister to the Ministry U.R. De New secretary to admission of students to engineering and of Justice on 30 December. Silva, Additional Secretary physics faculties in universities based on A five-member committee to the Ministry Rohana Industries Ministry the Z-scores recently published by the was appointed by the Hapugaswatte, Police Media Senior Sri Lanka University Grants Commission (UGC). Minister a day after the Spokesperson DIG Ajith Administrative Officer Anusha The petitions were taken up before incident to investigate Rohana, and former Prisons Pelpita has been appointed the Supreme Court bench consisting and hand over a report Commissioner Gamini as the new Secretary to the of Justices Buwaneka Aluwihare, containing recommendations. Jayasinghe. Ministry of Industries. S.Thurairajah, and Yasantha Kodagoda. The committee is chaired Contd. on page 2 His appointment will be in Anusha Contd. on page 2 effect from 1 January 2021. Pelpita Mechanism to reduce veggie prices Not practical, say veggie farmers The special mechanism practical. important is to introduce new when it goes to the consumers, launched by the Speaking to The Morning, post-harvest technologies to store the prices would vary and no Agriculture Ministry All Ceylon Farmers’ Federation vegetables and stop wastage. guarantee can be given by the has been criticised (ACFF) President Namal “Price controlling is never a Government that the prices at by the vegetable Karunaratne said the price solution as the vegetables would all places would be the same,” ACFF President farmers, who controlling system is not practical be purchased at the price that is Karunaratne explained. Namal Karunaratne claim it is not for vegetables and what’s most given by the Government. But Contd. on page 2 2 the morning news Tuesday, December 24, 2020

people to control the pandemic. If a person tests Lalith Weeratunga... positive, he or she will be sent to a treatment centre and their close contacts will be ordered to The decision was taken during the daily undergo quarantine. Therefore, we request the meeting of the Covid-19 Committee held at people not to express any resistance,” he said. the Presidential Secretariat on Tuesday (22), the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement. Accordingly, Weeratunga is expected to All seven... hold talks with relevant officials with regard to The Chilean Army has reported 36 cases at importing the vaccine to Sri Lanka following its Bernardo O’Higgins Research Station on a thorough study. the Antarctic Peninsula. Target groups for inoculation will be The 36, 26 of whom are military personnel determined based on requirement and priority, and 10 maintenance workers, have been the PMD added. evacuated to Chile. Furthermore, a decision has been taken to The news comes just days after Chile’s Navy collect data on high-risk groups and locations confirmed three cases on a ship which had taken including estates, apartment complexes, and supplies and personnel to the research station. dormitories. The news means that Covid cases have now MPs hold... The meeting was also attended by Minister of been recorded on all seven continents. Rahuman urged the Government to and regulations. The President has Health Pavithra Wanniarachchi, State Minister The Sargento Aldea arrived at the research withdraw the mandatory cremation. the power to make a decision in this of Covid Disease Control Dr. Sudarshini station on 27 November and sailed back to “We plead with the Government to regard,” he said. Fernandopulle, MP Madhura Withanage, Chile on 10 December. listen to the voice of the people,” De Silva said he joined the silent Secretary to the President Dr. P.B. Jayasundera, Three of its crew tested positive upon their he said. protest to urge President Gotabaya airport and aviation officials, and members of return to the Chilean Naval Base in Talcahuano. Meanwhile, Hashim said this Rajapaksa to reconsider the decision the Covid-19 Committee. Chile’s Navy said all of those who had issue was a sensitive one and that to forcefully cremate Muslims dying embarked on the trip to the Antarctic had the Government has the capability of Covid. “As a Buddhist, I believe been given PCR tests, and all the results had to allow burials for Covid victims. we need to follow the middle path UN support... been negative. “The Government can do this based on scientific evidence,” he Participants of the silent protest held outside the Borella This pledge was made yesterday (23) during The Bernardo O’Higgins Research Station is under local and international laws said. Cemetery yesterday (23) a meeting between Prime Minister Mahinda one of four permanent bases which Chile has Photos Pradeep Dambarage Rajapaksa and a UN delegation comprising in the Antarctic and is operated by the Army. Resident Co-ordinator Hanaa Singer, World Chile is the sixth worst-affected country Health Organisation (WHO) Representative Dr. in Latin America with more than 585,000 other party will have a 49% stake in the ECT, Razia Pendse, and United Nations Children’s confirmed coronavirus cases. SC dismisses... Advisory... but the Government could mislead everyone Fund (UNICEF) Representative Tim Sutton. The British Antarctic Survey announced in Delivering the verdict, Presiding Judge In addition, heavy showers of above 100 mm by using this clause.” “We are fully committed to support Sri August that it was scaling back its research in Buwaneka Aluwihare said, with the consent of are likely at some places as well. Sumanarathna added that if the Government Lanka in these challenging times,” Singer said. the Polar South because of coronavirus. the majority of the judges, the bench decided There may be temporary localised strong tries to sell this to the Adani Group or any other The UN delegation and Sri Lankan officials (BBC) to dismiss all the petitions. The petitions were winds during thundershowers, the advisory company, the trade unions have lined up all port agreed that vaccination at such a mass scale filed by 42 students who had passed the GCE read further. employees to oppose it and safeguard the port. will require a whole-of-government approach Advanced Level examination held in 2019 The general public has been urged to take The Trade Union Collective to Protect to ensure Sri Lanka’s preparedness for the Rapid antigen... under the new syllabus. adequate precautions to minimise damages Colombo Harbour East Terminal held a meeting delivery and administering of the vaccine Accordingly, testing will be done near caused by lightning activity. on Tuesday (22) with Minister of Ports and once it arrives. the Hanwella Butterfly Bridge, the Ingiriya Shipping Rohitha Abegunawardena to get a “In many countries, we are seeing a dangerous Katakadolla Bridge, Helagolla Rock in Not practical... clear idea about the Cabinet memorandum second wave of Covid-19,” Prime Minister Nittambuwa, near the Giriulla Bridge, the Dompe “The Government cannot even monitor the Experts Committee... and committee appointed to evaluate the MoC. Rajapaksa said. “It seems that vaccines will Samana Bedda Bridge, near Kochchikade prices of rice, sugar, and onions, for which the He told The Morning that the Cabinet did not According to the Collective’s Convener be the only measure that can bring an end to Garden, the Badalgama Makandura Bridge, prices have been gazetted. How is it going to take a final decision at this week’s meeting and Sanjaya Kumara Weligama, the discussion was this pandemic.” near the Bentara Bridge, in the Kinniyawala monitor the prices of vegetables? There are a the Expert Committee will look into the matter. not particularly productive, and the Collective In April this year, a global collaboration called Junction, near the Avittawa Bridge, and near number of vegetable varieties, and before the Meanwhile, on Tuesday (22), sources at the had requested the Minister to grant them a “Access to Covid-19 Tools ACT-Accelerator” the Kalawana Saman Devalaya. vegetables come to the consumer, it passes from Health Ministry told The Morning that a final meeting directly with President Gotabaya was established “to accelerate the development, In addition, these antigen tests will be carried middleman to middleman. There are at least six decision would be taken at the Cabinet meeting. Rajapaksa. production, and equitable access to Covid-19 out on the Southern Expressway from today middlemen playing different roles including When contacted, the President’s Office “Minister Rohitha Abegunawardena actually diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines”. Under (24) onwards. the wholesale trader and retailer,” he added. confirmed that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa approved our request and told us that he will this programme, the “COVAX Facility” will The Government launched a special has directed the Expert Committee, headed by arrange a date to meet the President after the offer vaccine doses for at least 20% of eligible mechanism against the vegetable mafia in the Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi, to Christmas holidays,” Weligama said. countries’ population, which will initially 582 more... country this week. Under the new programme, take a final decision and therefore, only the When The Morning contacted SLPA consist of high-risk groups. This brings the total number of Covid-19 various types of vegetables will be directly Health Minister can comment on the matter. Chairman General Daya Ratnayake, who Sutton stressed the importance of recoveries in the country to 29,882 as at the purchased from farmers all over the country However, attempts made by The Morning also took part in the meeting, he referred us to preparedness and creating awareness among time of writing. through an active mechanism implemented by to contact Health Minister Wanniarachchi and Minister Abegunawardena for any comment the public. He also told the Prime Minister The recoveries were reported from the the Ministry of Agriculture and it will then be Director General of Health Services (DGHS) on the shareholding increase clause. However, that while UNICEF is already assisting with Bingiriya Treatment Centre (69), Anuradhapura sold to traders at the economic centres; only Dr. Asela Gunawardena were futile. he categorically denied the sale of ECT to a procurement during the initial phase, it can Teaching Hospital (69), Wathupitiwala transport charges will be added to the price. Meanwhile, in response to the proposal foreign entity. also assist the Government with vaccine Treatment Centre (41), Gallela Treatment According to the programme, those to place the bodies of Muslims who died of “There are no plans to sell the ECT of procurement beyond the initial 20%. Centre (38), and Punani Treatment Centre (38). vegetables are to be sold at a retail price of Rs. Covid-19 infection in refrigerated containers Colombo Port to any foreign country. The Dr. Pendse briefed the meeting on the global A total of 38,059 cases of coronavirus were 20 per kg and wholesale price of Rs. 10 per kg. until a definite decision is made regarding Government has appointed two committees to vaccine landscape and stressed that even with reported in Sri Lanka, while 7,994 of them were A comparison was made between the vegetable their burial, DGHS Dr. Gunawardena has evaluate the development scope and interests the vaccine, people will still need to take under medical care. Sri Lanka also witnessed prices on Sunday (20) at the economic centres sent a letter to Minister of Justice Ali Sabry expressed by various companies and to submit precautions. 183 fatalities from Covid-19 by last evening. islandwide and where the new programme was regarding the same. reports. Based on the recommendations of “It’s still a new vaccine,” Dr. Pendse said. “It implemented yesterday (23), and the statistics In his letter, the DG has requested for five those committees, the Government will make protects people from dying, but we don’t know revealed the Government’s new programme refrigerated containers to be provided to the a final decision,” he stated. how much it will reduce the transmission.” has led to the reduction of the prices of each Chief Judicial Medical Officer’s offices in When The Morning spoke to the Ministry of One of the key messages that emerged from Public asked... kg of vegetables by between Rs. 40-50. Colombo, Kalutara, Kandy, and Negombo, and Ports and Shipping Secretary U.D.C. Jayalal, the meeting from all officials is that people The request has been made by the Covid-19 All these vegetables will be packaged in the Ashraf Memorial Hospital in Kalmunai. he said there will be no change in the share cannot become complacent even after receiving Prevention Committee of Nuwara Eliya. plastic bags, which will reduce the damage structure in future and that the stakes will the vaccine. While studies are ongoing, doctors caused during transportation by 30%, and the remain as 51% for the Government and 49% say it’s still not certain how long the vaccine’s benefits will also be passed onto the consumers. Over 1,500... for the other party. protection will last. Furthermore, according to Measures to... – Maheesha Mudugamuwa The official term of the Presidential “This is the final stake and if the doctors, it’s also uncertain whether the vaccine He noted that several incidents of drug Commission was extended several times, Government wants to change it, there is completely removes the virus or just reduces dealing had been thwarted effectively, resulting and was again extended Tuesday (22) until a huge process involved which includes the viral load. If it’s the latter, a vaccinated in notable price hikes due to the drop in the Deaths rise... 31 January 2021. parliamentary approval. No Cabinet approval person is still able to infect others. availability of illicit drugs. The death was of a 74-year-old male, stated Accordingly, the Police Unit of the has been given for India to develop the ECT, Even with vaccination, the public is still “All operations to combat the underworld and the Director General of the Department of Commission has so far recorded evidence but two committees have been appointed strongly encouraged to continue wearing a illegal drug dealing are continuing,” he assured. Government Information. from 1,570 witnesses and the Presidential to evaluate its development, including mask, washing hands, and maintaining adequate Regarding the congestion in prisons amidst Commission has examined 436 of them. already forwarded proposals and investment physical distance. the coronavirus outbreak, he said: “Although Meanwhile, Fatima Shifana, wife of Jameel opportunities for local companies.” we experienced prison space constraints, we Postmortem... Mohammed, the suicide bomber of the However, Times of India recently reported certainly never ceased the fight to combat the A total of 11 inmates were killed in the prison Dehiwala hotel, was brought to testify before that the Adani Group is all set to develop People asked... underworld and drug menace.” riot which broke out on 29 November, out the Presidential Commission on Tuesday. Sri Lanka’s port terminal and The Hindu Police Media Spokesman Deputy Inspector of which eight posthumously tested positive However, the hearing of her evidence was website also reported that Colombo seems General (DIG) Ajith Rohana said the antigen for Covid-19. The Attorney General’s (AG) not open to the media. to be under great pressure from New Delhi tests will be conducted on persons leaving Relief period... Department had requested the Magistrate to to go ahead with this project. the province at 11 exit points including the Alahapperuma said the decision was made permit the postmortems of the deceased inmates All attempts to reach Minister Rohitha Southern Expressway. after considering the new wave of Covid-19 to be carried out under a multidisciplinary Enact laws... Abegunawardena for comment proved futile, “We need the support and co-operation of the and subsequent loss of revenue incurred by committee, as per a request made by the legal Commenting on this, Minister however, last week the Minister explained the hotels. counsel of the aggravated party for a fair Gunawardena said that President Gotabaya the decision to partner with Adani. autopsy. The nominations for the committee Rajapaksa’s programme is dedicated to “We have no suitable local investor members, submitted by AG’s Co-ordinating rescuing cities from being oxygen deficient for the purpose, though the Government Officer State Counsel Nishara Jayaratne, were and that environment friendly activities would appreciate local investment for the later approved by the court. The committee are included in the village-by-village development of the East Container Terminal. Cartoon of the day consists of Colombo North Teaching Hospital, development programme. However, ECT development will go ahead Ragama, Chief Judicial Medical Officer (JMO) with Adani as the Government of India Dr. Sandun Wijewardena; Infectious Diseases has proposed the Adani Group, India’s Hospital, Mulleriyawa, JMO Dr. S.D.C Perera; TUs seek... biggest ports and logistics company and a Colombo South Teaching Hospital, Kalubowila, Speaking on the matter, Ports Authority Sri multinational conglomerate.” Chief JMO Dr. P.P. Dassanayake, University Lanka Nidahas Sewaka Sangamaya President Adani Ports and Special Economic of Colombo Faculty of Medicine Prof. Jean Prasanna Kalutarage said: “An accurate report Zone Ltd. is the largest commercial ports Perera; and firearms specialist and Deputy on how to save the future of the East Terminal, operator in India and India’s biggest private Government Analyst P.G. Madawala. formed by our trade union and executive port operating firm accounts for nearly When a report on the postmortems of four officers, was discussed with the Minister. It one-fourth of the cargo movement in the inmates who died in the prison unrest was clearly states how we can direct and operate country. It recently signed a Memorandum submitted to the Wattala Magistrate’s Court this East Terminal for the next five years based of Understanding (MoU) with MMC Ports on 16 December, the Magistrate ordered to on the financial capacity of the Ports Authority to set up a container port in Carey Island, cremate the bodies. without obtaining any loan. Malaysia where the Adani group eyes for “The Minister was in clear agreement on global expansion. that idea. Therefore, we hope that the East Clause 1.4 (b) of the MoC for the Full report... Terminal will be operational under the Ports development of the Colombo South Port The committee is tasked with preparing a Authority. We hope to take the message that in Sri Lanka states that “a change in the report on the facts underlying the incident, the we have such assets to the President as well.” share structure can be done only with prior parties responsible, actions to be taken, and approval of the Government”. recommendations to prevent such incidents Progressive Workers Association in the future. Committee members had visited Adani stake... for Commercial Industry and Services the prison officials on several occasions over “We have a suspicion that the Government (PWACIS) Chief Secretary Shamal the past few weeks to record evidence. The will try to change the share allocations in Sumanarathna told The Morning that this committee’s interim report was handed over future. According to the MoC, the Sri Lankan clause could be used by the Government to Justice Minister Ali Sabry on 7 December. Government will have a 51% stake and the to mislead people. 3 the morning Thursday , December 24, 2020

Rupeebusiness records highest depreciation in six months

BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR 0.04%. On 1 February, the LKR was at Rs. 181.40 and fluctuated The Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) throughout the month, yet has yesterday (23) recorded remained below Rs. 182. During its lowest rates against the US the period from 1-29 February, it dollar in the last six months. depreciated by 0.22%. The monthly depreciation rate of The selling rate of the dollar has the LKR has escalated alarmingly been reported as 193.05, indicating in March with it dropping to Rs. Dialog to a depreciation of about 5.4% so far 189.25 to the US dollar on 27 this year. March from Rs. 181.92 on 1 March. For the first time in six months, During the initial week of the the rupee surpassed 190 against lockdown alone, the rupee recorded the US dollar on 18 December and a significant drop of 1.2%, hitting acquire since then, it has been gradually Rs. 189.25 against the US dollar. depreciating. On Monday (21), Since then, the rupee remained well Tuesday (22), and Wednesday (23) above 190 against the US dollar the rupee was 190.37, 191.20, and to 17 December, the rupee was at Rs. 181.50 and witnessed a until 15 May. H One by 193.05, respectively against the US hovering around the range of 186- slight appreciation during the first The lowest value the rupee hit dollar. 189 against the US dollar. couple of days. However, during this year was 200.4 against the US During the period from 15 May The currency started the year the month, it depreciated by dollar on 8 and 9 April. end January Dialog Axiata PLC has cloud computing, Microsoft Korean Ambassador entered into an agreement to licensing, security, and digital acquire 100% shareholding advisory services among discusses facilitating in H One (Pvt.) Ltd., through others. H One was founded Dialog Broadband Network in 2008 as a subsidiary of Korean companies in SL (Pvt.) Ltd., a fully owned Hirdaramani Group and subsidiary of Dialog, the reports an annual turnover of Korean Ambassador to the discussion, Mohottala company announced yesterday circa Rs. 1.6 billion. Sri Lanka Woonjin Jeong agreed to expedite the (23). “It has been an exciting has discussed facilitating resolution process of the “The acquisition of H One journey so far at H One. the existing Korean challenges faced by the by Dialog would supplement We’ve become the largest companies in Sri Lanka more existing Korean investors. Dialog’s expansive suite of enterprise player in Sri Lanka effectively, especially for the The Ambassador was enterprise solutions and would for Microsoft Solutions and businessmen who are facing accompanied for this facilitate acceleration of the have partnered with many difficulties due to the current meeting by the Korean digital transformation of Sri wonderful customers over situation with Covid-19, with Businessmen’s Association Lanka’s enterprise sector. the years. I am grateful to the the Board of Investment of and the Korean Residents The combination of Dialog’s Hirdaramani Board for the Sri Lanka (BOI). Association. The Ambassador expertise in advanced digital vision, trust, and support in Women Leadership award winners pictured at Galle Face Hotel The discussion took place and the Korean Business technologies and the leading- scaling this business to where on Tuesday (22) at the BOI delegation conveyed their edge capabilities of H One will it is today. The team and I with the newly appointed best wishes to Mohottala for create a centre of excellence look forward to joining the Chairman of the Board his appointment as the new for the scaling of Microsoft Dialog family, where we CMO recognises top Sanjaya Mohottala. During Chairman of the BOI. platforms and enterprise hope to rapidly scale the solutions,” stated Dialog business in the region whilst Axiata PLC Group Chief maintaining the close-knit Executive Supun Weerasinghe. customer-centricity and DNA 22 women leaders The transaction is expected that has made us an award- to be completed before the end winning team,” said H Once of January 2021, at a purchase Chief Executive Officer across 11 industries consideration of between Rs. (CEO) Samath Fernando. 300 million to Rs. 350 million This acquisition by Dialog in The second instalment and People Development Aysha Musthafa, Green on a cash free-debt free basis. light of H One’s experience in of the “World Women Rekha Weerasooriya, Care Organic Co-Founder At present, H One is the modern cloud solutions signals Leadership Congress Stratyx Promotions & Udara Rathnayake, and largest reseller of Microsoft its intention to scale their Presents Sri Lanka’s Media Concepts (Pvt.) Softlogic Holdings PLC (MSFT) enterprise solutions digital infrastructure and ramp Women Leaders” has Ltd. and Stratyx Write Group Director – Human Korean Ambassador to Sri Lanka Woonjin Jeong (centre) with in Sri Lanka and offers a up their mobile telephony recognised 22 women (Pvt.) Ltd. Managing Capital and Taxation Korean Businessmen’s Association and the Korean Residents wide range of services which services, helping Sri Lanka leaders and achievers for Director Savithri Rodrigo, Natasha Fonseka. Association members include business analytics, step into the future. the year 2020 who will WSO2 Inc. Director of Dialog Axiata Group be named Sri Lanka’s top Global Outbound Sales Chief Customer Officer women leaders for 2020. and Enablement Dilani Sandra De Zoysa – The selected women De Silva, Double XL recipient of the “Pride of are from the fast- (Pvt.) Ltd. Founder/CEO Sri Lanka” award for her RPCs propose hybrid wage moving consumer Adhisha Dahanayake, work conducted over the goods (FMCG), retail, Insights Senior Account past decade to place Sri insurance, automobile, Manager Uditha Lanka on the global map – telecommunications, Wijegunawardhana, Oak said: “I am both humbled CSR and sustainability, & Stone Director Chandi and honoured to accept system to Labour Ministry healthcare, education, Aluwihare Delwala, Quire this prestigious award on marketing, real estate, and Sri Lanka Director of behalf of all the talented Sri Lanka’s Regional Plantation as well. Our workers will have a say in companies are between 20-22 kg a tourism sectors. Strategic Marketing Ianthe and amazing Sri Lankan Companies (RPCs) have proposed a when and how they work, and drastically day. However, a majority of the best 2020’s list of Women Yatawatte Raj, Multi- women. My mantra hybrid wage system, striking a balance improve their earnings in the process,” harvesters have plucking averages Leadership award winners sectoral Global Business for success is to bring between the daily wage model and the Planters’ Association of Ceylon Chairman between 30-40 kg – this means that included Pencil Works Development Platform passion, transparency, and productivity-linked earning systems Bhathiya Bulumulla asserted. earnings can now be expanded to over (Pvt.) Ltd. Founder/CEO Strategies (Pvt.) Ltd. consistency to my work implemented in the smallholder sector, to Under the new proposals, RPCs will Rs. 37,500-62,000 per month,” RPCs Kaushalya Rajapaksha, Independent Consultant and to boldly seek out and the Minister of Labour and trade union continue to offer a fixed daily wage with noted in a press release. Brands In Style (Pvt.) Ramya Weerakoon, grab every opportunity (TU) leaders recently. the re-introduction of attendance and The next alternative is that workers Ltd. Co-Founder/Director Everystory Sri Lanka to make a difference for The proposal, according to the RPCs, productivity incentives. The RPCs have are remunerated based on a share of the Dilsha Ruwanpathirana, Co-Founder Sharanya our community, industry, aims at radically expanding worker proposed a mix of three days of daily National Sales Average (NSA) ratio of InnoLabs (Pvt.) Ltd. Sekaram, News Publisher and nation, adding value earnings during a recently concluded wages and three days of productivity- 35%, according to RPCs. Co-Founder/Director Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. Founder through the work that you meeting with the Minister of Labour and based earnings, where workers will have Furthermore, under the new daily wage Nadeera Karawita, Fiona Nanayakkara, do, in your little corner of TU leaders. the capacity to expand their earnings based component of the proposal, workers Abans Electricals PLC Global Consulting the world.” RPCs stated that adding a productivity- on their output. will be paid a total Rs. 1,025 for a day’s (Service) Director of Company CEO Aroshi The criteria adopted based component will ensure that worker The first alternative under the work. The breakdown is as follows: basic Operations Maheshi Nanayakkara, Refreshing in preparing this listing earnings are expanded, and workers have productivity-linked proposal is a system wage – Rs. 700, EPF/ETF – Rs. 105, Anandasiri, Imperial Ayurvedic Wellness is based on nominee more flexibility and control over their where workers are paid Rs. 50 for every attendance incentive – Rs. 70, production Institute of Higher (Pvt.) Ltd. Founder/ CEO contribution in building monthly earnings. kg of green tea leaf plucked (inclusive of incentive – Rs. 75, and price share Education (IIHE) Senior Ronali Perera, Vallibel a sustainable leadership “We urge all stakeholders to carefully Employees’ Provident Fund/Employees’ supplement – Rs. 75. Lecturer in Marketing and One PLC Group General pipeline; support and consider the valuable benefits that our Trust Fund [EPF/ETF]). “If workers are to be compensated Hospitality and Tourism Manager Harshani encouragement to gender, proposals offer. We must move away “Where a high plucking average of purely on this model, they will see Preethi Gunaratne, Three Randiligama, Leo diversity, and inclusion from the traditional wage system and look between 30-40 kg a day is attained (over an increase in their monthly earnings Sixty Digital (Pvt.) Burnett Sri Lanka Group at work; promotion of towards the sustainability of the industry, and above the existing norm), workers by Rs. 4,250. If workers exceed the Ltd. Head of Digital Head – Creative Tara empowerment for social where workers can become empowered have the potential of expanding their plucking norm, they will receive a higher Marketing Danushki Stephanie Weerasinghe, change, the ability to entrepreneurs. Once productivity models earnings exponentially. In the case of compensation,” RPCs added. Perera, Dialog Axiata MAS Holdings influence policy and are implemented, workers will have the Rs. 50 rate, a worker who plucks The RPC proposal also recommends PLC Dialog Enterprise (Pvt.) Ltd. Integrated strategy, and optimal the benefit of flexi-hours and worker 20 kg will receive Rs. 1,000 per day, that discretion be given to companies to General Manager of Communications Specialist utilisation of opportunities mobility, where other family members can and monthly pay of Rs. 25,000. Current choose between the implementation of Customer Experience – Concepts & Content and resources. contribute towards the earning process annual plucking averages among RPC either model. 4 the morning AGRICULTURE/ACCOLADES Thursday , December 24, 2020 DFCC wins ‘Best Post-Covid Innovation’ at SLASSCOM RPA Awards DFCC Bank has recently people and businesses affected recognition is further proof to won the “Best Post-Covid by Covid-19, with moratoriums that promise. Adopting emerging Innovation” award, presented set to be granted for more than and disruptive technology at the Sri Lanka Association for 10,000 loans. This process was has been at the forefront for Software Services Companies estimated to take more than 145 us, and RPA is one of many (SLASSCOM) RPA (Robotic man days to manually process, such technologies ventured Process Automation) Awards while the safety measures taken into by DFCC in 2019, which 2020. by the bank to enable work from has helped automate a variety Falling under the “Business home (WFH) posed additional of processes. The knowledge Continuity” category, this challenges. This led to the gained in this period allowed for accolade was received for the decision to automate this process quick application to challenges “Automated Debt Moratorium” through RPA, which according that arose during the pandemic initiative, which automated the to DFCC, ensured the safety of period. Now, we are both able process of granting moratoriums employees and improved the to ensure the safety of our Representatives of the LFVPPEA and Agriculture Sector Modernisation Project signed the MoU recently in Jaffna to people or businesses affected efficiency and accuracy of the employees, while providing our by the Covid-19 pandemic, moratorium updates.. customers with the appropriate according to the bank. Commenting on the award, relief needed, in an accurate and Amidst the pandemic in 2020, DFCC Chief Executive Officer timely manner.” the awards were held online. (CEO) Lakshman Silva DFCC was ranked amongst MoU with World Bank The SLASSCOM RPA Awards noted: “We are delighted at Business Today’s Top 30 includes the recognition and the recognition bestowed by Corporates in Sri Lanka and was awarding of businesses that come SLASSCOM on our “Automated also positioned amongst Brand that innovate and redefine the Debt Moratorium” initiative. Finance’s Top 100 Most Valuable world through timely initiatives. DFCC Bank has constantly Brands, in the year 2020. DFCC Project to develop local As per the circular introduced strived to integrate technology Bank is rated (SL) AA- Stable by by the Sri Lankan Government, into our processes to enhance ICRA Lanka Ltd. and A+ (lka) DFCC Bank had initiated the the overall banking experience Stable by Fitch Ratings Lanka task of providing relief for the of our customers, and this Ltd. agricultural sector The Lanka Fruit and for commercial growers modern pack houses to of both parties to expand Vegetable Producers, within the LFVPPEA improve product quality; exports, while including Processors, and to work together with reduce postharvest the small-scale settler SLT set up Christmas tree Exporters’ Association groups of out-growers losses of the selected farmer in the export (LFVPPEA) and the made up of ASMP farmer fruits in the districts agriculture value chain.” Agriculture Sector beneficiaries grouped in identified by ASMP; Meanwhile, ASMP Modernisation Project ASMP clusters. improve quality and Project Director Dr. (ASMP) of the World Both parties expect safety of fruits; provide Rohan Wijekoon said: Bank recently entered the MoU to facilitate linkages between “The Agriculture Sector into a Memorandum of the exchange of producers, members Modernisation is not Understanding (MoU) technical knowledge, of the LFVPPEA, and only introducing modern focusing on improving establishment of a international buyers agriculture technology the agricultural sector of “nucleus estates”, and of these fruits; and to to Sri Lanka, but also the country. engagement with farmer facilitate exports by sea aligning strategies ASMP is a project that beneficiaries of the freight. on productivity comes under the purview ASMP of tropical fresh LFVPPEA Chairman enhancement, focusing of the Ministry of fruits – namely bananas, Suresh Ellawala said: on the national and Agriculture. The project mangoes, papayas, “Signing of the MoU with international markets aims to increase the MD-2 pineapples, and the Agriculture Sector through sustainable production of selected white guava, all of Modernisation Project farmer companies. The fruits with a specific which are known as the reflects the alignment MoU with LFVPPEA focus on exports as well targeted fruits in the of strategies between is one of the attempts to as the development and project. the state and the private modernise the agriculture implementation of a Furthermore, the MoU sector. Furthermore, it sector towards this nucleus estate concept focuses on introducing reflects the commitment endeavour.” SLT Christmas decorations as seen from beside the iconic telephone statue outside the head office

The Christmas tree set up by Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) at its head office in Colombo was lit by SLT Group Chairman Rohan Fernando and senior SLT officials as part of the company’s efforts in spreading good cheer to the nation during these difficult times. SLT has been keeping Sri Lankans connected with each other throughout the year, uplifting them through contributions to the health, education, and government sectors and supporting the general public through the donation of dry rations during The winning team, 501 Implementing. From left: Arshad Aiyoob, Izzath Mohammed, Idrees Nafly, Shaakira Mubarak, the lockdown. SLT Group Chairman Rohan Fernando lighting up the Christmas tree and Sidra Mowlana Lifebuoy supports teachers across Sri Lanka APIIT Covid tracking app Lifebuoy has recently paths without undue pledged its support to delay, be it tertiary all teachers engaged in education, vocational wins TADHack Global 2020 Advanced Level (A/L) training, or employment examination paper opportunities, and Covid-Zero tracking system, two winning teams of the Asia- within our communities, providing marking islandwide, contribute worthily created by a team representing Pacific region received a share of opportunity for our students to by donating Lifebuoy to the future of Sri the Asia Pacific Institute Of a $ 1,000 prize. A total of eight showcase their true potential to be hand sanitisers. Lanka.” Information Technology (APIIT), teams qualified for global judging future leaders.” The sanitizess were Unilever Sri Lanka has won the prize for the Asia- to represent Sri Lanka at the event Team 501 Implementing stated: presented to Minister of Marketing Director Pacific region at telco application which connected teams from over “The competition posed many Education Professor G. Beauty and Personal development hackathon, TADHack 20 cities in the world. challenges as we were not just L. Peiris at the Ministry Care Nilushi Jayatileke Global 2020. The 501 Implementing team competing locally, but also with premises. said: “We are sincerely The tracker is a virtual assistant comprised Arshad Aiyoob, teams around the world. The Prof. Peiris said: appreciative of the selfless that alerts users with news updates Idrees Nafly, Izzath Mohammed, core challenge was integrating “This donation will service teachers across via SMS, provides the closest Shaakira Mubarak, and Sidra application performing interfaces assist the Ministry of the country offer the Unilever Sri Lanka Marketing Director Beauty and Personal locations to get a PCR test done, Mowlana, all of whom are a part and coming up with a web or Education to render nation. We are eternally Care Nilushi Jayatileke (centre) ceremoniously presents determines if one is symptomatic, of the School of Computing at mobile-based solution.” services effectively indebted to them for the the hand sanitisers to Minister of Education Prof. G.L. Peiris and comes with an artificial APIIT. Initiated in 2013 as an (left). Also pictured is Unilever Sri Lanka Head of Media and to Advanced Level sacrifice they make to Activation Channa Tennakoon intelligence (AI)-based call agent Commenting on the win, APIIT effort to build an ecosystem students awaiting their go beyond their call of to assist callers. Head of the School of Computing focused on telecom application examination results, in duty for the betterment the Ministry of Education Lifebuoy hand sanitisers The team named as “501 Prof. Priyantha Kumarawadu development, TADHACK is an order to pursue their of future generations of for enabling us to support in response to this Implementing” was one of the said: “At APIIT, we encourage annually organised hackathon for chosen post-secondary this country. We thank the distribution of obligation.” two teams that won the prize. The creativity, innovation, and research developers. Softlogic launches AI device TeDi Alexa Softlogic Retail (Pvt). activation and smart said: “We are proud to Dilshan Boteju said: “With eliminates the need for a problems and get smarter Ltd., a fully owned controlling of connected present a device that will the backing of South Asian remote control as navigation over time, with new skills subsidiary of Softlogic devices directly from the enable Sri Lankans to be Technologies, our parent of TV channels could be being added frequently. Holdings PLC together with TeDi Alexa device . on par with the fast-paced company, we have grown done with a voice command Consumers who wish to The Connection Workshop TeDi Alexa is an all- ever-changing AI platform from strength to strength. and TeDi Alexa will search purchase the newest AI Tedi (Pvt.) Ltd. has recently purpose device by being of the world. As integration Moreover, the launch of through hundreds of channels. Alexa from Softlogic, are introduced TeDi Alexa; the able to answer questions, of AI into homes and this avant-garde product has TeDi Alexa has its own eligible for cash offers and first Alexa-integrated device report on weather, listen work becomes the norm, provided much-needed scope inbuilt Infra-Red (IR) blaster 0% interest-free instalment to be officially launched in to music (Tunein Radio, it enables us to adapt to for the futuristic prospects of that can control surrounding schemes on credit cards Sri Lanka. Amazon music), listen to the growing trend which our country and put us on the IR-controlled devices – issued by leading banks. According to Softlogic, flash briefings, check one’s will take us forward into right track.” making the surrounding area The device will be available currently, TeDi Alexa is calendar, and read emails the global technological TeDi Alexa comes with a smart voice-controlled at all leading Softlogic considered to be the first and prepare replies. sphere.” the added feature of being hotspot. Through a voice Max and Softlogic stores, of Amazon’s AI devices Softlogic Retail (Pvt.) Meanwhile, The able to voice and app control user interface (VUI), TeDi and can also be purchased integrated to a smart Ltd. Chief Executive Connection Workshop compatible with PeoTV or Alexa can communicate with through Softlogic’s platform enabling voice Officer Mohammed Rizvi Chief Executive Officer Dialog TV boxes. TeDi Alexa people. TeDi Alexa can solve e-commerce portal. 5 the morning Thursday , December 24, 2020

Joshua brunch(drummer) Cyaniq Global Mall A new virtual marketplace BY NAVEED ROZAIS

Cyaniq Global LLC is one of Colombo’s leading marketing, communication, and content creation firms, servicing 10 of the top 20 corporates listed in the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE). 2020 has seen Cyaniq Global experiment with retail, starting with grocery delivery service “Kada Malu” which made waves Nathan when it was established practically overnight (lead guitarist) Dush during the lockdown in March. Cyaniq Global’s venture, the Cyaniq Global Mall is an online platform for brands and customers looking to meet, no matter where they are in the world. The Morning Brunch spoke to Cyaniq Global Mall Head of Operations Darrel De Zilva to learn more. ÄÄ What is Cyaniq Global Mall? Give us the elevator pitch. Cyaniq Global Mall is a conduit for global brands to meet local customers in an affordable and convenient way while also acting as a platform for local brands to meet a that the space is emerging, considering global customer base as we grow and scale to that we have a number of large e-retailing establish two-way channels. operations which have been around for many At present, we are focused on retailing years. But, at Cyaniq, our belief is that the globally recognised fashion accessories, industry will have plenty of market share books, collectibles, apparel, and beauty care available for operators with an innovative products which we source from the open business model and channel management market to targeted local market segments. strategy. Darrel De Zilva ÄÄ Cyaniq Global LLC previously responded to the needs of the public by launching ‘Kada Malu’; is the mall another response to the mid-to-post- RELEASES pandemic customer? It’s quite the opposite really. I think a lot of young entrepreneurs and many of the large businesses have come to the rescue of the pandemic customer. When we initially set OFFICIAL MUSIC up our retail operations, we were focused on filling the supply vacuum. We are now purely focused on the idea of creating sustainable business models which will look at innovating ÄÄ What made you start a mall the way retailing is done in the new normal. VIDEO FOR Maybe, if we are successful, we through Cyaniq Global? When will help create a market environment did this happen? where competitors will adopt some of our During the initial lockdown, earlier innovations. But, that’s a long time away. this year, Cyaniq Global LLC ventured into a number of retail operations. We started ÄÄ What are you hoping for the with “Kada Malu”, an essential food supply Cyaniq Global Mall to achieve ‘ILL-LITERATE’ delivery brand to help communities outside of in the long term? the immediate Colombo city limits, which was BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE we heard the beat, it took us maybe a As an organisation, Cyaniq wants to few hours to write the verses; the next a need of the hour at the time. The success create sustainable business models which can of that operation led to us exploring the retail DNM Crew released their latest music video for their new single thing you know, we recorded and it’s create value for multiple stakeholder groups at the mixing stage,” he said. He also space with more strategic interest and the while maintaining scalability. We are hopeful “ILL-LITERATE”, and we spoke to Dush from DNM Crew about the intention of creating a sustainable business concept behind the video and how they came to shoot a music video shared that although this wasn’t a typical that we will create some innovations along DNM Crew jam and was more focussed model. Over the next few months, we had amidst a pandemic. the way to achieving this goal and those towards hip hop, the rappers incorporated great success in retailing vegetables and fruits innovations will be interesting to reflect on, Dush shared that the thinking behind the entire band into the music video. through Green Bean Express, meat items sometime down the line. the music video is based on the concept With regards to the video production, and seafood through the Meatery, essentials For Global Mall specifically, there is a of how rap has evolved throughout the he shared that they got started back when through Knock Knock, and medical supplies promising upside if the e-retail growth of this years. He shared that personally having To be honest, the moment the first wave of Covid-19 simmered down, through Med Wheels. In a lot of ways, Global year is any valid consideration. As we go grown up in an era where lyricism and we heard the beat, it took us adding that it was definitely a really fun Mall is a consolidation of our retail interests, along, we will try to differentiate and position “bars” in hip hop were prioritised, “boom maybe a few hours to write the verses; experience because they wanted to not just where the roadmap is geared to include ourselves with a heavier emphasis on social bap is where our routes are from, the the next thing you showcase their lyrics but also a backstory and build on the business lines we explored media marketing as opposed to traditional whole mumble rap style isn’t really the know, we recorded and it’s in order to add more context. “It was like over the past year. It’s been an absolutely e-commerce retailing. DNM Crew’s flow”, he said; and so came at the mixing stage shooting a movie, with our very own unprecedented year and we don’t know where along “ILL-LITERATE” – a parody Dush lead guitarist portraying the mumble rap things will lead in the coming year, but we ÄÄ Is there anything else that against mumble rappers. character,” he said. He also spoke of some want to be strategically focused on creating Cyaniq Global is working on He stated that it is all tongue-in- of their collaborators, especially the team sustainable business models, now that the that we can expect to see in cheek, adding: “No hate or discrimination from Empire Clothing Club, who were need of the hour has been met and a number the near future? of operators have moved in to fill the supply in any way, but just a fun flow we wrote great contributors to making the video We are very much an SME (small and vacuum we were initially looking to fill. down to a ‘90s nostalgic beat, with happen. medium enterprise), although we service comparisons to this generation of how Finally, he spoke about how the and collaborate with some of the largest lyricism is very less on par with the pandemic has treated him and the DNM ÄÄ Why a virtual mall? What’s the story behind it? corporate brands in the country. So, for us as quality of the beat, and how the ‘90s to Crew as creatives, sharing: “The pandemic an organisation, this year was about surviving It’s a very simple thought process here. 2000s were when a rapper had to step up has been a very productive one, for DNM the challenges thrown our way and continuing We understand that e-commerce is going to with the bars.” Crew and all the members bringing out to deliver value to our stakeholders. continue to keep pace in terms of the growth About the timing of the project, he their own unique skillset individually as We are hoping to work on newer projects the industry has shown this year. With the said that the reason why they released well.” He also shared that the members of next year if the economic climate supports it pandemic still impacting the lifestyles of it now is because they had actually DNM Crew have worked on content on and hopefully we will all be able to find the consumers the world over, we feel it’s a great recorded the audio of the song back each of their personal social media, sharing right opportunities for growth in the emerging space to be in. in 2019, and it was quite overdue. He some of their covers during quarantine. He coming year. added, however, that they also felt that said that their drummer Joshua and lead It probably doesn’t do it justice to say now was the perfect time because content guitarist Nathan had time to learn the digital is being released and consumed at a rapid side of production in using pro tools to pace, considering that people have a lot programme beats, which has been a huge more time on their hands – both creators Rushen addition to their content to come. and their audience. (lead guitarist) On a closing note, he shared that in Dush said that the DNM Crew are terms of content to come, they have a more of a rap/rock band, but with this We also spoke about the production couple of music videos coming from their track, they focused more towards the hip process. Dush shared that the track was first EP titled “Identity”, which will be their hop aspect, and let the pro tools do the recorded at Furnace Records in Mount main focus, and also some exiting new work, giving the electric guitar, bass, and Lavinia, and that it was a hard moment music videos to accompany them. drums a small break. to beat. “To be honest, the moment PHOTOS DNM Crew 6 the morning TRAVEL Thursday , December 24, 2020

Create your own identity: Luxsan Tharmarajah What has 2020 oriented hotels and restaurants were hit hard, and they were not able to adhere to the new rules and regulations. My only option was taught travel to target luxury travel.” She noted that it was a tragedy seeing small business owners struggling to keep their businesses afloat. Looking at the positive side of things, influencers? she said: “Many of the tourist destinations were less crowded – some of the waterfalls I visited were completely empty and it was just nature and me.” Covid-19, uncertainty, Stephi told us that she fears the and hope for Luxsan is a psychology graduate, with a uncertainty that comes with the pandemic. strong calling for travel. He is also incredibly “Will there be another lockdown? Will the passionate about helping people, which is place I visit go under lockdown? Will I get better days why “when lockdown happened, it was our infected with Covid-19?” are some questions responsibility to stay home to save lives. that cross her mind. I believe it is important to travel safely, She strongly believes that the pandemic especially when it comes to sticking to the was a warning from Mother Nature to protocols and maintaining social distancing”. humankind, to stop the destruction of our Although the pandemic is a huge planet and start rebuilding the natural world. cause of worry to us in general, it caused “We were given enough time to change our a particularly large strain on the tourism lifestyle patterns. As a travel influencer, I industry. Luxsan touched on the subject, learned I have to influence my followers to saying: “As the restrictions eased up and with think more about nature and sustainability. all the needed precautions taken, there was a It’s time to put more focus on sustainability, huge demand to rebuild the tourism industry reduce our carbon footprint, adapt to quickly Thushitha changing situations, and come up with better Medagama again.” He stated that travel is important for the economy, and if we do travel, we should plans.” do so in a safe manner. Just like everyone else, Stephi hopes that BY VENESSA ANTHONY mom, I have lots of hope, along with a bagful He spoke about the struggles he had Covid-19 will end. “The progress we made of challenges, and first experiences.” to face this year. “Having been let go from in finding a solution for Covid shows positive After the pandemic paid us a visit back in March, the industry that was She added that she’s very excited to start my job due to pay cuts in this economy hit results. I believe everyone should make a conscious effort to change their lifestyle.” hit the hardest was travel. We at The Morning Brunch spoke to some travel travelling with her little nugget and gather me like a wave, and I realised that you are more amazing memories that will last a bloggers on Instagram about their thoughts on the pandemic. The best not guaranteed anything.” He shared that he @stephi_lk lifetime, along the way. lessons in life are learnt through hard times. Here’s what they had to say: learned that nothing is permanent. “Create @island.girl.diaries your own identity and be yourself in any given situation,” he advised. I have started to value each and Life is not all about going to work: Nothing is consistent: Aside from the pandemic, Luxsan Thusitha Medagama Malsha Jayamaha Be forever grateful: revealed that he plans on following his every trip: Thareesha Wijethunga Thusitha has been travelling since 2012. Kavindi Athapattu passion and doing his masters in clinical Since that time, there has not been a single psychology in 2021. He added: “To be really year that he couldn’t travel for a long period honest, 2021 doesn’t look any better, but let’s of time. In conversation with The Morning hope for the best and pray that 2021 will be Brunch, he revealed that his last camping trip the win we are all looking for.” was back in February and that he just can’t believe it’s been so long! @lifeofluxsan Thusitha described how he used to find people to accompany him on his adventures. “I was planning hiking trips mainly through It’s time to put more focus on Facebook and asking a couple of friends sustainability: to join. That was a great chance for me to connect with like-minded people. Not only Stephi Wimalasinghe did it help me meet new friends, but it also helped expand my corporate network and my Instagram blog.” (@ceylon_adventure_ seeker) “It was the hardest few months of my He told us that all those things have life!” Thareesha exclaimed when asked come to a full stop right now, and added that how she coped with the pandemic. “I used given the nature of this pandemic, we need Travel is a means of escape for Malsha, Travelling has always been Kavindi’s to travel often before the pandemic hit, but to maintain social distancing and avoid social and she told us that travelling has helped hobby for years, and coping with the suddenly there was a lockdown and we were gatherings, so he had no choice but to stay at her immensely, both in terms of her mental restrictions that the pandemic put us through forced to sit at home.” home, whether he liked it or not. health and physical wellbeing. This pandemic did not fare too well for her. She explained how she managed to keep “It’s crazy to get stuck between the has done her no favours, she said, and spoke Kavindi spoke about the challenges her travel blog afloat while not being able office and my house.” He hopes that things about how much it affected her, stating: “A the pandemic brought about, as a travel to travel. “I was missing months of content will get better soon. “I’m looking forward to lot, because travelling isn’t a job for me, it’s influencer. “There is not much work right creation. I shared a lot of ‘throwbacks’ continuing to explore beautiful mountains my hobby and I love doing it. So having your now. My Instagram feed is very boring and with positive messages.” She added: “It’s and waterfalls again.” hobby stalled by a pandemic twice doesn’t I always miss the good old days when definitely been one of the many challenges Thusitha also shared his thoughts on help much. I definitely miss that peace.” everything was going fine.” that have come with the pandemic.” what the pandemic taught him, stating: “Life Travelling undoubtedly brings about She noted that the part that she is Thareesha also told us that this time has is not all about going to work, saving some new appreciation for life, and the lack of it is most devastated about is that a lot of her taught her to appreciate the little things: “I money, and building a house. It’s all about bound to make life all the more difficult. Her treasured travel spots had collapsed over the Stephi had many travel plans going into explored my own hometown and secluded travelling to different places and meeting life goal is to travel as much as possible and last few months. 2020, none of which came into fulfilment. parks and beaches that have always existed different people. At the end of the day, what achieve the highest possible goals she can in Kavindi shared her thoughts on this year, “My first trip planned was in March but that I never took time to find. I have matters to us most is the experiences and her career. stating: “2020 taught me one good lesson and 2020 to Everest Base Camp. With the started to value each and every trip, whether memories we collected, not the material She added that despite the troubles she it is to be forever grateful and thankful and pandemic, the trip was cancelled two weeks it’s just a short road trip or camping, as things.” Thusitha coped with the lockdown faced due to the pandemic, she learned a few enjoy life as it is!” She added that distance prior to the date,” Stephi told us, sadly. something I am lucky enough to experience.” by video calling his friends. “Even though valuable lessons. “I have learned that nothing means nothing when you are connected in Stephi was also stuck at home during She mentioned that she had plans to visit many of us were frustrated at our homes, we is consistent, that you have to expect the heart. the lockdown, and all she had left were her Bali, but Covid put a damper on things. “As talked for hours, recalling some of our best unexpected and work to overcome those,” On the topic of 2021, she shared her dreams to travel. She told us that even with a travel influencer, it’s my duty to encourage memories. Malsha said, adding that she faced her hopes for the upcoming year, saying: “I hope the restrictions lifted, nothing was the same. travellers to adhere to safety guidelines,” she He concluded: “I wanna go to heaven challenges and came out stronger than ever. that 2021 will be everyone’s year and that “I like to create content on both luxury travel told us. She concluded that she is hopeful we and say ‘phew...that was a hell of an Keeping aside the trouble that came with everything will get back to normal.” as well as budget travel because I believe will find an effective vaccine for Covid and adventure’.” this year, she has reason to hope for a better there are many people who follow backpack- all will be well once again. 2021; she’s going to be a mom! “I have a big @travel_and_nibbles style travel. @ceylon_adventure_seeker challenge coming up in 2021. As a first-time “But with the new normal, many budget- @traveldrops_tw

Best Western Elyon Colombo celebrates World Luxury Hotel Awards 2020 dual TripAdvisor and Agoda Awards Mosvold Villa Best Western Elyon Colombo, Sri Lanka’s first-ever Best Western Hotel, has once again been named Best Luxury recognised for exemplary guest experience as recipients of dual accolades from premier online booking sites Tripadvisor and Boutique Hotel Agoda. “We are overjoyed and incredibly proud of these great Situated amidst Ahangama’s beach or pool, or in private by the awards. While it has been a palm-lined shores and azure seas, terrace. challenging year for the travel and Mosvold Villa, the flagship property Today, Mosvold Sri Lanka of Mosvold Boutique Hotels has over 140 employees and hospitality industry, we extend our was presented an Agoda 2020 Best Western Elyon Colombo (MBH), was recently named “Best four properties across two hotel heartfelt gratitude to all our valued Customer Review Award with a is also the proud recipient of the Luxury Boutique Hotel” at the 14th portfolios: Escape Lifestyle Hotels guests for their continued trust and high score of 8.2. These awards TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice “Best World Luxury Hotel Awards. The villa aims to combine and Mosvold Boutique Hotels. It confidence,” said Elyon Hotels celebrate service excellence and are of the Best Award 2020”. The hotel This comes as the boutique the amenities of a star-class hotel has representation sales offices in Chairman Presantha Jayamaha. judged on genuine Agoda customers’ has been recognised based on a full hotel’s second consecutive win, with the comfort and privacy of a core markets, and fosters strong “The awards are testament to the experience reviews. Scores over 8.0 year of TripAdvisor reviews, prior to after winning “Luxury Beachfront home. The eight bedroom suites are relationships with both local outstanding service and quality that recognise hotels that consistently any changes caused by the pandemic, Villa – Asian Continent” in 2018. all equipped with private terraces and international travel agents, we consistently provide to our guests deliver outstanding services with award winners acknowledged Amidst Sri Lanka’s scenic nature, overlooking the Indian Ocean, a stakeholders, and local communities. and we trust they will also encourage assuring guests they have made for consistently receiving great Mosvold Villa lets guests enjoy a honeymoon suite with a private It also supports hundreds of families our team to continue to deliver the right choice based on five key traveller feedback, placing them truly Sri Lankan experiential holiday plunge pool with jacuzzi jets, and through its Mosvold-Martinus exceptional service levels.” criteria including location, service, in the top 10% of hospitality to elevate the mind, body, and soul. the choice between dining by the Foundation. Best Western Elyon Colombo cleanliness, facilities, and price. businesses around the globe. the morning 7 Thursday, December 24, 2020 SPORTS

Tokyo 2020 Chief Executive Toshirō Mutō revealing the details of the version five budget

Tokyo 2020 has revealed FOLLOWING POSTPONEMENT OF GAMES the details of its version five budget following the postponement of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the Japanese capital. Tokyo 2020 Chief Tokyo 2020 budget rises Executive Toshirō Mutō has been present at the press conference. Details were confirmed for the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee budget and the “other entities” to Rs. 2,929 billion budget for the Tokyo Metropolitan Compared to the version four postponement of the Games. Overall expenditure including an additional $ 100 million Covid-19 pandemic of $ 2.5 billion, Government and Japanese Organising Committee budget, total If they cannot be covered by Tokyo is Rs. 2,929 billion for the Paralympics budget and $ including $ 600 million of additional Government during the said press expenses have increased by $ 900 2020, a further $ 100 million of In the “other entities” budget, the 500 million to cover Covid-19 Paralympic Games costs. conference, Inside the Games million (Rs. 171 billion) – including additional expenditures will be Tokyo Metropolitan Government is countermeasures costs. The Olympics are now scheduled exclusively revealed on Tuesday (22). $ 300 million (Rs. 57 billion) for met by the Tokyo Metropolitan set for a total expenditure of $ 6.6 Including the Organising Committee from 23 July to 8 August and are set to It stated thus: Paralympic expenses – to a total of Government. billion – an increase of $ 100 million budget of $ 6.7 billion, the overall be followed by the Paralympics from The version five budget reflects $ 6.7 billion (Rs. 1,274.4 billion). The Organising Committee budget from the version four budget. Games expenditure will now total $ 24 August to 5 September. the postponement of the Games includes $ 1.2 billion of temporary This includes an increase of $ 100 15.4 billion (Rs. 2,929 billion). Measures introduced to reduce costs due to the Covid-19 pandemic $ 700 m extra expenditure and overlay facility expenditures, million for the Paralympic Games include a cut to the number of officials and the subsequent reduction of for postponement an increase of $ 300 million over and $ 400 million to cover the cost Cost cutting attending the Games, infrastructure expenses arising from simplification The budget, which already includes the version four budget, operational of Covid-19 countermeasures. This comprises the $ 12.6 billion reforms that will reduce the amount of measures devised by Tokyo 2020, the a significant contribution from the expenditures of $ 1.6 billion, an increase The Japanese Government is forecast in the version four budget, lighting and additional temporary power International Olympic Committee IOC, has predicted a revenue increase of $ 400 million, and general affairs and expected to spend $ 2.1 billion on plus the Organising Committee’s supplies for venues, and the elimination (IOC), and the International of $ 700 million which will help cover communication expenditures of $ 800 the Games, an increase of $ 700 contingency fund of $ 300 million of ceremonies at the Athletes’ Village Paralympic Committee. the additional expenditure from the million, an increase of $ 200 million. million from the version four budget, and the additional costs due to the and prior to the Opening Ceremony. How Neil Harvey’s career blossomed team, stated Roland Perry in his “George”, which was Bradman’s Neil Harvey was the first INTO THE book “Bradman’s best Ashes team”. middle name, came back with the of the post-World War II directive: “Just keep the ball along players not to have his The story continues career interrupted by war PAST WITH the ground and you’ll be alright.” A competitive home environment Harvey was technically perfect THILAK of long summers of backyard and in his shot production, Bradman street cricket equipped young has remarked. “He was batting Harvey with the nous and spirit well enough and simply getting out The choice of Neil Harvey at No. to move well beyond the streets in early. It happens to all cricketers. If 4 in Sir Don Bradman’s all-time Fitzroy, an inner Melbourne suburb. anything, he seemed a little anxious best Australian team is perhaps His left-handed sparkle and skill when bogged down (early on in the as predictable as it is apt. The surfaced rapidly for the Fitzroy Club 1948 tour) and there was a tendency attacking, quick-footed batsman at just 15 years and, for Victoria, occasionally to play a rash shot. But was selected on merit by Bradman. at 18, during the 1946/47 season. that was it.” Yet it did help that he was a left- Harvey was the first of the post- hander. In ideal circumstances, World War II players not to have Advanced in the Bradman liked the concept of a his career interrupted by war. batting order left-handed opener and one more In fact, his career was enhanced The instructions to keep the ball in his top six. by the war. Selectors in 1945 and Neil Harvey now along the ground were meant to In his Best World Eleven, Arthur 1946 scoured the country searching focus his mind and to remind him Morris and Sir Garfield Sobers for young talent to replace old, patrolled by Harvey. The other to avoid the desperate lofted shots. were “the left-handed” selections. ageing players from the 1930s, a brilliant Australian cover field of It seemed to do the trick. Morris and Harvey were the period called another era. In the the time was Norm O’Neill. In the next game against choices in the Australian line-up early post-war years, Bradman Lancashire, Harvey made 36 in the while no leftie was considered saw in Harvey a mirror image of It happens to all the first innings, and again, according to strong enough to join the ranks himself: Short at 171 cm (5 ft. 7 cricketers Bradman, it was “well enough”. But of Bradman’s best-ever England inches) and compact (at 66.5 kg), Rapid advancement looked he was out, bowled, playing over a ultra-talented with an aggressive, unlikely in 1948 in England to faster ball. However, he was buoyed youthful outlook. Harvey, continued Perry. by that form which took him past Neil Harvey’s career When Bradman was first seen Harvey struggled early on the 25. In the second innings, Harvey Full name: Robert Neil Harvey Stats: 79 Tests, 6,149 runs, average in the 1926/28 season playing for lower, slower pitches. He began attacked from the start, knowing that New South Wales, commentators with a string of low scores; 12, 7, 18 the game was petering out to a draw. Born: 8 October 1928 in Fitzroy, 48.41, 21 centuries, and 24 fifties dubbed him the best in the country. not out, 7, 16 run out, and 23, and He hit 76 not out. His confidence Victoria, Australia (age 92) Style: Harvey is regarded as one of the Like Bradman, Harvey was nimble- his progress worried him. Harvey, was high. most artistic batsmen ever in the history Nickname: Ninna footed between the wickets and a the junior member of the squad, In the fourth Test, England batted of Test cricket Height: 1.71 m (5 ft. 7 in.) brilliant field. Likewise, in the 1940s was too much in awe of the busy first and made 496; Cyril Washbrook Personal: During the 1949-50 tour Batting: Left-handed and 1950s, batsmen even with the Bradman to ask him where he was made 143 and Bill Edrich 111. Post of South Africa, Harvey met his first driving capacity of Gary Sobers, doing wrong. Instead, he asked Sam 1948, on his second tour of England, Role: Top-order batsman wife Iris Greenish when she was 16. Rohan Kanhai, Frank Worrell, Loxton, the Victorian all-rounder, to Harvey plundered 1,526 runs at Played for Australia: From January Several years later, they married at East Peter May, Tom Graveney, and ask “the boss” – Bradman – what he 76.3. He hit eight centuries. He 1948 to February 1963 (15 years) Melbourne and had two sons and a Colin Cowdrey had to be at their should do. Loxton, who had a good batted down the list, often at six, but daughter best to penetrate an off-side field rapport with Bradman and called him was expected soon to be at No. 3. Messi gets past Pele Lionel Messi broke Pele’s all-time scoring milestone in club football by netting his 644th career goal in NBA 2020/21 begins Barcelona’s 3-0 win The Los Angeles Lakers barely just won the 2019/20 National over Valladolid on Tuesday (22). Messi achieved the feat in Basketball Association (NBA) championship, but it’s already the 65th minute, helped by 18-year-old Pedro Gonzalez. time to make predictions for the 2020/21 season, which “When I started playing football, I never thought I’d break began on Tuesday (22) to a shortened season amid the any record, especially not the one I achieved today that Pele Covid-19 fears. Instead of 82 games, this season will have held,” Messi wrote on Instagram after the mammoth feat. 72, and only half of the schedule has still been announced.

Thursday , December 24, 2020 BEURANsports HENDRICKS, KEEGAN PETERSEN WITHDRAWN SA cautiously ready for Tests It is almost certain now that the two-match Test series between South Africa and Sri Lanka will get underway on Saturday (26), Boxing Day, in Centurion.

The usual Covid-19 fears, two South African players getting infected, the emergence of a new, more contagious strain of the coronavirus in South Africa just this week, and the possible travel restrictions imposed on the country as a result, had put the series all but in serious doubt. But Cricket South Africa (CSA) yesterday (23) announced their amended squad for the two Tests. Two leading players have withdrawn, it is learnt, with coronavirus. They are the one-Test left-arm fast-bowler Beuran Hendricks and uncapped 27-year-old batsman Keegan Petersen. This has left South Africa, now under a new skipper in Quinton de Kock, with a 17-man squad. Other than Hendricks and Petersen, the remainder of the squad has returned negative test results for Covid-19. Proteas’ newcomers De Kock was appointed as Test Captain following his white-ball excellence but he is reportedly distancing himself from the position on a full-time basis. Their pace attack will also be jeopardised with the absence of Cricket South Africa yesterday (23) announced their amended squad for the Tests against Sri Lanka sans Beuran Hendricks (right) and Keegan Petersen who have reportedly tested positive for coronavirus their key pacie Kagiso Rabada. As many as four players – Migael Pretorius, Sarel Erwee, Kyle Verreynne, and Glenton Stuurman – have earned maiden Test call-ups, Due to injury concerns, Sri Lanka are without Africa will not add any further players to the to hastily abandon their ODI series against giving a clear indication that the squad has Angelo Mathews for the South Africa Tests, squad, it is reported. They could have begun England. Meanwhile in SuperSport Park, been stretched to breaking point even before though he could return for the series against training as a full squad yesterday (23). where Sri Lanka are to play the first Test, a the series has begun. England, starting on 14 January in Galle. And, They will no longer be confined to their domestic match between the Titans and the The updated indicating that they are stepping into some hotel, the Irene Country Club at Gauteng. Dolphins was called off after the first day Sri Lanka’s woes kind of a new era in Test cricket, at least five They are not to come into contact with Sri because a player from the latter side tested Meanwhile, Sri Lanka is yet to play members of their 22-member squad on tour Lanka, who are housed at the same venue, positive. SA squad international cricket of any sort after March are uncapped players. in any way. In addition, they will not be Two members of England’s tour party also Quinton de Kock (Captain), Temba Bavuma, – meaning there was no cricket at the highest It is worth recalling that during their previous permitted to leave the venue except to travel tested positive, yet their results were confirmed Aiden Markram, Faf du Plessis, Dean Elgar, level for them for almost 10 months. They time in South Africa, Sri Lanka made history to SuperSport Park in Centurion and the as false positives afterwards. South Africa are Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Rassie van der last played international cricket, a T20I series by becoming the first Asian country to beat Wanderers at Johannesburg for the duration to host Australia this summer and therefore, Dussen, Anrich Nortje, Glenton Stuurman, Sarel against West Indies, in the first week of March the Proteas in a Test series on their home soil. of the series. they need the Sri Lanka series to take place Erwee, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynne, Migael in Kandy. SA bio-bubble now operates SA cautious without further alarming incidents regarding Pretorius, Dwaine Pretorius, Lutho Sipamla, They have not played Tests since January the pandemic situation, if they are to move and Raynard van Tonder. this year when they were involved in a series The remaining 17-member Protea squad Early this month, three Protea players along with the international series coming up in Zimbabwe. have tested negative on three occasions. South tested positive for Covid-19 prompting them in the near future unharmed.

Exercising under lockdown Doping has a ‘greater chance of “Suwen Siteemata Saviyak”, a programme to help live healthily during the pandemic, organised by being caught’ at Tokyo 2020 the Department of Sports Development and Colombo District Secretariat, was held zWorld Athletics President Coe claims at various places in Colombo over the past week. The World Athletics President programme has been launched Sebastian Coe has claimed with a view to encouraging track and field athletes who are people, who are living in doping have a “greater chance isolated and lockdown areas in of being caught” at the Tokyo the District, to do exercises to 2020 Olympics than at any other alleviate non-communicable Games. In an interview with The diseases and mental stress. Guardian, Coe has discussed the effectiveness of the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU). The AIU was founded by World Athletics in 2017 and works independently from the governing body to combat doping in the sport. “The AIU was a centrepiece in the reforms and that’s exactly why I pushed for that independent, dispassionate organisation that could remove the decision-making from any undue political interference,” Coe has said. “I like to think that it has shown the athletes that we’re not respecters or fearful of reputation. Where there is an infraction we’re not fearful of sitting there going ‘oh well, that’s quite a big name’. The AIU is not always going to be on everybody’s Christmas card list, nor should they be,” Coe has stressed. Shashi Ganeshan “But I do think that it has restored some confidence among the athletes that we’ve passed away got an organisation out there that will fearlessly and ruthlessly weed out the cheats The funeral of reputed former S. Thomas’ College, Mount when and where they surface.” Lavinia cricketer Shashi Ganeshan was held on Sunday (20) Coe also expressed his confidence in the in Colombo. The 1976 Skipper of the Thomian cricket team, use of technology in identifying dopers Ganeshan was highly acclaimed for his services to the school and claimed World Athletics was best as a sports personality. equipped to do so. World Athletics President Sebastian Coe