SLOW COVID-19 DEATH OF LOCAL CASES TOTAL CASES 2,988 SINHARAJA? DEATHS RECOVERED ACTIVE CASES 134 12 2,842 RS. 70.00 PAGES 64 / SECTIONS 7 VOL. 02 – NO. 49 SUNDAY, AUGUST 30, 2020 CASES AROUND THE WORLD RECOVERD TOTAL CASES 17,138,894 CONSTITUTIONAL ETCA DEATHS REFORMS: 13A RETURNS DISCUSSIONS 24,681,048 836,744 TO THE LIMELIGHT RECOMMENCE THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 9.00 P.M. ON 21 AUGUST 2020 »SEE PAGE 5 »SEE BUSINESS PAGE 1 »SEE PAGE 7 CENTRAL EXPRESSWAY Tenders to China and UK z Cabinet approval to be sought z Funding to be more favourable to Sri Lanka

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Accordingly, the construction Highly informed sources attached Furthermore, the funding was said to Meanwhile, the construction work contracts for Section III of the CEP are to the RDA, who wished to remain be finalised in a manner which would be of CEP Section I from Kadawatha to The Road Development Authority (RDA) is to finalise the to be awarded to a Chinese company, anonymous, told The Sunday Morning more favourable to Sri Lanka, he noted. Mirigama was resumed last week after awarding of the construction contract for the long-delayed while the construction of Section IV that the finalised documents would be Once Cabinet approval is granted, paying an advance payment of Rs. 16.67 Sections III and IV of the Central Expressway Project (CEP), The of the CEP would be awarded to a submitted to the Cabinet for approval the construction of Sections III and IV billion to the contractor. Sunday Morning learnt. UK-based contractor. to proceed. would begin immediately. Contd. on page 2 DRUG ADDICTION Testing continues CENTRAL CULTURAL FUND MISAPPROPRIATION 5,000 caught Akila to blame? Allegations have been heritage management million has been distributed within two levelled against former institutions in the country, among 1,000 temples around the Minister of Education Akila The Sunday Morning learnt. country, of which the majority Viraj Kariyawasam for As alleged by one of the are from the Kurunegala months misappropriation of funds former directors attached to District, without even following The prison system has incarcerated a of the Central Cultural Fund the CCF who wished to remain the proper procedures. whopping 5,000 new drug addict prisoners (CCF), one of the principle anonymous, a total of Rs. 500 Contd. on page 2 within the last two months, The Sunday Morning learnt. Commissioner General of Prisons Thushara Changes to 13A on the cards Upuldeniya said there were a total 8,000 drug addicts within the prison system. z Entire Constitution to be reviewed z 19A given priority “There are about 8,000 drug addicts in Changes to the 13th Amendment to the new constitution and we will be looking at all prisons across the island, 5,000 of whom were Constitution by the incumbent Government aspects of it, including the 13th Amendment,” incarcerated within the last two months.” are on the table, The Sunday Morning learnt. Rambukwella said. However, he said that The Commissioner General said the prisons Cabinet Spokesman and Minister of Mass priority would be given to the 19th Amendment. were facing an issue of drug addicts going into Media Keheliya Rambukwella said that the entire Meanwhile, the Indian High Commission withdrawal and having health issues due to Colombo Municipal Council Public Health Department officials randomly took samples from 175 Constitution would be reviewed and changes reiterated its position on the 13th Amendment the lack of drug supply. vendors and customers at the Manning Market in Fort to be sent for PCR testing for Covid-19 made, including to the 13th Amendment. and its implementation. Contd. on page 2 PHOTO LALITH PERERA “It is our Government’s policy to bring in a Contd. on page 2 CAPITAL HEIGHTS Aruwakkalu CAPITALRS. 34 MILLION HEIGHTS Constitution UPWARDSRS. 34 MILLION delays MMDA railway further UPWARDS delayed CAPITAL HEIGHTSreforms The completion of the railway line carrying BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA garbage from Colombo to the Aruwakkalu RS. 34 MILLION Waste Disposal Plant will see further delays VISIT OUR UPWARDSWEBSITE The Government has made constitutional due to construction work on the line being changes their top legislative priority, held up due to the prevailing coronavirus CAPITALVISIT HEIGHTS+94 OUR 763112233 meaning that other legislation such as situation, The Sunday Morning learnt. RS.35SHOW APARTMENT MILLIONWEBSITE UPWARDSRS. 34 MILLION the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act Contd. on page 2 READY FOR INSPECTION UPWARDS (MMDA) would only be looked at later, The Sunday Morning learnt. OTTER ACQUISITION PROJECT NEARING+94 763112233 COMPLETION VISIT OUR “The constitutional reforms are a mighty SHOW APARTMENT WEBSITEtask and we are prioritising that at the Otter to merge VISIT OUR moment. We will look at other laws such +94 763112233WEBSITE as the MMDA thereafter,” Ministry of READY FOR INSPECTION SHOW APARTMENT www.capitalheights.lk with Waters Edge SHOW APARTMENT +94 763112233 Justice Secretary M.M.P.K. Mayadunne READY FORREADY INSPECTION FOR INSPECTION told The Sunday Morning. The Urban Development Authority (UDA) PROJECT NEARING COMPLETION Reforms to the MMDA have been is to acquire the Otter Aquatic Club (OAC) PROJECT NEARINGPROJECT NEARING COMPLETION COMPLETION pending since the previous Yahapalana in Colombo and plans to operate it together Government. with Waters Edge, Battaramulla, without “Right now, we are concentrating solely hindering the privileges of its near-5,000 on the constitutional reforms that are to be members, UDA Director General Prasad brought about,” he added. Ranaweera told The Sunday Morning. Contd. on page 2 TILE IMPORT RESTRICTIONS No relaxation: Minister BY SARAH HANNAN will give directives to import Royal Ceramics Lanka such material. At present, PLC Director Tharana State Minister of Rural we have sufficient tile and Thoradeniya, who is also Housing and Construction, ceramic products to supply a member of the Sri Lanka and Building Material the country’s requirement. We Ceramics and Glass Council, Industries Indika Anurudda will first give priority to the told The Sunday Morning: Herath said that no decision stocks that are made available “We commend the decision has been taken to relax the by the local manufacturers,” the Government has currently import restriction placed on Herath told The Sunday taken to restrict imports. tiles and ceramic ware, as Morning. Prior to Covid-19, our local local manufactures already Meanwhile, local tile manufacturers faced quite have sufficient stocks. manufacturing companies a challenge in moving their “The President is only going urged the Government to not products. Our products had to to consider the requests made give in to the requests of the compete with the cheap prices for building materials that tile importers to relax import that these imported tiles were are in short supply in the restrictions given the present marked up against. country at the moment, and economic climate. Contd. on page 2 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 2 the sunday morning FOCUS/NEWS Sunday, August 30, 2020

BY SARAH HANNAN BRIDGING NAWALA AND KOTTE only make matters worse. We do not oppose the development of infrastructure During the lockdown period in the suburbs, but we request that the earlier this year, residents of authorities do the necessary studies School Avenue in Nawala observed and assessments before proposing such a motorcade of 40 vehicles driving projects.” down their neighbourhood, Update sent to RDA disturbing their otherwise tranquil Authorities environment. The Sunday Morning contacted RDA Deputy Director of Bridge Designing The residents acted immediately and Planning Dhammika Jayakody to inquire had promptly questioned the officials to whether the project proposal is still being The toxins released by the vehicles what the commotion was, which is when to move pursued from their end. “Following our that commute through the bridge will they were told by officials of the Urban institute’s site visit and the meeting which disrupt the growth of the plants due to Development Authority (UDA) and the we had with the residents from the area its toxic gas emissions, and the noise Road Development Authority (RDA) in May, we have now initiated an EIA emission will prevent pollination about a proposal made for a bridge- and submitted the proposal to the Central Dr. Himantha Atukorale, a resident of building project that would connect Environmental Authority. We are awaiting School Lane Nawala Road and Kotte Road to ease the forward the receipt of the EIA report, after which traffic on Sri Jayewardenepura Mawatha z RDA proceeds to z Residents are yet to the next steps would be followed, which from the Ethul Kotte junction to the would determine whether the bridge can fauna that we see today.” Rajagiriya junction. obtain EIA report hear from RDA be built over the proposed area or whether Dr. Atukorale added that the wetland is The proposed bridge would run from it needs to be moved to another area.” home to at least 20 types of endangered the Angampitiya area over the wetland Meanwhile, UDA Director General animals such as the fishing cat that separates the two areas and fall N.P.K. Ranaweera said that while (Prionailurus viverrinus) and otter (Lutra onto School Lane and School Avenue in improving the overall look of the city Lutra) as well as over 250 species of Nawala. is partly the UDA’s responsibility, they plants. are yet to get a word on who would He also pointed out that should the be constructing the bridge, should the bridge construction go ahead and the proposal go through. pillars installed, the drilling would disturb We are awaiting the receipt of the EIA the water table as well as cause severe report, after which the next steps would damage to the ecosystem. Moreover, with be followed, which would determine the wetland being gradually destroyed, the whether the bridge can be built over the We will have to wait for the proposed speed of natural air purification would be proposed area or whether it needs to be plan to complete the rest of the gravely impacted. moved to another area documentation process, such as “As it is, the ambient air quality in RDA Deputy Director of Bridge completing the EIA and then collating the cities is not at a good level. The Designing Planning the public comments on the pros and moment this bridge gets constructed, it Dhammika Jayakody cons of the bridge being constructed will become worse. Wetlands are known over the proposed area to buffer air toxins, dust, and particulate UDA Director General matter that cause damage to the lungs. After learning about the proposed Additionally, the toxins released by the N.P.K. Ranaweera development work that would roll out in vehicles that commute through the bridge the backyards of their homes, the residents will disrupt the growth of the plants due had established the “Save School Lane “We will have to wait for the to its toxic gas emissions, and the noise and School Avenue Initiative”. proposed plan to complete the rest of emission will prevent pollination.” On 10 May, the group had written to the documentation process, such as In conclusion, Dr. Atukorale said that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa requesting completing the EIA and then collating the it will set off a chain reaction to the to look into this activity, after which they public comments on the pros and cons wetland’s food hierarchy and eventually had received a response granting them of the bridge being constructed over the cause extinction of certain animals and a meeting with the President’s Private proposed area,” Ranaweera noted. plants. Secretary, who then made arrangements for them to meet with RDA officials. Potential impact It’s been close to three months since Part of the Colombo wetlands that Dr. Himantha Atukorale, a resident of the meeting, and The Sunday Morning extend over to the Nawala-Kotte area School Lane, has spent hours studying PHOTOS KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM connected with more residents who live in and documenting the flora and fauna School Lane and School Avenue recently. of the wetland area which stands as a “Before such a project is to materialise, is to ease the traffic flow, they should also backdrop to his residence. “In the recent the relevant authority needs to do an have a Traffic Congestion Management years, the wetlands were becoming a Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Report. In May, when we met with the Before such a project is to materialise, dumpster for the city’s garbage and we and since the end objective of this bridge RDA and questioned them about these the relevant authority needs to do an should commend the efforts of President documents, they did not have any in Environmental Impact Assessment Gotabaya Rajapaksa who has issued hand,” M. Cader, a resident of School (EIA), and since the end objective directives to clear up the water bodies Avenue, stated. of this bridge is to ease the traffic of Colombo in an attempt to conserve Further elaborating that since there are flow, they should also have a Traffic the little bit of greenery that is left in the two schools down the road and given that Congestion Management Report district. it is a residential neighbourhood, Cader M. Cader, a resident of School Avenue “Particularly during the lockdown, said the vehicles diverted from Kotte we observed that the wetland got a Road from Angampitiya to School Lane in boost to regenerate its ecosystem to a Nawala through the proposed bridge will “As it is, we have a traffic issue at the certain extent. But should unplanned Boats docked at the only, yet again, feed the already congested time schools commence for the day and development work be carried out in an wetlands extending over arteries of traffic down Nawala to the when the schools close. The diverted area that is rich in biodiversity, we will to the Nawala-Kotte area Rajagiriya Junction. traffic over the proposed bridge will once again lose sight of the flora and

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However, soon after the new Minister, Minister and Deputy completed by the end of next year. members would not be affected. manufacturing technology that’s Tenders... Government came into power Ministers of Cultural Affairs, Aruwakkalu Project Director Meanwhile, the club has among the best in the world, The 37 km Section I of the CEP in November, Section III of the the secretaries, and several other Sarath Bandara told The Sunday been asked to vacate its land capable of producing any high- from Kadawatha to Mirigama CEP was opened for fresh bids by officials including those attached Morning that four train engines over the failure to pay taxes quality tile across a range of was scheduled to be constructed cancelling the ongoing discussions to the CCF. have been imported to transport recently. It is also reported that different sizes, surface finishes, by a Chinese contractor at an between Japan and Sri Lanka that Nevertheless, the former director garbage from Colombo to the Thimbirigasyaya Divisional and variations that are on par with estimated cost of around Rs. 158 had stretched over many years. alleged that there were no regular Aruwakkalu in January at a cost of Secretariat had informed the global leaders of the industry,” billion obtained as a loan from the Section IV was to be constructed meetings and the funds have been around $ 8.8 million. 87-year-old club to transfer Thoradeniya explained. Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of by China but no agreement was allocated pending board approvals. The Chinese workers who have its ownership on or before 30 He stressed that an approximate China. signed for the construction. However, when contacted gone back home couldn’t return to September. stock build-up of over five million Section I, which is moving at The Sunday Morning, during the by The Sunday Morning, Sri Lanka yet and as a result, the The sports club was established sq. m. is held at their stores due to a snail’s pace due to the delay in past two years, has been reporting former Minister of Education completion of the project had been in 1933 and has more than 5,000 declining projects and should the dispersing the funds of the already on the consequences faced by Kariyawasam denied the delayed, The Sunday Morning members among whom 3,000 pay import restrictions be sustained, it signed agreement covering 85% the people affected by the delay allegation, claiming that the funds learnt. annual membership fees. would help to safeguard the local of the contract price, is yet to in providing compensation for were distributed among 1,500 According to the Project – Maheesha Mudugamuwa tile industry during these trying properly begin its construction lands identified for the project, temples following all required Director, the construction work times. due to the delay on the part of the the overall delay in completing processes and based on the has been once again initiated Meanwhile, the Tile and Government to meet the agreed projects, as well as impacts on the requirements of the temples. together with the local workers Changes to... Sanitaryware Importers 15% of the total loan amount. national economy due to the same, He, however, denied that the and the remaining Chinese “The High Commissioner Association (TSIA) has requested The Cabinet has already given with special focus on the CEP. monies have been distributed workers after the Covid-19 reiterated India’s longstanding the Government to reconsider approval to consider the technical Secretary to the Ministry of among the temples in parallel to lockdown was lifted. position on peace and and lift the temporary suspension proposal from British consultancy Highways Ranjith Premasiri the former Prime Minister’s 70th “Not just Aruwakklau, but all reconciliation and the full imposed on imports of tiles and specialist Roughton for the told The Sunday Morning that birthday celebration. projects got delayed due to the implementation of the 13th sanitaryware, claiming that they construction of CEP Section IV. a decision on Section III and IV Meanwhile, the Prime coronavirus,” he added. Amendment,” a spokesperson only service 50% of the market Roughton was said to be the of the CEP would be taken next Ministerial Committee appointed The train engines were brought from the Indian High Commission share at present. management consultant of CEP week. to investigate the financial to the country by the Ministry of told The Sunday Morning. TSIA President Kamil Hussain, Stage IV and it will be partnered irregularities at the CCF has Urban Development. – Skandha Gunasekara speaking to The Sunday Morning, with a local contractor. Several revealed that Rs. 11 billion was The Project Director also noted said: “The local production is proposals received from local Akila to... misappropriated during the three- that they had not calculated the unable to meet the market demand construction companies are He further alleged that no year period from 2016 to 2019. loss incurred due to the delay in No relaxation... and has not only set the prices currently being evaluated by the criteria were given for the – Maheesha Mudugamuwa the project. However, they lacked quality.” higher but also had an adverse authority, The Sunday Morning selection method of the temples – Maheesha Mudugamuwa He added that Sri Lanka has impact on the construction learnt. and a reason as to why the money the workforce and the capacity to industry as well as domestic Initially, the Government’s plan has been distributed. 5,000 caught... fulfil the country’s requirement consumers when it comes to was to complete the construction Furthermore, the former director “There have been three suicides Otter to... of tiles with three local large- meeting project deadlines.” of the CEP, which consists of four stressed that there was no evidence in the last few days within prisons There are over 5,000 members, scale manufacturers that have Hussain also pointed out phases, at the end of 2019. as to whether the exact amount in Sri Lanka, due to withdrawal the club hasn’t paid its taxes a combined annual production that local manufacturers are The construction of the 37.3 was granted to the temples or not. symptoms (as a result) of going since 2005, and no infrastructure capacity of 17 million sq. m. given preferential treatment in km stretch from Kadawatha to The money has been distributed cold turkey to cease addiction – facilities were developed during Thoradeniya reiterated that at government tenders, allowing Mirigama under Section I was in parallel to the celebration of one at the Welikada Prison, one the past decade, while only around present, the three manufacturers them to unfairly take advantage of delayed due to financing issues on the former Prime Minister’s 70th in Boossa, and another at the 100 members visit the place on a employ over 5,000 Sri Lankans, a biased system. the part of Sri Lanka to activate an birthday, he alleged. Negombo Prison,” he said. daily basis, he stressed. which is further strengthened with TSIA members claim to already committed loan by China. When asked who had given the – Skandha Gunasekara Therefore, the UDA will take the local industry’s commitment to occupy an average warehousing The construction of Section III authority to distribute the money, over the club premises and will expanding its production capacity space of two million sq. ft. and was delayed by almost four years he stressed that the decisions with operate it together with Waters – three million sq. m. was added approximately 200,000 sq. ft. as the two parties, Sri Lanka and regard to the distribution of such Aruwakkalu... Edge. last year. of showroom retail space, thus Japan, could not agree on the funds should be taken by a special It is learnt that the construction He, however, assured that the “The local industry is well contributing to the real estate conditions. board which comprises the Prime of the railway line would be privileges enjoyed by the club equipped with the latest revenues in the country. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 3 Sunday, August 30, 2020 SPOTLIGHT

INCREASING RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION Accordingly, three alternatives of the interconnection route were identified. The cost of each alternative for each technology for the combined development of stages I and II was estimated and power flow studies were also conducted by both India and Sri Lanka. The feasibility study is yet to be Tripped off by initiated once an option is finalised. Costly expansions Nevertheless, the engineers attached to the CEB are claiming that expanding the grid capacity is highly expensive. limited grid capacity Explaining further, a senior engineer, who wished to remain anonymous, told The Sunday BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA adopting a park concept, according HVDC (high-voltage, direct current) Morning that even though there By end-2018, the total to the CEB. interconnection project. were much more discussions with installed capacity of Sri By the end of 2018, 37 small- In 2002, Nexant, with the regard to increasing renewable Lanka’s power system was scale solar PV parks of 1 MW were assistance of USAID (United energy, as these sources are freely awarded to private investors for States Agency for International available throughout the year, energy approximately 4,048 MW with development and another 90 small- Development), carried out the production through the processing a total dispatchable capacity scale solar PV parks of 1 MW were prefeasibility study for electricity of renewable energy is highly of 3,464 MW. The maximum under evaluation to be awarded grid interconnection. expensive. demand recorded in 2018 during 2019. In 2006, Power Grid Corporation Shifting to renewable is good was 2,616 MW and total net Sri Lanka’s electricity of India reviewed and updated for rich countries such as Germany generation was 15,305 GWh. requirement has been growing at an the study with USAID assistance. which have interconnected grid average annual rate of around 5-6% Various line route options and systems, but in Sri Lanka, the system Throughout recent years, the during the past 20 years, and this connection schemes were analysed needs firm energy to maintain country’s power system has trend is expected to continue into during the prefeasibility studies. stability, he explained. operated maintaining around a 20% the foreseeable future. Technical, economical, legal, He went on to say that the entire share of renewable energy. regulatory, and commercial aspects system cannot be dependent only The renewable energy share is, Grid integration in trading electricity between India on renewable energy as wind power however, expected to be increased Meanwhile, possibilities are and Sri Lanka were also considered. could only be harnessed for six to 38% by 2025 and 65% by 2030. currently being explored on As stated in the LTGEP 2020-39, months of the year while solar is The conversion from traditional interconnecting the electricity grids the route option was selected for the also not enough to maintain a stable power generation to renewable of India and Sri Lanka. initial feasibility study consisting of a system. energy has been given priority in The two countries are currently 130 km 400 kV HVDC overhead line “Therefore, the system that suits President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s exploring three options along with segment from Madurai to the Indian the country is a mixed system, where election manifesto “National Policy the cost of each alternative. coast, a 120 km 400 kV under-sea around 20% could be renewable Framework, Vistas of Prosperity The two Governments signed a cable from the Indian coast to the energy,” he explained. and Splendour” too, where he Memorandum of Understanding Sri Lankan coast, a 110 km 400 kV Meanwhile, when contacted outlines the necessity to enhance the (MoU) in 2010 to conduct overhead line segment from the Sri by The Sunday Morning, CEB contribution of hydro and renewable a feasibility study for the Lankan coast to Anuradhapura, and Chairman Eng. Vijitha Herath energy to 80% of the overall energy interconnection of the electricity two converter stations in Madurai stressed that the entire system was mix by 2030. Yugadanavi Power Station grids of the two countries. and Anuradhapura. dependent on supply and demand. Meanwhile, many other countries This feasibility study was jointly It was further stated that during “At present, the peak demand is are converting to more renewable transformers and these transformers upgrading the existing system. carried out by the CEB and Power the latest working group discussions around 2.7 GWh and out of that, energy sources. have technical capacities,” he “The Government is targeting Grid Corporation of India Ltd. with between the countries, initiated in thermal (coal) supplies a total of Globally, China is leading explained. getting more renewable sources the main objective to provide the 2017, it was proposed to shift the 11.23 GWh, thermal (oil) 17.77 investments in renewable energy, Elaborating further, Jayawardena to the system. Grid expansions necessary recommendations for HVDC station in Sri Lanka from GWh, hydro 15.38 GWh, and wind where its renewable power capacity noted that the capacity can be should be done in order to provide the implementation of a 1,000 MW Anuradhapura to Habarana. 0.73 GWh.” now surpasses its new fossil fuel expanded by installing more facilities for more renewable 162mmx260mm and nuclear capacity. transformers and at present, the energy to be added to the national In the US, a number of states set CEB is exploring the possibilities grid,” he added. mandatory targets for the percentage for augmentation. According to CEB’s Long- of renewable power generation – for Term Generation Expansion Plan example, the State of New York set 2020-39 (LTGEP 2020-39), by it at 30% by 2015 and California at 2027, it is estimated that day 33% by 2020. peak demand would exceed night Contrary to large centralised peak demand. The 20-year annual power plants, many of the average growth rate of energy renewable energy generators feed demand is forecast at 4.9%, while into the local distribution grid, peak demand annual growth rate either at low voltage (LV), which is is forecast at around 4.6%. mostly for PV (photovoltaic), or at a Hydropower, which provides medium-voltage (MV) level, which 6% of the total primary energy is mostly for wind power. supply, is the main indigenous Traditional distribution grids are source of primary commercial designed to cope with the existing renewable energy in Sri Lanka. and expected future power flow The estimated potential of hydro of connected consumer loads but resources is about 2,000 MW, of were not designed for decentralised which a significant amount has feed, which can sometimes be much Renewable energy is a already been harnessed. higher than the load power. variable energy source Apart from these, there is As the apex body of the country and to maintain the considerable potential for wind sets higher targets in renewable and solar power development as energy, the expansion or the stability, reliability, well. adaptability of the existing system is quality, and supply of the The first commercial wind now being discussed. system, there are certain power plants were established technical requirements. in 2010 and the total capacity of Looking at expansion wind power plants by end-2018 Speaking to The Sunday Morning, You can’t add more and was 128 MW. Power Ministry Spokesman and more renewable (sources) The 100 MW wind farm Director – Development Sulakshana to the grid substation if in Mannar Island is at the Jayawardena explained the ongoing implementation stage. Steps have efforts by power sector experts there is no capacity been initiated to harness the wind attached to the Ministry and the Power Ministry Spokesman and solar potential in Sri Lanka in and Director – Development Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) to Sulakshana Jayawardena an optimal manner. expand the existing grid capacity to The first commercial solar allocate more space for renewable power plants were commissioned energy. “We have already augmented in 2016 and the total capacity of “Renewable energy is a variable a dedicated grid substation only commercial solar power plants by energy source and to maintain the for the absorption of renewable end-2018 was 51 MW, and nearly stability, reliability, quality, and energy and there are other ongoing 170 MW of solar rooftops were supply of the system, there are measures to enhance the grid also connected by end-2018. certain technical requirements. You capacity,” he said, pointing out Scattered developments of can’t add more and more renewable that there were other certain small-scale solar power plants (sources) to the grid substation if infrastructures that need to be have been initiated as were there is no capacity. When it comes upgraded, such as transmission feasibility studies in that regard to the grid substations, there are lines and accessories, in parallel to to develop solar power plants

Islandwide power outage investigations The interim report of the committee appointed It was also reported that the grid had failed The failures in the restoration of the second to probe the cascading failure on 17 August 2020, several times during restoration; attempts with and sixth attempts can be attributed to an over- which was publicised on Friday (28), has identified generators at the Victoria Dam had failed thrice, frequency caused by one of the many large loads in that the power outage was a result of a failure on partly due to generator failures, and attempts to the selected 33 kV feeders which got tripped or a the part of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) to restore at the Kotmale hydro generators had also large solar PV system coming into operation, which maintain the procedures and significant lapses in failed thrice, including due to generator failures is reflected at the generators as an over-frequency. not carrying out the recommendations in previous involving a faulty governor. Meanwhile, the necessity to carry out further investigation reports. As highlighted by the committee, the cascading investigations to find out whether solar power The report stated that an error made by an failures were said to have occurred due to the was the cause of the load drop, has also been electrical superintendant at the Kerawalapitiya tripping of sections of the distribution system identified by the committee. Grid Sub-station by incorrectly switching on an or solar power coming on. Meanwhile, the The final report of the independent committee isolator after routine maintenance while a section maintenance practices of high-risk areas are on the complete power failure which occurred in had been earthed, had led to a short circuit and to be identified and best practice maintenance the country on 17 August 2020 is scheduled to be as a result, the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant protocols are to be incorporated, in particular submitted within three weeks, according to the also got disconnected, forcing the country to go in the said areas, rather than having a general Committee Chairman, Ministry of Power State for intermittent power cuts. maintenance philosophy. Secretary K.H.D.K. Samarakoon. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 4 the sunday morning FOCUS/VIEWS Sunday, August 30, 2020 SCHOOL CURRICULUM REFORMS A much-needed change BY SARAH HANNAN ollowing the changes majority of Indians are very fluent The necessity to reform the school curriculum to match the brought forward by CHANGING THE in English. In Sri Lanka, only a changing needs of the future world as well as the modern Fthe appointment of minor population of the country methods of education has become the need of the hour. the Cabinet of Ministers, SCHOOL CURRICULUM can speak fluent English, but Minister of Education most can speak a mix of Just last week, Minister of Prof. G.L. Peiris English and Sinhala, known Education Prof. G.L. Peiris declared the need to by folks now as “Singlish”, announced that the present We can no longer have change the school which is extremely teacher-centred education system students who are completing curriculum. All school A CHANGE sarcastic and something practised in Sri Lanka needs to school looking to seek a job heads, teachers, to be ashamed of. Sinhala, change. only after they complete their Buddhism, and history must Prof. Peiris has called for civil organisations, be taught in our education higher studies. Students who education directors, school heads, teachers, education complete 13 years in school system. Only then will directors, parents, and civil and parents have FOR THE people have a feeling of should be able to start a job organisations to contribute with minimum training been directed to patriotism since we are the their suggestions on how the NIE Director General come forward with only nation to hate our own curriculum could be amended country, values, customs, and Dr. Sunil Jayantha Nawarathna their opinions and or remodelled to match today’s suggestions in this regard. FUTURE traditions and we are ashamed standards. Since the introduction of BY PUJANEE GALAPPATHTHI to call ourselves “Sinhalese”. We We contacted the National Therefore, the NIE is in the the Free Education Bill in don’t find it in India or Bhutan, but Institute of Education (NIE) process of researching the new 1943, Sri Lanka considered today’s world, the new curriculum in the right manner. Thus, I believe we definitely see that in our country regarding this issue since it methods of education that are education to be a basic right needs to incorporate technology into whatever changes made to the explicitly. is tasked with designing and employed by other countries every aspect of delivery, learning, education system must include sex developing school curricular and where the school curriculum is for all citizens. However, and evaluation. education. building capacity in educational more student-centric. while millions have Four main changes managers, teacher trainers, and In order to encourage skill benefitted from this policy, Anonymous – teachers. development in students, the many argue that our primary Basic life skills key Stop mindless university student While the switch from the curriculum will introduce group education system has Saneej Ahamed – memorising I believe four main changes current method of education – i.e. assignments, the objective of it remained archaic and others medical student should be made to our education teacher-centric and examination- being that students would develop believe that it feeds a toxic Deshani Nadunika system. Firstly, comprehensive sex oriented education – will take collaborative skills and creative culture of teacher-dependent I am 100% on board with this Senanayake – law teacher education should be introduced; place in a gradual manner, the and critical thinking and utilise learning. In light of these initiative. We should introduce secondly, civics should be included gathering of input from various their theoretical knowledge in differences of opinion, we more meaningful life skills into our beyond an optional subject that stakeholders will take place over computer sciences to design spoke to a cross-section of curriculum. We can keep boasting can be dropped after Grade Nine; the next few weeks. presentations or dossiers. about how tough our Advanced thirdly, children should be taught Speaking to The Sunday Dr. Nawarathna, explaining the our society on their ideas Level science stream is and how basic financial literacy; and lastly, Morning, NIE Director General importance of group assignment- about this new proposed good our students are without a religious education should be Dr. Sunil Jayantha Nawarathna based learning, noted: “What amendment and how they calculator (which doesn’t make any removed from the curriculum. said that suggestions will be will happen is that the teacher think we should go about it. sense at all) in math, but at the end gathered through a committee will give them guiding notes for of the day, only a small fraction of it that will be appointed at the assignments. But the group will Now or never is being used in their careers. Get with the times divisional secretariat level, which have to identify the skills each I believe that basic career-based Ravi Ananda – retired teacher is then to be forwarded to the member has and collaborate Gulzar Ahmed – stream selection should start from 13 First of all, I think that there is district education offices. to present the end work. That Global Strategic Network years and as much as we concentrate a great fault, lapse, and lacunae in Yes, I think these curriculum “Once the suggestions reach will allow them to build many Co-founder on our academics, students should our current education system. The changes should be made transparent. the district office, we will have important skills and instil the be taught and trained to survive in ultimate goal of our Sri Lankan How often has the curriculum been meetings with each district right attitude on how to work in a society post school education. education system is to produce changed over the years and if it’s education office and draft a competitive environment with the As a medical graduate, I feel a set of “parrots” that memorise available, what’s the number? Does it proposed school curriculum assistance of a team.” that basic life-saving skills such as chunks and chunks of bulky reflect that we’ve changed accordingly reform paper. We are looking at CPR and how to react in a disaster content from books and produce with the times? Technology has completing this by December and Focus on student situation should be taught in school. the exact wordings of the books changed and the world has changed, the draft is to be ready by January development Yes, CPR is a simple procedure onto examination papers. Since so if the curriculum is the same then 2021,” Dr. Nawarathna explained. Further, the new curriculum will which can be taught in 30 minutes, their only talent is glancing at a we’re failing our children. ensure that a student is assessed but there are minute changes in the book and memorising words, none Switching to not only on their performance procedure when it comes to seawater of these individuals will have the skill-oriented learning in the classroom, but also on the It is an urgent need that should drowning, freshwater drowning, and ability to think independently as End teacher- The transition itself is not going extracurricular activities they have been addressed a decade burn injuries, which might make they have never used their brains. to be an easy feat as the NIE get involved in at school – for ago. Just like how tackling climate the difference between life and Hundreds of graduates each year dependent learning stated that at first, the teachers instance athletics, contact sports, change is a case of “now or never”, death. I also strongly believe that the pass out of universities and are Pasan Jayaratne – will need to be trained to adjust to scouting, cadetting, and school- the same applies to the education religious education system must be jobless, literally because they have project co-ordinator the new way of teaching. Ideally, level social clubs and societies, to system. The amendments to the changed. I am ashamed of myself for no jobs. If our so-called prestigious from the time the draft school name a few. school curriculum need to start with studying in a Buddhist school and education system is the best, then curriculum reforms are presented According to Dr. Nawarathna, understanding what is timely with not knowing much about Buddhism. why aren’t there any new innovative to the point the finalised this will encourage children to get regard to the current day and age, I do not need school to teach me technological inventions from our curriculum and amendments to involved in sports and societies the job market, and what we want Islam; that my parents would do at country? If a country has such a the textbooks and teacher guides without only focusing on their the future generation of Sri Lanka to home. Teach our children Buddhism, great education system, a state are applied, teacher training is classroom studies. “Our aim be equipped with. The first step in Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism; can never fall into such a pathetic also to take place, which will is to produce citizens who are the amendment should ideally focus this little understanding might condition. We are still a developing need time spanning from 2021 to skilled overall, for example, who on training present-day teachers and change the whole mindset. country since the birth of this nation. 2022. can apply their knowledge to a equipping schools with the right The best way to reform our “Reforming the school real-life situation to get the job resources to deliver the proposed education system is to change I believe we especially need to curriculum is something that done, and are able to positively amendments, or else the whole idea Importance of the expectation of the pattern of change the book-based culture should take place routinely, as contribute towards the economy, will not be feasible on a grassroots examinations. The examiners must for primary schools. Children the needs of the workforce and whilst being able to balance their level and will remain just an idea for sex education include questions for which students should be taught essential life the economy of the country are time between work and other the mass majority. Kumudu Perera – have to use their rigorous analytical skills, problem-solving, etc. At constantly changing. We can activities, such as sports, when It should address STEM homemaker and critical thinking capabilities to least one sport or physical fitness no longer have students who required,” Dr. Nawarathna noted. (science, technology, engineering, I have been constantly in touch earn marks for an answer and pass must be part of the curriculum. are completing school looking The new curriculum that is to and mathematics) subjects while with what my children are taught in the exam just like in Cambridge From Advanced Level, they should to seek a job only after they be designed in the coming years also fostering cultural, historical, school and I have to say that I am GCE examinations, rather than be able to go academic or trade. complete their higher studies. with its initial mission and vision and religious studies to certain extremely ashamed of how little they setting questions where students Academic is what’s currently there; Students who complete 13 years at present, seems quite promising, grades and from there onwards, know about most things, especially have to memorise content and copy- where you become a doctor or in school should be able to start a as it would produce youth that are optional, like in most international about sex education. I believe I have paste the exact wordings on paper. lawyer. Trade is where you become job with minimum training,” Dr. ready to take on the world, be it curriculums. Both modes of to prepare my children for the world The content in books and what is a proper plumber, carpenter, etc. Nawarathna elaborated. in a corporate or state institution delivery and evaluation should be and I do not want to hide anything taught must be structured according Working a few hours part-time To achieve this new school that would require them to work looked into to meet at least regional from them. Sex education is barely to the education system in the West. could also be incorporated into the curriculum, the old curriculum with a team or as entrepreneurs standards to compete and stand touched in our education system And the main language and mother system so that the kids learn about is to be changed into a more who can establish their own out internationally. Understanding and this is how children are driven tongue taught must be English, just work ethics when leaving school. practical and skill-oriented one. businesses. the very fact that technology is at to unwanted taboos. It is important like in India. That’s why Indians Further, teacher-dependent learning the core of every single element of to give them the correct information are far ahead than we are and the must be put to an end.

PHOTO LALITH PERERA WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 5 Sunday, August 30, 2020 SPOTLIGHT

SUPPLYING FISH TO COLOMBO PORT had paid a total of Rs. 446,960. As per the fish price list at the Peliyagoda Fish Market on 11 June, a kg of prawns (jumbo) was sold at Rs. 1,050. Similarly, as per another credit purchase memo, the CFC purchased a total of Spotlight on a fishy deal 190 kg of cuttlefish (clean) at a price of Rs. 1,400, and it had paid a total of Rs. BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA the price of prawns and cuttlefish in the 266,000. local market was around Rs. 650-700 Furthermore, a memo issued on 1 June Questions have been raised over a tender awarded by the Ceylon per kg, it had been sold to the port at stated that the CFC had purchased a Fisheries Corporation (CFC) to supply seafood (prawns, cuttlefish, around Rs. 1,500. total of 52 kg of koppara at a rate of Rs. koppara, and thalapath) to the Colombo Port, as the CFC’s supplier Nevertheless, the CFC purchased the 650 per kg by spending Rs. 33,800, and sold fish at exorbitant rates. seafood at a rate of around Rs. 1,400 2,002 kg of thalapath at Rs. 600 per kg by per kg. spending Rs. 1,201,200 on 29 April. On Accordingly, it was revealed that the It was alleged that the prawns and According to a credit purchase memo 14 August, another memo had been issued supplier earned a profit of around Rs. 700 cuttlefish were supplied to the port under issued on 10 July 2020, seen by The for the purchase of 3,007 kg of koppara per kg of prawns and cuttlefish, which was the guise of a fish supply tender given Sunday Morning, a total of 302 kg of at Rs. 700 per kg, thereby spending Rs. Negombo Fish Market ©Pinterest then sold to the port for its employees’ to the CFC. prawns (jumbo) were sold to the CFC at 2,104,900. food at double the local market prices. It is also revealed that even though a rate of Rs. 1,480 per kg, and the CFC Contd. on page 14 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 6 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, August 30, 2020

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA The Ninth Parliament of Sri Lanka This is not the first time that such a was convened last week. This situation occurred. In 1989, the United Parliament is special, as only 223 Socialist Alliance had one National members out of the total 225 List slot vacant after the death of Dr. members gathered on its inaugural Colvin R. de Silva and the coalition day, with the United National Party partners failed to reach a consensus… (UNP), the oldest political party As a result, that parliamentary seat was in the country, and Our People’s vacant for two years Power Party (OPPP), one of the Director General of Elections newest political parties, failing to Saman Rathnayake nominate a member from their National List allotments. by the party, though speculation was rife that The confusion created by the Ninth Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera, who is preferred by the OPPP to fill UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe. The UNP is yet undecided on who will fill either veteran UNP stalwart John Amaratunga their National List seat in the Ninth Parliament their National List seat in the Ninth Parliament Parliament raised myriad questions among or Prof. Dr. Ashu Marasinghe may be asked the public, as some started to question whether VACANT NATIONAL LIST SLOTS IN PARLIAMENT to step in. it was possible to convene Parliament with The defeat suffered by the UNP also 223 members, and others questioned as to how saw the exit of the party’s leader Ranil long the two parties could take to nominate Wickremesinghe, a seasoned politician, who members and what would happen if they fail was first elected as a Member of Parliament to make the nominations. for Biyagama in 1977. On the other hand, some also raised questions After taking over the party leadership in of the legality of the Ninth Parliament and November 1994, he served as the prime some asked whether the two vacant seats minister three times. The last time he served would be automatically cancelled if the two as premier was when Maithripala Sirisena political parties failed to nominate their was elected President in 2015. National List MPs. WHEN However, UNP sources told The Sunday To clear the present confusion, The Sunday Morning that the matter regarding who will Morning contacted Election Commission represent the party in Parliament using the (EC) Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya, who National List seat would be decided in the near said the two parties could take their time to future. Once the name is finalised, the party will nominate the National List MPs. inform the EC and Parliament. The UNP held a Accepting nominations for National List number of Working Committee (WC) meetings seats in Parliament concluded on 14 August. in the lead up to the presidential election of 2019, Seven political parties were eligible for where the issue of leadership was hotly debated. National List seats in accordance with the HISTORY However, the issue remains unresolved results of the general election. up to date. Accordingly, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Samagi Jana Balawegaya History repeating (SJB), Jathika Jana Balawegaya (JJB), Illankai As to clear the confusion whether this Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK), and Ahila happened for the first time in the history, Ilankai Thamil Congress (AITC) submitted The Sunday Morning contacted the Director their list of nominees for the National List General of Elections Saman Rathnayake, seats they had secured. who said there was one such incident which The names of the National List MPs of the underREPEATS the flag symbol. List seat for the OPPP. He said the party Wimalatissa Thera, EC Chairman Deshapriya occurred in the past. SLPP, ITAK, and AITC have already been Earlier, OPPP’s General Secretary Ven. constitution had vested in him the powers stressed that the decision had been made by “This is not the first time that such a situation gazetted by the EC. Wedinigama Wimalatissa Thera had submitted to do so. considering the two nominations received for occurred. In 1989, the United Socialist Alliance his name to the EC, claiming that he had However, the best way to solve the problem one National List seat obtained by the OPPP. had one National List slot vacant after the death OPPP’s failure been nominated to enter Parliament from the was to take it to court, he said. of Dr. Colvin R. de Silva and the coalition The OPPP conducted a unique campaign at National List. But another group, including Ven. Gnanasara Thera sought countrywide UNP crisis partners failed to reach a consensus as to who the freshly concluded general election to win the Chairman of the party, disputed his support to secure a National List slot after Meanwhile, the embattled party led by should be appointed as their National List a National List slot for one of its co-leaders, nomination, saying the party had decided their Kurunegala nominations were rejected Former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe member. As a result, that parliamentary seat Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera. on Ven. Gnanasara Thera. on technical grounds. Ven. Gnanasara was was able to secure only 249,435 votes (2.15%) was vacant for two years. After ending half The party urged the electorate to help Ven. Ven. Athureliye Rathana Thera said they were on that list. against the SLPP’s hefty 6,853,693 (59.09%) of the parliamentary term, they appointed Gnanasara Thera enter Parliament to save going to courts as there was a dispute over the Nevertheless, the EC decided not to gazette and the SJB’s 2,771,984 (23.90%) at the polls. Raja Collure to fill that vacancy. So, this is the nation from what it called an “extremist nominations that were sent to the EC earlier. a name from the OPPP until a thorough study The UNP, which was routed even in its not unprecedented,” he added. invasion” – a reference to those behind the Defeated Gampaha District candidate Ven. has been done to evaluate the legality of the one-time stronghold of Colombo, was entitled Rathnayake also noted that there was no Easter Sunday carnage. Rathana Thera told the media in Colombo that current situation. only to a single National List seat. However, legal issue with regard to not appointing a The OPPP contested the general election he had the power to decide on the National In a letter written to Wedinigama there was no word on who would be nominated National List MP.

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA HISTORY OF BUDDHIST MONKS IN POLITICS

With the majority of Sri Lankans practising Buddhism, the involvement of bhikkus in politics and Parliament has raised concerns over entrenching nationalism and On the path to other similar impacts on Sri Lankan society in addition to questions of its morality. While Buddhist orthodoxy seeks to promote the renunciation of all worldly concerns and attachments, enlightenment? there remains philosophical and theological latitude for bhikkus to the Widyodaya tradition and the The re-emergence of Buddhist justify their engagement in political Widyalankara tradition, based on the clergy intervention in politics was activity, which they claim aims to two major pirivenas. compelled by the Indo-Lanka Accord lead society on a virtuous path. “He argues that the Widyodaya is in the 1990s, Dr. Dewasiri said. Since Independence in Sri Lanka, more into economic activities and “Bhikkus once again became the Buddhist clergy have been social welfare and so on, whereas prominent in politics in the 1980s in active in politics whenever they felt the Widyalanka Sect was more into the campaign against the Indo-Lanka it appropriate – more so on issues mainstream politics, particularly Accord. Then later in the 1990s, related to the unitary state of the radical politics. Therefore, the when the Chandrika Government nation and the superiority of the Widyalankara campaigned for the brought this famous package, again Buddhist faith. In the past, there was no need LSSP in the 1940s, so that is one we saw the involvement of bhikkus University of Colombo to impose any kind of ban on important note in this timeline,” Dr. being very effective. That was the Department of History senior lecturer Bhikkus engaging in politics as Dewasiri explained. inception of the modern temple Dr. Nirmal Ranjith Dewasiri, who Bhikkus acted responsibly. But Decline and resurgence politics we observe today.” has researched extensively on post- looking at today’s circumstances, Dr. Dewasiri further elaborated that colonial ethno-nationalism, speaking it looks like some prohibitions Dr. Dewasiri noted that following towards the end of the 1990s, when to The Sunday Morning, explained must be put in place the assassination of late Prime the Chandrika Government was the inception of bhikku involvement Ven. Dr. Omalpe Sobitha Thera Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, becoming less popular and the UNP in mainstream politics in Sri Lanka there was a sharp decline in bhikku was in a state of decline, there was a and its impact. political activity. third political space which could not Dr. Dewasiri revealed that bhikku who mobilised the forces that “The crucial turning point was in be mobilised directly by the SLFP or involvement in politics began around brought the MEP Government into 1956 where the United Bhikku Front the UNP. the 19th Century. power. Since then, they have been (Eksath Bhikshu Peramuna [EBP]) Contd. on page 12 “Buddhism, especially the Sinhala very active,” he said. became a major campaigner for version of Buddhism since the 19th Bandaranaike’s election campaign. It Century, is closely linked with the Temple politics was actually the United Bhikku Front modern political setting. Even though “Temple politics started long who brought S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike they didn’t come to Parliament as ago. It is hard to pinpoint the exact to lead that campaign. Some scholars Members of Parliament, they have date, but if I were to point out a few have pointed out that they tried to been active in electoral politics from turning points, I would say that in make Dudley Senanayake the leader the very beginning. For example, since the early 19th Century there was a of the campaign but he was a bit the 1940s, Bhikkus were very much a Buddhist revival. Initially, it was reluctant. After the 1952 election part of the election campaigns.” purely a religious movement, but of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party “In the 1947 election, a large then in the latter part of the 19th (SLFP), Bandaranaike thought that it contingency of bhikkus, particularly Century, it became more of a cultural was an ideal opportunity for him to It is not easy to destroy the from the Widyalankara Sect, political movement. make a significant comeback, which democratic setting of Sri Lanka. campaigned heavily for the Lanka “By mid-20th Century, it had proved to be immensely successful. Even if religious extremism can Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) while become closely connected to This was a very important landmark emerge, they cannot continue and other bhikkus, who were supporting mainstream politics. Sociologists and in bhikku politics. However, after that’s what happened with groups the United National Party (UNP), anthropologists have analysed the Bandaranaike’s assassination, which like the BBS. Their sustainability were critical of the Widyalankara Widyalankara movement at length. involved two bhikkus (Mapitigama is very short term monks. In 1956, bhikkus were one “There is a very good study by Buddharakkitha Thera and Talduwe University of Colombo Department of the components of the Mahajana H.A. Seneviratne from Virginia Somarama Thera), it was a heavy of History senior lecturer Bhikkus at the inaugural session of the Ninth Parliament Eksath Peramuna (MEP) election University, who in his book Work of blow to the bhikkus’ moral authority Dr. Nirmal Ranjith Dewasiri PHOTO LALITH PERERA campaign. It was actually the bhikkus Kings makes the distinction between to be in politics. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 7 Sunday, August 30, 2020 SPOTLIGHT Slow death of Sinharaja? z President to intervene BY SARAH HANNAN to drafting development plans, we are never invited. I am very A proposed road that is to connect Lankagama to Deniyaya aware of the said ‘nature-based It is sad that the government which falls through the Sinharaja Forest Reserve has caused a tourism plan” that was presented institutions never think of stir within the political and environmental arena, with political in 2018 by Humke. It is sad anyone from the environmental activists and certain organisations now claiming that the road that the government institutions groups or lawyers that appear is being constructed to bring in traffic towards an alleged never think of anyone from the for environmental issues tourism hotel that lies within the perimeters of the forest. environmental groups or lawyers to weigh in on such project that appear for environmental proposals Many have sounded their requests that are made by the issues to weigh in on such project Environmental lawyer displeasure, as not much of an residents who live down the proposals.” Jagath Gunawardana outcry is visible, unlike vociferous Mederipitiya village, that sits in Gunawardena added that protests regarding the Wilpattu the border range of the Sinharaja there was pushback from issue, hinting that since no Forest to improve mobility and environmentalists about that plan that many have misunderstood 2010 map marking the forest reserve area by the Survey General’s Department minority is involved, no one develop the access road to the area. and therefore, the then Ministry the concept of ecotourism wants to get involved. There was Last week, when we spoke to the Ecosystem Conservation of Mahaweli Development and and are turning such sensitive also speculation about the leisure the numerous state and private and Management Project Environment decided to abandon environments into mass tourist property allegedly being under a establishments that were in charge When the lorry is to cross, no (ESCAMP) that was established the project. However, he said attraction sites. very influential political family. of maintaining roads in the region, one can be on the bridge. Once by the Ministry of Mahaweli “If the plan had got off the While all this has already been we were informed that the road in Development and Environment. The uneven surface created ground, then we would have you cross to the Mederipitiya by gully erosion and the discussed in the past weeks, The question is not being constructed town, the road that takes you This 27-page document focuses witnessed scores of tourists Sunday Morning focused on the by their organisations. on capacity building for the staff exposed boulders and storming Sinharaja Forest Reserve to our homes becomes quite stones along the road as long-term plans that were proposed We spoke with Leela narrow; only a Postie bike of Sinharaja and empowering the in 4X4 jeeps and would book over the years to maximise the Munasinghe from Mederipitiya to villagers that live along the borders well as a few earth slips have accommodation in any hotels that (Honda Md 90) can be ridden caused danger to the visitors revenue from the United Nations understand the hardships they have down that road to generate positive cash flow for would have been allowed to set Educational, Scientific, and to go through as there is no proper them. It also suggests improving especially during monsoonal up,” Gunawardana noted. Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) road access to their village. Leela Munasinghe road access. rainy periods Contd. on page 14 Heritage Site under the guise of “The bridge that is set up across of Mederipitiya Humke suggested that relatively ecotourism, and the continued the Gin River is quite old and will undeveloped sections of the only accommodate one Dimo Batta commuting out of the village park, like the 8.5 km from the President awaits report on road There is apparently a lorry on it to cross. That means and within the village becomes highway to Morning Side, must be restoration of dysfunctional when the lorry is to cross, no one unpleasant as the road is washed improved. In addition, the road to construction and its possible impact drains on either side of the can be on the bridge. Once you in mud. She noted that if the road the Pitadeniya Conservation Centre logging road in order to cross to the Mederipitiya town, the is constructed properly, the lives of is currently only passable by 4x4 With the outcry of activists and that the Government has a facilitate proper drainage, road that takes you to our homes the people of Mederipitiya would vehicles. Although improving the and the public alike last week, responsibility towards the people thereby reducing the erosion becomes quite narrow; only a be somewhat uplifted. road would make the centre more President Gotabaya Rajapaksa of Lankagama to build them a impact on the road surface Postie bike (Honda Md 90) can be She added that many foreign accessible to staff and visitors, issued directives to halt the proper road network to access that is being prepared, for ridden down that road.” visitors that come to explore it would also make increased road construction work that was their nearest hospital or town easy and safe travelling of According to Munasinghe, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve go development (of homes, farming, happening in the forest reserve or without difficulty. visitors on foot during the rainy season, through their village and at present, illegal activities) more likely as possibly on the bordering village He also noted that the they take a three-wheeler or have well. that was allegedly the road that is President had taken a personal Cladonotus to wait for a four-wheel drive to Humke proposes that whilst constructed to connect Deniyaya interest towards the issue, as bhaskari arrive to take them to the entrance making improvements to the road and Lankagama. it concerns the people and the of Sinharaja. Should the road to improve accessibility, the road The Forest Department along environment and would want to be built, they would be able to should still be maintained as a 4x4 with the Central Environment launch development initiatives improve their livelihoods as well. road (no buses, no regular cars – Authority is now in the process of to improve the quality of life of crossing a shallow river required) preparing the assessment report. these people whilst protecting and Sinharaja – an ecotourism to limit development. During the Cabinet briefing, conserving the forests. destination The Sunday Morning spoke Minister of Wildlife Dr. Ramesh While there is talk that the In July 2018, sustainable tourism to environmental lawyer Jagath Pathirana said that there is President himself would be paying consultant Matthew Humke had Gunawardana about the said a considerable number of a visit to the area, it is still unclear submitted a nature-based tourism plan and whether they were families that have been living as to when he would travel to the plan designed for the Sinharaja consulted on the matter, to which in Lankagama for decades region. Forest Reserve Complex to he responded: “When it comes WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning Sunday, August 30, 2020 EDITORIAL/POLITICS

Last week saw the the Opposition was allowed to state Government headed their case. Everyone came into an by President Gotabaya agreement and the 19th Amendment Saving SL from Rajapaksa and Prime Minister was passed just before midnight in Mahinda Rajapaksa securing April 2015,” he had said. “Clauses the funds required to carry of this piece of legislation gave the drug scourge out the governing of the a hearing to all the cries of many country for the remaining sections that were heard for years. One of the main pledges of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa upon his election We actually curtailed the powers Constitutional reforms: four months of the year. was to rid the country of the drug menace. With a reputation of keeping his of the executive presidency and word, the President has wasted little time in getting down to action. The While work on the 2021 budget set up independent commissions to results of the President’s resolve continue to surface on a daily basis and are proposals has already commenced, depoliticise the Police, judiciary, a shocking pointer to the extent of the cancer and the institutionalisation of the the Rs. 1.7 trillion Vote on Account and the public service.” drug trade over a long period of time, where even law enforcement officials (VoA) was passed in Parliament last are part of the problem. To drive home the point, here’s a brief look at the Friday (28). Discussion back police diary last week: The Government’s sights are on 13A Saturday (22) now fully set on the proposed While the focus on the proposed Underworld figure Yaka Sampath arrested with heroin and weapons in amendments to the Constitution. constitutional amendments has Battaramulla. Chaminda Edirisooriya alias Chamiya, an accomplice of Angoda The ball is definitely now rolling on been on the 19th Amendment, Lokka shot dead by the Police in Gampaha. the proposed 20th Amendment to discussions are now emerging on Sunday the Constitution. another constitutional amendment 13A RETURNS Underworld gangster Welle Saranga and three others involved in the ganja The Justice that has trade arrested at BIA while attempting to board a flight to Dubai. Drug kingpin Ministry has caused much Makandure Madush’s main agent Padagoda Busiya arrested in Beruwala with decided to controversy a stock of heroin and four mobile phones. appoint a panel in the country Monday of experts including an Five persons arrested in Jaffna for possession of heroin. Special Task Force to draft the insurrection in deployed at Welikada, Magazine, and Colombo Remand Prisons. Nineteen proposed new the late 1980s. mobile phones found buried in prison premises. constitution. the It is none other Tuesday Accordingly, black box than the 13th A female arrested in Boralesgamuwa for alleged involvement in drug the expert’s Amendment to trade – bank records show transactions amounting to Rs. 140 million. Police panel is to be by Capt. Vasabha the Constitution TO THE recover 11 kg of heroin worth Rs. 100 million and a cache of weapons in appointed in that was brought Galle. One suspect arrested. the near future. about as an offspring of the Indo-Sri Wednesday Following approval granted Lanka Accord that established the Couple arrested while packing heroin at a house in Piliyandala. An accomplice by the Cabinet of Ministers to provincial council (PC) system in of Keselwatte Dinuka arrested in Uswetakeiyawa with a large haul of narcotics. repeal the 19th Amendment to Sri Lanka. Veyangoda Police arrest a prison employee, Sri Lanka Air Force civilian the Constitution and introduce While there have been many employee, and two others for drug trafficking at Mahara Prison. Another the 20th Amendment, a cabinet whispers in political circles about accomplice of Angoda Lokka arrested along with 42 kg of heroin and a cache subcommittee, consisting of five the Government’s consideration of weapons including three T-56 automatic rifles. Police arrest suspect for using ministers, including Minister of of repealing the 13th Amendment two luxury vehicles with bogus number plates for drug trafficking in Colombo. Justice M. Ali Sabry PC, was to the Constitution, the matter was Thursday appointed for this matter. last week brought to the limelight LIMELIGHT Suspect arrested in Orugodawatta for possession of 3 kg of heroin, large The main function of this with a letter signed by a group of amount of cash, several ATM cards, and a luxury vehicle. Indra, an accomplice subcommittee is to make monks under the Buddhasasana of gangster Samayan arrested in Nawagamuwa for possession of heroin. A submissions to the Cabinet on Task Force Board (Buddhasasana sergeant attached to the Welikada Police arrested in Ampara for possessing points to be included in the 20th Kaaryasadhaka Mandalaya) narcotics. Amendment. letterhead. Friday The 20th Amendment to the In the letter dated Tuesday A prison guard arrested in Borella for possession of heroin. He had been a drug Constitution will finally be (25) and addressed to President courier at the Colombo Remand Prison for a long time. Two Navy personnel formulated by the Legal Draftsman. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the arrested while transporting cannabis in an official vehicle. An accomplice Meanwhile, the Samagi Buddhasasana Task Force Board, of underworld figure Podi Lassie arrested in Balapitiya with a large haul of Jana Balawegaya (SJB), led situated at the All Ceylon Buddhist weapons including T-56 automatic rifles, ammunition, and hand grenades. by Opposition Leader Sajith Congress on Bauddhaloka The above is not some fictional creation but a list of actual events that Premadasa, has announced plans Mawatha, has urged the Head of occurred over the course of the past week. According to the arrests made, nearly to launch a common struggle along State to take stock of several issues 60 kg of heroin with a street value of Rs. 600 million, various other narcotics with civil organisations and political before moving forward with the including ice, cannabis, and a huge haul of weapons have been recovered. In parties, against the Government’s proposed 20th Amendment to the z Group of Buddhist monks z Indian HC expresses stance on the process, prison officers, police officers, navy personnel, and an employee move to repeal the 19th Constitution. of the Air Force have all been caught in the police net. Amendment to the Constitution. The letter has noted that the write to President on the ills full implementation of 13A; hosts In the recent past, over a dozen officers of the Police Narcotics Bureau people have given a mandate to While there have been many of 13th and 16th Amendments Cabinet Ministers for dinner were arrested and are currently in remand custody for conniving with the drug the President and Government to whispers in political circles barons. In a recent case involving the death of a prisoner at Welikada Prison, it introduce a new constitution in about the Government’s was revealed in court last week that a certain police officer received a monthly place of the existing Constitution councils during the past three years. The 13th Amendment has also consideration of repealing “salary” of Rs. 150,000 from drug kingpin Welle Suda for information on that has caused much chaos and Apart from the unbearable cost paved the way for the merger of the the 13th Amendment to the planned drug raids and police operations. confusion. shouldered by Sri Lanka to maintain Northern and Eastern Provinces,” Constitution, the matter was This is most probably just the tip of the iceberg and many more corrupt “It has been reported through these provincial councils, it is also a the letter has stated. last week brought to the individuals are likely to be on the payroll of various drug lords who are vying government communications threat on the country’s governance. Attention has also been drawn limelight with a letter signed with each other for territory. Given this reality, investigators need to be extra that the 19th Amendment to the Although a provincial council to the fact that the PCs have the by a group of monks under cautious in first identifying and exposing the moles within their own ranks Constitution is to be abolished structure could be maintained, it mandate to enforce laws pertaining the Buddhasasana Task Force who in return for filthy lucre, will not hesitate to put a spoke in the wheel of with a new 20th Amendment to the needs to be restructured. The area to law and order in the respective Board letterhead the ongoing operations. Constitution,” the letter has stated in under the purview of a Northern provinces over and above the laws For the past five months, the airport has been closed and imports have Sinhala. Province Chief Minister could have implemented by Parliament. been drastically reduced with a ban in effect on the importation of everything SJB seniors Dr. Rajitha “The chaos faced at present is not its own police force according to The letter has also drawn other than essential goods. As a result, the usual smuggling routes have been Senaratne, Eran Wickramaratne, only due to the 19th Amendment to Clause 9 (1) of the 13th Amendment attention to the statements made severely hampered. It is therefore pertinent to question as to how narcotics Dr. Harsha de Silva, and Shiral the Constitution. The proportional of the Constitution. Also, Sub clause in Parliament during the inaugural are still flooding into the country or whether what is seized is making its way Lakthilaka made this announcement representation system, along with (2) of the same clause states that the sessions of the Ninth Parliament back into the market through the backdoor. That is a job for the Police and at a joint press conference. the 13th and 16th Amendments, as approval of the provincial council by MPs C.V. Wigneswaran and going by the progress made in the recent past, the answers won’t be long in Premadasa is to take the lead in well as other such amendments to should be sought in the event a Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam and coming. At least let’s hope so. launching this agitation campaign. the Constitution, have contributed piece of land in the respective noted that the nationalist comments The reason for the recent success is undoubtedly the political will to get the “We shall discuss with all to this situation. This has caused a province is to be offered to a citizen made by them is indicative of the job done from the very top, resulting in lower level ruling politicians keeping sessions on Friday and then we grave threat to the country’s unitary or for the purpose of religious threat faced by the country’s unitary a safe distance and not interfering with the investigations, which has been the will launch continuous protests state, public peace, territorial establishment. The historical and state in the near future. bane in eradicating this cancer in the past. against the move to repeal the 19th integrity, and national security,” the archaeological sites have also “Therefore, a new constitution It is a well-known fact that the drug trade is a multi-billion-rupee industry Amendment,” Dr. Senaratne has letter has gone on to explain. been included in the provincial that rectifies all these issues needs and billions change hands every month in buying and selling drugs. This is said at the news conference. “It has been reported that there councils list. The 16th Amendment to be introduced,” the group of money that is lost to the financial system and funds that do not contribute in “The 19th Amendment was are plans to hold the provincial to the Constitution has resulted in Buddhist monks have noted. any way towards legitimate economic activity. enacted with the consent of all council elections shortly. The the Sinhalese language not being According to them, attempting For instance, the majority of drug users are daily wage earners and rather parties in 2015. We discussed every country’s administration has been accepted as the state language in to rectify only the chaos caused than spending their hard-earned wages on buying legitimate products that clause of it in 2015. Accordingly, carried out without the provincial the Northern and Eastern Provinces. by the 19th Amendment to the contribute to the wellbeing and growth of the economy, these funds go into Constitution would not suffice, the pockets of drug lords who in turn have to launder this money to bring given the imminent dangers it back into the legitimate system. This deprives the economy of billions of faced due to the 13th and 16th rupees in funds that could stimulate the consumption of products leading to Amendments. employment generation and revenue to government coffers. “All amendments to the The surest indication that the authorities are gaining the upper hand in the Constitution need to be expedited. drug war is what is happening in the prisons today. It is no secret that many Failure to do so will be to disregard of the prisoners are active drug users and these days, hundreds of them are the mandate received by the turning up at the prison hospital with withdrawal symptoms. According to country. The people of Sri Lanka Negombo Prison officials, the daily average number of patients turning up at have given a two-thirds majority to the prison hospital there was around 25 three months ago. Now, that figure has the Government with the intention shot up to over 200, and there have been reports of some prisoners committing of immediate rectification of the suicide as a result of being deprived of their daily dose. regulations that have been enforced The country’s congested prisons, which are running at three times their due to pressure from external intended capacity, are fertile grounds for breeding new drug addicts, as even forces. Postponing such action those who are sent to prison for minor offences are put among drug addicts would be unfair to the general and it is just a matter of time before they too fall victim to the habit. public,” the letter has further stated. When these individuals are eventually released from prison, they begin to “We believe that the indulge in criminal activities in order to fund their craving for drugs. This is Government’s idea of first the vicious cycle that needs to be broken and it is indeed heartening to note rectifying the 19th Amendment that the authorities have now taken a policy decision to discontinue the practice while delaying the much needed of housing non-drug-related prisoners with drug-related prisoners. Instead, amendments for later should not be they will be sent to rehabilitation centres where they will be introduced to carried out. Immediate steps need vocational training, so that on their release from prison, they can earn a decent to be taken to cancel the regulations living and contribute to the economy of the country. that have been forcefully included While commending the President for these new initiatives, it is hoped that in the Constitution. If the provincial the ongoing operations to eradicate the drug menace will be carried out to council elections are held before its conclusion. carrying out these amendments, No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. attempts to amend the 13th Fax - 011 2 673 441 Amendment would definitely fail,” General - 011 5 200 900 the letter has added. Director Sales & Marketing - 077 3 866 143 Focus on PC polls Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367620 E-mail - [email protected] Government lawmakers however maintain that they would consider WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 9 EDITORIAL/POLITICS

later. But those can be considered While the discussion on when formulating a constitution.” the 13th Amendment and Meanwhile, Minister Gamini the future of the provincial Lokuge also said at a news councils rages on, India, conference, when questioned about which played a key role in the “senior government” post to the implementation of the be offered to the former President, piece of legislation as well as that there was no agreement the administrative structure Constitutional reforms: reached within the Government mentioned, is closely on appointing Sirisena as Deputy monitoring the proposed Prime Minister following constitutional amendments the proposed constitutional amendments. “20 August was the day of the “This has to be asked by that inaugural sittings of the Ninth party. There’s no such decision in Parliament. When a drunken our party. During election time, relative starts to wax eloquent various statements are made. Some about himself at a wedding, should say they will receive this portfolio the other sober relatives attack the and that portfolio and now after man? If the relatives behave in elections, these have become such a manner, what will happen 13A RETURNS issues. People say various stories to the wedding? This is how I see during elections to secure votes,” Wigneswaran’s behaviour at the Lokuge had told the media. inaugural session of Parliament,” Meanwhile, State Minister the Minister had said. for Batik, Handloom, and Local According to Weerawansa, it is Apparel Products Dayasiri important for people to understand Jayasekara dismissed rumours the reason that has compelled the about the post of Deputy Prime likes of Wigneswaran to behave in Minister. this manner. “The title of Deputy Prime “The Tamil people in the North Minister was fabricated by the are rejecting nationalism. The TO THE media. I can assure you that there TNA, that had 16 seats in the last is no such title that is on offer Parliament, has declined to 10 in the present Government,” he seats. For the first time in history, stated. the Sri Lanka Freedom Party has “The media seems to be giving managed to secure a seat from the wind to rumours; then they decide Jaffna District,” Weerawansa had to question us to turn these into further explained. factual statements.” He added: “We are looking at SJB MPs in contradiction constitutional amendments at Wigneswaran’s statement also present and that will be discussed resulted in two parliamentarians LIMELIGHT and debated in Parliament.” representing the SJB on Thursday Meanwhile, officers from the (27) making contradictory Police Unit of the Presidential statements in the House. Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) SJB MP Manusha Nanayakkara, probing the Easter Sunday attacks who raised objection to the visited Sirisena’s Colombo statement made by Wigneswaran a residence last Wednesday and week earlier and called for certain recorded a near-nine-hour lines in the speech to be expunged statement. from the Hansard of Parliament, once again raised the issue and Wimal’s drunken relative called for the removal of the The maiden speech made by comments. former Northern Province Chief Nanayakkara, the previous Minister MP C.V. Wigenswaran at week, called for these comments the inaugural sessions of the Ninth to be removed from the Hansard z Indian HC expresses stance on z Opposition Leader and SJB z Karu pushed out of UNP Parliament stirred up a hornet’s and once again raised the issue on nest, especially among the rank and Thursday, saying his request had full implementation of 13A; hosts to rally against repealing of leadership race; Ruwan becomes file of the SLPP. not been addressed. Cabinet Ministers for dinner 19th Amendment popular choice for leadership In his maiden speech, However, SJB alliance member Wigneswaran raised the issues MP Rauff Hakeem said in faced by the people in the Northern Parliament that every MP should the 13th Amendment that introduced constitutional amendments. and full implementation of the 13th remained noncommittal. and Eastern Provinces and called respect freedom of speech. the system of PCs, which are now In making any move, the Amendment,” the Tweet further The close ties between Sri Lanka for the recognition of the Tamil defunct due to a delayed poll. Government, led by President stated. and India following President people’s rights. Karu out, Ruwan in “The 13th Amendment was not Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime High Commissioner Bagley Rajapaksa’s ascension to power will Wigneswaran observed that the Meanwhile, the onetime main something that we requested. It was Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, would also hosted a dinner for Cabinet definitely be put to the test in the Tamil people have a right to self- opposition political party in the forcibly given to us by India,” State have to be mindful of the need to Ministers last Wednesday (26). event the Government decides to determination. country, the United National Minister for Provincial Councils and be tactful as well as diplomatic Eighteen Cabinet Ministers take on the controversial piece of He also made a reference in Party (UNP) remains to be on life Local Government Affairs Sarath in broaching the topic of the 13th had participated in the dinner legislation. Sinhala, “kala kala de pala pala de” support given its failure to resolve Weerasekera had said. Amendment to the Constitution, and among them were Sports (what goes around comes around). the ongoing leadership crisis. He had observed that an given its close link to Sri Lanka’s Minister Namal Rajapaksa, SLFP studying the Wigneswaran’s statement caused While the party seniors were assessment is being carried out into neighbour as well as regional Education Minister Prof. G.L. Constitution much concern over the Sinhala deliberating the next course of PCs to examine its contribution to superpower. Peiris, Media Minister Keheliya The Sri Lanka Freedom Party nationalist movements in the action for the UNP, former Speaker the administration in the past. Meanwhile, Indian High Rambukwella, Transport Minister (SLFP) is to appoint a committee country where questions were of Parliament Karu Jayasuriya Meanwhile, over 72% of the Commissioner Gopal Bagley last Gamini Lokuge, Energy Minister to make recommendations to raised as to why representatives of announced that he is capable of allocations made to the Public week met with several political Udaya Gammanpila, Irrigation the proposed amendments to the the movements in the House failed taking up the challenge to lead the Services, Provincial Councils, leaders and groups. Minister Chamal Rajapaksa, Constitution. to respond to the Tamil politician’s party. and Local Government Ministry SLFP National Organiser, State comments. Issuing a special statement last would be spent on the recurrent Minister Duminda Dissanayake said National Freedom Front (NFF) Monday (24), Jayasuriya said expenditure that has accumulated that the committee will be appointed Leader and Minister Wimal that he had informed the UNP since January this year, Mass Media in the next few days. Weerawansa in response had said leadership and seniors on his Minister Keheliya Rambukwella “A committee will be that the people in the North are preparedness to give leadership to said. appointed by the party to evaluate now systematically rejecting the the party. He told The Sunday Morning the proposed constitutional nationalist politics carried out by Jayasuriya stated that, given the that in the absence of the PC amendments. We are planning on the likes of Wigneswaran and R. current state of confusion and after polls, the governors were given making the appointment within the Sampanthan, which is evident careful consideration of requests the opportunity to continue work, next few days.” by the results of the recently made to him by many parties, he and since no allocations were He said the committee will submit concluded general election. had informed of his capability to made since January, a huge sum proposals to the Government on the Weerawansa had noted that take on the challenge of leading the of recurrent expenditure had constitutional amendments. panicked by this outcome, UNP for the betterment of the party accumulated. “We already have one of the Wigneswaran was trying to portray and Sri Lanka. However, when asked whether senior members, Minister Nimal himself as a bigger hero than He said that this decision was the Government was preparing for Siripala de Silva, in the Cabinet- Sampanthan in Parliament. taken on behalf of the future of the provincial council elections, appointed committee to draft the The Minister had further said the party and Sri Lanka, as well as Minister Rambukwella said the amendments. Once the Government that he remained silent without the just and patriotic people of the Government hadn’t taken any releases the amendments, we will creating a stir in the House since country. decision yet. Indian High Commissioner Gopal Bagley met with a TNA delegation last week make our own proposals and hand it was similar to “an attack on a He emphasised that he will be At present, all nine provincial them over to the Government,” drunken individual misbehaving “courageously and invincibly” councils are not functioning as their Dissanayake said. at a wedding resulting in a committed to all the duties and terms of office expired. The High Commissioner last Tourism Minister Prasanna disturbance at the function”. responsibilities that need to be The term of office of the Southern week met with members of the Ranatunga, Environment Minister MS sits empty-handed Weerawansa had made this fulfilled for the betterment of the PC ended on 10 April while the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), Mahinda Amaraweera, Power SLFP Leader, former President, statement last Sunday (23) during a motherland. Western PC’s term ended on 21 Sri Lanka Muslim Congress Minister Dullas Alahapperuma, and incumbent MP Maithripala public gathering in Homagama. Contd. on page 14 April; the term of office of the (SLMC), the Opposition Leader Agriculture Minister Mahindananda Sirisena has been left in the Sabaragamuwa PC ended on 26 of Parliament, and Speaker of Aluthgamage, Trade Minister Dr. lurch with senior members of the September 2017, while the Eastern Parliament. Bandula Gunawardana , Plantation Government now dismissing claims PC’s term ended on 30 September The 13th Amendment to the Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, and that Sirisena was to be appointed as 2017, and the North Central PC’s Constitution had figured during Water Supply Minister Vasudeva Deputy Prime Minister following ended on 1 October 2017. the discussion between the Indian Nanayakkara. the proposed constitutional The terms of the Central, North High Commission and the TNA A senior member of the Sri amendment. Western, and Northern PCs ended delegation. Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) SLPP Chairman, Minister Prof. in September 2018, while the term “A TNA delegation called on last week opined that the 13th G.L. Peiris last week cleared the of office of the Uva PC ended on 8 the High Commissioner today Amendment and the PC system air about the position that would be September last year. (21) during which the latter were introduced to the country as a offered to Sirisena. congratulated the TNA for their solution to the civil war. “There is no such discussion India’s stance performance at the recent general “Now that the war is over and within the Government as of now While the discussion on the 13th elections,” the Indian High the country is united, there is no to this effect,” he had said at a Amendment and the future of the Commission in Colombo Tweeted necessity for a provincial council news briefing. PCs rages on, India, which played last week after the meeting with the system,” the senior member said. Prof. Peiris had added that, to his a key role in the implementation of TNA. As for whether or not the 13th knowledge, not even a discussion the piece of legislation as well as the “The High Commissioner Amendment will also be repealed has taken place within the Former Speaker of Parliament Karu Jayasuriya and UNP Deputy General Secretary administrative structure mentioned, reiterated India’s longstanding during the proposed constitutional Government thus far on the matter. Ruwan Wijewardene is closely monitoring the proposed position on peace and reconciliation amendments, the senior member “I cannot say what will happen WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 10 the sunday morning Sunday, August 30, 2020 hot seat BY SARAH HANNAN Wigneswaran’s maiden lected to the Ninth speech in Ninth Parliament Parliament of Sri Lanka I start my felicitations, Hon. Speaker, hailing from the Jaffna Electoral you in my mother tongue, the oldest living District, contesting under language of this world and the language of the Thamizh Makkal the first indigenous inhabitants of this country, EThesiya Kootani (TMTK), also and proceed in the link language. I thank known as Tamil People’s National you for accepting such a high position in our Alliance, C.V. Wigneswaran’s parliamentary tradition. Sir, I am sure you would movements and words are closely bring with your high office your experience with scrutinised by the majority of men and matters gained throughout your long politicians as well the ultra- political career. nationalist groups. We have a very powerful Government now. A similar Government was constituted under the Wigneswaran seems to have ruffled some feathers with his maiden speech at late J.R. Jayewardene in 1977. It was during that the first session, which concluded with him regime that we had the 1983 Pogrom. saying “kala kala de pala pala de”. Reading Certainly, this Government too could follow through the speech made on 20 August, the path of the Elephant of that time and end one would understand what Wigneswaran up as today, reduced to a single member in the attempted to underscore with the Sinhala future. But I am sure they would not. They would idiom (refer text in box). prefer to learn from our mistakes of the past and This week, The Sunday Morning had usher in a period of peace and prosperity where a brief conversation with the MP and z all communities would feel equal to each other asked him what he meant by the idiom Freedom and and walk with dignity and pride as children of and questioned him on how differently his equality only when Mother Lanka. party would continue its political journey, That freedom and equality could dawn only given that many other political parties intrinsic rights of if we shed the false historical perspectives of representing the Tamil-speaking population the past and recognise the intrinsic rights of of the country had failed to deliver on their people in North and the people living in the North and the East of promises. East recognised Sri Lanka, who are entitled to the right of self- Below are excerpts of the interview. determination as per Article 1 of Chapter One of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Can you explain what you meant by the z Lots of wrong Rights, in addition to their hereditary and endnote of your maiden speech? It seems traditional rights to be recognised as a nation. to have irked many people, especially the historical perceptions Sir, I hope we would not be called upon in ultra-nationalists. Are you instigating in the minds of this august assembly of parliamentarians in Tamil nationalism or separatism to take the future, during your term of office, for your root? Sinhala-Buddhists Having lived in various cities in Sri Lanka protective assistance, since we would respect during my childhood and my service as a each other’s rights and our duties towards each lawyer, I was exposed to all ethnicities and z I am not in favour of other. We are sure that you will guide us all regional lifestyles. I would never want to without fear or favour if any such impasse comes see our multi-ethnic, multi-religious citizens any force or violence to pass. be divided due to political differences that There is no need, Sir, in a country which are prompting separatism. In fact, I support and believe in professes Buddhism to expect a hegemonic interracial unions and I’m waiting to see a people’s movements dominance from anyone. We have not forgotten time where we would leave our differences what the Sinhala villager is only too well familiar and bitter experiences aside and work with, that every act has its opposite reaction; towards true reconciliation. l, l, foa m, m, foa. What I meant from the endnote was that every action will have an opposite reaction. certainly help reinforce our struggle for self- No one in this country should get sidelined determination. Education is the source of based on their ethnicity or religious beliefs. power for diplomacy, and education is the I believe the Tamils of Sri Lanka have No one should be never-ending divine gift to the Tamil people. undergone too much of it over the past But involvement in international diplomacy decades and it is only right by them that they is something new for the Tamil people. Yet, are allowed to voice their thoughts without I am hopeful that our diplomatic skills will being suppressed or branded for their further grow and develop over time and political ideologies. enhance the prospects for our cause. As I said in my speech, freedom and sidelined based on equality could dawn only if we shed the What measures would you take to false historical perspectives and recognise improve the participation of youth the intrinsic rights of the people living in political activists in diversifying the the North and the East of Sri Lanka, who representation in Parliament for future are entitled to the right of self-determination governments? as per Article 1 of Chapter One of the That is an important facet of our party’s International Covenant on Civil and Political outlook. Soon, a youth front for the party Rights, in addition to their hereditary and would be formed and deliberate, decisive traditional rights to be recognised as a actions would be taken to help the youths nation. become self-reliant, innovative, and ethnicity dedicated. What are the crucial areas that need to be developed to ensure that the Are you still looking at establishing sovereignty of the Tamil people, not only or a federal government? Why has it in the North and East but the entire taken over 60 years to establish such a country, is safeguarded? governing system? Creating understanding among all We have chosen the federal system to put communities is a crucial area. Lots of an end to the interference by the Central wrong historical perceptions have got into Government into all our local affairs. If the minds of the Sinhala-Buddhists. For there is a better system, we are prepared to example, they identify Tamil-Buddhist examine the same. Our Sinhalese brethren (Demala-Bauddha) archaeological sites as have been fed with incorrect, nay, false facts Sinhala-Buddhist sites. We need to discuss with regard to federalism. Even regarding this in earnest with the intellectuals among religion– Wigneswaran our history, our Sinhalese brethren have the Sinhalese and get their input. Once been cheated by their intellectuals. It has there is understanding of these historical taken so long for the Sinhalese people to details, prejudices would ease out slowly. Government, foreign governments, Tamil less behaviour of the TNA (Tamil National opportunities that come our way. We would face truths about their history as well as Nadu, and the Diaspora to do community Alliance). The erstwhile TNA votes have also be in touch with those who are our about federalism. As a member of Parliament and a development work in the North and got divided mostly among the three parties: well-wishers in all communities and obtain representative not only to the Tamil East. We have also created a trust to do TNA, cycle party (AITC), and us. Those their help too. We will maintain contacts Will Sri Lanka have a truly democratic people, but also to the rest of the Sri development projects. We shall undertake who are working with the Government, such with all countries so as to ensure the rule in the future? Lankan ethnicities, what community training and courses in order to increase our as the EPDP (Eelam People’s Democratic protection of the Tamil people and to enable I doubt it. Leopards cannot change development work will your party capacity to produce goods and to increase Party) and Angajan Ramanathan, had political, economic, social, and cultural their spots. Military men cannot think execute in the years to come? our skills for innovation. expressed their commitment to the Tamil development. India is important in this. apart from their military-based thinking, I had not distinguished among Tamils, nation and self-determination. Tamil Our activities would be undertaken after although they are very much our people. Sinhalese, and Muslims when it came Are you satisfied with the way the nationalism is very much in vogue. being overseen through institutionalised Change is only possible by living the to development work while I was Chief recent election decided the change in the structures. When we say institutionalising, proper way and setting an example to Minister. Yet, my concentration would be political landscape of the North and East? The TNA seemingly failed to deliver on we mean that any matter that is political others, while, at the same time, enthroning mostly in the North and East. We need to No. I wouldn’t agree that the election the promises they made to the Tamil or social or economic would be checked understanding in the minds of men and make our people self-reliant. results are an indication of the change in people. How differently will the TMTK for its sustainability. The techniques of the women. We will make efforts to create the political landscape in terms of Tamil approach these issues in Parliament, now activities related to them will not depend employment by joining hands with nationalism versus development. Tamil that you have secured a seat? on any single person, but would depend on How will you contribute to change the provincial councils, the Central people have reacted to the selfish policy- We would make the best use of the collective responsibility. We are to pursue current political system which is filled activities on this basis, co-ordinating the with nepotism? Canagasabapathy Visuvalingam Wigneswaran Tamil intellectuals living all over the world You expect too much from me as a The octogenarian is not a new field of law, Wigneswaran served and forming structures to oversee and advise person representing Tamil people who Justice Canagasabapathy Originally from Colombo, face to Sri Lankan politics and to the as a magistrate and a district judge at home and abroad. were subjected to genocide. But it is a Visuvalingam Wigneswaran, the Wigneswaran was able to experience country’s state service, as he was a in Batticaloa, after which he was fact that the Sri Lankan people have got former Northern Province Chief life in different cities of the country member of the judiciary for 25 years appointed as a district judge for Do you believe that diplomacy was a used to threats and violence. Even in the Minister, contested from the Jaffna due to his father being in the public and prior to that practised law for Colombo. With his appointment to the failed approach and the only way out is last Parliament, violent behaviour was Electoral District and got elected to service sector and had to serve in 15 years. He obtained his BA from High Court, Wigneswaran was able to through a radical and nationalist agenda rampant but tolerated, nevertheless. the ninth Parliament with 21,554 different districts throughout his the University of London and LLB serve in the Northern, Eastern, North to resolve the ethnic issues the Tamil Nepotism started with the Uncle preferential votes under the Thamizh career. Wigneswaran therefore from the University of Ceylon. He was Central, Uva, and Western Provinces. people have dealt with for decades? Nephew Party (UNP). After 50 years Makkal Thesiya Kootani (TMTK), moved frequently from city to city appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Wigneswaran served as the Chief I am not in favour of any force or (1956-2006), the Bandaranaike name lost which he founded in 2018 after he with his parents and was educated at Court of Sri Lanka in 2001 by former Minister for the Northern Province violence. I still believe in people’s its magic. The Rajapaksa name too has an broke away from the Tamil National Christchurch College, Kurunegala; Holy President Chandrika Bandaranaike during the previous Government movements, diplomacy, and international expiry date. It is only by our behaviour, Alliance (TNA) and in which he serves Family Convent, Anuradhapura; and Kumaratunga. under then Governor Maj. Gen. (Retd.) relations in achieving the aspirations of savouring of goodwill, and sincerity that as the Secretary General. Royal College, Colombo. Up until his retirement from the G.A. Chandrasiri from 2013-2018. our people. International diplomacy can we could make a positive impact. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 11 Sunday, August 30, 2020 FOCUS

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA VOTE ON ACCOUNT Kicking off the two-day debate in Parliament on the Vote on Account (VoA), Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, said the Government has decided to Funds secured, project review all project loans totalling approximately Rs. 9 billion. He noted that around half of the loans comprised foreign loans, emphasising that it was high time the Government gave priority to investment promotion instead of loans under review depending on loans. Pointing out the large amount of unsettled year. The Government can’t hide behind bills for the year 2019, the Prime Minister Covid-19 and claim everything was said that, as a result, the incumbent because of it. The fact remains that the Government would have to prune its economy was in severe distress long before expenses. it (Covid-19) came around.” “There is a debt ceiling of Rs. 1,300 He then charged that the $ 7.2 billion in billion,” he said, adding that a sum of foreign reserves, which the Central Bank Rs. 1,900 billion would be allocated for Governor of the previous Government had government expenditure from 1 September to managed to collect, was not being utilised to 31 December. repay foreign debt obligations. Recalling that the growth rate of the Furthermore, Ranawaka said that a blanket economy was between 5-6% when his ban on imports would only worsen the Government was in power, Prime Minister It also must be noted that the Covid-19 The Government has stated that the The Government’s tax policies, already complicated situation, adding: “You Rajapaksa said that since the transition to outbreak did not have much of an impact country’s total expenses stand at Rs. 947 implemented from 1 December 2019, cannot develop domestic industries in such a the Yahapalana Government in 2015, the during the first quarter of this year. When billion, but they have allocated 38% of have had a disastrous impact on state manner.” economy had declined gradually, resulting in we spoke about the impending dangers of the total funds to the ministries under revenue. Due to these policies, annual The SJB also alleged that 38% of the total having the lowest growth rate in South Asia the Covid-19 pandemic in January and the President, Prime Minister, Chamal state revenue, which was nearly Rs. 2,000 allocations in the VoA had been distributed to at 2% by the end of 2019. February, the responsible authorities did Rajapaksa, and Namal Rajapaksa billion during the previous Government, the ministries coming under the purview of Meanwhile, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya not give two hoots about it SJB MP Eran Wickramaratne had plummeted to about Rs. 1,000 billion just four members of the Rajapaksa family. (SJB), the main Opposition in Parliament, SJB and Opposition Leader since last December SJB MP Harshana Rajakaruna said that demanded to disclose the Government’s Sajith Premadasa SJB MP Patali Champika Ranawaka ministerial portfolios held by four individuals use of public finance for the period between concerned and still managed to present a were given 38% of the funds that are to be April and August this year without the prior “Article 150 (3) does not grant him powers budget. This Government, however, though the previous Government, had plummeted to release via the VoA. In addition, Rajakaruna approval of Parliament, the key authority to draw funds or approve a VoA from the date it came to power in November last year, about Rs. 1,000 billion since last December. inquired from the Government as to why it over public finance. of dissolving Parliament. The Prime Minister could not present a budget this year. It relied According to my estimate, state revenue this stated that it would borrow an additional Rs. “Even though the Secretary to the Treasury must clarify this in his capacity as the on a Vote on Account passed by the previous year will be about Rs. 1,100 billion, whereas 750 billion in addition to the initial Rs. 1,300 had issued a circular on 10 March 2020, Finance Minister. We hope he will provide Government which approved funds up to the interest on the loans alone are about billion worth of debt. asserting that the President had authorised Parliament with a detailed account on state 30 April this year. We now have another Rs. 1 trillion (Rs. 1,000 billion). As such, “This is a massive amount of debt that the use of funds under Article 150 (3) of revenue during the past eight months of this VoA for funds from 1 September to 31 this is the first time the country’s revenue we have never seen the likes of in the past. the Constitution, it is clear to all that only year – how revenue from various taxes came December,” he said. is only enough to pay off the interest on the I expect the Government would clarify Parliament has the power to authorise a to the Government and the Government’s Ranawaka then asserted that the current country’s loans,” he said. as to why it wants to borrow another Rs. Vote on Account,” SJB MP Patali Champika recurrent expenditure – before the end of the fiscal crisis the country is facing was not due Ranawaka, who opened the debate for the 750 billion,” he noted. He then questioned Ranawaka said while participating in the debate,” Ranawaka added. to the Covid-19 pandemic, but was a result Opposition, made note of the fact that before whether the Government would provide debate on Thursday (27). He then said that 2020 will go down of the poorly constructed economic and tax the coronavirus outbreak forced the country some form relief to those who lost jobs as a He charged that the SJB was of the firm in history as the only time the country policies of the current regime. into lockdown, the economic growth rate in result of the Covid-19 pandemic. view that Article 150 (3) of the Constitution functioned without a budget. “The Government’s tax policies, the first three months of 2020 was 1.6%. “The Covid-19 outbreak saw many only gives the President the power to use “A similar problem occurred in 2015. This implemented from 1 December 2019, have “That was the Government’s report factories and offices being shut down and funds from the Consolidated Fund for three was just after a presidential election and had a disastrous impact on state revenue. card before Covid-19. According to thousands of people losing their jobs. The months till the date of the sitting of the new also with a general election looming, but the Due to these policies, annual state revenue, Asian Development Bank’s forecast, the Government should take care of them too. Parliament. then Government discussed with all parties which was nearly Rs. 2,000 billion during economy is due to contract by 0.6% this Contd. on page 14 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 12 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, August 30, 2020

BY MAHIKA PANDITHA ARE MONKEYS DAMAGING CROPS? Just a week ago, former President Maithripala Sirisena commented that the monkey population in Sri Lanka has drastically increased since the time he was the Minister of Agriculture. Back then in 2005, the monkey population had been one million while it has increased to over Or just trying to two million today. Sirisena raised these concerns saying that monkeys are destroying several coconut crops all over the country but are not being harmed despite the fact that they are causing disruption to about a quarter of the agricultural produce in the country. feed themselves? Where do they go? Conservation (DWC) is currently working On this matter, what is important to keep towards establishing new coconut crops in mind is that monkeys are not harming the in other locations, ensuring that there is a crops out of malicious intent but rather to stable amount for local consumers as well as feed themselves. Coconut Cultivation Board wildlife around them. (CCB) Chairman Jayantha Wickramasinghe, speaking to The Sunday Morning, stated: Why are we trying to take more? “We have acquired their space and now they Sirisena had also said that Sri Lanka is are attacking us. At a meeting with growers the only place wherein animals are given in Galle, an old gentleman came up and more protection than the food that is grown recalled a story which explains this perfectly. specifically for humans to eat. In this regard, He said his parents used to take him to the The Sunday Morning spoke to environmental forest where they would find items to eat, lawyer Jagath Gunawardana. such as fruits and what not. They would go “Food is not protected by law. The to the forest to collect firewood – not cut agricultural farmland is protected by law. I the tree down, but to collect the wood along think we are lagging far behind in regard to with some fruits and berries and so on. They this. We do not have to take more land for would then leave the forest. crop cultivation. Statistics reveal that there “Today, there is no forest. It is just pine is only 17% of the real forest remaining for and eucalyptus amongst other plants that cultivation and the other 83% is other land do not have anything to do with Sri Lanka. PHOTO ©FODORS.COM with only a little bit of it resembling true Similarly, the animals that used to live in the forestlands, with the rubber plants and so on. forest are now invading the villages because for their families and this includes finding In Sri Lanka, the crop-raiding fiasco My question is why are we trying to reduce there is no water and food in their forests. food. Since primates are often seen in does not affect every part of the country. this further? A country like Sri Lanka needs That is the reality. We have encroached on large groups, they have a very co-operative Speaking to The Sunday Morning, Puttalam at least 25% of the forestland to sustain the their space and taken their space, so where do system which allows them to maximise their Farms (Pvt.) Ltd. Director Ehsan Zaheed ecosystems. We have reduced it further than they go?” benefits. With this in mind, there are laws commented: “In Puttalam, specifically the A country like Sri Lanka needs the limit of 25%. There is no more forest left One of wildlife’s biggest challenges is that do protect animals from harm done by Puttalam-Mannar Road, we do not have a at least 25% of the forestland to to give.” the increasing human-animal conflict which humans as well as wildlife groups that will major issue with the monkey population and sustain the ecosystems. We have There is only so much land that can be results in several problems, especially with heavily advocate against animal harm. the impact on coconut production. We have reduced it further than the limit of used up before ecosystems continue to the violation of habitats and ecosystems. It is important to note that crop raiding is issues with other wild animals like wild diminish. Crop raiding is occurring only As Wickramasinghe said, the cultivations not an activity that all primates engage in, boar. Monkeys can be disruptive and have 25%. There is no more forest left because of the simple fact that animals and crops are only being harmed because but rather an activity done by smaller groups an impact on other crops. The issue is more to give cannot find what they need. the habitats in which monkeys reside do that are species-specific. apparent in Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, and Environmental lawyer Several attempts were made to get through not contain sufficient food or water for As the human population grows, there is Matale, which has impacted crop production Jagath Gunawardana to the Ministry of Agriculture for comment, them to consume. This activity is known a growing need for land, for the purposes in coconut and other crops. There should be but to no avail. as “crop raiding”. Primates are one of the of housing, agriculture, as well as industry. a humane solution to this conflict.” of data on the effectiveness of some methods Meanwhile, speaking to The Sunday Morning, most successful species at crop raiding and This is in direct conflict with wildlife. It and it truly depends on the location and crop- Coconut Growers Association of Sri Lanka this is due to their unique characteristics is vital to identify the behaviours of the Work to preserve all life raiding culprits at hand. Prevention is more President Jayantha B. Samarakoon shared that that make them as such. They are highly human community that pose threats to the Since crop raiding is not a new effective in any sense, as opposed to killing, the current coconut production is about 3,000 intelligent animals, and this helps them wellbeing of wildlife. This can vary from phenomenon, it means that farmers have chasing away, etc. million coconuts per year. with overcoming the barriers put in place social, economic, and cultural aspects that had enough time to come up with more In the future, by evaluating the use of land “The (threat of) crop raiding is from both to stop entering the farmlands. They are directly affect animal habitats. resourceful as well as effective strategies. around the country and also seeing how land monkeys and giant squirrels. We assume that also able to pick up new behaviours very In a farmer’s journey to protect their It is just a matter of implementing it in a use affects the habitats around them, it might damages by them are equal and it is about quickly and can adapt to new circumstances crops, they tend to make use of a myriad manner that is neither harmful to wildlife nor be easier to rebuild habitats and also build 1-2 % of total annual production. This in when the situation calls for it. Moreover, of strategies, some of which are harmful to humans. cultivations in locations that are less likely to numbers is about 30-60 million coconuts per primates adapt much more easily to new animals and generally ineffective. These can Of course, the strategies are formed out of be harmful towards the wildlife. year. The estimated value is about Rs. 1,800- environments as opposed to other crop- vary from implementing capture-kill cages the resources made from the disposable items In the situation that any wildlife is harmed, 3,600 million.” raiding animals. or spraying pepper on crops. Whilst these that the farmers have around them. This there will be an even worse outcome. Samarakoon said that although monkeys However, their noticeable aggressive are a short-term fixes, it is not going to help differs according to each country, mainly Minister of Plantation Dr. Ramesh cause a fair amount of damage to the coconut behaviour is also apparent when they are the matter at hand for people, which is the according to the level of technology and Pathirana, speaking to The Sunday Morning, industry, they are not the main cause, adding: interfered with in the path of protection destruction or loss of crops. income. With this being said, there is not a lot shared that the Department of Wildlife “They may be the fifth level of damage.”

what happened even after 2004, the political leadership as a duty Commission (EC) to fill their particularly after the war ended. to the nation and its people. In party’s National List seat. “When the Rajapaksas tried to the past, there was no need to However, soon after, Wimalatissa On the path... dominate, they were challenged, impose any kind of ban on bhikkus Thera went missing. Contd. from page 6 their defeat at the 2015 election which led to their Government’s engaging in politics as bhikkus OPPP de facto Leader and held on 8 January. In their recovery defeat in 2015. Now, there is a new acted responsibly. But looking at member Ven. Galagoda Aththe “It developed outside the two process, the temples played a political build as manifested in the today’s circumstances, it looks Gnanasara Thera charged that the major parties. Here, the movement massive role.” last two elections – the presidential like some prohibitions must be Party’s General Secretary was in led by Patali Champika Ranawaka Bhikkus entering politics election and the general election put in place as there is no need hiding and that the EC must take a – Sihala Urumaya – was able to – but there are still dissenting for bhikkus to represent political decision on their National List seat. capitalise on that political space. Dr. Dewasiri argued that it He is missing. Maybe the voices. In that sense, it is not easy parties and enter Parliament.” “He is missing. Maybe the Then, there was another wave of was an inevitable conclusion that Government knows where to destroy the democratic setting He said that one of the foremost Government knows where Wimalatissa bhikku politics. The Jathika Hela the Buddhist clergy would seek Wimalatissa Thera is. The of Sri Lanka. Even if religious reasons was the controversy the Thera is. The EC must inform us on Urumaya (JHU) phenomenon is a Parliament membership after Election Commission must extremism can emerge, they cannot Our People Power Party (OPPP) how to proceed from here.” culmination of that process and you looking at the political involvement inform us on how to proceed continue and that’s what happened was embroiled in following the As such, the fate of which may link it with what happened, in post-colonial Sri Lanka. from her with groups like the BBS. Their 2020 parliamentary election. lone Buddhist monk would enter since Gangodawila Soma Thera “It was sort of a logical OPPP de facto Leader and sustainability is very short term.” “The main reason is the problems the ninth Parliament is yet to be who, although was not active in consequence of what happened member Ven. Galagoda Aththe Nevertheless, JHU one-time that have been caused by the OPPP. decided. mainstream politics, became a because when one becomes Gnanasara Thera member Ven. Dr. Omalpe Sobitha Their internal party issues have Ven. Narampanave Ananda Thera strong political commentator even politically active, entering Thera called for the imposition of caused us to assert that bhikkus of the Asgiri Chapter told The Sunday through his religious sermons. Parliament is the ultimate objective. restrictions on bhikkus intervening need not engage in mainstream Morning that bhikkus should not Especially after his demise, there Those who are politically active suffering for ethnic and religious in political matters. politics at this point in time. In engage in mainstream politics. was politicisation and the core of come to the power centre; that is minority groups in the years that The Thera said that the 2004 2004, we saw bhikkus being “We have always maintained the JHU – Champika Ranawaka what engaging in modern politics followed, with the 2014 Aluthgama parliamentary election was the right elected for the first time. That was that bhikkus should not engage and his group – made use of that means. One wants to enjoy political riots being just such example. moment in history for the bhikkus a decision of fate and history in in mainstream party politics. Of development and they succeeded to power and entering politics is to enter Parliament and institute accordance of the need of the time. course, bhikkus should play a role in a certain extent. one such way. So I don’t want Democracy – the only hope? positive societal change. They formed a powerful political advising the national leaders and the “At the April parliamentary to identify bhikkus who enter Taking an optimistic standpoint, “Due to historical needs, Bhikkus force and were able to achieve Government, but it should be done election in 2004, the very same mainstream politics as classic Dr. Dewasiri pointed out that have performed various political many goals in a short period of outside of mainstream politics.” year they first entered Parliament, Buddhist principles. They are very Sri Lanka’s current democratic duties in our country. One such time. But after those objectives He said that groups such as the BBS the JHU heavily campaigned for much a part of our social political political system would not allow instance was when the Bhikkus were reached those mutual have lost their way and are tarnishing Mahinda Rajapaksa to be the Prime culture. They make use of their the sustenance of political extremist were first elected to Parliament to alliances broke away. The current the image of bhikkus. Ministerial candidate for the SLFP religious activities and their place fringe groups such as the BBS. represent parliamentary seats.” situation is far different to that of “The BBS is a good example of even though President Chandrika with regard to religious people, and “There’s a difference between However, he asserted that present 2004. It shows that we were right straying after entering mainstream Bandaranaike Kumaratunga benefit from that position.” the situation in 2004, when the political bhikkus have failed in to enter Parliament in 2004, but the politics. They have now become was contemplating nominating JHU bhikkus came into Parliament, their service to the nation and thus, situation now does not call for such redundant because of their ill-advised her Foreign Minister Lakshman Rise of the Bodu Bala Sena and the situation now. The 2004 must refrain from politics. a requirement,” the Thera noted. actions and have been shunned to the Kadirgamar.” The Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) was situation was a little dismantled “But (in the backdrop of) OPPP were able to secure a sidelines.” The JHU was also instrumental incepted in the years following the and decentralised. Even groups the current situation that has National List seat in the ninth He asserted that Parliament and in the Presidential campaign of conclusion of the civil war with like the BBS do not enjoy the same developed, it has become Parliament but infighting has led mainstream politics were not suitable Mahinda Rajapaksa, the following the leadership of Galagoda Aththe significance that they enjoyed a few unnecessary for bhikkus to hold to indecision on which candidate for the Buddhist clergy. year in 2005. Gnanasaara Thera – who broke years back. I have an optimistic parliamentary seats. It has become from their party would fill the “It is unsuitable for bhikkus to “The political camp led by away from the JHU and held its first attitude towards Sri Lankan clear that there must be some parliamentary seat. engage in party politics and our Mahinda Rajapaksa also heavily national convention in July 2012. democracy. Lankan democracy is a regulation in the involvement The day after the election results Mahanayake has continuously said benefitted from what I call ‘temple These self-styled and self- vibrant setting and it is not easy for of bhikkus in politics, so there were announced, OPPP General this. We have seen how those in politics’, where temples became a proclaimed guardians of Buddhism one particular group to dominate. is no need for bhikkus to enter Secretary Ven. Wedinigama Parliament behave even within the space for politics even in electoral and the “true” Sinhala identity When one group tries to dominate, Parliament. They should limit Wimalatissa Thera submitted Parliament; so is that a place for politics. We saw this especially in were the cause of much grief and the other forces compete and that’s themselves to advising and guiding his own name to the Election Bhikkus? It clearly is not.” WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 13 Sunday, August 30, 2020 FOCUS

Colombo Port BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA transshipment, India won’t be happy if they’re left out because we With India planning to already have one partner in China develop a transshipment and other partners at the SAGT. port at Great Nicobar Leaving India out is going to be a Island in the Bay of mistake.” Bengal, shipping industry Warning of danger experts and economists have shot warning flares, Senior economist and former recommending the Sri Central Bank of Sri Lanka Lankan Government to (CBSL) Deputy Governor Dr. W.A. Wijewardena also warned foresee the risks to the of the dangers to Sri Lanka’s Colombo Port and take the transshipment market share and necessary steps to retain its stressed that the Colombo Port must transshipment market. revamp its operations to remain competitive. On 10 August, Indian Prime “The economic dangers faced Minister Narendra Modi by Sri Lanka due to the proposed announced that India was port in the Andaman (and Nicobar considering investing around $ Islands) would be the same as 1.33 billion in a new state-of-the- any country. What Sri Lanka can art transshipment port in Great do is promote and develop the Nicobar Island. Colombo Port with new investment Such a strategic port in the to outcompete and outperform the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Nicobar Port. If Sri Lanka is able offers two geographical INDIAN PORT IN NICOBAR to do that, the port will not pose advantages: proximity to the busy a problem. It all depends on our East-West international shipping ability to make investments, run an corridor and deepwater, which can efficient harbour, attract new ships accommodate the latest generation for transshipment, and to become of mega ships. cost effective.” International trade and logistics He said that Sri Lanka must invest expert, Shippers’ Academy in the latest modern technology Colombo Chief Executive Officer while simultaneously reducing (CEO) Rohan Masakorala warned costs. that the proposed port by India Swim or sink “Everything will depend on how would pose stiff competition well the (Sri Lanka) Ports Authority to Sri Lanka’s Colombo Port, uses the efficiency criteria. One particularly if it is a deep-draft of the most important things in terminal and the project is transshipment is the tracking of expedited and completed in a equipment and cargo. A company short period of time. like Amazon is operated utilising “I think there will be a threat to scenario for SL bots and the latest technology. Sri Lanka’s ports if India develops regretted their care-free attitude, from the main East-West shipping 2014/15. We planned to operate to run other international ports Likewise, we will have to go for the transshipment port, but I and scrambled to set up the SAGT route, and with India having the East (Container) Terminal around the world, similar to what such technologies as well. This don’t think it’s going to happen soon after the Salalah Port had its own cargo base as an added with international partners as other countries are doing. But is already employed in ports like overnight. It’ll take some time, as begun operations. strength, there is a possibility that bids were called in 2016/17 and instead, we are trying to fight Singapore and I’m sure if India they have to do feasibility studies. “When Oman developed this some of the cargo (from Colombo) four consortiums, including four for a share here and throw away develops a port in Nicobar, they will But if they’re doing it in the port, it had the facility of a deep- would divert to the new port.” Sri Lankan companies, had bid our international partnerships, implement the latest technology as medium term, there is definitely draft terminal, (which was) also He noted that as a result of Sri for it. But (former) President which is totally unacceptable and well. Sri Lanka will have to now a challenge for Sri Lanka’s where Maersk was involved. I Lanka’s nationalistic politics, (Maithripala) Sirisena, after disastrous for Colombo. That is start investing in technology and ports, because it can affect our recall very well how our people development of the Colombo appointing cabinet committees the bottom line.” reducing costs. These are things catchment areas, which are the ignored the fact that a portion Port is adversely affected, where to open up those tenders, just Masakorala asserted that the which will help exporters too.” east coast of India and Bay of of business in Colombo would planned foreign investment and abandoned it, saying: ‘We are not development of the ECT was the Dr. Wijewardena further Bengal region. be lost; they said that as there international partnerships have going to allow foreign companies need of the hour and should be criticised the short-sighted, “The greatest volume to Sri are major weather issues such as been rejected or stopped. to operate; it’s going to be an initiated post-haste. nationalistic agendas of consecutive Lanka comes from the east coast cyclones in Oman, the port would “There is a serious risk (in SLPA operation.’ “We need to have the proper governments as well as ports of India, not really from the west not be successful. halting these partnerships) and “Subsequently however, he infrastructure in Colombo, officials which he charged was the coast. Out of the total throughput if we ignore it and delay our went to India and had a chat with develop capacity, and provide foremost reason for the Colombo of transshipment, 80% comes development projects and say that their Prime Minister and agreed capacity to shipping lines on time. Port’s failure to become a maritime from the Bay of Bengal region. our ports can only be handled to open it up to a government-to- The East (Container) Terminal transshipment hub. It comes through feeder vessels by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority government agreement between is a deep-draft port that can be “Our people are what you call to Colombo and part of it goes to Now, they may not be interested (SLPA), that is a recipe for India, Japan, and Sri Lanka.” developed but even if we order pennywise, pound foolish. That is Singapore and Malaysia and part in the ECT. India has money disaster.” Highlighting detriments of the the correct cranes today, it will the kind of politicians and ports of it comes to Sri Lanka. and it can mobilise funding He said that all other major SLPA’s nationalistic approach, take around one to one-and-a-half officials we have. They don’t see “Sri Lanka could get and investments from foreign ports in the world were operating Masakorala pointed out that the years for it to be operational.” the long-term challenges, problems, majorly affected if they (India) countries and unlike in Sri with international partnerships SLPA unions that had stayed mum and threats to Sri Lanka. India has successfully build a deep-draft Lanka, there are no objections and consortiums, as shipping was during the inception of the SAGT been trying to get the ECT facility terminal. It will be kind of a to foreign investments or “truly a global business”. were now crying foul over the from Sri Lanka for quite some time home affair if so, because Indian foreign equity participation “We are competing with the development of the ECT with the now but we have not responded ports will be feeding the Indian or ownership in India. Their rest of the region. For example, in assistance of a foreign government positively, so they’ve developed transshipment location if they can workers are more advanced the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with a larger share for Sri Lanka. their own port now and we can’t develop it.” and more educated Abu Dhabi is building a massive “But that led to unions taking help it. Former CBSL Deputy Governor Dr. W.A. Wijewardena terminal with the Mediterranean action demanding that the ECT “Now, they may not be interested Repeating past mistakes Shipping Company as it be done only by the SLPA. These in the ECT. India has money Referring to a similar situation biggest partner; even developed unions remained quiet when the and it can mobilise funding and Sri Lanka had to face in the past, “But today, after 20 years, it and wealthy countries have SAGT was done in 1999 with investments from foreign countries Masakorala said Sri Lanka may has gone to become a 4.1 million international partnerships. 10 consortiums, with the SLPA and unlike in Sri Lanka, there are have missed the proverbial bus TEU (20-foot equivalent unit)- “It’s the same even in India. The having only a 15% share; also no objections to foreign investments to establishing dominance as the capacity transshipment hub in the Port of Singapore and Dubai Ports in 2013, when CICT (Colombo or foreign equity participation or main transshipment hub due to Middle East – some of this could (DP) World operate there. Even International Container Terminals) ownership in India. Their workers missed opportunities and political have come to Colombo. The TEU Singapore has terminal operation was done with a similar 15% share Not only (the) Nicobar (port); are more advanced and more delays. capacity in Colombo is seven agreements with shipping lines. for the SLPA. there are some 147-odd ports educated. In Sri Lanka, they have “This happened to Sri Lanka in million after 40 years of operation; All the countries have adopted “But when we are talking about in India, and all these are created a culture where everything the past because of our delayed Oman reached 4.1 million within a that model. a 51% share for Sri Lanka in being taken into consideration; must be done by Sri Lankans. That decision-making, and as a result of much shorter period. “In the meantime, Sri Lanka, the ECT, the unions are making Singapore, Thailand, and mentality is damaging and we must people investing in other places. “The port mostly attracts cargo delaying the development of the the biggest fuss. What they’re Dubai are also threats to our leave it behind and move forward.” A classic example is the Omani from Pakistan and the west coast East (Container) Terminal (ECT), doing is not logical. They are transshipment hub Taken into consideration Port of Salalah to the west coast of India; a part (of the cargo) is actually playing into the hands simply damaging the country’s SLPA Chairman General (of India). That port was opened could have been Sri Lanka’s if of the competition.” potential of becoming a (maritime (Retd.) Daya Ratnayake Speaking to The Sunday in 1998 with a consortium of five we were prudent in developing transshipment) hub.” Morning, SLPA Chairman General international partners including infrastructure and (establishing) Right thing at the He pointed out that the SLPA (Retd.) Daya Ratnayake said Maersk Line and the Omani international partnerships. right time wanting to be the sole operator He noted that Sri Lanka would they were watching the situation Government. At that time, Sri However, only after the Oman The Shippers’ Academy was in fact bringing to a standstill face severe financial losses if India closely and would factor it in when Lanka was again delaying the (Port was established) did we Colombo CEO further asserted any advancement to the Colombo succeeds in setting up a port at developing the Colombo Port. development of the Old Harbour develop a partnership at SAGT. that successive governments’ Port while other nations moved Great Nicobar Island. “We have taken it (proposed port and bringing in the private sector “As such, we have experience political interference had delayed ahead at full throttle. He added that had the ECT been in Nicobar) into consideration (in) to develop; even the South Asia of not doing the right thing at the the development of the ECT. “The SLPA is talking of looking operating since 2015 as scheduled, developing the Colombo Port,” he Gateway Terminals (SAGT) was right time; losing our share of the “The development of the East inwards, saying they should be it could have covered its investment said. implemented in 1999.” market in the Indian subcontinent. (Container) Terminal has already handling their terminals. However, costs by now. “Yes, it is a definite threat to Sri He said Lankan officials had If the (port in the) Andaman and been delayed by six years because it is important to note that all the “We will lose billions annually Lanka’s Colombo Port,” he stated, taken the establishment of the Nicobar Islands is developed, of politicking. It should have been other establishments that came because there is an opportunity cost, adding: “Not only (the) Nicobar Omani Port lightly and later as it is not too much of a detour running and operational by around in after the SLPA are operating a business cost; we could have been (port); there are some 147-odd ports successful ports around the world. earning terminal revenue by now. It in India, and all these are being “For example, the Philippines is sad that politics has played a part taken into consideration. Singapore, is running about 27 terminals in this. If not, the ECT would have Thailand, and Dubai are also threats worldwide; so does DP World; the started running four to five years to our transshipment hub, so we are Singapore Port Authority handles ago.” taking it all into consideration.” 40 million containers in Singapore He noted that India could still He went on to say the ECT was and another 40 million in other be pacified by enticing her with a being set up, but no decision was countries; Adani Ports of India is partnership for the ECT, and that taken with regard to an international also setting up all over the world. “leaving out India is going to be a partnership for its operation. But the SLPA, which is one of mistake”. “The East (Container) Terminal the oldest in South Asia and the “The Minister of Ports and is about 40% completed, and the world, is still only running the Shipping, the President, and Prime rest is being done. It has not been Colombo Port and has failed to Minister have to make a decision decided whether we will go for establish business in other parts of now on whether they’re going to a government-to-government the world. implement what was agreed upon partnership for the East (Container) “That is a result of the with India and Japan. If that call is Terminal operations,” he concluded. inwardness of this country. We not made, I can see India looking at The Sunday Morning’s efforts could have used our expertise other options. to get in touch with Minister and knowledge gained after “While supporting Sri Lanka of Ports and Shipping Rohitha building terminals in Colombo with almost 80% of its cargo for Abeygunawardena were futile. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 14 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, August 30, 2020

Contd. from page 9 Contd. from page 7

reported as a result of these renovations. Therefore, it Constitutional reforms... Slow death of Sinharaja? is our view that the present construction work, which The following day, Tuesday (25), the UNP considered when deciding to field outsiders Biopiracy causing slow in 2016 by Tom Kirschey in monsoonal rainy periods. is merely building on work Working Committee (WC) met at around 3.30 as presidential candidates will push the party death its natural rainforest habitat in Reportedly, several visitors done earlier in the recent p.m. at the party headquarters, Sirikotha, to and its membership into the wilderness,” the Furthermore, there are also Sri Lanka at Sinharaja. It was have been subject to falls past, would not contribute discuss the party’s leadership issue. statement said. allegations that there is a the only known specimen due to the poor state of the to significant loss of The meeting concluded after over two hours The statement also said Jayasuriya made a biopiracy racket that seemed of this new and rare pygmy road. As such, the Forest biodiversity. of deliberations, with the decision that the comment on Eranga Weliangage before the to be ongoing which gave grasshopper species. Department has commenced 4. The area of the forest rich party leader will be decided early next month. SJB was formed. access to a group of scientists The new species is a complete renovation of the in biodiversity, which is Accordingly, the WC is to meet during the The statement added that Jayasuriya offered to identify a new species of clearly distinguished from road under the ESCAMP. most popular with bird- first week of September. to take up the responsibility of resurrecting the pygmy grasshopper from Sri other species of the genus Observations were made watching tourists, lies Also, the WC reached a decision that UNP following the requests which cannot be Lanka that was discovered by by its long and spine-like while walking from the ticket beyond the Doranaela‐ contenders for the party leadership should turned down. Croatian scientists which was front medial projection and counter to the Doranaela‐ Wathurawa entrance either be office bearers of the party or Meanwhile, it has also been reported that the later named after an Indian cockscomb-shaped promedial Wathurawa entrance to the gate (i.e. inside the members of the WC. SJB had invited Jayasuriya to join the party. scientist. The announcement projection. Species of this Sinharaja World Heritage Site World Heritage Site and This decision of the WC resulted in Jayasuriya was made just days before genus resemble tiny twigs, and back along the 1,600 m Biosphere Reserve Core being sidelined in the leadership race since he UNP-SJB talks the general election, and hence the name “twig- existing road which is being Zone boundary). The road holds neither post. Amidst the UNP’s leadership crisis, the therefore, went under the hopper”. renovated on the activities being repaired leads up to A senior UNP source said that it seems SJB last week gave two options for the UNP radar of the newsrooms. The species was named in being undertaken and any this point. unlikely that Jayasuriya could stake a claim to resolve its present crisis. “While there were so honour of Dhaneesh Bhaskar, impacts they had on the 5. There is no perceivable to the post following the WC decision that SJB National Organiser MP Tissa many rumours about such a young Indian orthopterist, forest. widening of the existing evening. Attanayake said in Kandy last week that the incidents, we could not trace conservation biologist, and Discussions were carried road, and hence there is no “However, the WC will decide on the new people have expressed their sentiments about it back to the perpetrators. good friend of the authors. out with the trail guide from apparent removal of trees UNP Leader at the next WC,” the source said. the UNP and that the party is now at zero. However, a recent press This peculiar genus now a bordering village as well on either side of the road The popular choice among a majority of the “The UNP has only two options. The first announcement of a new includes four species of rather as several nearby villagers being renovated. There is party membership seems to be UNP Deputy is to allow Sajith Premadasa to lead the species of a Sri Lankan twig- unique pronotal morphology. who are assisting with field apparently a restoration General Secretary Ruwan Wijewardene. UNP without laying down any conditions. hopper that was popularised research in the Sinharaja of dysfunctional drains on The youth membership of the party has This will unite the party. The other option is in regional newspapers Road renovation Forest at present, to obtain either side of the logging opined that the UNP was in need of a young for the UNP to also join the SJB alliance,” caught my attention. While inside Sinharaja the views of local people road in order to facilitate leader. Attanayake observed. the announcement was made When media as well about the road renovations. proper drainage, thereby “There is no point in handing over the party He further noted that the SJB stands firm just days before the election, as conservation non- reducing the erosion impact leadership from a 70 year old to an 80 year with the UNP local government members I could not drag anyone’s governmental organisations Observations by Prof. on the road surface that is old. The party needs a young leader who can who have been sacked by the party for attention to the incident,” (NGOs) expressed their Gunatilleke and Dr. being prepared, for easy aggressively push for reforms and see through supporting the SJB. Gunawardana noted. concerns about the new Dela and safe travelling of the restructuring process,” a young UNPer “These local government members Gunawardana noted that impacts that the renovations 1. There were no signs visitors on foot. said. supported the SJB since it was formed in line while this is just one of the would have on the Sinharaja of a “new” road being 6. The exposed boulders Meanwhile, Wijewardene has said he is with a decision of the UNP WC. The UNP incidents where a group World Heritage Site, when constructed. What is and stones on the road are prepared to lead the party to victory in the needs to stop sidelining its members and of foreign scientists had the road leading from occurring is the renovation being removed by JCBs, future if the party membership requested him sacking them, which in turn would further made this discovery without the ticket counter along of the existing logging and the stones were being to do so. destroy the party,” Attanayake said, adding even the assistance of any the 1,600 m road to the road for the convenience used at other points on the He has made this observation addressing a that legal action will be initiated challenging Sri Lanka scientist, he had Doranaela-Wathurawa of visitors on foot, and as road to stabilise it. This is gathering of his supporters in the Gampaha the expulsion of the UNP local government researched more about the entrance to the Sinharaja such, it is not an illegal justified as the road cannot District who met him at his residence in members from the party. method that the researchers World Heritage Site and activity. be repaired without this Malwana on Tuesday. “We formed the SJB because we knew would have used to discover Core Zone of the Sinharaja 2. Figure 1a indicates that activity. Wijewardene had said the UNP had exactly what the party members as well as the the species. Biosphere Reserve was to the road being repaired 7. While there is forest withstood victory and defeat alike and that the grassroots required from us,” the MP added. “It is quite clear that be renovated, Prof. I.A.U.N. is on the outside of the belonging to the Forest recent general election was not the first time Attanayake also said that discussions in an someone who clearly knew Gunatilleke and Dr. Jinie boundary of the Sinharaja Department on either side that the party faced a debacle. unofficial capacity are underway to suggest the forest would have assisted Dela presented a report on World Heritage Site and the of the road being repaired, “The UNP suffered a debacle in 1970, but an alliance between the SJB and UNP with the research team to obtain Potential Environmental Core Zone of the Sinharaja this situation is of long‐ it scored a five-sixth majority in Parliament at a probable suggestion of appointing the the biological material Aspects of Renovations Biosphere Reserve. This standing. Hence the present the landslide victory of 1977. Wrongs should Leader of the Opposition at Parliament, Sajith sample. In fact, when I Done by the Forest road was originally built for renovation work has not be righted and the party led to victory in the Premadasa, as the Leader of the UNP. studied the sequencing of the Department, when the Forest the Sinharaja Mechanised significantly fragmented future,” he had said. Attanayake noted: “The people’s choice species, the description for Department requested an Logging Project (Photo the forest. The restoration Meanwhile, Jayasuriya had also denounced became obvious when the SJB members the twig-hopper mentioned informal independent view 1) in accordance with the of a highly dilapidated claims by some sections in the UNP that he was were elected to Parliament with more votes that it was a dried specimen,” of the renovations being Forest Department’s felling road (which was reduced not a member of the party. He had stated that he than the UNP members. Given that Sajith he added. done on 22 January 2019. rules leaving a stream to a badly maintained foot was a member of a party and stressed that he had Premadasa is now recognised as the Leader of The discovery was The report had observed reservation for the Dorana path at some places, and obtained the membership for the year 2020. the Opposition in Parliament, we only see that published in Zootaxa which that at the time, due to the Eli. renovated with concrete “The statement that the former Speaker it is fitting to give him the opportunity to lead described a new species of heavy rains in this area, and 3. The area of the forest lanes in other areas along is not a member of UNP is false and is an the UNP.” a Sri Lankan twig-hopper; the high embankment on where the renovation of this road previously), argument that is being made without proper He reiterated that should the UNP refuse to genus Cladonotus Saussure, the eastern side of the road the old logging road is would provide safer travel knowledge about the party,” a statement from hand over the leadership to Premadasa, they 1862 (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae: which drains the rainwater currently being done was (on foot) to thousands of the former Speaker’s media unit noted. are willing to form an alliance with the UNP to Cladonotini); scientific name onto the road, this road had widened about 10 years both young and elderly “Jayasuriya has obtained the lifetime contest in the impending PC elections. Cladonotus bhaskari. It been rendered unusable due ago in sections by laying who visit this forest membership of the party under the 1,000m All these are possibilities and are still being was discovered by a group to extensive soil erosion. The two lanes of concrete paths annually. membership drive launched by him together discussed among the members of both the of Croatian and German uneven surface created by along the widened road. 8. Accordingly, the closure with Party Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe. SJB and the UNP, he stressed. researchers in the Sinharaja gully erosion and the exposed Two large culverts also of the road is inevitable for Besides, he applied for the membership The proposals are yet to be presented Rainforest of Sri Lanka. boulders and stones along the have been constructed some time to enable the of the party as soon as he vacated the post to the senior members of the UNP, such The discovery was said to road as well as a few earth during that period but no carrying out of activities of Constitutional Council Chairman on 21 as Jayasuriya and incumbent UNP Leader be based on a single specimen slips have caused danger to appreciable damage to connected with the August 2020. Drawing criteria which was not Wickremesinghe. of the species photographed the visitors especially during the biodiversity has been renovations.

Contd. from page 5 Contd. from page 11 this Government manage to decline fiscal stimulus package would be our economic growth rate to -1.6% introduced. But I would like to ask Spotlight on... in the first quarter of 2020? Who is the Government whether their claims Funds secured... responsible? Who is accountable?” of providing financial relief through However, allegations were lockdown, multi-day fishing He then went on to say that leasing companies was actually being raised on spending millions boat owners around the “It is a timely need. The states so. In addition, some groups international financial bodies had implemented on the ground or was it of rupees to purchase seafood country were struggling to businessmen should be given relief also tried to reject the fact that the predicted even further depreciation of just rhetoric in Parliament. In reality, from a third party; allowing sell their catch amid the while safeguarding the bank system first four months 2020 was -1.6%, Sri Lanka’s economic growth rate. it is not being implemented. That is the supplier to earn massive tough measures implemented simultaneously,” Rajakaruna said. but the fact is that it is true. It is “It has also been predicted that why there have been protests outside profits by selling seafood by the Government to control SJB National List MP Eran unfortunate that even those who are the economic growth rate for this the Presidential Secretariat in recent to the CFC at a higher rate the spread of the coronavirus. Wickramaratne, also taking part in the known to be economic experts within year would fall -6%, but still the days by those who had sought the than that of the local market, According to Trade Union debate, said that when the Yahapalana government ranks have stooped down Government rejected our claims and relief but weren’t provided. The 4% especially during the Covid- of Owners of Multi-day Government had taken the reigns in to that level and continued to refute said that we were misleading the working capital loan the Government 19 lockdown, where the Trawlers (MDT) Assistant 2015, the GDP was at 10%. that the economic growth rate in the House. I will table all the necessary promised to support businesses and market prices of fish dropped Secretary Tyronne Mendis, “We were able to gradually increase first quarter of 2019 was -1.6%,” documents from the Central Bank start-ups were not given as promised. drastically. When contacted before the New Year, a kg it to 13.5%. I think today, it has come Premadasa said. as well as the Department of Census The Rs. 5,000 voucher was only by The Sunday Morning, of kelawalla was sold for down to 8% or 9%. The Government He said the previous Government and Statistics that proves our charges. given to a select few. Are these minor CFC Chairman Maj. Gen. Rs. 270 – this was below the has stated that the country’s total had managed to alleviate Sri Lanka’s The World Bank too states that they stimulus packages enough?” (Retd.) S.W.L. Daulagala said market price, which was Rs. expenses stand at Rs. 947 billion, status to “upper middle-income”, predict Sri Lanka will have a -3.2% He went on to say that foreign he had already requested the 800-900 per kg earlier. but they have allocated 38% of the but the incumbent Government had economic growth rate while Asian governments had given such Fisheries Ministry to probe the He noted that they had total funds to the ministries under the reversed this progress. Development Bank estimates that this invaluable relief packages to their allegation levelled against the requested the CFC to buy the President, Prime Minister, Chamal “We must also observe another number will be in fact -6.1%. I will citizenry, which when compared with fish supply tender. catch during that period. Rajapaksa, and Namal Rajapaksa,” reality which is that by July 2019, table all these documents.” Sri Lanka makes the latter look as if it When asked about the Furthermore, due to the MP Wickramaratne pointed out. we attained the status of ‘upper Moreover, he said the country had not given any relief whatsoever. process of awarding a tender Covid-19 pandemic, the With funds secured for the middle-income country’, but by would have to face many economic “I have with me the relief packages to supply fish, the CFC Government allocated Rs. remaining four months of the year July 2020, we had declined once challenges due to the global provided by the Indian Government, Chairman explained that 600 million for the early through the VoA, the Government has again to become a lower middle- pandemic, emphasising that 400,000 Pakistani Government, German those who could supply purchase of the fish harvest commenced preparatory work on the income country. That decline is jobs have been lost as a result. Government – I will table all these so fish at a rate given by the to prevent any inconvenience 2021 Budget, which is to be presented the responsibility of the incumbent “It is good that the Prime Minister that the House can see how much these corporation would be given faced by both fishermen and to Parliament this November. Government.” said the Government would provide foreign governments have actually the opportunity to supply them the public. SJB and Opposition Leader Charging that the Covid-19 150,000 jobs, but unemployment is supported their citizens in comparison with seafood. The CFC, established in Sajith Premadasa charged that the pandemic did not have an impact 400,000 in addition to the thousands to ours. The reality is that when we Asked whether the CFC had 1967, hasn’t made profits incumbent Government was hiding on the first quarter of 2020, the of jobs lost due to political revenge compare our financial relief package incurred any loss as a result of over a period of nearly five the true horrid state of the nation’s Opposition Leader demanded to and victimisation. Despite the recent with these countries, it doesn’t look their suppliers selling seafood decades, and it was also economy which saw an economic know who would be held accountable positive report about our exports, like we’ve given any financial relief. to them at higher rates, the proposed to be closed down a growth rate of -1.6% in the first for the crippled economy. we will have to pay special attention So the Government must take steps Chairman noted that unless an few years ago. quarter. “It also must be noted that the to the export sector in the coming to expedite economic growth; it must investigation is conducted, an Under former Fisheries “A misconception has been Covid-19 outbreak did not have much months. Governments must support provide a far better fiscal stimulus opinion on whether the CFC and Aquatic Resources presented that we handed over the of an impact during the first quarter start-ups and businesses.” package and the Government must had incurred any loss or not Development Minister reins to the incumbent (Government) of this year. When we spoke about the Premadasa then claimed that accept that the current economic couldn’t be made. Mahinda Amaraweera, a in 2019 with a minus economic impending dangers of the Covid-19 the Government had made empty growth is stagnant. The richest 20% voluntary retirement scheme growth rate. This is completely pandemic in January and February, promises with regard to providing owns 50% of the country’s wealth and Fishermen struggling was implemented to reduce false. If you look at the economic the responsible authorities did not economic relief to the masses. the poorest 20% only receives 4% of during Covid the number of excess growth rate of 2019, it was 2.3%. The give two hoots about it. “This House was told at the the national income. This is the sad During the coronavirus employees at the CFC. Central Bank annual report clearly So the question remains, how did beginning of this debate that a state of the country.” WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 15 Sunday, August 30, 2020 SPORTS

BY REVATHA S. SILVA Sobers asked me to ‘hit that out of Rewind to 1984 in Moratuwa. Here is a defining moment the ground’: Karnain of a forgotten hero, Shaul Hameed Uvais Karnain. A Call for the team the pavilion and ended up in the dream debut, a six out of the I was the 12th man during Velona Factory (going over Galle park, a world record, and a the whole series (against New Road). Later, I got out caught by memorable victory. Uvais Zealand in 1984). That was the Cairns at extra cover off Martin second ODI. The Test series was Crowe. When I came back to the Born on 11 August 1962 in over. Those days, they used to tell pavilion, Sir Sobers hugged me Colombo, Uvais Karnain had us only before the toss that we and lifted me. He said: “I like that already represented Sri Lanka in are going to play. When we were shot maaan, brilliant shot. I loved hockey. Having captained his school warming up, our Coach Sir Sobers it.” Those words I still remember. Isipathana College, Colombo in came near me and said: “Karnain, both hockey and cricket in 1980 and you are playing.” I didn’t believe Gary Sobers’ advice 81, the 21-year-old is now named Karnain’s (it). Then he confirmed that both Those days, we were not in the Sri Lanka squad for the New myself and Aravinda are going to bothered (about) who was Zealand tour of Sri Lanka. Three play that match. bowling at us. We just wanted Tests and three ODIs. On helmets to play our shots. Sobers told Debut in Moratuwa dream debut at me before that match: “Karnain, I went in to bat after Arjuna I know you like to hit the ball. His school cricket coach was returned to the pavilion. He had If you are hitting, hit it out of Mike Chanmugam. But as a been hit on his lips. His helmet the ground.” No one has given 19-year-old, he had represented didn’t have a visor. The entire me such confidence before that. Sri Lanka at the Asia Cup hockey Moratuwa in 1984 Sri Lanka team had one or two Others have told me, “stay there, in Pakistan in 1981. Pakistan were helmets those days. We used to don’t do this, and don’t do that”, the hockey world champions then. z World’s first five-wicket haul in ODI debut share those. Arjuna had one which but he was asking me to hit that Sri Lanka played on Astro Turf for he had got from England. Then out of the ground. That was like a the first time in that tournament. Sir Garfield Sobers and were hard Duleep and Roy had their own (vitamin) B12 injection for me. Continuing his cricket more to be beaten at home, especially in helmets. Other than those, the rest seriously, Karnain represented Colts ODIs. Believing that the miniature of the team had only three or four Celebration at Galle and NCC clubs after his school Moratuwa Stadium or Soysa Park helmets. Those helmets had only Face Hotel career. was packed that day with the a plastic visor. Only when we We celebrated our victory In Moratuwa, on Saturday, 31 happy-go-lucky Moratuwa fans. went to Australia that only (the that evening (on the day of the March 1984, Sri Lanka were to Cheerleader Percy was doing same year), we got helmets with Moratuwa match) at Galle Face meet the Kiwis in the second ODI his rounds with his national flag. a mesh. Hotel. There Jeff Crowe came and of a three-match series. Sri Lanka Whenever one of the Crowe brothers told me that Stirling was upset had already lost the three-match came near the boundary line, On that six over Galle Road for that six. Later on after many Test series 2-0 and the tourists were the crowd shouted “kaak, kaak”, Stirling was bowling at me years, Crowe told me on a couple leading the ODIs 1-0 after winning prompting younger Martin Crowe to a bouncer. He was considered of times that it had lingered in the first one by 104 runs at SSC. react waving both his arms emulating faster that even Hadlee then. I his mind so much so that his Our hero Karnain is to make his the crow to the utter joy of the was batting at the pavilion end. international career never picked international cricket debut. A world spectators. I hooked it. The ball went over up as expected. record was in the making. Three debutantes was a stoppage for rain. After the Corwes and crows The overnight rains had delayed resumption, Karnain removed Jeff The Kiwis, led by Geoff Howarth, the start of the match. Then Sri Crowe (lbw 9) and the great Martin featured John Wright, Bruce Edgar, Lanka Cricket Board President Crowe (ct. De Alwis 9). The Kiwis Lance Cairns, Martin Crowe, Jeff Gamini Dissanayake had called an run chase was in disarray losing Crowe, Jeremy Coney, Sir Richard Air Force helicopter to hover close seven for 76. They were eventually Hadlee, Ian Smith, Ewen Chatfield, to the turf to dry it quickly. Soon bowled out in 34 overs for 116. and Derek Stirling. The Lankans began the match, not as a usual Hadlee and Stirling made 13 runs included Duleep Mendis, Sidath 45-over affair but as one with 40 each, their top score. Wettimuny, Brendon Kuruppu, overs per side. The parties began at the coastal Ranjan Madugalle, Arjuna This happened to be an important Moratuwa, one of the most cricket- Ranatunga, Aravinda de Silva, Ravi game on many counts. This was mad vicinities in the whole island. Ratnayeke, Vinothen John, Guy de the first international match of the Sri Lanka has beaten strong New Alwis, and Somachandra (D.S.) de 18-year-old Aravinda de Silva. The Zealanders by 41 runs. Karnain’s Silva. third debutant was right-arm fast final figures read 8-1-26-5 (econ Sri Lanka was then a fighting bowler from New Zealand, Derek 3.35). He was the obvious choice bunch of cricketers under Coach Stirling. for the Man of the Match. Uvais Karnain hooking that famous six off Derek Stirling over the Galle Road into the Velona Factory premises on the other side of the road. After Karnain returned to the His career continued pavilion, SL Coach Gary Sobers hugged and lifted the batsman saying in his usual Five-wicket hauls by debutantes Caribbean accent: “It was a brilliant shot maaan. I loved it” But on 1 April, the Kiwis prevailed over the hosts in the in ODI cricket Sri Lanka makes 157/8 at the crease. When he got out, Sri Uvais Karnain is the world’s first to take decisive third ODI at P. Sara, There are 4,258 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) that have been played Inserted to bat under overcast Lanka were 110/7. Arjuna returned a five-for in an ODI debut winning it by 86 runs. They clinched so far between 1971 to date, but still there are only 14 instances where a conditions, Sri Lanka were reduced to the middle and saw them to a the series 2-1. bowler has taken five wickets or more in his debut ODI. to 69/5. Aravinda faced 23 balls for respectable 157/8 in their 40 overs didn’t flourish as expected. Karnain made four international 1. Uvais Karnain in 1984 for Sri 8. Taskin Ahmed in 2014 for only eight runs before he was clean- (3.92 per an over). The injured The Kiwis could never settle in, in tours for Sri Lanka thereafter. He Lanka Bangladesh bowled by Hadlee as the fifth to get Ranatunga top-scored with an their reply. What was a formidable went to Australia for the Benson 2. Tony Dodemaide in 1988 for 9. Craig Young in 2014 for out. The 20-year-old Arjuna came unbeaten 60-ball 50. batting unit, it was in total disarray & Hedges World Series, twice Australia Ireland in, got one from Cairns, top-edged it since Vinothen John sent back to Sharjah and another tour to 3. Allan Donald in 1991 for South 10. Mustafizur Rahman in 2015 onto his lips, and left to the pavilion The sixer to Velona opener Wright for three runs before Zimbabwe. Africa for Bangladesh injured. He was wearing a helmet The highlight of the Lankan tea. The right-arm medium pacer He played 19 ODIs between 1984 4. Charitha Buddhika in 2001 11. Kagiso Rabada in 2015 for without visors. innings was the massive six by Karnain took over from there. It was and 1990 taking 16 wickets at 31.56. for Sri Lanka South Africa That was the moment when Karnain which sailed over the demolition time for the Lankans. He scored 229 runs with the bat at 5. Austin Codrington in 2003 for 12. Dasun Shanaka in 2016 for debutant Karnain, 21 then, had to pavilion and ended up at the Velona 19.08 with the highest score being Canada Sri Lanka come in. He joined Ravi Ratnayeke Factory on the other side of the Man of the Match 41 not out. He did not play Tests. 6. Fidel Edwards in 2003 West 13. Jake Ball dagger in 2016 for in the middle. But Ratnayeke ran adjacent Galle Road. Stirling was New Zealand are to lose their But never came again a moment that Indies England himself out for 12 when the total the bowler. They say, Stirling next three wickets against Karnain. was as jubilant as that Moratuwa 7. Brian Vitori in 2011for 14. Jan Frylinck in 2019 for was 81. Karnain whacked a quick couldn’t bear the effect of that six. He sent back Edgar (ct. De Alwis ODI in 1984 where he rocked the Zimbabwe Namibia 24-ball 28, inclusive of three fours Being one who was faster than even 12), Howarth (b. 12), and Cairns cricket world with an astonishing and six in his nearly 40-minute stay Sir Hadlee, his international career (b. 5) for a total of 39. Then there international debut.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) negative PCR test reports done medium-pacer Deepak Chahar has 24 hours apart before being allegedly been tested positive for CSK fast bowler Deepak Chahar permitted to re-enter the bio-secure Covid-19 on Friday (28), putting this environment. After recovery, year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) players must undergo a cardiac in a severe state of controversy. screening before resuming any The 28-year-old Uttar Pradesh- tested positive at IPL in Dubai! team activities,” the IPL said, born right-arm pacer played three while distributing the SOPs to the ODIs and ten T20Is for India while for Covid-19 in Dubai on Friday. The franchise recently. having a breakthrough in the IPL rest, other than Chahar, comprises As per the original schedule, in 2018, taking 10 wickets in 12 support staff members and a few net the Super Kings would have matches for CSK. He bowled largely bowlers. started their training on Friday. during powerplays in those matches; As a result, the Super Kings However, their preparations are a performance which subsequently have been forced to postpone the now in disarray. So far, neither the rewarded him an India call-up in start of their training in Dubai to 1 franchise nor the IPL has made any ODIs. September. According to the IPL’s public comment. Chahar is seemingly among Standing Operating Procedures The IPL is to start on 19 at least 10 members of the CSK (SOPs), all those who tested positive September, but the schedule is yet contingent who have tested positive will now need to undergo at least two to be finalised. The development is bound to put the IPL on alert simply because the Super Kings, What’s the procedure now? who finished runners-up in 2019, are expected to play defending According to the tournament’s outside the bio-secure bubble for champions Mumbai Indians in the Standard Operating Procedures two weeks from the “first day of Deepak Chahar tournament opener. (SOPs), those who test positive symptoms or a positive PCR test The Super Kings landed in Dubai have to be “immediately isolated report; whichever is later”. weeks of further quarantine and clear mandatory for every person who is a six-day quarantine period after on 21 August after part of their from the rest of the squad”. The The individual also cannot train two more tests before they can rejoin part of the tournament. landing, where they are not supposed Indian contingent underwent a six- SOPs also say “contact tracing” during the 14-day isolation period the group. As per the protocol, every person to even mingle with team members day conditioning camp in Chennai. should “commence immediately”. and is advised to take complete It is also understood that the would get tested at the airport upon or colleagues. Only once the squad That group included most of the If the person is “asymptomatic rest. If the symptoms worsen, positive test results are from the final landing in the UAE, followed by members clear all the mandatory senior Indian players in the squad or has mild symptoms”, then he/ then he/she would be shifted to a round of testing in the UAE, which three tests on days one, three, and tests can teams start their training. including Captain M.S. Dhoni, she would need to be isolated tournament-accredited hospital. is part of IPL’s Covid-19 protocols six. The protocol also makes it “After the two-week isolation, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, comprising three tests which are mandatory for everyone to undergo the individual must return two Deepak Chahar, and Piyush Chawla. Anika vs. Savini in And then, we women’s finals are three! In the Women’s Singles semi-finals “And then, we were three! of the 2020 Sri Lanka Clay Courts Arriving Jan 2021,” tweeted Tennis Nationals on Friday (28), Anika Virat Kohli at 11.03 a.m. on Seneviratne beat Neyara Weerawansa Thursday (27) posting this 4/6, 6/3, 6/2 while Savini Jayasuriya picture where he is posing beat Janali Manamperi 4/6, 6/2, 7/5. In with his wife Anushka Men’s Doubles finals, Yasitha de Silva and Sharma. “So what does that Sankha Atukorale beat Savit Weerasinghe mean for Kohli’s participation and Vibuda Wijebandara 6/2, 6/3. in India’s tour of Australia Yesterday (29). The Men’s Singles final scheduled for December- between de Silva and Weerasinghe took January,” the Indian media place at 9.30 a.m. while the Women’s was quick to ask. Will the Singles final took place at 2 p.m. between Indian skipper skip a Test or Seneviratne (pictured) and Jayasuriya. two “to be with wife at the PHOTO ISHAN WANNIARACHCHI delivery of the first child”? Sunday,sports August 30, 2020 Think chess is slow and boring? Think again! THE CHESS The infamous “too weak, too slow” game CORNER by Dulan Edirisinghe

It is fair to say that most chess Kaluto be added to existing players find the general public perception of the game to be somewhat confusing. Chess is often National Cricket classified as a game with no physical activity, yet in 1985, a World Chess Championship had to be abandoned Selection Committee! due to player exhaustion, both mental and physical. The stereotypical chess move a second, smirky Carlsen finds 27.Bg4 e5 28.Bf3 Ka7 29.Kh3 Kb6 30.Kg4 a5 Former Sri Lanka player – can either be an eccentric time for constant Muhammad Ali- 31.Be4 b4 32.cxb4 axb4 33.Rc2 c5 34.b3 Rd4 batsman, dashing Romesh professor with an immaculate bow esque trash talking. 35.Kf5 (“too weak, too slow, come on”) c4 36.bxc4 Kaluwitharana will be Kc5 37.Bd5 e4 38.Bxe4 Rxc4 39.Re2 Rc3 40.Kg6 tie or a scruffy nerd with unkempt Carlsen-Fressinet (2013) included as a new member hair – is someone straight out of Bd4 41.Bc2 Be3 42.Bb3 Kd4 43.Kxh6 Kd3 44.Rg2 in the existing three- Schrödinger’s famous experiment. ‘Too weak, too slow’ Ke4 1.d4 Nf6 2.Bg5 e6 3.e4 h6 4.Bxf6 Qxf6 5.c3 member National Cricket Also, if chess supposedly requires Selection Committee, The genius-level intellect to master, why d6 6.Nd2 g5 7.Bd3 Bg7 8.Ne2 Nc6 9.O-O Bd7 is it portrayed as a game suitable for 10.f4 O-O-O 11.e5 “too weak, too slow” Qe7 Sunday Morning Sports mass participation by children? 12.exd6 Qxd6 13.Ne4 Qe7 14.Nc5 learnt on Friday (28). Not that chess players are all that Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on bothered about those perceptions, Thursday (27) short-listed 10 but what really irks them, however, names to be sent for the approval is the notion that chess is “a boring, of Sports Minister Namal boring game”. In fact, some sceptics Rajapaksa. The present selection would even go as far as comparing committee, headed by Ashantha the spectacle of watching live chess to de Mel, has two other members, watching paint dry. Chaminda Mendis and Vionthen Are you one of those who subscribe John. to the notion that chess is a slow and After 26...b5 “We decided on 10 names boring game with no theatricality? If on Thursday. They will be sent you are, please go to YouTube and With both the players down to their last few seconds, (for) the Minister’s approval Romesh Kaluwitharana played for Sri Lanka from 1990-2004 search for “too weak too slow”. You Magnus touches his king and uncharacteristically soon. This time, there will be will find a video from 2013 of two hesitates for a fraction of a second. The reason becomes four members in the committee. that the names will go to the Morning Sports understand young men hovering over a small After 14.Nc5 clear soon. We can’t now say who those National Sports Council for that Kaluwitharana has the untidy table, frantically moving the Fressinet is no slouch. He finds a nice combination 45.Kh5 Kf3 46.Bd5# and just like that, it’s a four members will be,” a senior ratification, which is a very greatest chance to be included pieces and slapping a chess clock to gain a pawn. checkmate (cue a bit of maniacal laughter). Ex-Co member of SLC told us good move,” the said official as the fourth member of the mercilessly. I implore you to watch 14...Nxd4 Fressinet sees someone recording this on Friday. further added. new Sri Lanka National Cricket it, especially if you are not a chess and says “he is filming you” 15.Nxd7 Nxe2+ “you “This time, we assume Yet, we at The Sunday Selection panel. (RSS) player. should behave yourself” 16.Qxe2 Rxd7 “for a change”. It’s an interesting setting. The guy 17.f5 Rhd8 18.Rad1 Kb8 19.fxe6 fxe6 20.Be4 on the left with a big mouth happens a6 21.g3 Qc5+ 22.Kg2 Qe5 23.Rxd7 Rxd7 24.Re1 to be Magnus Carlsen – the soon to Rd6 25.Bf3 Qxe2+ “so you wanted to exchange be World Champion. The other player queens after all, ah?” 26.Rxe2 b5 Rohan Fernando steps is the French Super Grandmaster Laurent Fressinet, his close friend and sparring partner. The table is extremely untidy. Other than the down as ARASL Head chessboard and the clock, there is Former President of the Amateur a closed laptop with Fundamental Rowing Association of Sri Lanka Chess Endings by Frank Lamprecht (ARASL) Rohan Fernando (seen and Kersten Müller on top of it, a A surprising checkmate! here on extreme right) stepped couple of tennis balls, a half-eaten Still think chess is a slow, quiet and boring game down from his post on Friday apple, a bottle of water, and some where the action is few and far between? (28) at its AGM held at the orange juice. Diyawanna Rowing Centre in The two players are playing a Talangama, Battaramulla. Dimuth light-hearted game of “bullet chess”, Gunawardena was elected as the a variant where each player gets a new Head of the ARASL. Fernando White to play mere 60 seconds to play ALL of their did a yeoman service to Sri Lanka’s moves. Despite having to bash out a Carlsen is still down a pawn but now in no danger of losing. rowing, and under his presidency, rowing reached new heights by bringing the sport’s first Asian-level medals. He was also instrumental in developing the Diyawanna Rowing Centre into international standard.

Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 THE ECONOMIC THE OTHER COSTS OF 19TH PLAGIARISM AMENDMENT »SEE PAGE 5 »SEE PAGE 6

Sunday,business August 30, 2020 ETCA discussions re-commence BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR zFirst discussions in nearly a year zNegotiations on hold since October 2018 The Government last week held discussions on the Economic and International Trade (MoDSIT), to possible changes in management of and Technology Co-operation Agreement (ETCA) for the first which stated that cabinet approval is relevant authorities after the election. time in nearly a year, possibly signalling a resumption of required to conduct negotiations for As predicted, no discussions bilateral negotiations on the controversial agreement with any trade agreement. Cabinet approval pertaining to the agreement were held India. was also necessitated by the long gap between the two parties during the of over one year since the last round interim period from the local presidential The discussions took place last taken up the pending matters which of negotiations held in October 2018. election to the general election. Tuesday (25) amongst officials of the were initiated and not followed up by The negotiations have been on hold The ETCA faced heavy opposition Ministry of Foreign Relations, according the last regime. We are taking it step since October 2018 due to a number from professional bodies, particularly to Ministry Secretary Admiral (Prof.) by step,” Gunawardena stated. of unexpected developments in Sri in the IT and healthcare sectors, over Jayanath Colombage. State Minister Balasuriya told us that Lanka such as the constitutional crisis the past few years on the grounds that Speaking to The Sunday Morning several signed and pending agreements in October 2018, the Easter Sunday Sri Lanka’s skilled labour force would Business last week, both Minister of are being reviewed. attacks, and also due to the elections be relegated to a second choice with Foreign Relations Dinesh Gunawardena “We are revisiting agreements. We in November 2019 and August 2020. preference given to Indian workers. and State Minister of Regional are reviewing clauses detrimental to Sri External factors such as the 2019 general Furthermore, in 2016, the Joint Co-operation Tharaka Balasuriya Lanka because most of the agreements elections in India, which was held over Opposition, which is currently the confirmed that pending free trade Sri Lanka entered into are more seven phases from 11 April to 23 May, Government, vehemently opposed agreements (FTAs) are being taken beneficial to the counterpart but not Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also contributed to the delay. Sri Lanka’s move to enter into the during the former’s official state visit to India in November 2019, which was also his up at the moment, although they did not for us,” Balasuriya added. maiden foreign visit as President Following the Sri Lankan presidential ETCA with India as they believed it confirm any developments specifically The last and 11th round of election in November 2019, well-placed would lead to “foreignisation” of the with regard to the ETCA. negotiations between Sri Lanka and the matter took place. 2019. However, it was postponed sources told The Sunday Morning Sri Lankan economy. However, several “Ad-hoc negotiations carried out India were held in October 2018 prior After almost a year, the 12th round pending Cabinet approval as a new Business that the ETCA negotiations economists have pointed out its benefits, before last year are being followed up to the constitutional crisis. It was also of negotiations on the agreement was regulation was introduced by the then were unlikely to be restarted until the which include its potential to address methodically at the moment. We have the last time internal discussions on scheduled to be held in September Ministry of Development Strategies general election in August 2020, due Sri Lanka’s skills shortage.

2021 SINGLE-USE PLASTICS BAN Big corporations Automated ticketing set to adapt project suspended BY UWIN LUGODA containing soft drinks. are held responsible, and all He suggested that if the the sectors, from private, z Was to be Sri Lanka’s first z Following the recent Government was going to civil society, media, and Govt. cites lack of funds

proposal by the Central regulate the use of PET government, come together BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR Environmental Authority (polyethylene terephthalate) to collect and recycle PETs. As Sri Lanka lacks the resources (CEA) to ban the use of bottles used for soft drink He went on to state that these to build automated ticketing single-use plastic from 2021, packaging, they should bring recycled PETs can be used The establishment of Sri machines, ADB pledged to import major plastic users in the in the Extended Producer to make yarns and brushes, Lanka’s first-ever automated them with the required software corporate sector are set to Responsibility (EPR) which are currently being railway ticketing system has been installed. phase out single-use plastics strategy which places the exported to over 19 countries temporarily suspended due to a lack As the first phase, the automated and regulate other types of responsibility of a product’s around the world, bringing of funds, with no sign of resumption ticketing system was said to be plastics. post-consumer phase on the in export revenue to the in the foreseeable future. implemented at 50 main railway Speaking to The Sunday producers. He explained that country as well as livelihood “This is one of those projects stations which were already Morning Business, industry since PETs are recyclable, opportunities to both the that have been stopped by the selected. Depending on the response leaders in the fast-moving they should not be banned formal and informal sectors. new Government, citing issues and demand from the passengers, consumer goods (FMCG) and instead can be very “You can look at banning with funds. But there was a local the automated system was expected sector stated that they are resourceful. things like plastic straws, requirement for this project to be to then be implemented islandwide. supportive of the proposal “Coca-Cola’s most cotton buds, and plastic halted,” sources involved in the Following the implementation and will be working towards dominant packaging material cutlery, but PET is a project told The Sunday Morning However, since then, no will be given to this particular of the automated railway ticketing this same goal, despite the is PET, and it is 100% resourceful item, as long as Business on the condition of significant progress was made, apart project in this plan. system, commuters were expected obvious impact on their recyclable. We do not think it’s managed. Today, around anonymity. from a statement being issued by Asian Development Bank (ABD) to do away with long queues as current business practices. substances such as PET 20-25% of PETs in Sri Lanka The automated system was the Ministry of Passenger Transport is the fund provider of this $ 20 tickets could be bought four different Coca-Cola Beverages should be banned because is being recycled.” planned and initiated under the Management in February 2020 million project. ADB in 2019 ways: mobile app, vending machine, Sri Lanka Ltd. Head of they come with numerous He stated that single-use former Government two years ago. noting that they are submitting approved a $ 160 million loan to electronic card at gates, or counter. Public Relations and benefits including transport, plastics are detrimental As exclusively reported by The a cabinet proposal to set up an modernise Sri Lanka Railways The ticketing system was Communications Lakshan safety, and hygiene.” to the environment and Sunday Morning Business last year, electronic ticketing system. through a number of improvements. expected to revolutionise Sri Madurasinghe stated that Madurasinghe stated that non-recyclable by nature. a Chinese company was awarded Our sources said that President The smart ticketing system was Lanka’s obsolete railway station the company supported the PETs should be managed Therefore, they should be the tender in August 2019 following Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s manifesto also included in this grand railway network with world-class imported CEA’s suggestion to regulate properly where even citizens looked at more closely. cabinet approval, and the system promises an automated ticketing modernisation initiative. This is machines to provide convenience the use of small plastic bottles who contribute to pollution Contd. on page 2 was set to be completed by end- system for railways but added that ADB’s first loan to Sri Lanka’s to long-suffering passengers. 2019. they are not certain whether priority railway sector. Contd. on page 2 Doubts over Balance of Payments data zStats Dept. questions accuracy zMany transactions still unrecorded BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR Business that even though the CBSL makes a politicians, economists, and even the CBSL. sincere effort to record external transactions In October last year, then CBSL Governor Dr. EXPO 2020 DUBAI The Department of Census and as much as possible, the absence of an Indrajit Coomaraswamy expressed serious Statistics (DCS) cast doubts over the appropriate e-platform prevents the efficient doubt on the accuracy of economic indicators accuracy of Balance of Payments capturing of these transactions. compiled by the DCS. (BOP)-related statistics gathered “Every single transaction must be recorded Dr. Coomaraswamy pointed out that even SL back in action and compiled by the Central Bank of somewhere and every external transaction though the DCS adopted new methodologies Sri Lanka (CBSL). must be factored into the Balance of to conduct surveys, the lack of resources BY THE SUNDAY MORNING Shiham Marikar stated that The World Expo is one Payments. However, there are so many illegal stood in the way of the methodology being BUSINESS DESK discussions are in progress of the largest international The BOP is a statement of all transactions transactions that escape being recorded,” utilised successfully. This was the second Sri Lanka has resumed the to make changes to the Terms events that takes place once made between entities in one country and sources noted. time the CBSL questioned the accuracy of necessary preparatory work of Reference (ToR), as the every five years, and this time, the rest of the world over a defined period of It is learnt that it would take years for the statistics compiled by the DCS. In December to participate in Expo 2020 initially planned promotional Dubai has been selected as time. These transactions consist of imports CBSL to introduce a suitable e-platform 2018, Dr. Coomaraswamy cast doubts on Dubai as expo organisers strategies have to be modified the venue. It will mainly and exports of goods, services, and capital, as which could effectively capture each external the GDP growth rate of Sri Lanka, saying have confirmed that the to suit the post-Covid-19 focus on tourism, investment well as transfer payments, such as foreign aid transaction, thereby providing accurate data he believed it was higher. preliminary work is underway environment. promotion, and trade. and remittances. The BOP-related statistics on the BOP. Before this, in 2018, then Non-Cabinet to commence the six-month- “We have highlighted that When asked what the new that are recorded by the Central Bank are All our attempts to reach the Deputy Minister of Economic Reforms and Public long event in October 2021. the ToR has to be changed. We promotional strategies would shared with the DCS for them to compile Sri Governors of the Central Bank to obtain a Distribution Dr. Harsha de Silva noted that Speaking to The Sunday want to highlight tourism to a be, Marikar stated that they Lanka’s National Accounts (NAs). comment on this matter proved futile. the Port City was not being included in the Morning Business, National greater extent. New strategies would only be finalised within Sources at the DCS who wished to remain Doubts over the accuracy of Sri Lanka’s final records, even though many activities Chamber of Exporters (NCE) will come into play,” Marikar the next two to three months. anonymous told The Sunday Morning economic indicators were long cast by were taking place at the Port City. Secretary General/CEO stated. Contd. on page 2 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 2 the sunday morning business NEWS Sunday, August 30, 2020 Network resilience enables digital literacy during Covid-19

By Vinod Samarawickrama

The August meeting Internet usage in Sri Lanka has grown exponentially since mid-March as the coronavirus outbreak has Stats Dept. compelled Sri Lankans to stay at home. I believe this trend in broadband usage is here to stay. During the lockdown, the average time spent on and EDB mobile broadband increased by one hour globally on an average basis. There have been many to set up behavioural changes as a result of Covid-19, many of which will revert when fear disappears, but the trend in terms of broadband usage is only likely to get stronger. The pandemic data unit is accelerating the digitalisation of The Department of Census institutional forte in managing the economy and the move from and Statistics (DCS) and the socioeconomic data, the offline to online. It is enabling the Export Development Board DCS will produce a range people of Sri Lanka to increasingly with friends and family, while being businesses, and families in Sri responding to Covid-19? We are (EDB), along with technical of logistics industry-related use more e-services (e-leaning, in the safety of our homes. Lanka and worldwide. seeing service providers making input from the EDB’s economic indicators, i.e. the e-commerce, etc.) and is enhancing Given that many countries are Together with network operators, the necessary changes in their data Advisory Committee on logistics contribution to GDP. the pace of digital transformation in facing lockdown or restricted travel Ericsson played a major role in plans, either by increasing the Logistics, are spearheading the Collaboratively, the the country. situations and more and more people the telecommunication field to “bucket size”, allowing free usage setting up of a proposed data stakeholders have agreed on Video is increasingly embedded are working from home, traffic enhance the quality of experience for a limited time, or introducing unit, endorsed by the NES a range of the deep-dive data in all forms of online content to patterns on networks too are seeing for users all over the world. new packages for work/study- (National Export Strategy) parameters, which include become the main driver for the unprecedented changes. There are Network re-planning and end-to-end related applications. And even as Logistics Sector Strategy. (but are not limited to) exponential growth in mobile data significant shifts in the usage of re-dimensioning activities focusing they respond to the current situation Collaboratively, the services such as warehousing, traffic. Online classrooms, online both fixed and mobile networks on network design, capacity, with speed and agility, some service stakeholders will front an clearing, freight forwarding, meetings/presentations, and video worldwide. Traffic is shifting performance, and traffic handling providers are already planning to activity to establish a special air cargo, 3PL, port operators, clips on social media are just a few from city centres and office areas are carried out by Ericsson engineers advance their investments in the data unit at the DCS to gather and terminal operators. examples of video traffic in data to residential and suburban areas. to ensure that the customer networks to boost capacity to tackle and analyse logistics sector Preliminary discussions have usage. We are also seeing an increase in experience from the network is not the data upsurge the networks are data, with the prospect of also been ongoing to assess As per the Ericsson Mobility voice traffic across 2G, 3G, and compromised. Proactive measures experiencing. determining the economic the possibility of leveraging Report (June 2020 edition), mobile 4G networks in many markets. via machine learning-enabled contribution of logistics the data management skills of traffic globally is expected to In overall terms, one can observe capacity planning enables the The heroes to Sri Lanka’s economy. the University of Moratuwa grow by 31% annually between more megabytes (MB) per user service provider to identify and act Even as the telecom industry Contemporary industry data Department of Transport and 2019 and 2025. Due to the Covid- usage – that is, higher data volume on network bottleneck issues in globally is working together to can also raise the possibility Logistics Management to 19 pandemic, internet usage transmission with more bandwidth advance. Application-based (e.g. handle the Covid-19 crisis, the of positively influencing produce actionable insights increased by 20-40% within a allocated per user. People are web, chat, video) traffic handling heroes are our network engineers the Logistics Performance from raw data. few weeks, as a result of mobility spending more time online at home is managed through service-aware and field maintenance staff who Index (LPI). The LPI is a On finalising the data restrictions. Millions of Sri Lankans and as a result are generating more configuration. continue to work relentlessly to tool widely used in global parameters, the DCS will including office staff, academic traffic per day. Most operators are Ericsson has deployed solutions restore the network faults and ensure logistics research for country reach out to logistics service staff, and students had to rely on experiencing a 10-40% increase and services (e.g. virtual drive availability of connectivity at all benchmarking, comparison, providers and industry their internet at home to work, in data traffic (both upload and test) on networks that enable our times, despite the challenges and and as a mechanism for associations to facilitate the learn, communicate, and entertain download) on the mobile network. customers to handle emergencies difficult circumstances. analysing intra-country data collection exercise. themselves. In a time of crisis, information in an efficient manner. Network Let us continue to come together logistics performance. Sri This state-led national The dramatic changes in human and communications are critical. design and optimisation emergency and acknowledge the power of Lanka currently ranks at 94, initiative is bridging a gap behavioural patterns have caused Mobile networks are an essential services, underpinned by AI 3G and 4G mobile broadband among 160 nations. to foster a collaborative measurable changes in the usage of part of the communications (artificial intelligence), allow connectivity in Sri Lanka. Sanctioned by the NES as atmosphere of transparent data both fixed and mobile networks not backbone that is enabling health customers to succeed in challenging (The writer is the Managing a priority action item, this is a sharing, between the industry only in Sri Lanka, but all over the workers, public safety officials, and ever-evolving situations, such as Director and County Manager dire need for accurate logistics and government institutions. world. As more people increasingly critical businesses to stay connected emergencies, including improved of Ericsson Sri Lanka and industry data. The value addition of this study and work from home, online during this time of global crisis. network performance and customer the Maldives. His role entails Members of the Advisory project will also spill over education, virtual training, and The world’s mobile networks experience. In Sri Lanka, a 30-40% providing leadership, driving Committee recently met to the private sector. When virtual meetings and conferences are proving yet again that they increase in data volume in our business growth, and further with senior officials and the macroeconomic broad are becoming the new reality. A can deliver the performance and customer networks was observed. deepening customer relationships statisticians from the DCS to strokes are canvassed, service new form of social interaction has reliability to support both consumers with operators and regulators. provide technical insight on providers will be capacitated appeared with both fixed and mobile and enterprises in this hour of need. Communications He is also focused on nation- fine-tuning the data collection to pursue more data-driven broadband connectivity enabling a At Ericsson, we are working hard service providers’ building initiatives through ICT methodology. Given its decisions. multitude of indoor entertainment to ensure that we provide seamless response to Covid-19 innovation in collaboration with activities as well as virtual meet-ups connectivity for public services, So how are service providers the Government of Sri Lanka)

Contd. from page 1

select schools, and educate students on waste Development and Promotions Executive passengers travelled by train in 2016 and this January this year due to bureaucratic Big corporations... management. We are committed to ensuring Kasun Ranatunga stated that while no number increased by 0.5% in 2017 to 136.6 delays and the absence of required funds. However, he explained that companies that our products are not just good for our permanent solutions have been found, million. Nevertheless, the postponement of the need to be given time to phase the consumers, but also for the planet.” their research team is working on finding a All our attempts to contact Minister of expo due to Covid-19 came as a blessing in material out and find alternatives, or the Daminda Gamlath, the Head of better solution. Transport Gamini Lokuge were futile. disguise for Sri Lanka. Government should propose an alternative. Beverages at Ceylon Cold Stores PLC “We will definitely have to adapt to this However, Marikar confirmed that Sri When contacted, the Sri Lankan office (CCS), a subsidiary of John Keells situation or miss out on the opportunity. Lanka would be able to complete the of Nestlé, often referred to as the world’s Holdings PLC (JKH) which deals with Therefore, we are currently testing out SL back... necessary work in due course this time as largest food and beverage company, made brands like Elephant House, shared a several other alternatives and hope to come “If we take tourism, the airport is still most of the ground work is prepared and the following statement through a company similar sentiment and stated that the out with some good news in the coming closed, so we are yet to decide how to completed. According to him, an event spokesperson. company is already in the process of months.” promote tourism in the expo. But there will management company will be confirmed “As a responsible company, it is our vision reducing their plastic usage and getting The proposal that is set to be submitted to be changes. We are also not very clear as to soon after making amendments to the ToR. that none of our packaging, including plastics, into an EPR system. He explained that the Cabinet of Ministers is looking to ban what to do,” he noted. The expo will be held under the theme ends up in landfill or in oceans, lakes, and the company has already come up with an single-use plastic items from 2021. This The expo that would be held for a period of “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future”. rivers. We are committed to making 100% of alternative for its plastic ice cream cups but proposal will focus specifically on banning six months was initially scheduled to be held The three subthemes are opportunity, our packaging reusable or recyclable by 2025. are yet to find one for their plastic spoons. the use of sachet packets containing shampoo in October 2020. The Bureau International mobility, and sustainability, based on which “We are unaware of the exact specifics of “We are committed to reduce our plastic and hair gel, plastic straws, and plastic water des Expositions (BIE), the intergovernmental the master floor plan differs. the proposed regulation but will, of course, usage, but then, that has to be done in bottles due to the extensive damage caused to organisation in charge of overseeing and Sri Lanka’s pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai comply with government regulations when a way the industry is protected and the the environment by such products. regulating World Expos, postponed the expo will be located in the opportunity district notified. consumers are protectors.” CEA Director General Hemantha to October 2021 following the peak of the which consists of 212 square metres “Currently, more than 70% of our packaging He stated that while most of the Jayasinghe said the use of small plastic pandemic in May. of exhibit area on the ground floor and in Sri Lanka is recyclable, and we are working initiatives in the proposal are agreeable, bottles containing soft drinks is also to be Nevertheless, it was not clear whether 172 square metres of office space on the towards our 2025 packaging commitment. there are some they want to discuss with regulated under the proposal. Furthermore, the BIE was undertaking any preliminary first floor. The Sri Lankan pavilion will All our Nestlé offices and facilities in Sri the CEA, including alternatives and a the CEA is also considering possible work at all, creating questions over further be organised under the title “Island of Lanka drive a plastic waste-free culture. We timeframe for implementation. alternatives for plastic yoghurt spoons and postponement. However, last week, BIE Ingenuity”. have also stopped using plastic items in our Other companies that are also impacted plastic clips used in the packaging of shirts. Secretary General Dimitri Kerkentzes took Expo 2020 Dubai is expected to attract promotions from April this year. This alone by this proposal, such as the local bottled to Twitter to state that pavilion construction over 25 million visitors, of which 70% will will help us reduce 250 MT of plastic in drinking water producer Aquafresh, also is progressing well as the pandemic has not be international visitors. It is also expected 2020. We have also initiated a project with stated that they are currently in the process Automated... impacted the preparation of the exhibition. that there will be more than 200 participants the Central Environmental Authority and of looking into other alternatives for their According to the Department of Railways Sri Lanka’s participation at Expo 2020 during the span of six months to showcase Ministry of Education to collect waste in plastic bottles. Access Natural Water Brand Annual Report 2017, 136.5 million Dubai was hanging in the balance as of their countries. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning business 3 Sunday, August 30, 2020 SME

By Dhananath Fernando Can industry-specific The appointment of cabinet ministers and state ministers is still a topic at dinner tables, especially on the state ministerial portfolios. This is mostly because specific industries or fields have been provided for state ministers. There is general criticism surrounding ministers fix this issue? ministers being appointed to micro The Industry-specific challenges sectors of the industries while the general While the micro and small expectation from a minister is to serve Coordin tion Problem enterprises have been oppressed at a broader mandate, and do justice to by the registration level, at the same taxpayers’ money by formulating and time, there are industry-specific implementing policies. regulatory issues. Many critics question the Common challenges The good news is the Government Most of these industries require a role a minister could play in a According to the Advocata and Department of Census and license for their sourcing and a license comparatively small industry where Institute’s report “Barriers to Micro Statistics (DCS) have initiated an or a government authorisation that the designing, production, marketing, and Small Enterprises” in Sri Lanka, e- registry platform for registering has to be taken at each touchpoint. and distribution are mainly done by one main bottleneck across all micro and small enterprises. In most industries, sourcing of raw the micro entrepreneurs themselves. industries is access to finance. Access According to Advocata statistics, material and transportation of raw For example, the state ministerial to finance has multiple dimensions 97% of micro businesses and 85% materials both require licences. Some portfolio for Batik, Handloom extending to the banking and of small businesses are registered of the regulations are placed with Fabrics, and Local Apparel Products financing sector, but it starts from as sole proprietorships. This good intentions, but most of it has has been a topic of discussion the fundamental point of business e-registration system is indeed a ended up with extra bureaucracy since the appointments. Another registration. move in the right direction. Then, burdening the industry and opening state ministry that is being widely Over the years, we have the authorities must also ensure doors to corruption. All licences discussed is that of Cane, Brass, underestimated the potential of micro that the e-registration process will have just ended up being another Clay Furniture, and Rural Industry and small enterprises (leaving the be simple and not a replication hurdle for these entrepreneurs to Promotion. medium enterprises aside). We have where the same documents are just cross. Additionally, these licences are The counterargument is that provided step-motherly treatment to submitted online. A system of just also an opportunity for regulatory previous state minister portfolios the MSME industry to the extent of submitting documents such as deeds, officials to earn extra money in the were just token positions with not even focusing on their ability to rent agreements, etc. online would way of corruption and by providing no decision-making power. It is register their businesses. add an additional burden for budding preferential treatment to the affluent argued that in this case, ministers According to the Advocata report, entrepreneurs; to scan and submit and higher classes of business that have been provided a specific role, sole proprietorships comprise about documents online in addition to have networked with local political scope, and focus, and people can 61% of total businesses in Sri the time they spend getting grama power centres. directly hold them accountable Lanka and provide 27% of national sevaka certificates, rent agreements, The new industry-specific for their industries and industry- employment. Interestingly, about and a list of other documentation. ministers’ primary mandate when related concerns. At the same time, 25% of the establishments are run Advocata has recommended the New developing these industries has a measurable key performance by women and contribution from Zealand model and a South Korean to be a facilitatory role and not an indicator (KPI) can be easily women-led enterprises increases up model where there is a three-step interventionist role. The prosperity implemented and the respective and to 35% in rural areas. business registration process, while of micro and small enterprises will relevant institutions can be assigned While the whole country focuses in Sri Lanka the current process has depend on this. The new ministers to each minister. According to a on the big picture of revamping seven steps. have to ensure that they do not apply recent TV interview by President’s the entire domestic and specialised the “brakes” by introducing more Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera, sectors such as batik, local apparels, Daily survivors vs. regulatory barriers; rather, they state ministers and their teams handlooms, pottery, rattan, etc., our entrepreneurs should remove those barriers in each led by the ministry secretary have research has revealed that about Having a simplified business sector for sustainable growth. been given the decision-making 45% of micro enterprises and 10% registration process is the first step At the same time, they should not power in that respective industry. of small enterprises have not even of addressing the problem of access push the accelerator in the wrong According to Dr. Jayasundera, it is obtained a basic business registration. to finance and providing government direction to create market distortions a scientific way of structuring and The meaning of not having a business assistance and accessing markets. which will impact other more utilising taxpayer money without registration is that they do not have Having a simple business registration productive sectors while bureaucratic just appointing state ministers for access to finance or any Government- process will ensure an effective tax powers work only thinking about the sake of doing so. sponsored programme or project. collection system where businesses their sector at the expense of others. I believe there is truth to both Poor enthusiasm for business can grow and expand. Sri Lankans are more than capable arguments on the method of registration is mainly a result of the One other reason for the poor of competing at the global level and assigning the ministerial portfolio. horrendous process of registering enthusiasm pertaining to registering “daily surviving micro and small The ground-level reality is that a proprietorship or partnership. A a business is in the fear of paying businesses” will jump to the seat most of these assigned domestic proprietorship or a partnership can taxes. As a result, most of these of “micro and small entrepreneurs” industries are run by micro, small, be registered under the Business micro businesses limit themselves to if we facilitate and provide a more and medium entrepreneurs (MSMEs) Names Ordinance Act No. 7 of 1987, being “daily survivors” as opposed to simple regulatory scheme. or businessmen who represent which is under the authority of each them becoming real micro and small We should never underestimate the the private sector. It is important provincial council, and provides room “entrepreneurs’’. common man’s skill and the ability to remember that these small for each provincial council to run their There is a significant difference of micro and small enterprises, which businesses are still part of the private own procedure on registration of a between someone who just runs a at present are already contributing sector and not the Government. proprietorship or partnership. small business for daily survival and more than 30% of our national The Government’s role is more So even though a specific minister someone who takes a risk in the form employment. to regulate some industries and may have been given a scope and of money, property, time, or any form (The writer is the Chief Operating facilitate the business processes, specific task of revamping micro, for entrepreneurship. Officer of Advocata Institute. He because micro and small enterprises small, and local enterprises, the What Sri Lanka requires is for can be contacted at dhananath@ have industry-specific challenges minister may still face challenges micro and small entrepreneurs to advocata.org. Learn more about as well as common challenges in due to common regulatory barriers migrate from “daily survivors” Advocata’s work at www.advocata. running their daily operations. The starting from the business registration to micro entrepreneurs. The org. The opinions expressed are minister’s role is to work with these process, which is the entry ticket, Government can facilitate the process the author’s own views. They may sectors and assist them with reducing to finance and markets, and even by having a conducive environment not necessarily reflect the views of regulatory barriers for the sector to for relief schemes during Covid-19 for businesses, and the new state the Advocata Institute, or anyone perform to its full potential. brought in by the Government. ministers can take this lead. affiliated with the institute) How blockchain is keeping Ceylon cinnamon on top of the world BY UWIN LUGODA industry supports over 70,000 Jayathilaka stated that the project This set to provide a transparent smallholder growers and provides began two-and-a-half years ago, and trustworthy record of the Cinnamon is considered one jobs to over 350,000 people. when UNIDO in collaboration with journey of each pack of cinnamon of the most popular traded spices In order to combat this issue, the Sri Lanka Exports Development the consumers buy. around the world. Among its Tracified, a local start-up under Board (EDB) started working on According to Jayathilake, this multitude of subspecies, Ceylon 99X Technology, is using their a proposal to get GI for Ceylon technology will be open to all cinnamon reigns supreme as the technology to help verify the real cinnamon with the long-term plan cinnamon exporters in Sri Lanka. rarest, safest, and most expensive origin of cinnamon to protect both of extending it to other Sri Lankan He stated that they have already cinnamon. This cinnamon, also the genuine exporter and the end spices too. He explained that conducted awareness sessions on known as “true cinnamon”, is consumer. where Tracified comes in is in their the technology to an audience of ranked the fourth most expensive The start-up uses a blockchain- technology. more than 25 major cinnamon spice in the world, with around based traceability solution that Information about each cinnamon exporters, with the help of the 80-90% of the world’s production of connects all stakeholders in a supply batch is first collected, starting EDB. These sessions have worked this product belonging to Sri Lanka. chain and is geared to identify and from plantation stage and going to clarify exporter doubts and have However, its high-end and record movement, temperature, on to cover all the other stages in garnered a positive attitude towards exclusive status has now made the and storage durations across every the value chain such as harvesting, adopting the technology from the product a target for counterfeiters, stage, using a multitude of tracking peeling, collecting, packing, exporters. with lower grade cinnamon being technologies. and exporting. Each data point Speaking on how Tracified sold under the same name. This According to Tracified is captured via mobile apps that makes its revenue through the has led to export revenue leakage Co-Founder Dileepa Jayathilake, Tracified Co-Founders Uthpalie Thilakarathna and Dileepa Jayathilake automatically timestamp and geo- project, he stated that they get paid for Sri Lanka due to it being the this new project is the geographic code each piece of information for implementing the traceability country’s third largest agricultural indication (GI) for Ceylon profile of grower and exporter, cinnamon). Due to this, there are and straight away send it to a platform and providing support for export product, thus impacting the cinnamon, which gives proof that qualifications of the people lots of counterfeit products in the public blockchain. Blockchain then three years on tracing cinnamon lives of many locals who depend cinnamon is actually coming from involved, quality assurance, etc. international market that are sold provides a tamper-proof ledger of bark, oil, and powder value chains. on the industry as well. According Sri Lanka. In addition to this, it is “Ceylon cinnamon is superior under the name ‘Ceylon cinnamon’. data, guaranteeing its authenticity. While no exact date has been to a United Nations Industrial also set to provide information on in terms of nutritional content So it is high time we introduce This information is later visualised given, Jayathilake stated that Development Organisation exactly which area of the country and healthiness compared to technology into the product’s supply via a QR code scanning in mobile Tracified expects to launch this new (UNIDO) study, the local cinnamon the cinnamon is coming from, the alternatives such as cassia (Chinese chain.” devices. technology in the next few weeks. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 4 the sunday morning business TOURISM/IMPACT Sunday, August 30, 2020

Tourism is in crisis everywhere, and if the Covid- 19 pandemic will run its course over two years, as the World Health Organisation (WHO) has suggested, then Tourism must recharge domestic tourism will be the main thrust for the industry’s short-term survival. McKinsey has predicted that tourism, which amounted to 10% of global GDP in 2019, on long vacation is unlikely to return to its $ 9 trillion spending levels until in source markets which focus discover their own country – to and pumped $ 4.4 billion into the Covid19 policy response, it is 2024. more on curated offerings than on travel to every corner of Sri Lanka economy in 2018. The tourism important that we exercise caution marketing the country as a whole. to experience the hidden treasures value chain is large, fragmented, in reopening borders, and that we It’s been a particularly fickle This forced interruption is a and be amazed by the diversity and and complex, and every element is take the time and effort necessary time for the local tourism good moment to hone our tourism richness of their home. Over the now facing enormous implications to establish robust health and industry, which had its post- product to leverage, when we last decade, many have chosen to for survival. It is, therefore, safety protocols that safeguard the war “safe” USP shattered by reopen, on niche, high-value forego local experiences in favour in the interests of our own population against border inflows the Easter bombings less than a segments – a sustainable way of international travel, influenced economic fortunes that we choose of the coronavirus. While the year before Covid-19 hit. While forward for smaller markets such by rising affluence, budget airlines to patronise the local tourism relative successes of individual acknowledging the catastrophic THE as Sri Lanka. It is especially and accommodation options, and industry, not just hotels and countries in managing Covid- nature of this crisis for the nascent HEADLIGHT important that the industry ease of access, especially to other restaurants but also give custom to 19 will allow for travel bubbles industry, it is also an opportune draws up frameworks to manage regional markets. travel operators, tour guides, and between countries, these must time to fine tune the tourism visitation to cultural and religious There are also those travellers especially those small and micro be anchored to health protocols offering – a long-felt need. called for a unified positioning sites and wildlife parks. Multiple sneering of schadenfreude at entrepreneurs who rely on the designed to subdue a new wave The industry must pounce on exercise that establishes a unique attempts have been made in the the fanciest of tourist properties industry for survival. of disease. It is certainly a mental this opportunity to press for a identity for Sri Lanka Tourism. past to define tourism zones, now faced with dramatically The path to recovery remains an shift for both the industry and systematic positioning initiative The haphazard efforts over the and none of them have come to reducing rates and warily opening uncertain one, but it is clear that travellers, who must both adapt – one that is grounded in solid past decade have done little to fruition. This downturn is the best their doors to the locals. But it is its stages will consist of domestic to the many facets of restricted research in engagement with all project the country’s offering opportunity to research, test, and important that we gauge the impact tourism first, regional travel next, mobility and flexible responses, the many stakeholders within in a targeted manner. Instead, train in anticipation of better times. of Covid-19 on this industry – and intercontinental at the very and balance enjoyment with the ecosystem. For too long, the individual operators have had to For the domestic traveller, this one that directly or indirectly end of the pandemic. Given the anxiety amid the uncertainty of an many players in the industry have undertake their own initiatives is a wonderful opportunity to employed nearly 400,000 people success thus far of Sri Lanka’s evolving pandemic. Virtual queuing for social distancing Pandemic (dead) weight loss z The companies capitalising on Covid to make ‘strategic terminations’

BY UWIN LUGODA call two years ago and they let go of a lot of then asked us to move to sales reps due to low sales Over the past six another division. However, numbers, and used Covid months, companies around that division did not want as reasoning.” the world have had to let us, and we ended up being Another reason for thousands of employees stuck in the middle.” these terminations has go due to the impact of They stated that been cost, with some the Covid-19 pandemic. some of the employees companies opting to let go Whilst from a health were absorbed to other of older employees only number, social security number, Part 1 home or car) and monitor standpoint Sri Lanka has divisions, but prior to to hire new ones at lower By etc. and placed in a virtual queue. their position in the queue fared better than most Covid, the executives salaries. A former local The virtual queue is invisible through their mobile phones. countries, it hasn’t been and higher level staff IT company employee Nalaka in the sense that customers are phones to scan a QR code They will be able to view immune to the economic were left adrift between claimed that several of Hewage not confined to a specific queue which is posted outside queue movement progress devastation brought on by divisions with no proper them were let go once they position, so they don’t know their the service premises on a real-time basis (i.e. how the pandemic. As such, answers. However, they completed tenure of two position in the queue relative to (for example, at the main they move forward in the Sri Lankan companies stated that once the virus years, which is when they Research indicates that people others. A customer’s position entrance/door or window). queue from one position to too have been laying off hit, the employees with no are entitled to a raise. spend between two to five in the queue is secured by a 2. A web page or a mobile another, expected waiting hundreds and hundreds of proper division were asked The former employee years of their lifetime waiting in physical ticket printed by a ticket application will present a time, etc.) and also receive employees. to either find their own explained that instead of queues to obtain services. That printer or a mobile ticket sent to list of services from which notifications when they In this backdrop, some way into other divisions giving them increments, is between 17 to 43,000 hours the customer’s phone as a text the customer can choose reach a certain position (for companies appear to have or voluntarily retire the company chose to let of an average human lifespan. message. a service and get in line in a example, third in line) in the used this phenomenon as from the company with 25% of their developers The dominant cost of this is both virtual queue. queue. an opportunity to let go compensation. go, and went on to hire physical and emotional stress. How does it work? If a customer has confirmed 4. When their turn arrives to of unwanted employees “A lot of us could not and train recent graduates Prior to the inception of virtual With virtual queue an appointment in advance: be served, a staff member or restructure their find our way into other to fill their roles. They queuing, we had no choice other management technology, 1. The customer will receive will send a notification to the organisations for reasons divisions, so we had to went on to state that this than to be in the dubious position customers can remotely get in an email or a text message customer through a virtual that have nothing to do pay the price for their salary discussion dated of finding the correct queue and line through a mobile ticket – an when the appointment is queueing staff app. Upon with Covid. The Sunday mistakes.” back to 2019, and Covid physically standing in line until online ticket that can be viewed created and enable the receiving this notification, the Morning Business learnt This issue is not limited just gave the company it’s our turn to be served. on a mobile phone. The process appointment, committing customer can visit the service that some organisations to one industry. Several the opportunity to find starts with the customer checking self-arrival through the desk and be served while may have used Covid as local advertising firms cheaper labour. What is virtual queuing? in by scanning a QR code or system. maintaining a safe distance. an excuse to terminate used Covid to cut their Expats living in Sri Virtual queuing empowers being assisted by a mobile 2. The customer will be able to Next week, in Part Two of employment deemed traditional advertising Lanka have faced a similar customers to access services concierge who is a staff member “self-arrive” and get in line this article, I will discuss how unworthy. We inquired teams, utilising those issue too, with certain without the need to physically of the service organisation. for the appointment within virtual queuing can help social with current and former funds to fuel digital local educational institutes wait in line. It enables customers There are several ways a a predefined time period distancing. employees from several advertising. Two and apparel suppliers to wait anywhere, monitor their customer could “virtually” get in decided by the system, based (The writer is a Software organisations in order to employees from one firm firing foreign employees queue position in real time, line. on the actual appointment Architect at Creative get a better grasp on the stated that five permanent and hiring locals at and receive notifications when time. Software. He has two decades issue. employees working in cheaper rates. One such it’s their turn to be served. Below are the most 3. Subsequently, the customer of experience in various Trusted sources from the traditional advertising expat stated that their Upon arrival, a customer can common: can wait remotely (maybe roles related to software several industries claimed section were let go of contract with the institute be identified by name, phone 1. Customers use their mobile at the convenience of their engineering). that some companies following the lockdown. they worked for ended in let go of employees They explained that June, but having worked they previously wanted the company had been there for the past six years, to terminate but were planning to cut the they expected the contract THASL builds Covid awareness for Hikka hotels unable to. To protect their traditional advertising to be extended again, but Over 40 accommodation providers the SLTDA going forward,” noted SLTDA accommodation providers understand the privacy and ensure their team since 2018, but it was not. in the Hikkaduwa region were recently Chairperson Kimarli Fernando. importance of health and safety, enabling future employability, the hadn’t been successful “Most of us expected it educated about how to manage the risk of Given that the guidelines are vital for all them to better prepare for the next step names of our sources as in convincing the former to be renewed, but instead Covid-19 through a workshop held by The tourism stakeholders, THASL is reaching out of obtaining SLTDA’s “Safe and Secure” well as the names of the team to transition to the we were offered a part- Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) to accommodation providers outside of its Covid-19 safety standard compliance companies have not been digital side. time position, which was in partnership with Australia’s Market membership for the awareness workshops. certification. The certification is mandatory revealed. Similarly, an official not enough money for Development Facility (MDF). The Hikkaduwa workshop was attended by for providers to reopen properties to receive These companies from a multinational us to sustain ourselves. The Hikkaduwa workshop was the second over 40 accommodation providers, including international visitors. The clear guidance has include a giant local pharmaceutical They wanted to hire local in a planned islandwide series, which is representatives from a number of small and been particularly helpful for smaller players. apparel exporter that chose company stated that the lecturers because they had open to both THASL members and other medium-scale properties. “The workshop was very useful for us to lay off employees who company’s local branch lower rates than us.” accommodation providers. The workshops “We are extending our support to the small working in a three-star hotel,” noted Lanka were in limbo between terminated several sales Other sources stated that raise awareness of the Sri Lanka Tourism and medium hotels beyond our membership Super Corals Front Office Manager Renuka two of its factories. A representatives due to these kinds of terminations Development Authority (SLTDA)’s “Sri to fully understand and follow the SLTDA Peiris. former employee stated issues that arose before the are happening across Lanka Tourism Operational Guidelines with guidelines,” stated THASL President Sanath “It was reassuring to see many small and that the company made outbreak. They explained all industries, where Health Protocols” on Covid-19, and have Ukwatte. “Our goal through these campaigns medium-scale service providers amongst a bad business decision that due to low sales companies are choosing been endorsed by the SLTDA. is to ensure that the accommodation sector as the participants,” said Hikkaduwa Hoteliers in 2017, which put them numbers, the decisions to to lay off employees they “The guidelines released by the SLTDA a whole is well prepared for a safe reopening Association President Siri Goonewardane, in hot water in 2019. let go of people preceded consider dead weight. are very thorough and all properties, when Sri Lanka is ready to welcome who organised the event in partnership with They explained that Covid, but that due to This has been a common regardless of size, need to follow these in international tourists.” THASL and MDF. due to this, rumours contractual obligations, occurrence across the order to minimise the risk and be able to The workshop was conducted by “MDF is committed to supporting Sri circulated on the closure they had to hold off. world, with employees reopen safely for tourists. We hope that SLTDA Director – Tourism Planning and Lanka’s Covid-19 response and recovery,” of the factory in question, “We were under the in countries like Canada these very useful workshops organised Development Dr. Prasad Jayasuriya, who stated MDF Country Director Momina and subsequently, its impression our jobs were and Australia reporting by the THASL and MDF will help small led the development of the guidelines, and Saqib. “Australia has been a long-standing employees were told safe, considering the similar terminations. and medium properties in particular to be THASL Past President and MDF Senior partner to the Sri Lankan tourism industry to move into another fact that we were in the How long these “strategic better prepared. We hope that through these Tourism Advisor Srilal Miththapala, in the and MDF will continue this support through division. medical field, which is terminations” will workshops, providers also understand the presence of THASL Chief Executive Officer collaborations such as this initiative with “We knew this was considered essential in continue is anybody’s importance and necessity to register with (CEO) Amal Goonetilleke. The sessions help THASL.” coming; they made a bad this environment. But guess. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning business 5 Sunday, August 30, 2020 KNOWLEDGE

By Dr. Nicholas Ruwan Dias and Niresh Eliatamby

Why can’t Sri Lankans generally read or write well The economic anymore? From businessmen to journalists, lawyers, judges, academics, and many more professions, practical literacy seems to be diminishing; so much so that it is having a major negative cost of plagiarism impact on our lives and the country’s future. z In Sri Lanka, we can’t seem to Ghostwriters and the ‘dumbing down’ of Sri Lankan society read or write a contract correctly and newspaper classifieds found for ghostwriting their assignments written work. They would also be – often, months after a foreign numerous examples of open and theses, was revealed when less likely to skip measures and contract is approved by the advertisements for academic fraud assignments were run through a resort to plagiarism by allowing Cabinet, Line Ministry, Attorney (source: Cogitaro), ranging from plagiarism testing service. Many students to apply their historical General, etc., our governments assignments at diploma level for an students were expelled or had their research content. routinely appoint committees and incredible Rs. 1,500, to dissertations degrees cancelled. yy Require recent references and commissions to investigate the and theses up to master’s and PhD Worldwide, the drop in overall sources impact of contracts, and cast blame level. One advertisement actually reading of quality literature and the as to why they were signed. stated that all assignments and rise of social media have contributed Require recent sources to be used. The continuing confusion the thesis could be provided at to the reduction in literary standards. Lecturers should ask for a certain over the Millennium Challenge a fee similar to the entire course Social media encourages the use minimum number of sources. Corporation (MCC) grant for fee for a PhD programme, and of short sentences with wrong Furthermore, ask for high-impact several years now is one case in guaranteed a distinction pass for any grammar and abbreviated words. journal references or articles that point. We can’t decide whether level programme. Fig. 1 displays must be in International Scientific to accept nearly a hundred billion examples of advertisements that Contributing factors in Indexing (ISI) journals, etc., within rupees, because no one’s sure what could possibly be punishable under Sri Lanka the past three years. the contract entails. the Penal Code. Sri Lanka’s continuing “parrot- yy Check assignments in plagiarism The Singapore-Sri Lanka Free style education”, where students software Trade Agreement (FTA) is yet Global context are required to memorise and another example. After signing the Sri Lanka is not alone in facing regurgitate at an exam, with little Before handing over, have treaty, Sri Lanka attempts to change this situation. Since the introduction practical knowledge required, students apply their assignments to it. Ditto with the Colombo Port City of advanced technologies and contributes to the inability of Turnitin. Lecturers may thus use agreement and the Hambantota knowledge via digital media, university students to eloquently Turnitin as a method for teaching. Port agreement, where the Chinese plagiarism has become a major express their ideas and creativity. Students learn how easy it is to would be laughing incredulously at issue in the learned community, Parents and even teachers are much plagiarise accidentally and how to our gullibility in trying to change where scholars should be upholding to blame for stifling creativity and avoid it. clauses years after signing. the virtues of integrity, ethics, and instead demanding high marks. yy Journal publication Laws and even constitutional professionalism. Sri Lankan society provides amendments are written in such little space for proper constructive Enforce minimum criteria yy One in seven recent graduates a vague manner that even law debates, either orally or literally; the to submit the research work to employed ghostwriters to professors are confused about their worst role model being Parliament journals and proof of acceptance of complete their assignment and practical application. Remember where violence and verbal abuse their work. Journals always have thesis, with an estimated 31 the political fiasco of November dominate. One wonders how many stringent checks. million students plagiarising 2018 when Sri Lanka became the of our Members of Parliament worldwide (News and World laughing stock of the world for (MPs) and ministers have even Enforcing policies Report Survey) having two Prime Ministers? That read our own Constitution or even Established university practices was because the 19th Amendment yy 90% of students interviewed bother to read Cabinet papers, around the world outline the wasn’t clear, until the Supreme thought that they would not be draft commercial agreements, draft implications of plagiarism when Court had to step in. Meanwhile, the caught or punished for plagiarism international agreements, and draft a student is detected in such a political turmoil caused investors to or cheating on the work of Acts of Parliament? practice. flee and led to a lawlessness in the others (News and World Report yy Notation of temporary transcript country that has been blamed for the Survey) Impact of plagiarism – transcript notice is issued to the rise of the Easter bombers while the y yy y Ruined academic credibility student before his/her graduation Government was in limbo. Students who cheat mostly assignment in which students are 2 shows such an example: feel right to do what they do. Perhaps one reason is that There have been many reports expected to apply their research in yy Probation at the university – a The cheaters get good marks, many of those in key positions of the effects of plagiarism in advance, discourages them from For lecturers and student’s continuing participation the non-cheaters often get just in government and the overall the academic world where an plagiarism. This also helps them instructors on probation can be conditional average marks. Cheaters are not economy are cheating their way academic’s reputation is scarred spread a greater writing challenge on the enforcement of the punished in most situations. Once yy Conduct academic writing and through university, and their actual with claims of plagiarism. A for a longer time, so that students plagiarism policy caught, they are rarely properly research methodology classes literary capacity remains at the successful academic career requires are unable to take the simple route yy Advanced Level (A/L), Ordinary punished. The demand for high academic publications. Publication out of the assignment. Lecturers will have to converse Students may have Level (O/L) or even worse, rather grades raises the prospect of losses most likely mean the end about the methods they used to extracurricular activities limited yy Checking work through than the graduate level. cheating of an academic position and huge do their research in their thesis yy plagiarism software Suspended – with clear An analysis of university The University of New South damage to reputation. or dissertation. The chapter on reinstatement terms, the student plagiarism in Sri Lanka’s university Wales reported approximately Students can proactively methods discusses what they yy Legal impact is removed from the school for a sector reveals some startling facts. 2,000% fewer students found approach problems before have done and how it was done, certain period of time A 2015 study by R.C. Kodikara cheating at assessments and tests Plagiarism may have serious legal submitting them to their teachers, which helps readers determine the y and A.D.B. Kumara on “Plagiarism after improving testing methods repercussions. An author has a full checking their work on them. reliability and validity of the study. y Suspension infinite – while amongst research students in the at the university. It also found that right to copyright. Without quotation Teachers can detect cases of It should contain the following: reinstatement requirements are University of Moratuwa in Sri previously, some two-thirds of and reference, others cannot use plagiarism using one of the many Type of research; significance of stated, the student shall no longer Lanka” that surveyed final year academic staff suspected cheating, the content of another scholar. A available websites and software research; how to write the research be enrolled in the school and postgraduate students, and was but did not think they had sufficient writer is entitled to sue a plagiarist. programmes by reviewing problem; how to construct research yy Dismissal/expulsion – the published in the Sri Lanka Library evidence to prove students had Plagiarism can also be considered students’ posts. Some of the better questions and objectives; how to university student is permanently Review, Special Issue, Volume 29, cheated. The MyMaster Controversy a felony that may lead to a jail known plagiarism software include conduct literature reviews; methods removed from university 2015 concluded that “plagiarism is of 2015, where about 1,000 students sentence. Many who write for a Turnitin, Grammarly, Quetext, and techniques to gather data; how considerable at the university”. from 16 Australian universities hired lifetime are especially vulnerable to plagiarismdetect.org, etc. Teachers to interpret data; referencing; and Conclusion A survey of Sri Lankan websites a company through the internet plagiarism of their work, including will use this online resource as citation. Today, Sri Lankan government journalists and writers. Academic both a platform for learning and officials and private sector executives yy Don’t repeat the assignment writers and researchers are familiar for identification. Turnitin will almost always possess university with copyright legislation and give students useful knowledge Don’t give the same assignment degrees. It is therefore possible methods of avoiding plagiarism, on writing if they are encouraged or project each year. Otherwise, to arrest the “dumbing down” of which is a troubling ethical and to see their “originality papers” students may try to use the previous our society by simply nipping it in legal problem. and to see how much of the paper work as a source if they find that the bud in universities, both state in their own words is actually their friends have already studied and private. The simple methods yy Destroy students’ futures published. Turnitin can also help the same project. described above, if implemented, Charges of plagiarism will teach students what is and what is would go a long way towards yy Share samples and guidance lead to a student being penalised. not appropriate. arresting this deplorable trend. Internationally, many schools, Teachers should include a sample (The writers are Managing yy Apply proper citation colleges, and universities take final paper in their course material, Partners of Cogitaro.com, a plagiarism very seriously. Most Students are not justified in as well as links to appropriate APA consultancy that finds practical universities have academic student referencing sources in their articles and MLA citation guides. This solutions for challenges facing integrity committees. Most colleges inappropriately. Incorrect quotations illustrates that students should society and different industries. ban students for their first violation. mean that though they belong expect the standard of paper that Dr. Ruwan Dias is a digital Students are often dismissed for to another author, the ideas and their teacher expects from them. architect and educationist based in more serious acts of plagiarism. information presented in a paper Kuala Lumpur. He holds a BSc in yy Micro-assignment techniques are those of the student. This shows Computing from the University of Preventing plagiarism a disdain for the institution and Divide larger projects into micro- Greenwich, a Master’s in Computer yy Define plagiarism explicitly depreciates academic experience assignments. This makes it more Software Engineering from for everyone in general. A difficult for students to plagiarise Staffordshire University, and a PhD Universities must provide new specific citation style (footnotes, by demanding an outline and a from the University of Malaya. He students with a simple description terminology, or parenthetical rough draft. It can be hard to do is completing a second doctorate of plagiarism and unethical quotations) may be required from so over several weeks, as students in business administration from collaboration. These concepts can different disciplines, professors, can change their themes at the last Universiti Utara Malaysia. ruwan@ vary between faculty members and and institutions. American minute. Students must be sure and cogitaro.com. between classes. This is especially Psychological Association (APA), provide the contents for the micro- Niresh Eliatamby is a lecturer important to be explained explicitly Harvard, Chicago, and Modern assignments they have written. in marketing, HR, and mass in each course that they attend. Language Association (MLA) are communications based in yy Submit digital/electronic copy It should define a zero tolerance the most used style guides in the Colombo. He is an author and was policy for the programme so the academic region. Require students to submit formerly the Associate Editor of a seriousness of cheating in their class electronic copies and, where newspaper and Editor of various is beyond doubt. Crackdown on plagiarism appropriate, copies of their industry magazines. He holds an services records. It is easy for teachers to MBA from London Metropolitan yy Rough drafts and tracking work Plagiarism services do not identify plagiarism using one of University and an LLM from progress operate covertly, since their very the numerous software packages Cardiff Metropolitan University. Adding deadlines to a written nature requires open marketing. Fig. using electronic copies of students’ [email protected]) WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 6 the sunday morning business WOMEN Sunday, August 30, 2020 The other 19th Amendment z The glass ceiling and the ERA in the US

and thus he and his wife, a partner Democrats a new source of strength By of a law firm, often invited me to which had helped elect Bill Clinton barbeques, while multitasking with to the presidency in 1992 and again Ranel T. managing the many children they in 1996. Wijesinha had. Middle class vs. working Landmark 100 years ago – class There is considerable yes, but inclusive – no Middle-class women were discussion today in print and The 19th Amendment to the apparently supportive, while those electronic media about Sri Constitution of the US guaranteed representing or lobbying for the Lanka’s 19th Amendment American women the right to vote. working class were opposed on the (19A) to the Constitution. Of course, we know that this was not grounds that “employed women” 19A was passed by the achieved within a short space of time, needed special protection regarding 225-member Sri Lankan but rather was preceded by years of working conditions and employment agitation. The Economist puts it well hours. This segment of women Parliament, with 215 voting when it says: “Tennessee was the 36th believed that the ERA would in favour on 28 April 2015. and final state needed to ratify the disadvantage housewives, cause The Amendment, inter 19th Amendment, granting American women to be drafted into the military alia, diluted powers of the women the right to vote despite male and to lose protections such as Executive Presidency, restored fears of ‘petticoat rule’.” alimony, and eliminate the tendency many components of the 17th The next landmark, inclusivity for mothers to obtain custody over Amendment, enabled the only 55 years ago their children in divorce cases. Constitutional Council, and set Yes, the 19th Amendment is Meanwhile in another women who want to scale the up independent commissions. regarded as a landmark piece of corporate ladder”. legislation, and the anniversary continent Given the volume of writings on is heralded with much fanfare. The glass ceiling beyond politics Be within your “blue flame” the merits and demerits of our own However, for minority women, As I began penning some thoughts Rukaiya’s advice to other 19A, I thought I will instead write particularly African-American, on “The other 19th Amendment and women is to be “dedicated, work about the other 19th Amendment, Hispanic, and Native-American the Equal Rights Amendment”, I wholeheartedly, be within your ‘blue which is relevant given the upcoming women, their right to vote came Opposition to the ERA could not help but notice something flame’ (where your passion meets elections in the US. later. “Minority women” achieved Phyllis Schlafly became an positive out of Africa, given also the your talent), and this makes work 18 August 1920 marked the 100th complete access to the vote through outspoken opponent of the ERA much spoken of African-American, effortless and you will not even notice anniversary of the 19th Amendment the Voting Rights Act only in 1965. during the 1970s as the organiser of Asian-American people who the long hours being put because you in the US. The US is a country, and the “STOP ERA” campaign. “STOP” have done well in politics and the are within an area that you are very its people, I have great affection The slow road to equality was an acronym for “Stop Taking professions. I thought I must share passionate about. Be a team player, and admiration for, despite all the The recent Democratic National Our Privileges”. She argued that it since these stories rarely receive make impact, and deliver results”. real and perceived negatives – some Convention featured high-profile the ERA would take away gender- global publicity they deserve as She goes on to say: “Above all, self-inflicted by their own people – women including Hillary Clinton, specific privileges currently enjoyed inspiration to the many people in have integrity and character, be whether they be politicians, public Nancy Pelosi, and Kamala Harris by women, including “dependent less-than-developed or less-than- frank and honest – what is yours will officials, bankers, businesses, (the potential first female Vice wife” benefits under Social Security, privileged nations. always be yours. I believe in destiny; professionals, or others. The latter, of President of the US). The Economist separate restrooms for males and you just need to play your part by course, will not take away from my makes an interesting point that females, and exemption from Glory Edozien working hard and doing things right. affection and indeed my expectations while many analysts predict that Selective Service (the military Branding coach and visibility When things don’t go as planned and for the country, given the multiple Kamala Harris will secure women draft)”. expert you know you have done your part, positives that overshadow the voters for Joe Biden, there has never I must first place on record just learn to surrender, have grit, pick negatives, as well as a continuing been a monolithic women’s vote. It Ratifications even in 2020 my appreciation of the work of yourself up, and try other things. well-wisher of that great country. says: “While women helped lead the and rescinds Glory Edozien, PhD, a LinkedIn Perhaps it is the invisible hand, and movement against suffrage in the US Democratic Vice Presidential In 1972, when Schlafly began her professional branding coach and time will show you that what you Rationale for affection – just early 1900s and against the Equal Candidate Kamala Harris campaign against the ERA, it had visibility expert who helps mid- didn’t get is for the better.” a glimpse Rights Amendment in the 1970s, relevant legislation. Wikipedia already been ratified by 28 of the senior-level career women and Rukaiya loves doing a bit of yoga Visiting the US frequently while and though Hilary Clinton won and other sources refer to the ERA required 38 states. Seven more states executives build visibility and to relax, aromatherapy, and listening living and working in the Bahamas most female voters in 2016, yet at as being designed to “guarantee ratified the amendment after Schlafly thought leadership on LinkedIn, so to slow music. was easy and inexpensive, and so I least 47% of white women voted for equal legal rights for all American began organising opposition, but they can get the recognition they was travelling throughout the many Donald Trump.” citizens regardless of sex”. The another five states rescinded their deserve, earn more money, and Reminiscing my role as and varied cities, towns, and the The anniversary is also a ERA was approved by the House of ratifications. The last state to ratify climb the corporate ladder. Through Partner PwC Sri Lanka countryside. My affection for the reminder; it says that women have Representatives on 12 October 1971 the ERA was Indiana, where State her LinkedIn Visibility System, she A chartered accountant by training, country and its people was enhanced still not secured equal representation and by the US Senate on 22 March Senator Wayne Townsend cast the is helping African career women Rukaiya has worked mostly in because of the work we did at in public office. Today, only 24% of 1972. It was then submitted to the tie-breaking vote in January 1977. across the continent and Diaspora strategy and operational strategy Deloitte together with the US offices, Congress is female (see graph). state legislatures for ratification, as Nevada, Illinois, and Virginia ratified to effectively communicate their before moving on to work in and the visits to several of them and provided for in Article V of the US the ERA between 2017 and 2020, skills online and build professional sustainability and climate change. their visits to us. The Equal Rights Constitution. many years after the deadline to do credibility in their sectors. She leads the “Sustainability and I also lived there and did Amendment (ERA) so. Climate Change, Public Sector Risk my postgraduate studies in the Kamala Harris’s nomination Near ratification, Rukaiya el-Rufai – Out Assurance” practice. All this made University of Pittsburgh, and it was evoked a lot of comments and but stalled Forces of reason and of Africa me reminisce my role as Partner a partner of the Deloitte Pittsburgh reflections on the Equal Rights Congress is said to have had goodwill vs. family values Partner at PwC, Nigeria at PwC Sri Lanka, more than two office – John Yanak, who provided Amendment (ERA), which, inter originally set a ratification deadline Wikipedia further states that Decades younger than Hilary, decades ago, where I found a number me with a reference to my MBA alia, was designed to end the of 22 March 1979 for the state “moderates thought they represented Michelle, Kamala of America of outstanding, professional women, programme, himself is an alumnus legal distinctions between men legislatures to consider the ERA. the forces of reason and goodwill In an interview series Glory managers, and partners balancing of the Business School. He also and women in matters of divorce, Up to 1977, the amendment but failed to take seriously the power Edozien launched with high- their careers and homes, yet truly enrolled me into the Deloitte property, employment, and others. received 35 of the necessary 38 of the family values argument and achieving women in corporate committed to their profession, the Pittsburgh Alumni Association Thus, I chose to research the state ratifications. With wide, the single-mindedness of Schlafly Africa, she interviewed Rukaiya firm, its clients, and its people. bipartisan support (including that and her followers. The ERA’s el-Rufai, the first women from (Across the Years, Beyond the of both major political parties, both defeat had seriously damaged the northern Nigeria to become a Oceans is a column by Chartered houses of Congress, and Presidents women’s movement, destroying its partner at PwC. In this interview, Accountant Ranel Wijesinha to share Nixon, Ford, and Carter), the ERA momentum and potential to foment Glory invites Rukaiya to share “the thoughts and ideas generated by his seemed destined for ratification social change”. This had resulted strategies for her career rise, the years of experience in Sri Lanka and until a Phyllis Schlafly mobilised in feminist dissatisfaction with importance of building strategic beyond the oceans in many parts of conservative women in opposition. the Republican Party, giving the relationships and advice for other the world he has lived and worked)

Amidst a pandemic and lockdown a few months ago, Hatch launched their “Kickass Bootcamp”, a month-long business development Celebrating female entrepreneurs programme to support female founders and entrepreneurs in Sri survived the Covid-19 crisis so far, Wahab and Himali de Silva who me understand the business Lanka. The bootcamp has come how they promote their brand on started Yoga With Aisha and Apé, landscape as a whole and I have a long way since its inception social media, and what were their respectively, during the time of the since taken steps to get necessary mere five months ago, with three burning questions addressed through pandemic. certifications and contracts in series completed and 30 female the bootcamp. Aisha founded an online yoga place when dealing with both entrepreneurs in its alumni making class by putting her hobbies into use B2B (business-to-business) and a strong network of women who are Sustaining a family business to keep herself occupied during the B2C (business-to-consumer) making change across different parts during trying times pandemic early this year. Aisha grew transactions.” of Sri Lanka. Speaking on the company’s her platform through Instagram by of her business as well as refine her Nima Faiz, who runs Platter It Up, Joining us on the third leg of the growth since the completion of posting relevant content and creating business model for longevity. another entrepreneur who has been bootcamp were female founders the bootcamp, Manoharamalar a strong brand through visuals. in her line of work for over a year, from various areas of businesses Luxmikanthan, who is now What started and continued to be Transforming businesses had to share the same experience at including DV+Co. Architecture, managing her mother’s company, an online-based class, Aisha soon over time Bhagya. “I was confused regarding an architectural design consultancy Shoba Garments in Kilinochchi, said learned through the bootcamp that Bhagya Iddamalgoda of Candle where my business was headed in and project management services their objective was to survive the if she wants to sustain her business, House Ceylon has been having a the long term, hiring, and general company; Butterfly Effect Training outcomes of the coronavirus. she will have to switch from a virtual successful candle business for the finances. Kickass really cleared Partners, a personal growth and “Keeping our social media model to an in-person class, which past few years, using Facebook and things up for me because I never grooming start-up; The Cake Box activities during the pandemic she will begin in September 2020. Instagram to market her products. had a business plan, and I never and Platter It Up, two food-based lockdown was essential. I regularly Butterfly Effect Training Partners Himali founded Apé during the However, after joining the Kickass really gave much thought about businesses; Shoba Garments, advertised on Facebook and Co-Founders Fazla Razak and Ranmali start of the lockdown. Tired with Bootcamp, she mentioned that after finances on a deeper level or my Wickramasinghe a second-generation clothing Instagram and kept my followers the linear consumption, Himali a few years of running a business, business in general in that much manufacturing company; and Candle updated on the new designs we were local market by collaborating with aims to educate and transform she needed guidance on changing depth. Kickass made me take a step House Ceylon, Kikasho Twins, Yoga working on, so that we didn’t lose well-established brands for a higher people towards adopting a circular and navigating the next phase of her back and analyse my business in With Aisha, and Apé, all of which momentum. I also targeted niche reach.” economy. Apé predominantly uses business, which included managing a way that I’ve never done before. are lifestyle brands. customer segments which helped me Instagram and currently functions her finances and social media as From managing social media and Here are some deep-dive insights generate new orders. The Kickass Sometimes a pandemic as a virtual marketplace. Himali well as streamlining her operational thinking about growth to making into what they had to say about Bootcamp also helped me look into means a new start said the bootcamp helped educate activities. finances less scary.” three things: How their start-up has the prospects of expanding into the This statement is true to Aisha her on previously unthought areas “The Kickass Bootcamp helped Contd. on page 7 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning business 7 Sunday, August 30, 2020 MACRO

BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR The economic data or statistics of a country usually reflects the true picture of that country whilst allowing Economic data: How are international institutions to understand the country’s position in comparison with its regional peers. Earlier this month, national economic data of Sri Lanka for the first the statistics gathered? quarter of 2020 was released; headquarters and its branch offices, the issues and recommend surveys it showed that the economy as well as statistical data extracted that should be conducted to solve had contracted by 1.6%. from various administrative records. these. The task forces comprised Statistical data that is collected the CBSL Director of Statistics, As the data was released by the DCS headquarters, as well along with private and public following a highly unusual delay, as its branch offices, are usually sector officials. this led to intense speculation maintained at different locations However, earlier last year, as to the reasons for said delay. in different formats. Lack of a speaking to The Sunday Morning Eventually, it was issued only in coherent system for efficient Business, DCS Director General the third quarter, a massive delay, retrieval of data has therefore been a Bandara said she stands by the even when accounting for the problem faced by data users which current economic data compiled by unprecedented disruptions caused has made it essential for a one-stop the DCS. by the Covid-19 pandemic. Many shop for statistical data. “I would not say our statistics are opined that the data was being held LankaSIS features easy and wrong. We captured the data and back intentionally till the end of convenient search functions, a arrived at the GDP rate using our the election, which was conducted large range of easy-to-comprehend current methodologies. There are on 5 August, so as to prevent any content for general users, and no problems in the system.” political disadvantage. However, the referential information to facilitate Department of Census and Statistics users with easy and fast access to Criticism over (DCS) and the Central Bank of Sri information they need. delayed data Lanka (CBSL) both denied this Parliamentarian Dr. de Silva in allegation, and attributed the delay Doubts over accuracy July claimed the Government was purely to the pandemic. The former Government withholding the first quarter GDP This is not the first time Sri and the CBSL cast serious data. Lanka’s economic data, or the in routine data collection and structure, nature, and performance is considered the official measure doubt on the accuracy of Sri Dr. de Silva stated they knew process by which it is calculated, provide the DCS with a footprint at by activity groups classified of inflation. The NCPI is compiled Lanka’s economic indicators for a fact that the GDP growth rate has come under scrutiny. the lowest level of the governmental according to the International covering all areas of the country compiled by the DCS. During was negative for the first quarter Economists, politicians, and even structure. Standard Industrial Classifications and published with a time lag of 21 a press conference in October and, according to sources, the a CBSL Governor cast doubts (ISIC). days through a government gazette, last year, then CBSL Governor Government was either trying to yy NAs and rebasing of base year over the accuracy of Sri Lanka’s Speaking to The Sunday Morning media release, the newspapers, and Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy influence the department to change economic statistics in the past. NA statistics compiled by Business, DCS Director General the department’s website. expressed confidence in the the figure to a positive one or was Therefore, The Sunday Morning the DCS include production, Dr. I.R. Bandara stated that annual Colombo Consumer Price Index current methodology that was trying to delay releasing the data Business decided dig deep and expenditure, cost components, statistics are far more accurate (CCPI) adopted by the DCS two years ago, until the general election is over. determine how economic data is distribution of national income, than quarterly surveys as certain The Prices and Wages Division but pointed out that the lack of He added that the data pertaining gathered in Sri Lanka while taking a external transactions, supply and businesses are hesitant to provide of the DCS computes and publishes resources was standing in the way to the time period from 1 January look at approaches and surveys used disposition, consolidated accounts data four times a year. However, the CCPI of Sri Lanka on a monthly of the methodology being utilised to 31 March was to be released on by Sri Lanka’s national statistics on production and expenditure, she stated that the Department basis. In order to obtain the price successfully. 28 June. agency in collecting said data. capital finance, rest-of-the-world came up with a new web-based information for the purpose of “They need resources to conduct The DCS stated that they statistics, etc. Those statistics are system where they give logins for computing the index, the test the surveys necessary to support generally release quarterly GDP Economic statistics/ released with a 75 days’ time lag. businesses. purchasing survey is carried out the methodology, in the absence estimates after completion of economic data Until 2015, NAs were estimated The stages of an establishment with officers of the Prices and of which they have to use certain 75 days in each quarter and Economic statistics or data are using the year 2002 as the base year. survey operation are as follows: Wages Division in urban areas of proxies and assumptions. Therefore, accordingly, the first quarter GDP facts and figures derived from Under the previous Government, planning stage, preparing the Colombo District. there are some disagreements estimates need to be released on economic surveys undertaken the DCS moved the base year questionnaires and instruction The information on selected between us and the DCS,” the 19 June 2020. However, this year, by national statistical agencies. from 2002 and 2010 and began manuals, updating sample frame goods and services are collected Governor noted at the time. due to the impact of the Covid-19 Economic statistics are imperative publishing a series of annual and and selection of samples, printing continuously from selected outlets This was the second time the pandemic, the DCS had reportedly for a government to compile quarterly estimates on their website, questionnaires and instruction as per exact specifications. Using CBSL questioned the accuracy faced many challenges in gathering national accounts. They indicate with technical assistance from the manuals, activities related to this information, the CCPI is of statistics compiled by the data and information during the the past and future trend of an International Monetary Fund (IMF) sending questionnaires by post, compiled and published. DCS. In December last year, Dr. months of May and June from economy and generate a detailed and Asian Development Bank data collection and performing Producer’s Price Index (PPI) Coomaraswamy cast doubts on government, semi-government, and set of accounts including economic (ADB). field duties, data editing, coding, For compiling the PPI, price the GDP growth rate of Sri Lanka, private sector institutions in the indicators. In the rebasing process, several computerisation, verification of information of 36 agricultural saying he believed it was higher. country. These statistics are concerned improvements were made data, preparation of error reports, products is collected by the “I don’t think this is a 3% growth In addition to this, the DCS in with changes in reactions to to the Sri Lankan System of calculating weights, tabulation of department staff in the field economy. My view is that the a press release stated that data the economic environment to National Accounts (SNA) such data tables, verification of data attached to the Divisional growth is somewhere between availability of many institutions households, businesses, non-profit as the adoption of international tables, preparation of final reports, Secretariat; for the manufacturing 3.5-4% in 2018. The DCS adopted and the quality of data were not at organisations (NGOs), and the classifications and adoption of SNA and publishing of final reports. sector, price information is collected a new methodology some time satisfactory levels due to operational government. The statistics are 2008 compilation methodologies. According to Bandara, these from the 376 institutions; and for ago, which needs a lot of surveys impediments at the ground level as shown as values and quantities as Accordingly, from the first quarter surveys are conducted both as the utility sector, price information to support it. We don’t have the a result of the restrictions imposed they deal with factors of production, of 2015, the NAs are compiled with manual paper-based surveys was collected from the Ceylon resources to undertake lots of by the Government and regulations distribution, and the prices at which 2010 as the base year. and through computer-based Electricity Board (CEB) and surveys,” the Governor said at the provided by the Ministry of Health goods and services are bought and Rebasing provides more accurate surveys and the computers at the the National Water Supply and time. to control the Covid-19 pandemic sold. estimates of the size, movement, Department are up to date with the Drainage Board (NWSDB). These comments followed similar in the country. Therefore, the DCS and structure of the Sri Lankan latest technology. Customs collection of data sentiments expressed by then Non- had to verify the data received from How Sri Lanka collects economy, incorporating new and The statistical branch of Sri Cabinet Minister of Economic these institutions for accuracy. yy Methods of collection economic statistics emerging economic activities Lanka Customs is responsible for Reforms and Public Distribution The first quarter data was issued yy The DCS – authorised data which were not accounted for in the GDP obtaining computerised import and Dr. Harsha de Silva just two months on 4 August, a day before the 2020 collector previous system. The GDP is the market value export data on a daily basis, the prior. general election. As stated by Dr. de The United Nations Statistical of the final goods and services preparation of relevant information In October 2018, Dr. de Silva, Silva, the first quarter GDP growth Even though private firms and Commission (UNSC) recommends produced within a country in a of external statistics, processing data who was the State Minister of hit negative levels as growth had think tanks may collect and report rebasing every five years, although given period. The GDP is a tool files of import/export and re-export National Policies and Economic contracted by 1.6% compared to a on economic statistics, usually it is a some countries do so at intervals that is used to measure the size and data, correcting erroneous computer Affairs at the time, noted that the growth of 3.7% a year ago. government authority that officially of less than five years. In 1975, the growth of an economy both by data files, keeping statistical data Port City was not being included in releases the economic statistics of 1990, 1998, and 2002, only the local authorities and international sales, and maintaining outlet the final records. Need for a national policy a country. In Sri Lanka, the DCS is base year was changed without financial institutions. Economic efficiency. “I have a big issue with the Bandara stated that there is a vested with the authority to conduct any improvements made to the Sri growth is a percentage change External trade statistics are growth numbers coming out. There dire need for a national policy national surveys, collect economic Lankan SNA. of real GDP, and it measures prepared monthly and issued are a lot of activities happening. to ensure the most accurate and statistics, and compile national the quantitative expansion of an to the CBSL, Treasury, various Are we recording them? The comprehensive economic data. yy Surveys to collect data accounts (NAs) since 2007. economy. ministries and departments, local numbers are not reflecting what Furthermore, she specifically Forty-three branch offices of The Industry, Construction, According to the DCS, real GDP and international institutions, and actually happens in the sector. I pointed out that businesses either the DCS are situated in various Trade, and Services Division of is derived by removing the price researchers within the first 15 days will give you an example – the do not register or keep registering ministries, departments, and the DCS conducts establishment effect from the GDP at current of each month. Port City is not in the construction every year under new names in other government agencies. The surveys to compile economic prices. There are three approaches LankaSIS samples.” order to obtain concessions given DCS has established 25 district indicators. These surveys are to deriving the GDP value for LankaSIS is the centralised As a result, the Government only in the first year of business. statistical offices, located in the conducted annually and quarterly. a given period. They are the statistical information service set up task forces to identify According to Bandara, this district secretariats. Each office Quarterly surveys are conducted production approach, expenditure created and maintained by the weaknesses, which mainly stem particular issue has a severe impact is in charge of a deputy director/ in order to give quick estimates to approach, and income approach. DCS which offers a wide range from the lack of human and on the country’s informal sector senior statistician/statistician who compile the gross domestic product National Consumer Price of official statistics collected technological resources. The task data, and as such, emphasised the is assisted by a team of statistics (GDP) and annual surveys give Index (NCPI) through censuses, surveys, special forces were given a time period, importance of introducing new officers. These officers are engaged detailed information about the Since October 2015, the NCPI enumeration activities by the DCS during which they had to find out methodologies.

Contd. from page 6

improvement, and the bootcamp creative posts and collaborating with and tools that we could apply when Applications are now taught her how to manage her influencers who would add value building a sustainable pricing open for Kickass Series 4 finances and also measure her social to their business. The twins said the strategy.” The Kickass Bootcamp will Celebrating... media growth. bootcamp helped them a lot in terms The final participants of the be starting its fourth series in Kithmi Weerantunga runs of managing their finances. bootcamp were Fazla Razak and September 2020. If you are a Connecting with your her business would sustain since Kikasho by Twins with her twin There is space for everyone Ranmali Wickramasinghe of female entrepreneur and feel like audience through her business is based on catering sister Kalasi. Their Instagram Butterfly Effect Training Partners. a little extra guidance and being authenticity to those who have a sweettooth resonates with the authenticity of Tiza De Vas, who owns and runs Faz and Ran commended the a part of an amazing group of and would like to indulge in some the twins, and since the pandemic, DV+Co. Architecture, mentioned: pandemic, which inspired them to women wouldn’t hurt, then write A trend that was seen during the sweetness occasionally. the twins have been even keener on “As a consultation style business, open up their social media pages to [email protected] and apply pandemic was the growing demand Murshida manages her own building a business that resonates skill, knowledge, and experience for the business. They commended now! for cakes and confectionaries as social media as she sees herself with the love and warmth they try to are large components of what we the programme for giving them the (“The Founder” is a weekly people were spending lockdown in as the best person to put into provide through their venture. offer here at DV+Co., all of which foresight needed to expand into column by Hatch, published on their homes. Murshida Iqbal, the words the love and effort that goes The twins said they leverage is qualitative, which still needs a different markets and regions as The Sunday Morning Business, Founder and Owner of The Cake into baking her cakes. She states their brand through social media, quantifiable way of being priced. well as on utilising social media to which focuses on start-ups and Box based in Kandy, is positive that that her photography skills need especially by putting out visually Kickass brought us the principles market themselves. entrepreneurship) WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 8 the sunday morning business BANKING/ADVERTORIAL Sunday, August 30, 2020

BY UWIN LUGODA National Savings Bank (NSB) recently took home three awards from the annual Bestweb.lk competition, with one of them NSB breaks stereotypes being the prestigious gold award from the Overall Web category. This marked the bank’s first time winning this award; it also managed to take home the gold with website awards award for Best Banking and web-based transactions, internet banking, Finance Website, and silver award and cards. for best Overall Tamil Website. “Apart from our website, we have NSB donates PCs and equipment been very active in our other social First launched in the 1970s by late media channels to answer customer to District Hospital Negombo Minister Dr. N.M. Perera, the bank is inquiries and keep them informed about fairly new to the digital space, only new services. We have moved far from properly going online three or four traditional banking, and have tried our years ago. According to the current NSB best to adapt to the current world, with Deputy General Manager – Marketing new services and technologies.” Lal Karunatilaka, this is what makes this Karunatilaka stated that they are award special, since within this short currently utilising all the best technology span of time, they were able to bring and services at their disposal to ensure international banking practices to their that their customers get the best service, clients via the NSB.lk website and their and they plan to continue bringing the social media accounts. latest technologies from around the world The Bestweb.lk competition has to Sri Lanka. been conducted annually since 2009, He stated that with their 50th by the LK Domain Registry. The anniversary coming up in 2022, they organisation works on the concept that want to make NSB not only a top bank both government and private institutions in Sri Lanka, but one of the best in NSB Deputy General Manager – Marketing need an attractive and effective website Lal Karunatilaka the world when it comes to financial District General Hospital – as its front door. BestWeb.lk is a web- management. Negombo and NSB officials based competition providing an exclusive “Most people think that private sector Karunatilaka explained that their at the equipment handing opportunity to promote and popularise organisations have the best websites, website has now enabled their customers over ceremony Sri Lankan websites and showcase Sri but this is not true. As a government to connect with the bank at any time, Lankan abilities online. organisation, we have allocated from any location. He stated that this was NSB granted the necessary resources to miscellaneous office equipment. NSB formerly received recognition significant resources and time to improve what they wanted out of their site, adding the Judicial Medical Office of the District Gracing the occasion of handing over at the awards ceremony under other the website, and we always monitor it for that they are working tirelessly to negate General Hospital – Negombo at a function the equipment were District General categories from 15 sectors, including the any developments that need to be done,” the drawbacks of technology, such as held recently with a view to improving its Hospital – Negombo Director Dr. Nihal private sector, government sector, and said Karunatilaka. fraud, to ensure utmost safety. services. Weerasooriya, District General Hospital non-profit organisation sector. He explained that during the Covid- “We have one-and-a-half years to Conducted under the theme of – Negombo Consultant Judicial Medical NSB is conscious of the perception 19-imposed lockdown, they used their achieve this goal, and our website will be creating a healthy country, NSB Officer Dr. Deepthi Wijewardene, and surrounding the use of technology in website and social media accounts such a major part of it. We are very proud of granted the Judicial Medical Office representing NSB were Deputy General government organisations, and said that as Twitter and Facebook in order to keep what it has achieved but our main goal of the District General Hospital – Manager – Marketing Lal Karunathilake this string of awards will help to break their customers informed and help them goes beyond competition – and that is to Negombo five personal computers and and other bank officers. that negative stereotype. adapt to using online services such as better serve our customers.” Ex-BOC CEO Senarath Bandara AIA launches digital to be MD/CEO of Cargills Bank job interviews Veteran banker Senarath Bandara Cargills Bank MD/CEO”. to LankaClear (Pvt.) Ltd., the Ranjit Page stated: “We are delighted has been appointed the Managing Prior to his appointment, Bandara Credit Information Bureau, and to welcome Mr. Senarath Bandara Director (MD)/Chief Executive served as the General Manager Lanka Financial Services Bureau. to the Cargills family. The wealth Officer (CEO) Designate of Cargills (GM)/CEO of Bank of Ceylon He has also served on a number of of experience Mr. Bandara brings Bank Ltd., and will commence (BOC), and retired from BOC professional bodies including as a to Cargills Bank will be of great his new role with effect from 8 after a service of 30 years. During member of the governing body of value to all our stakeholders as September 2020. Bandara will take this period, he gained substantial the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka, we continue towards our vision to over as MD/CEO of the bank with experience in areas such as general a member of the Council of the be the most inclusive retail bank effect from 1 October 2020, subject banking, retail banking, retail credit, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, in Sri Lanka, contributing to the to regulatory clearance. development banking, corporate Chairman of the Asia-Pacific Rural upliftment of all Sri Lankans and the He succeeds Rajendra lending, investment and treasury Agricultural Credit Association development of the country. I would Theagarajah, who is due to step management, and international (APRACA), Vice Chairman of the also like to take this opportunity to down on 30 September 2020, banking operations. Sri Lanka Bankers’ Association, and extend my gratitude to Mr. Rajendra as first reported by The Sunday Bandara, a Fellow of the Institute a Past President of the Association of Theagarajah for his significant Morning Business on 20 August of Bankers of Sri Lanka, has served Professional Bankers of Sri Lanka. contribution to the bank over the past 2020 under the headline “Rajendra on several boards of subsidiaries Commenting on the appointment three years, and wish him well in his Theagarajah to step down as and associates of BOC in addition of Bandara, Cargills Bank Chairman future endeavours.” AIA Insurance Fonseka explained: Agency Distribution has rolled out the “In these post-Covid Chanaka Liyanage Sixer Video platform times, most people added: “It also means to enable online are uneasy to have AIA can recruit new People’s Bank Welipennagahamulla interviews for agent physical meetings. candidates much recruitment remotely. We wanted to find faster using these Candidates a way to ensure our video resumes which service centre shifted interested in joining agent recruitment give us great insights AIA as agents can process continues to the candidates. At The People’s Bank Welipennagahamulla service now take part in digital uninterrupted, so we the same time, we’re centre was recently moved to a new location and career opportunity can continue to hire now able to process ceremoniously declared open by People’s Bank presentations and the highest calibre of multiple candidates Chairman Sujeewa Rajapakse. submit video resumes professionals. This is within minutes using The service centre attached to the People’s online. The new also a cost-effective these video resumes Bank Nattandiya branch has ample space and is process enables and convenient option instead of conducting complete with the latest technology and modern AIA’s team to save for candidates as they individual one-on-one conveniences, the bank said. By using the ATM candidates’ time and don’t have to waste interviews. We are available at the service centre, customers can effort spent travelling time and money always looking for withdraw and deposit cash 24 hours a day, seven long distances to travelling for their first the highest calibre of days a week. interview for a interview anymore professionals to recruit The new People's Bank Welipennagahamulla service centre being declared open Nattandiya Divisional Secretary D.M.R.P. position as a Wealth and can focus on their as Wealth Planners Dassanayake, Udubaddawa Divisional Secretary A.U.A. Ansar, Assistant GM – Channel Maxie Perera, and Welipennagahamulla Service Planner. presentations from and this platform Kumudu P. Vithanage, People’s Bank’s Senior Management R. Ravikaran, Regional Manager Centre Manager M.R.D. Shanthi, along with a AIA Chief the comfort of their has certainly made Deputy General Manager (DGM) – Retail – Puttalam Lal Peiris, Asst. Regional Manager large number of customers, also participated at Technology Officer homes.” the process more Banking K.B. Rajapakse, Asst. GM – Marketing Mahesha Sirimanne, Nattandiya Branch Manager the event. (CTO) Umeshi de AIA Director – efficient.” Seylan Bank revamps Gold Loans offering higher value Seylan Bank PLC announced Understanding the need within help customers to obtain Gold Loan working capital loans to revamp purchase machinery and equipment provide this service is furnished that it took measures to further the market for consumers to be able services. their businesses,” the bank said. with no additional documentation, with a separate unit and equipped reduce their Gold Loan rates to to obtain financial aid immediately “Seylan is known to be a The reduced interest rates and farmers in the agricultural field to with tools of the highest quality to 0.79% per month, one of the lowest with minimum documentation, customer-centric financial the high advance amount offered purchase fertilisers and pesticides, test the weight of the gold, together interest rates in the market, to team Seylan looked into revamping organisation working towards by the bank will help consumers young entrepreneurs looking to with density metres to ensure ease the financial burden faced by the Gold Loan facility for their a common goal of financially fund emergency cash needs such finance small business projects, and articles are not damaged during the consumers due to Covid-19. As customers’ urgent financial needs uplifting its customers. Analysing as urgent medical expenses, young executives looking to finance process, the bank said. a result, Seylan currently offers – be it for personal or business the financial constraints consumers educational expenses, and cash their higher educational dreams. Seylan Bank has a growing the highest advance amount of purposes. The bank said it has are facing due to the pandemic, needed for urgent household needs. Seylan said it confirms the clientele of SMEs and retail and Rs. 66,000 for a 24K sovereign already taken measures to enable team Seylan introduced the Gold Apart from that, the Gold Loan highest level of safety and privacy corporate customers, and has among the commercial banks, with a majority of its branch network Loan facility to strengthen its facility can also be obtained for to all customers who wish to obtain expanded its footprint with 173 repayment plans that range between with the required infrastructure and customer base with the opportunity small and medium businessowners Gold Loans through the bank. Each branches and an ATM network of three months and one year. to train their staff to educate and to utilise their gold assets to obtain in the manufacturing industry to branch that is currently enabled to 215 units across the country.

Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 ANILANA PASIKUDA A TOUCH OF PARADISE IS WHAT YOU NEED »SEE PAGE 3 DREAM MUSIC FEST »SEE PAGE 2

Sunday, August 30, 2020 brunchWITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER Fashion as a tool for social change THE ‘UNBREAKABLE’ MESSAGE IS FOR THE SILENT SUFFERERS AMILANI PERERA

BY NAVEED ROZAIS Fashion plays an important role in our daily lives; it is in many ways a reflection of how we experience the world. It is integrally woven into our decision-making processes. Whether through garments or the image-building of the industry, fashion can form and shape stereotypes and norms, for both good and bad.

show their support towards the #MeToo movement and also to build accountability in Hollywood when it comes to The whole project sexual harassment. Sri Lankan designer was one of mutual Amilani Perera recently understanding; unveiled her new collection “Unbreakable” at Colombo domestic violence Fashion Week 2020. Being is a global issue a unique collection and and transcends groundbreaking collaboration with the United Nations all barriers of Population Fund race, class, and (UNFPA) Sri Lanka, background the heart of the Unbreakable collection is powerfully simple – stand against domestic Fashion has the potential violence. to shape gender relations The Sunday Morning positively. For instance, Brunch sat down with in 2018, a vast majority of Amilani Perera to actresses and Hollywood learn more about her professionals stood in eponymous label and solidarity with each other, her new collection, wearing black to the 2018 Unbreakable. Golden Globes in order to ││ Contd. on page 2

PHOTO GEESHAN BANDARA HAIR AND MAKEUP DIL SAPUKOTANAGE WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 2 the sunday morning brunch PEOPLE/ARTS Sunday, August 30, 2020 Dream Music Fest Kasun Kalhara Sri Lanka’s first seated concert post lockdown

Sanuka Wickramasinghe

Athma Liyanage

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE The Dream Music Fest, powered by Dialog Axiata PLC and endorsed by the Ministry of Health, was held on 23 August at the outdoor seating area of the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre as Sri Lanka’s first seated concert to take place post lockdown. Bathiya and Santhush The audience enjoying Dream Music Fest Safety check at the entrance The event was put together courtesy of the Event Management Association (EMA). artistes from every end of the spectrum, from performed and the event line-up also featured The event itself was carried out quite genres. Nevertheless, there were some who Speaking to EMA Assistant Secretary classical and pop to DJs and percussionists. a wide array of local talent, including reputed smoothly, with the attendees sticking to all also expressed that they were slightly bored and Dream Music Fest Chairman Saliya “The attendees were given the opportunity to local DJs, drummers, and singers from a the requested guidelines. The venue was due to how long things took to get started; Weerasekara, he said the primary motivation witness a versatile line-up of cross-cultural variety of age groups and genres, which split into separate sections, allowing seating however, this was because they weren’t behind the concert was entirely to revive the artistes and the best of eastern and western appealed to a diversified audience. arrangements that were not too congested. familiar with the artistes who performed the entertainment industry in Sri Lanka, which music, performed by well-known musicians All the relevant health and safety However, from our own observations, as the opening numbers. has come to a standstill due to the pandemic. and popular Sri Lankan bands,” Weerasekara regulations were met at the event; night progressed, people did start to slack Weerasekara offered his thanks to both He shared that while certain efforts were said. temperature checks were carried out, hand somewhat and relax in terms of the safety Dialog and TV Derana for their partnership, undoubtedly made, an example being the Weerasekara shared that at Dream Music washing facilities were readily available, concerns, particularly with many choosing to adding that it truly would not have been drive-in concert, such efforts are short-term Fest, over 75 artistes performed on stage – and tickets were only made available forgo the masks. possible if they did not have that support. solutions, whereas what is needed is a model artistes who had no outlet for quite some time for purchase online via www.myticket. Speaking to some of the attendees about On a closing note, he said that following the example through which we can experience now. This included the 13 featured artists, lk in order to reduce physical contact. As their experience, many of them shared that aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, the a full-scale concert in real time, where all namely Sunil Perera, Bathiya and Santhush, a precautionary measure, the gates were this was their first outdoor concert in the entertainment industry sustained significant precautions are carried out effectively. Randhir Witana, Umara Sinhawansa, opened two hours prior to the event in order longest time. Many of them also commented losses and the principal aim and their hope The idea was to put together an event Kevin de Almeida, Kasun Kalhara, Athma to minimise attendee congestion. on the diversity of artistes, with the majority via this initiative was to bring fresh vitality to re-energise the event industry, which Liyanage, Samitha Mudunkotuwa, Sanka Weerasekara shared that upon viewing it in a positive light, sharing that in and energy to the industry and mark the is what brought on the participation of an Dineth, Sanuka Wickramasinghe, Lahiru conceptualising the project, they appealed to addition to providing them an opportunity to start of a new beginning, giving audiences unprecedented number of artistes performing Perera, Ridma Weerawardena, and Dhanith Director General of Health Services Dr. Anil enjoy live music, they also got to see artistes a well-deserved musical experience, and on one stage. The organisers chose to feature Sri, among others. Jasinghe and had a lengthy discussion with they would otherwise not have been exposed they believe they managed to achieve it to There were also four bands that him upon which they received the go ahead. to considering the diversity of the featured an extent.

in production because of other orders. to Canada at one point and was The introduction to the WDC and also made it as a finalist for the The ‘Unbreakable’... couriering the parcels up and down Sustainable Fashion Award at the I have a flamboyant outlook; They were very impressed by the also played a part in timing. What 2013 Sri Lanka Fashion and Apparel Contd. from page 1 happened in the end was that the I love playing with fabrics Awards for my work with that range. concept and (I was) made an award and experimenting with new finalist,” she recalled. day they were supposed to send the I even showcased some of those bags The story behind Amilani Perera collection back to Colombo for the techniques…the opening piece with the Unbreakable collection.” Having wanted to be a designer ‘Unbreakable’ – speaking out showcase was the day the lockdown for the Unbreakable collection, Working with sustainable though most people think it is since the age of 14, Perera’s keen against domestic violence was enforced. materials and practising a zero-waste interest in design led her to study art “Initially, we were only going just a printed top, is actually an policy has always been important to Perera’s newest collection made and drawing in her Advanced Level to do half the embellishment we had interesting combination of flock- the Amilani Perera brand. Many of waves for all the right reasons. “The (A/L) studies and then pursue a design planned, but then everything worked printing and bonding the fabric embellishments are made whole project was one of mutual degree at LASALLE College of the out with the collection being stuck in using pieces left over after patterns understanding; domestic violence Arts in Singapore before returning to Kandy during the lockdown. I asked – in each size. Through this, Amilani are cut. is a global issue and transcends all Sri Lanka. “I wanted to start my own them to expand the workmanship Perera guarantees that their clients “Regardless of whatever we barriers of race, class, and background. brand as soon as I got back, but my and embellishment. I was in constant own a unique piece. All Amilani do, as humans, we need to be The UNFPA was looking for a good, parents urged me to get some more touch with the WDC and they Perera pieces also feature intricate ethical. It’s a value we need to hold impactful way to get the message work experience before starting out on already had the fabric and threads. hand-embellishment, all of which in whatever we do. Working with (across), and I know how within my own.” It was also a way to provide these is done in Perera’s in-house atelier. sustainable and reusable materials the industry itself there are so many Joining MAS Holdings as a already struggling women with some This philosophy carries through to and uplifting communities are very women who face gender-based designer for their home-grown lingerie income during the pandemic,” she Amilani Perera bridals (Wedding by valuable ways forward, and I would violence across all levels, from sewing brand amanté, Perera soon fell into the explained. Amilani) as well, ensuring that each like to extend my deepest thanks technicians in factories to models and life of a corporate designer, and the Unbreakable is also an bride receives an entirely unique, to the UNFPA for this amazing even designers working at the top of desire to create her own brand faded, environmentally responsible beautifully embellished outfit for collaboration. The team has been their fields. until she finally decided to pursue an collection that uses sublimation their wedding day. amazing, from senior officials down The Unbreakable message is MBA at the University of Wales. The printing to minimise the Speaking on what drives Amilani to the communications team. I feel for the silent sufferers – to show PHOTO ESHAN DASANAYAKA inspiring business conversations she environmental impact and complies Perera’s style philosophy, Perera really blessed to have been able to that you can break through and be had as an MBA student rekindled her with zero-waste production policies. shared: “I have a flamboyant outlook; work on this project. There is so empowered, Perera shared, explaining garments. The Unbreakable collection passion to build her own business, and Perera will be working with women I love playing with fabrics and much meaning and depth in it, and how she carefully curated her colour uplifts and empowers women who in 2013, Perera decided to create her from the WDC in the longer term, experimenting with new techniques. I think this is one of my favourite pallete, selecting burgundies and experience domestic violence in Sri own brand and apply to showcase at conducting mentoring programmes, One of my earlier collections featured collections so far. I’ve never felt so reds to denote abuse, mid-greens for Lanka, featuring embellishment and Colombo Fashion Week 2013. colour therapy, and skill-based a lace hoodie – a streetwear item good,” Perera emphasised. transformational healing and growth, embroidery done by women at the “This was before the days of workshops for survivors of domestic I redefined using traditional fabric and pinks to represent the empowered Women’s Development Centre (WDC) BrightSparks and other emerging violence to give them more power to – and the opening piece for the Looking to the future woman. Perera also continued her in Kandy. Perera also incorporated the designer platforms. I remember being overcome their circumstances. Unbreakable collection, though most “The new normal will always be theme of empowerment through work and messages of survivors of one of three new designers Colombo people think it is just a printed top, is something we need to evolve into. the volume and character of her domestic violence into the collection, Fashion Week selected that year to with handwriting, hand-embroidery, Creating a value-driven brand actually an interesting combination of I think everything revolves around showcase at Colombo Fashion Week and other embellishments by domestic When setting out to create the flock-printing and bonding.” the nature of how we live,” Perera among the established designers who’d violence survivors and victims from Amilani Perera brand, Perera looked Sustainability also plays a said. “Before World War II, it was been showing for years. the WDC being incorporated into the at what her clients actually wanted, crucial part in the DNA of the unthinkable for women to wear “Before launching my brand at When the year started, we would collection. The thread embroidery in and after some reflection, she realised Amilani Perera brand. “My proposal pants, but now it is a norm. Even Colombo Fashion Week, I applied for never have thought about wearing the collection was done during the that all her clients were looking for for the Young Creative Entrepreneur taking 2020, when the year started, the British Council Young Creative masks, but now we have evolved pandemic, thus providing employment unique pieces – something they Award when I first started out was we would never have thought about Entrepreneur Award. I hadn’t even into it. If the pandemic has taught and empowerment to women could feel special in and was catered re-purposing waste material to wearing masks, but now we have officially started the brand yet; it was us anything, it is that we have to struggling through that difficult time. only to them. To this end, since its create fashion accessories. I created evolved into it. If the pandemic has my first-ever proposal – a range of embrace whatever is thrown at us, “The collection wasn’t strictly inception, Amilani Perera has only a range of clutch bags using waste taught us anything, it is that we have accessories made from waste products. adapt to it, and then flaunt it finished in March. There were delays produced one piece of each of its metal. It was very well received – I to embrace whatever is thrown at us, designs – whether retail or bespoke even ended up couriering orders adapt to it, and then flaunt it.” the sunday morning brunch editorial [email protected] 011 5200900 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning brunch 3 Sunday, August 30, 2020 TRAVEL

the tropical sun, take a swim in the massive centre-side pool, explore their gardens, and visit the beach. Sourav shared that under normal circumstances, the property tends to be quite busy as they often cater to ANILANA European guests who visit more for relaxation and rejuvenation, while the rest of the year, when the monsoon hits, they tend to have local expats and Lankans who love to travel and enjoy a stay. He shared that the lockdown PASIKUDA was a critical period for them, but a touch of paradise is what you need post lockdown, they’ve observed that people have started travelling. While it is not near to what they are Hotel review is now available on used to, they are able to stay afloat, he The Sunday Morning said, adding also that “it is more of a YouTube channel survival strategy at this point in time”. It is definitely a place guests Sourav did mention that the would like to come down to and Anilana properties have not bent break the monotony of having themselves backwards to drop the been cooped up for months rates so as to maintain the brand standard, adding that they will Group Resort GM continue to ensure that a particular Sourav Chakraborty limit of rates will remain to ensure that a particular clientele can come work-wise, they’re very professional, down and entertain the premises, and that was one of the main reasons just to make sure the balance is well which brought me here,” he said. maintained. Anilana is a property that is so He said that while they have conveniently located, making it very their strategies in terms of corporates, popular for destination weddings and embassies, and banks, which are other gatherings, as guests are able to serving them well, at a point where experience a large scope of activities everyone is talking about survival, including cultural tours, exploring they are doing well. He said that Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture; that they are definitely anticipating BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE location despite being in an extremely snorkelling and diving, a staple in that business will pick up once the secluded setting hidden away from the east coast; and a variety of beach airport is operational, because Sri During our exploration of the the day-to-day bustle of Pasikuda, and water sports, all of which are Lanka is considered to be one of the east coast, we made a stop for a and due to this seclusion, one does comfortably facilitated by Anilana. safest places to visit globally. The one-night stay at Anilana Pasikuda. not expect for the property to be so However, considering the way Government has done a great job in Due to Covid-19 concerns, there massive and spacious. the property itself is built, Anilana ensuring that all is contained, he said, was a lingering fear of visiting To get a true scale of the venue, is primarily meant for you to relax, adding: “It is definitely a place guests hotels. However, upon our arrival, we spoke to Group Resort General surround yourself in nature, soak up would like to come down to and all such worries were put to rest as Manager (GM) Sourav Chakraborty. break the monotony of having been the Anilana properties have adopted He shared that the property, as it cooped up for months.” health and safety measures to a T, stands, contains 45 rooms which PHOTOS PRADEEP DAMBARAGE ensuring that all guests feel safe and includes four suites and three chalets, welcome. adding that on any given day, they can comfortably accommodate over a Once all temperature checks were 13 years, he said that the timing made island is one of the biggest and most handled and everyone was thoroughly 100 people. Sourav himself is rather new to it so that just as he joined, the world beautiful island countries in the world. sanitised, we were kindly guided went into lockdown. However, he He said that keeping everything aside, to our rooms through the massive Anilana. Sharing that he joined in January 2020, before which he was chose Sri Lanka as the next step in what really sold him on his decision property. One of the very first things his career because while the Maldives to join was the Lankan people. you would notice about Anilana is in the Maldives and has been in the hospitality industry for a whopping is dependent on its logistics, and Sri “I have lots of friends who are its sheer size – it is a behemoth of a Lanka too is similar in a way, our Sri Lankan; knowing their attitude

BY NAVEED ROZAIS When one thinks of Jaffna, images of the iconic Nallur Kovil, palms swaying in the wind, and old-world charm spring to mind. Fox Jaffna is an example of the old- world charm of Jaffna coming together with world-class hospitality to create a truly memorable travel experience. A stunning boutique hotel operated by Fox Resorts, the hospitality arm of The Capital Maharaja Organisation, Fox Jaffna evokes a sense of Jaffna is a hidden gem in terms of comfort and tranquility, from the moment history, with significant heritage sites you walk through its doors. and multicultural elements long The heart of Fox Jaffna is an ancestral predating the civil war. Our vision in home with a rich history, at times turbulent. opening this museum was to showcase Over 200 years old, during the three- the diversity of Jaffna and the rich decade civil war, the property was seized heritage of Sri Lanka by both the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Fox Resorts CEO Chris Quyn Eelam (LTTE) forces and the Sri Lankan military. The LTTE used the property as their intelligence headquarters and built appointed, with each room having its own three concrete bunkers within the property sitting area, the most luxurious queen bed, itself, which at one time led to strategic a minibar, a flat-screen TV with cable points in Jaffna, but have since been sealed channels, and conveniently placed sockets off and repurposed to add to the Fox Jaffna for your electronics. Fox Jaffna’s deluxe experience. Government forces too used the and superior rooms all offer the same premises as their intelligence headquarters, amenities, with the difference between once they regained control of the Northern the two being that the deluxe rooms are Peninsula. It was returned to its owners at located in the ancestral villa and come the end of the conflict and has been lovingly with slightly larger bathroom space, while restored to create what is now Fox Jaffna. FOX the superior rooms are located across the gardens and boast beautiful views The history museum, named “The overlooking the pool. Vault”, which is located below the dining Fox Jaffna’s multicuisine restaurant In general, we are seeing less travel RESORTS room, tells a visual history of Jaffna and specialises in local delicacies like Jaffna- at present, due to closed borders its landmarks, dating from prehistoric style crab curry, mutton “poriyal”, preventing business travellers and times through to the civil war era, “vendhaya kulambu”, “kool” soup, and international NGO travellers from becoming a resource of sorts on things to an array of fresh seafood prepared in the overseas coming through see and do in Jaffna. The museum is also delicate, classic style that best captures its Fox Resorts Head of Sales and Marketing home to numerous historic artefacts from natural flavour. Our personal favourites JAFFNA were the fluffy yet crispy dosas and Fox Sadhana Vikrantha An idyllic escape in the heart of Jaffna the Peninsula, each telling the story of what came before. Jaffna’s truly spectacular prawn curry. Speaking on the opening of the In the wake of the Covid-19 Spread out over an expansive and Interestingly, these last two bunkers museum, Fox Resorts Chief Executive pandemic, Fox Resorts Head of Sales and immaculately manicured garden, Fox were converted into a unique art gallery Officer (CEO) Chris Quyn shared: “Jaffna Marketing Sadhana Vikrantha spoke on Jaffna consists of the ancestral villa which and a history museum, turning reminders is a hidden gem in terms of history, with the impacts of tourism in Jaffna, sharing: greets its guests, the large storerooms of of a turbulent past into an interesting significant heritage sites and multicultural “In general, we are seeing less travel at old that have been restored and converted tribute to Sri Lanka’s art and the vibrant elements long predating the civil war. Our present, due to closed borders preventing into a spacious dining room, and clusters history of Jaffna. vision in opening this museum was to business travellers and international of modern villas built to create beautifully The art gallery, named “The Bunker”, showcase the diversity of Jaffna and the NGO (non-governmental organisation) appointed rooms with enchanting views which is under the main house, showcases rich heritage of Sri Lanka.” travellers from overseas coming through. across the pool and gardens. never-before-seen works of Sri Lanka’s Fox Jaffna consists of a total of 28 But others are compensating for this, with The Sunday Morning Brunch visited eminent masters including those of the rooms, with four deluxe rooms located in locals and locally based NGO travellers Fox Jaffna on a recent trip to the North, famed ’43 Group. This underground the ancestral villa, and 24 superior rooms travelling within Sri Lanka more. indulging in the warm and friendly (literally) art gallery showcases George Keyt, David Paynter, and Justin located in the gardens overlooking the “Fox Jaffna is always ready to hospitality provided by the Fox Jaffna reproductions of Sri Lankan paintings Deraniyagala, among many others. Sri pool and the dining room. The pool at Fox welcome guests.” He added: “All team. Our tour of the hotel included a walk from the private collection of The Capital Lankan art plays an important part at Fox Jaffna is the best-rated pool in the district precautionary measures are being strictly through the villa and its four deluxe rooms Maharaja Organisation and Fox Resorts Jaffna, with art from these renowned artists and is its own little refreshing oasis within followed to create a safe and relaxing and an intriguing tour of the last remaining Chairman R. Mahendran. The collection adorning the halls of the public areas, the tranquillity of the Fox Jaffna gardens. space for our guests.” bunkers at the Fox Jaffna property. features the work of prolific artists like gallery, and bedrooms. The rooms at Fox Jaffna are beautifully PHOTOS SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 4 the sunday morning brunch FOOD/EVENTS Sunday, August 30, 2020 BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE Thai food has gained a cult following in most parts of the world due to its bold flavours and varied ingredients; it’s no different amongst Colombo’s diners as there is a real demand for authentic Thai cuisine, and Thai Cuisine Boulevard is here to deliver on those demands. As one of Colombo’s premier Thai restaurants, Thai Cuisine Boulevard has afforded their patrons the opportunity to Wok-fried beef with green beans, ginger, chilli paste, savour some of the best flavours from the and kafir lime leaves land of Siam, and have now made some improvements to their beloved menu offering, in order to provide an even wider array of choice at the restaurant. All new dishes on the menu are the culinary creations of Chef Papat Pichad and Chef Indika Rohana, the latter of whom has been with Thai Cuisine Boulevard since the beginning and is dubbed “the man behind the scene”; he brings his many years of experience working with Thai cuisine. Chef Pichad brings with him knowledge Individual starter platter and insight on the flavours of authentic food from the different regions of Thailand, having worked for many years in a number of authentic restaurants there. The duo’s Choo Chee style wok-fried prawns with expertise has helped immensely in curating Thai chilli paste the new menu, hand-picking some of the Thai Cuisine Situated down Queens Road, Colombo dishes included. 3, Thai Cuisine Boulevard is conveniently Thai Cuisine Boulevard is operated by located in a central location accessible to Kanthi Jayamaha, a well-known restaurateur all; it is the ideal restaurant for a quick in Colombo who has been involved in the lunch break for business executives or for food industry for 40 years. Upon speaking a group of friends to meet up over a meal. to Jayamaha about her love for the culinary Boulevard launches The venue is also suitable for families due arts and in opening up a Thai restaurant in to its family-friendly atmosphere, and it particular, she shared that like most people is one of the few restaurants in the city can attest, the flavours in Thai cuisine with a private dining room holding up to are absolutely delightful, and it is also a 16 people, making it the perfect option personal favourite of hers, therefore it really new menu for get-togethers and celebrations. In was a no-brainer when she chose to move ginger, chilli paste, and kaffir lime leaves In addition to the family-style dishes addition, depending on the preference of ahead with this venture. The new menu is – albeit a bit rich, which is to be expected, and tasting menu, Thai Cuisine Boulevard its diners, the venue also offers a choice of a wonderful collaboration of some of their it’s an absolute delight; the Poo Phad Pong has introduced a great executive lunch experiencing its indoor air-conditioned area firm favourites, whilst also introducing Kali, a delicate crab meat dish with yellow menu for business executives looking for a or the open al-fresco dining area which is some new dishes to its patrons. Some of the curry – a hit amongst everyone who gave it place for a business lunch. The restaurant gorgeously lit come night time. new additions include dishes like Nuea Pad a try due to its creamy texture and delicate is also looking to soon introduce a Thai- Prik King, which is a wok fried beef with balance of flavours. inspired high tea and a Boulevard Tasting Menu showcasing some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes, in the near future. In addition to the family- Restauranteur Kanthi Jayamaha style dishes and tasting They also feature a new range menu, Thai Cuisine Boulevard of Thai-inspired mocktails using has introduced a great executive ingredients such as lemongrass, ginger, chilli, passion fruit, and lychee, recently lunch menu for business introduced to the menu. We can attest to executives looking for a place the uniqueness of these flavours. While for a business lunch. The restaurant is also looking to you’re at it, you must also give their Crab meat in yellow Thai curry Dessert platter – homemade coconut ice cream a chance, soon introduce a Thai-inspired coconut-inspired because it is truly heavenly. high tea PHOTOS KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM

Theatre Festival 2020 courtesy of the Tower Hall Theatre Foundation fees for the use of their property and rooms were let out for the crews to BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE the entirety of the ticket sales will be rehearse for the festival. The Tower Hall Theatre given to the production teams. The productions that will be Foundation is hosting a stage In addition to the initiative featured are dramas that were 10-year-old Kaashni drama festival from 19 August-15 encouraging artistes to perform and either available for viewing prior September featuring a whopping showcase their productions, the to Covid-19 or those that were Sivendran sets Guinness 52 stage dramas at the Tower Hall tickets have been priced at highly scheduled and prepared for release Theatre, Panchikawatta Road and the reasonable rates, ranging from only where audiences were not afforded Rs. 200 to Rs. 500 at a maximum, sufficient time to view them as Elphinstone Theatre in Maradana. World Record whereas under normal the pandemic set in. Tower Hall Theatre Foundation circumstances these tickets We also spoke to some Ten-year-old Sri Lankan Director General Attorney-at-Law would cost around Rs. 1,000 to actors and directors who will Kaashni Sivendran residing Douglas Siriwardana shared that they Rs. 2,000. He said this pricing be taking part in the event. in Hayes, London attempted chose the Tower Hall and Elphinstone scheme was implemented Veteran actor Rodney Theatres due to its facilities which for her second Guinness in order to encourage Warnakula is featured in allow them to carry out the mandated World Record title on “Most audiences to two productions at the health and safety precautions as Revolutions of a Hula Hoop patronise the theatre festival, “Nari Baena” required. around the Knees in One productions. He and “Saranga Naven Siriwardana shared that after Minute” on 6 June, in order to hopes that the sheer Avith”; he directed the height of the pandemic, while volume, variety, the latter, which raise funds for “The Children’s cinemas have been allowed to and convenience will also be the Society” for their initiative open, theatre production required of the festival final production, to help children across the a little more time, considering that would incentivise i.e. the closing country, especially those under human lives could be put at risk on audiences to return event, of the lockdown. She has so far both ends – i.e. the performers and to theatre. festival. providing much-needed relief for audience. raised a staggering £ 1,300 for The Tower Warnakula the performers in the country. He He shared that a majority of the charity. how children are affected by Hall Theatre shared that said it is particularly meritorious that the performing arts community too Kaashni is the current the pandemic, thought that she Foundation the Theatre they are offering these venues free had their reservations about going record holder for the most hula should do something to help also went a Foundation of charge so that the performers can back to performing for an audience, hoop rotations in three minutes, such children, following which step further is doing a be compensated for their efforts. He especially as donning protective in facilitating fantastic also added that Lankan theatre can which is 617 revolutions, and she came up with the thought gear would not be an option while this festival as thing, really benefit from this event, which she and her family received a to carry out a fundraiser of her performing. they provided a could possibly kick-start the industry congratulatory letter from Her attempting for her second title. Siriwardana said they made rehearsal space for and get things going once again. Majesty the Queen, mentioning Following the successful an appeal to Ministry of Health these productions; Directors Chalaka Ransooriya, that she was very pleased attempt, Kaashi was Director – Health Information Dr. considering that who will be featuring his production Anil Samaranayake, and had now to hear that she has become interviewed live on BBC the theatre school “Maaraka Linde Sawaariyak”, and received his go ahead to host stage a Guinness World Record Radio where she was joined at Tower Hall is Priyankara Rathnayaka, who will productions. holder. by The Children’s Society currently closed, be featuring his production “Rathu Siriwardana said the primary Under the unprecedented Chief Executive Mark the studio Wes Muhunu”, shared Warnakula’s reason they are hosting this festival sentiments that this could serve as circumstances due to Russell, who shared that it is to provide an opportunity for a kick-starter to the theatre scene Covid-19, where people are was a great effort by Kaashi, the island’s performers, as these in the island and that they are widely affected by the crisis, adding that her determination actors and directors haven’t had the happy to be featuring schools are being closed and dedication as a young opportunity to showcase their art their productions at the down, and people’s movement person has really inspired and thereby make a living. He said festival. being restricted, Kaashi, upon many and has been a most both venues will not be charging any hearing devastating stories of fruitful effort. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning brunch 5 Sunday, August 30, 2020 HEALTH

BY DR. DINESHANI HETTIARACHCHI SIRISENA of all sectors; medical: paediatricians, psychiatrists, JMOs, other relevant medical There have been heartbreaking specialists, and medical and nursing reports in the media of children officers; legal: police officers of women’s being subjected to heinous acts of and children’s desks; and social: probation officers, child rights promotion officers, and violence, often by those who are officers of the National Child Protection closest to them. Violence against Authority (NCPA). All attendees sign a children can take many forms. It confidentiality clause. could be physical, sexual, and/or Decisions are then taken regarding emotional abuse, and may involve the placement of the child, medical neglect or deprivation. Boys and management, psychosocial rehabilitation, girls are at equal risk of physical school/vocational, training, and the follow- and emotional abuse and neglect, up plan. The probation officer submits and girls are at greater risk of recommendations of the ICC to courts, sexual abuse. where required legal steps are taken. The World Health Organisation (WHO) Lama Piyasa (where abuse ends and estimates that around one billion children, healing begins) aged 2-17 years, have experienced physical, Lama Piyasa, the Child Protection sexual, or emotional violence or neglect. We Unit, Ward 33 of the Colombo North spoke to Sri Lanka College of Paediatricians Teaching Hospital, Ragama, was opened Child Protection Committee Chairperson, in April 2015. It has 10 beds and provides in-house management for children who University of Kelaniya Faculty of Medicine Children at the Lama Piyasa, the place Associate Professor in Paediatrics, and where abuse ends and healing begins have faced maltreatment. Priority is Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama given to psychosocial rehabilitation and consultant paediatrician Prof. Asvini D. reintegration. A video evidence recording Fernando regarding the common forms of studio is available for the recording of violence encountered and what can be done evidence to courts. It is anticipated that in such situations. recording in collaboration with the NCPA The United Nations Children’s Fund will begin soon. (UNICEF) states: “Violence occurs in Paediatricians, psychiatrists, and JMOs many settings, including the home, school, Violence of the Ministry of Health and Faculty of community, and over the internet. Similarly, Medicine, Ragama, provide services to a wide range of perpetrators commits the children admitted to Lama Piaysa. violence against children, such as family There have been 573 admissions since members, intimate partners, teachers, its opening. The majority of children neighbours, strangers, and other children. experienced sexual abuse ranging from Such violence not only inflicts harm, pain, against children touching and fondling, exposure to and humiliation on children; it also kills.” pornography, and sextortion, to anal, All children have the fundamental right to oral, or sexual intercourse. Sexualised be protected. The perpetrators of such acts When does it end and how do we heal? behaviour, sexually transmitted infections should be brought to justice and necessary (STIs), and pregnancies were seen. action should be taken to minimise short characteristics of the girl child trafficking committed against someone The majority was abused by known, and long-term impacts on physical, unable to consent or refuse, and online trusted individuals and the home and psychological, and emotional trauma exploitation. neighbourhood were the commonest experienced by these children. According to Bullying (including cyberbullying) places where such abuse took place. Bullying is defined as unwanted, Prof. Fernando, the WHO has categorised Emotional or psychological violence Effective psychosocial rehabilitation with a aggressive behaviour among school-aged six main types of interpersonal violence that This type of violence includes dedicated multi-sectoral team at the Child children which involves a real or perceived tend to occur at different stages in a child’s restricting a child’s movements, denigration, Protection Unit has ensured that even the power imbalance. The behaviour is development. These are explained below. ridicule, threats and intimidation, pregnant teenagers continue their education repeated or has the potential to be repeated, discrimination, rejection, and other non- or are sent for vocational training after the over time. Both kids who are bullied and Child maltreatment physical forms of hostile treatment. delivery of the baby. The unit helps them who bully others may have serious, lasting Child maltreatment is also referred Prof. Fernando emphasised that to regain their lost childhood. problems. The rise of cyberbullying is also to as child abuse and neglect. This is a diagnose and manage all forms of the Long-term follow up of the children a frequent cause of emotional disturbance form of behaviour towards a child that is aforementioned violence against children, is done after discharge from the Child in children and young people. Both forms outside the norms of conduct and imposes multi-sectoral involvement is needed. The Protection Unit. The children and their of bullying can result in repeated physical, a substantial risk to the child’s physical Child Protection Committee of the Sri families know that they can call the unit psychological, or social harm. and emotional wellbeing. In maltreatment, Lanka College of Paediatricians launched a anytime during the day or night if they an infant, child, or adolescent faces abuse project titled “Creating Safe Communities need help after discharge. The Child and neglect which are often associated Youth violence Protection Committee of the Sri Lanka Youth violence is the intentional use for Children”. In 2013, to protect children with physical injuries, delayed growth and College of Paediatricians has made Associate Prof. in Paediatrics Asvini D. Fernando of physical force or power to threaten or from abuse, exploitation, violence, and development, and mental problems. These recommendations to ensure that at least harm others by young people between ages neglect, with the involvement of all national- are often perpetuated by their parents, abdominal pain where no disease state is eight other Child Protection Units be 10-24. It typically involves young people level stakeholders and guideline titled caregivers, and other authoritative figures, diagnosed) opened in health institutions in the country, hurting peers who are unrelated to them “National Guideline for the Management of most often in the home but also in settings y to cater to the needs of children in all nine y Attempted deliberate self-harm and who they may or may not know well. Child Abuse and Neglect: A Multi-Sectoral such as schools and orphanages. Approach” was launched. provinces. yy Delayed presentation for medical According to the Centres for Disease Management of child maltreatment Although Lama Piyasa caters to the treatment Control and Prevention (CDC), youth Key points in management needs of children who have faced violence, The important first step in management violence is a serious public health problem When a child is suspected to have yy Incompatibility of history with injuries the key to this issue is primary prevention is initial recognition, where the diagnosis and an adverse childhood experience that been abused, a police complaint needs to seen/developmental age of a child or the effective safeguarding of children. is based on history, physical examination, can have a long-term impact on health be lodged. The children who are brought and sometimes laboratory tests and This responsibility falls on the parents, yy Changing history from time to time and wellbeing, and victims of one form to the hospital by the Police are met with teachers, and the community at large. diagnostic imaging. Management includes of violence are more likely to experience the Judicial Medical Officer of that hospital Warning signs on Children should be taught from preschool the documentation and treatment of any other forms of violence. (JMO), where they take a detailed history examination include: days how to protect themselves from all injuries and urgent physical and mental and examination. The child is then admitted conditions, reporting to appropriate state yy Features of associated neglect Intimate partner violence (or forms of violence, abuse, and exploitation. to the paediatric ward where a routine Healthy sexual and relationship education agencies, and sometimes hospitalisation yy Poor eye contact paediatric history and examination are and/or foster care to keep the child safe. domestic violence) needs to be an essential part of the school This involves physical, sexual, and done. Multidisciplinary management in Prof. Fernando stated that healthcare yy Presence of bruises, unexplained/ curriculum of adolescents. emotional violence by an intimate partner the health sector was introduced to prevent professionals and other individuals unusual injuries or ex-partner. Although males can also revictimisation by repeated history-taking working with children should have a high yy Multiple injuries at different stages of be victims, intimate partner violence and examinations of the child. About the writer degree of suspicion to identify child abuse. healing disproportionately affects females. It Within 24 hours of admission, a clinical The writer, Dr. Dineshani Hettiarachchi Warning signs of child maltreatment case conference is held, chaired by the JMO Sirisena, is a family physician with a yy Long bone fractures in infants, usually commonly occurs against girls within child include a history of: with the participation of the paediatrician special interest in spiral fractures marriages and early/forced marriages. yy Deteriorating school performance Among the romantically involved but and a psychiatrist. When indicated, other rare genetic diseases yy Undue anxiety yy Fractures in the ribs and area of the unmarried adolescents, it is sometimes specialists are also invited to participate and regenerative bone where the growth plate is found called dating violence. in the discussion. The JMO then shares medicine currently yy Depression and low self-esteem (metaphysis) the history with the others and a plan working as a lecturer Sexual violence of management is made. Multi-sectoral at the Department of yy Extreme behaviour such as being too yy Foreign bodies inserted in the vagina obedient or too demanding Sexual violence includes non- management begins after the clinical case Anatomy, Faculty of of girls consensual, completed, or attempted sexual conference. Medicine, University yy Somatisation phenomena (constant yy Assumed menarche (first period) before contact and also acts of a sexual nature An institutional case conference (ICC) of Colombo, complaints, for example, of headache or the appearance of secondary sexual which don’t involve contact; acts of sexual is then conducted next with the participation Sri Lanka.

Nawaloka brings affordability and convenience with new lab in Ragama Nawaloka Hospitals recently instigated strict protocol at its point of attempt to ensure the safety of both “Sri Lanka is presently engaged in unveiled a brand-new, state-of-the- operation. The lab’s Covid-19 protocol employees and patients within its the most important battle that we have art addition to its well-regarded chain is founded upon the recommended best premises. This includes regular had to fight in recent times, and this of medical laboratories in the heart practices deployed by the Ministry of disinfection procedures, strict compliance has increased the country’s need for of Ragama. The mini-laboratory was Health (MoH) and the World Health to preventative measures, and a thorough immediate, accurate, and convenient declared open by Nawaloka Hospitals Organisation (WHO), in a concerted triage check upon entry, amongst others. diagnostic solutions. With the launch PLC Deputy Chairman Harshith of our new mini-lab in Ragama, we Dharmadasa. are expanding our breadth of services Well equipped to facilitate over 100 and geographic reach to equip medical specialised tests in haematology and personnel, whilst optimising efficiency biochemistry, the mini-lab aims to service and accuracy to the benefit of patients the Ragama Teaching Hospital and who have placed their trust in us many private hospitals, clinics, nursing during this time,” Nawaloka Hospitals homes, and medical centres in Ragama. Chairman Dr. Jayantha Dharmadasa Operated by a team of highly skilled commented. medical professionals and technicians The new facility in Ragama is under the supervision of a lab consultant, expected to cater to over 150 medical Nawaloka Hospitals’ latest venture brings centres spread within the territory. With affordable, convenient, and reliable the whole new portfolio that goes beyond complex diagnostic solutions to patients just simple blood tests, the facility aims to in this locale, fulfilling a growing need in From left: Nawaloka Hospitals Deputy Chairman maximise efficiency and volume of testing the region. Harshith Dharmadasa, consultant physician Prof. while cutting down turnaround times and Arjuna de Silva, and Nawaloka Hospitals Executive Nawaloka Hospitals’ new lab in Ragama The new facility has proactively Director and General Manager Prof. Lal Chandrasena minimising pre-analytical errors. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 6 the sunday morning brunch ANIMAL WELFARE Sunday, August 30, 2020

BY PUJANEE GALAPPATHTHI

Just before the general election The Election Department has to earlier this month, the Kandy take decisions like that in moments Association for Community of crisis. Although, it does not Protection through Animal Welfare cause any harm to the health of (KACPAW), a reputed animal rescue these animals, (as) most of them organisation in Kandy, posted are back again and healthy, just about an incident pertaining to the the way they were innocent dog community in the Polgolla College of Education Principal area, which got everyone on social media buzzing. KACPAW alleged that prior to the counting of votes for the general election I have been advocating the no-kill on 6 August, the community dogs policy in reference to stray animals; from the premises of several counting I take responsibility in saying there centres in Polgolla (including the Open will not be any killing or inhumane University and College of Education) treatment of these animals under were removed overnight by the staff of my watch the Kandy Municipal Council (KMC) Mayor of Kandy Kesara Senanayake Vet Department and deposited at the Thekkawatta garbage dump. Their fate is yet unknown.

What exactly We also work in co-operation with animal rights activists, and they happened in Kandy? support us to feed, vaccinate, and With several versions of this story surfacing and the involved parties re-home these animals providing contradictory accounts, The KMC Chief Urban Veterinary Officer Dr. Sunday Morning Brunch attempted to get A.K.C. Perera a clearer picture. Champa Fernando from KACPAW in the area have a proper procedure to shared: “At the College of Education, Removing remove, care for, and relocate strays we (KACPAW) sterilised all 20-odd during the Perahera season. dogs in the premises and vaccinated Further adding to this, animal rights them against rabies in March 2020, and advocate Otara Gunewardene confirmed I permanently removed 15 pups from the that the majority of the dog population in premises as I saw that the college would Colombo is cared for by the authorities, be overburdened to have so many dogs.” welfare personnel, and people. “I am These 20-odd dogs, according to and relocating aware that strays are removed only if Fernando, posed no threat to anyone necessary and, as far as I am concerned, and were accepted by the college as cared for sufficiently. These animals are community dogs. The dogs were even harmless and do not create disruption to being fed by the Principal and staff, who people, although I believe it is okay to were grateful for the service KACPAW remove them if it is absolutely necessary, provided by sterilising these dogs and provided that it is handled properly.” vaccinating them using their own funds stray dogs While it is apparent that public safety when no one else helped them overcome is a key concern of the Government, the situation. animal welfare activists see themselves “KACPAW carries out such work What happens to the dogs during public gatherings? as responsible for the welfare of these regularly, particularly in the KMC areas animals. and in and around Kandy, Katugastota, However, it does seem justifiable that and Peradeniya, conforming to the decisions like that in moments of crisis. they demand answers to certain events that state’s ‘no-kill policy on dogs’ and the Although, it does not cause any harm to take place all over the island. Removing policy of ‘national dog sterilisation’ to the health of these animals, (as) most of and relocating strays in view of public humanely control dog populations. For them are back again and healthy, just the gatherings could be handled properly. example, even during the lockdown in way they were.” Maybe the solution is transparency in the April 2020, we spayed 80 juvenile dogs It was, however, reported that the Government’s dealings with regard to from Polgolla, Aruppola, Watapuluwa, community dogs in and around the KMC this and co-operation with animal welfare Mawilmada, Mahaiyawa, Kandy town, are moved and relocated during major activists too? Poornawatta, Anniewatta, Wattarantenna, community events such as the Kandy In conversation with some concerned and Katugastota, and permanently Perahera. Sri Lanka’s no-kill policy on citizens, we gathered more details on the removed close to 100 pups from these dogs and the constant advocacy on the issue. areas and found them homes. subject conducted by the KMC have Mother Nishani Senanayake used “It is, however, a huge blow when shaped the primary work of most animal to take her children to school every day sterilised, vaccinated dogs are removed welfare activists in the past few years. using the Wewa Rauma Road. “Last by the KMC Vet Department in the year, I got used to feeding about five manner it was done before 6 August. I Where do they take dogs on the way. They always wait for have written to the Kandy Mayor about me at around the same time. But during this incident and this is not the first the strays? the period of the Perahera, these dogs go time they have done this. Each time, we While the narration of the It is, however, a huge blow I am aware that strays are missing and only about two or three turn have complained to the Mayor and other happenings in Kandy by animal welfare when sterilised, vaccinated dogs removed only if necessary and, up again. It’s quite sad to see that these authorities.” personnel in these areas creates a are removed by the KMC Vet as far as I am concerned, cared animals are removed from their homes. I Fernando thinks that when an concerning picture, we spoke to the Department in the manner it for sufficiently. These animals hope they are taken care of, but there is animal is used to a certain lifestyle, relevant municipalities in Kandy and was done before 6 August. I have are harmless and do not create no way to say for sure.” dumping them elsewhere upsets the Colombo to find out more about the written to the Kandy Mayor about disruptions to people, although I Businessman Buwanweka Senerath natural equilibrium in those places. fate of stray dogs in situations of public shared that dogs in Colombo are not a “To talk nothing of the unspeakable gatherings and important occasions. this incident and this is not the believe it is okay to remove them if nuisance. He said that they are around harm that this brutal, unscientific, Mayor of Kandy Kesara Senanayake first time they have done this. Each it is absolutely necessary, provided in public places but do not interfere with counterproductive action does to those elaborated that these temporary time, we have complained to the that it is handled properly day-to-day activities, adding: “Therefore, innocent, unsuspecting, socially tolerated removals are done with a lot of care and Mayor and other authorities Otara Gunewardene I do not see the point in removing them dogs is making a mockery of the no-kill responsibility. “In situations of public Champa Fernando from KACPAW and taking harsh decisions as long as policy on dogs and our work, completely events, the relevant veterinary officer public places, vaccinated, cared for, and they are vaccinated and do not pose a overturning months and months – or identifies the dogs with owners and re-homed or submitted to stray caring threat to people.” even years – of our untiring work,” she instructs them to take them (dogs) back, particular incident in Polgolla, the centres. “We also work in co-operation Small business owner Herath Silva added. and the rest are located on lands owned dogs were located to a plot of land in with animal rights activists, and they shared: “Our Government is looking for Speaking to The Sunday Morning by the Municipal Council. I have been Gohagoda, which is owned by the KMC, support us to feed, vaccinate, and re- easy fixes. Removing dogs and dumping Brunch, the Principal of the Polgolla advocating the no-kill policy in reference for the duration of the election. home these animals.” them somewhere is the easiest thing College of Education shared that more to stray animals; I take responsibility KMC Chief Urban Veterinary Fernando from KACPAW, who to do, although I am not sure if proper than 4,000 people were to be present at in saying there will not be any killing Officer Dr. A.K.C. Perera said that is responsible for the vaccination and care is taken in this process. I believe the premises during the election and so it or inhumane treatment of these animals during special events such Independence caring of the community dogs in the it is important to do annual checks and was not possible to keep the dogs there. under my watch,” he said. Day celebrations or international Kandy and Polgolla areas, shared that the provide state funding to dog shelters as “The Election Department has to take We were informed that in this councils, stray dogs are removed from KMC together with the animal activists well.”

Abans Group joins Justice for Animals for a spay and neuter clinic for cats and dogs As a Sri Lankan conglomerate that Stray cats and dogs are a common sight values all forms of life, and is committed on the streets of Sri Lanka across both urban to protecting the environment and all its and rural communities. Many of the animals residents, Abans Group is joining forces are cast aside on the road and have to with Justice for Animals to lend a helping undergo difficult circumstances to survive. hand to the worthy initiative that truly Even with these difficulties, the strays are makes a difference. multiplying in number, and many puppies Abans Group is the proud sponsor continue to be born amidst unfortunate of this valuable CSR (corporate social conditions. Furthermore, they do not have responsibility) initiative which will serve access to any kind of medical care and thus as a solution to reduce the stray cat and are not immunised, causing a heavy burden dog population and end future suffering of on the country’s medical expenditure on homeless animals. anti-rabies treatment for people. Attendees at the sterilisation and rabies A sterilisation and rabies eradication Justice for Animals, a charity which eradication programme on 30 July at the programme took place on 30 July at the relies solely on donations and the support Wijemanne Buddhist Centre, Nagoda, Kalutara Wijemanne Buddhist Centre, Nagoda, of volunteers, aims to alleviate the suffering 2,758 animals this year. is focused on offering a better way to life, Kalutara, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., where over of these homeless animals and envisions Abans Group is honoured to take part and having served the needs of the people 150 cats and dogs were spayed, neutered, a country free of rabies and stray animals and support a truly worthy cause that will for over 50 years, Abans is always ready and vaccinated by veterinarians partnered struggling to survive. They have thus far positively impact the animals of Sri Lanka. to offer assistance and aid initiatives that with Justice for Animals. neutered 2,353 animals and vaccinated As a home-grown local conglomerate that enrich lives for the better. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning brunch 7 Sunday, August 30, 2020 GAMES/TOONS

SOLUTION FOR 16 AUGUST 5 Point 55 O’er and o’er again 6 Karmann __: classic VW 57 Features of urns Crossword 7 President before an Adams 59 Loosens, as a tot’s pajamas CROSSWORD CLUES 8 Eponymous newborn score 60 Soft hits just over the infield Across 52 Car radio button 88 Honors creator 62 Big name in tennis 1 Did gondola duty 54 Oxygen-eating bacteria 90 Svelte 9 Sauces for sushi 66 Carpenter’s groove 6 “Today” rival, briefly 56 Asian festival 92 911 pro 10 Yoga syllables 67 Sierra __ 9 Middling 57 Gets dirty 93 Culture: Pref. 11 Overlook 69 LGBT History Mo. 13 Short staff? 58 Busy center 94 Friend of Goat in “Pearls 12 Lustful looker 72 Drawers? 18 Dollar alternative 61 Uncle Sam’s land, proudly Before Swine” 13 Comics cry from a birdcage 78 “__ a loss” 19 Short trip 62 Bunny tail 95 Some skippers 14 Member of three L.A. 79 Remote area known for its 20 Alpha’s antithesis 63 Coral component 97 Flock hangout Lakers championship middle? 22 Beat in the kitchen 64 Big shot: Abbr. 99 List-shortening term teams 81 Hermione’s guy 23 “Wait ... let me start over” 65 Cellar, but not collar, 103 Sticks on a boat 15 Feeling ecstatic 82 Stream blockers 26 Najimy who voiced Peggy opening 105 Boat owner’s rental 16 Stadium merch 85 Assumed names Hill in “King of the Hill” 66 Belief common to much 106 Flat owner, maybe 17 Uses a Zoom alternative 87 Paging devices 27 Bad look religion 108 Sound 21 “Hair” dos 89 Family dinner fowl 28 Heckle, but not Jeckle 68 “Explain, please?” 109 Fitness mantra opening 24 First name of Dickens’ 90 Half of some couples 29 The “P” in PIN: Abbr. 70 Western PA airport code 111 Method for slow, steady Madame Defarge 91 Hershey’s caramel candies 31 Unilever swab 71 Disappearing retail giant progress 25 Ed.’s stack 93 A time to dye 32 Old manuscript copier 73 Hosp. readouts 114 Like a fleabag motel 30 Dudley’s toon foe 96 Granada girls 34 Scalpel sites, for short 74 Lodge opening? 115 Asian wraps 33 Make every effort 97 It’s a sign 35 Polynesian wrap 75 Patel of “Slumdog 116 Dusk, to Donne 35 Brother of Ham 98 __ Park, Colorado 37 Rage Millionaire” 117 __ dish 36 Fancy poultry dish 100 Christine of “A Beautiful 38 To the point 76 Gets one’s feet wet 118 Half of scissors? 39 Retired fliers: Abbr. Day in the Neighborhood” 40 Spa sounds 77 Milne hopper 119 Hacking targets: Abbr. 40 Superior to all others 101 Like radon, say 41 Early pictures 78 Caught 120 Sellout letters 42 Sheepish girl? 102 Home on high 43 Some online reads 80 First novel in Christopher 121 Hackneyed 43 Gentrification target 104 Kick starter? 45 Diamond surfaces Paolini’s Inheritance Cycle 44 Negative forecast 106 L, in box scores 48 Georgia gridders, to fans 82 Sign of a hit Down 1 Beach toys 45 Campaign funders 107 “What a mess!” 49 “Ginger __”: 1952 83 Wks. and wks. 46 Alaskan native 110 TV’s Burrell and baseball’s Newbery Medal-winning book 84 Platters in sleeves 2 Early Mesoamerican sculptors 47 “SNL” staples Cobb 50 “Spring forward” letters 85 Beautify 49 Took a breather 112 Ocean flipper 51 School reunion attendee 86 Puts down 3 It may be golden 4 Some retired academics 53 Heat up 113 Back (out) Entries should be written clearly and addressed to: The Features Editor, The Sunday Morning, No. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 to reach us on or before 12 noon on 9 September, 2020. Write “The Sunday Morning Brunch”, on the top left hand corner of the envelope. Name: ...... Address: ...... Contact No: ...... Bank account details: ...... (Account number, bank name, branch name, and name as per bank account)

CROSSWORD WINNERS OF 16 AUGUST First prize (Rs. 5,000) Consolation prize winners W.P.S.R. Fernando, 1. Manjula Bibile, Ja-Ela Mattakkuliya, Colombo 15 2. P. Rajeswaran, Changanai, Jaffna Katugastota Second prize (Rs. 3,000) 3. Sharmila Shabdeen, 4. Ainsley Wambeek, Ragama G.S. De Silva, 5. S.M. Rizwan, Colombo 12 Malabe This week’s winners will be announced on 13 September

Sudoku LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku. org.uk. Distributed by Tribune Content

Agency. All (Answers next week) rights reserved. (Last week’s) WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 8 the sunday morning brunch PEOPLE/EVENTS Sunday, August 30, 2020 Writings and statements of Ambassador JAYANTHA DHANAPALA now in a single volume Sysco LABS Senior Director – Delivery Nilupa Representatives from the Homagama Base Hospital Kiringoda presenting the donation to the Colombo accepting the donation of medical equipment South Teaching Hospital A long-awaited book personal life. years, I have had the incredible represent our nation with such that shares the life story of an Sri Lanka Unites (SLU) honour of being mentored by dignity and virtue. We as a internationally recognised Sri is the privileged publisher of Ambassador Dhanapala and to young team of passionate, Lankan personality, who was Sri Lankan Son and Global closely work with him while inexperienced, and unknown Sysco LABS gives back praised by President John F. Diplomat, which is also SLU’s he served as the Chair of the young professionals with Kennedy and has represented maiden publication. Board of Trustees for SLU. I grand dreams of creating a the island nation at the United SLU Founder and President remember in 2009, when the transformation in the nation’s Nations (UN), was launched Prashan De Visser, sharing his internal war came to a bloody turning point didn’t even expect amidst Covid-19 on 15 December 2019. The thoughts on the Sri Lankan end, we were seeking to expand a response to our e-mail, let new volume Sri Lankan Son legend and the book itself, said: our efforts as a youth movement alone the warm encouragement As the country Sri Lanka in Colombo, and Asela Gunawardana or and Global Diplomat “Over the past 12 for reconciliation and hope. We and the willingness to oblige continues to face the washing machines to the Restorative Dentistry unravels illustrious desperately needed the our request to meet him in Covid-19 pandemic, Sysco Colombo South Teaching Unit consultant Dr. Ambassador wisdom and counsel of person.” LABS Sri Lanka has Hospital in Kalubowila Priyake Palipana Jayantha Dhanapala’s outstanding Sri Lankans This collection of been looking at ways to to help with the increased yy Homagama Base professional career who had ventured ahead Ambassador Dhanapala’s assist healthcare officials burden. Hospital – Medical at the UN along with of us in the pursuit of speeches unravel a beautiful, to combat the virus. The However, these Superintendent Dr. interesting anecdotes an inclusive Sri Lankan inspiring, and impressive company has provided hospitals still need more Janitha Hettiarachchi and insights into his identity and had striven tapestry about an incredible support through medical support. If you are able to create a just and personality who refuses to be equipment donations to the to help, please get in yy National Hospital of thriving society for all limited by the parameters of Homagama Base Hospital, touch with the following Sri Lanka – senior Sri Lankans. We also selfish ambition, seeks to serve personal protective individuals: consultant anaesthetist needed those who had for the betterment of others, equipment (PPE) kits to yy Colombo South Teaching Dr. M.M.Q.E.S. garnered national and refuses to be bound to his the National Hospital of Hospital – Director Dr. Fernando international credibility ethnoreligious subculture, and for their work and strives to serve all Sri Lankans character to boost our in the same way. House of Fashions unveils online own credibility as a Sri Lankan Son and movement. Global Diplomat is now “Ambassador available for purchase at store with ComBank IPG service Dhanapala met all the Sri Lanka Unites Head House of Fashions has taken its these criteria – and Office and all Vijitha Yapa offering online and appointed Commercial then some! He was bookstores. Readers who would Bank of Ceylon as its Internet Payment truly a legend and like to have the book delivered Gateway (IPG) service provider to facilitate to us, no one could to homes can place orders this development. by calling Sri Lanka Unites The service will cover the authorisation on 0112553057 or of credit and debit cards as well as 0768543347. processing of direct payments through Visa, Mastercard, and UnionPay-branded cards. The online payment processing of houseoffashions.lk will be facilitated by Commercial Bank through Mastercard Visa 3D secure authentication solutions Payment Gateway Services (MPGS), which while having the fully automated process is fully compliant with Payment Card to handle ComBank Easy Payment Plans Industry-Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) (EPP), enabling card-on-file transactions requirements. It is a secure e-commerce through tokenisation, keeping the solution as merchants are provided with purchasers’ sensitive card details away “server-hosted pages” whereby card details from the relevant systems. It provides are processed on the payment server and not integration options to systems on multiple at the merchant’s end. languages such as PHP, Java, and C Sharp Commercial Bank’s IPG solution and supports device-optimised payment provides access to a comprehensive set screens which are designed to offer a seamless experience to users of various The Lions New Voices team. From left (standing): of fraud mitigation tools, supporting both Service Chairperson Lion Hirantha Rodrigo, Mastercard Secure Code and Verified by devices. Lions New Voices District Chairperson Lion Vajira Tilakumara, Marketing Chairperson Lion Amindika MERMAID HOTEL AND Samarawickrema, Membership Chairperson Lion Manoja Tillekeratne, Leadership Chairperson Lion Gayathri Hewawithana, and District Environment CLUB AMONG TOP 1% Chairperson Lion Indunil Perera. From left Emirates launches an airbridge (seated): District Governor 3016A1 Lion Dr. Amitha Jayawardena and past International President OF HOTELS WORLDWIDE 2007/2008 Lion Mahendra Amarasuriya between Dubai and Lebanon Mermaid Hotel and Club was The hotel opened its doors in 1983 with awarded a position among the top 10 of a modest inventory of 51 rooms and Over 50 flights to deliver emergency relief support Lions Club launches Tripadvisor’s “Travellers’ Choice All only a single-star rating. Now, the hotel In the wake of the Port ‘Breathe’ signature Inclusive Resorts” in Asia for the fourth boasts 54 standard rooms equipped with of Beirut explosions which consecutive year. The resort has also modern amenities, nine sea-view rooms, devastated many parts of project for 2020 earned a position among the top 1% of nine superior sea view rooms, and nine Lebanon’s capital city, hotels in the world. spacious deluxe sea view rooms that Emirates is standing with The “New Voices” team of Lions Mermaid Hotel and Club is located afford absolute luxury and comfort Lebanon to provide critical District 306A1 launched their signature on golden sandy beaches, tucked away with direct views of the garden and sea emergency relief and aid to project of the year, “Breathe”, at the in a vast coconut grove in Kalutara. beyond. the hundreds of thousands Kethumathi Maternity Hospital in of people affected by the Panadura on 17 August 2020 at 10 a.m. blasts. Emirates SkyCargo Through this programme, every new Emerald supports Covid-19 fight with plans to ramp up its freighter mother leaving the hospital will be gifted operations to Lebanon by with a fruit/medicinal plant to be planted dedicating over 50 flights to in her own home. The programme draws donation of PPE to frontline medical staff deliver much-needed airlift reference to the importance of trees and Emerald International, Emirates has already been supporting disaster relief efforts in Lebanon plants which provides the newborn and Sri Lanka’s best- to the country. through the dispatch of several charter flights carrying food, clothing, Emirates is providing and medical supplies donated by various grassroots organisations in everyone else with clean air to breathe. known manufacturer people around the the UAE Past International President Lion of menswear, recently Mahendra Amarasuriya was the Chief extended its support world the opportunity those affected on the 20% reduction on air freight Guest at the event. District Governor to the national effort to donate cash or pledge ground in a swift and transportation charges 306A1 Lion Dr. Amitha Jayawardena and against Covid-19 with a their Skywards Miles, transparent manner. Work for approved shipments, her spouse PDG Lion Upali Jayawardena donation of PPE (personal through a dedicated, is underway to mobilise underscoring its commitment along with First VDG Lion Shyana protective equipment) to secure, and convenient recognised humanitarian to expedite emergency relief Jayalath graced the inauguration. the medical teams on the portal via The Emirates partners. efforts to Beirut. They also started the groundwork frontlines. Airline Foundation. For For every donation, Emirates has been to build a greenhouse in the hospital The PPE, the next three months of cargo capacity will be serving Lebanese skies premises. The Club wished to thank developed by Emerald donations, The Emirates provided for humanitarian and communities since Kalutara District Chief Medical Officer Dr. International in keeping Airline Foundation will in organisations to transport 1991. The airline started its Nayanajith Kommasaru and Kethumathi with international tech Emerald donates PPE to Covid-19 frontline medical staff. Emerald turn directly co-ordinate critical medical equipment operations between Dubai Maternity Hospital, Panadura Chief protocols for protective International Executive Director M.M.M. Ihsan introduces Emerald shipments of urgent food, and supplies, food, and and Beirut with a three-time NMRA-approved reusable five-ply face masks to Health Services Medical Officer Dr. Ramanayake for the gear, were manufactured medical supplies, and other emergency relief weekly service utilising Director General Dr. Anil Jasinghe unstinted support extended towards this using internationally other much-needed items goods directly to Beirut the Boeing 727. Today, designed to ensure comfort, polyester, were handed over worthy cause. recognised high-quality with a range of non- through Emirates SkyCargo. Emirates operates two daily durability, and protection. by Emerald International The Breathe programme will be material. governmental organisation Additionally, Emirates flights to Beirut utilising the The kits, which come Executive Director M.M.M. implemented in maternity hospitals around Comprising both gowns (NGO) partners to ensure SkyCargo will further Boeing 777, with plans to with 1901 fibre content Ihsan at a simple ceremony the country. and headgear, they were donations directly help contribute by providing a add further frequencies. and are made from 100% held recently.

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