www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2020

For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit Health THE WORLD 31,296,530 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 3,298 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 7,005,893 204,126 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 965,857 INDIA 5,501,869 88,008 BRAZIL 4,544,629 136,895 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 1,109,595 19,489 13 3,088 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 22,875,379 PERU 768,895 31,369 THE ABOVE STATISTICS197 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 8.30 P.M. ON 21 SEPTEMBER 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

KANDY BUILDING COLLAPSE Municipality in charge of legal action: DMC z NBRO report BY SARAH HANNAN Speaking to The Morning, DMC damages, file for claims, and issue the Director General Maj. Gen. (Retd.) insurance and damage claims to the notes weak Following up on the disaster Sudantha Ranasinghe said: “The DMC affected persons following a disaster. foundation and that was caused by the building only has the authority to assess the Contd. on page 2 collapse in Buwelikada, Kandy last 20A TO THE CONSTITUTION construction issues (21) evening, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) Set up task force: BASL UNP to launch z House owner submitting their observations to the The President has been by the Bar Association of Disaster Management Centre (DMC) requested to appoint a task force Sri Lanka (BASL), following the agitation campaign denies allegations, had confirmed that the cause of to assess whether the proper prior building collapse in Buwelikada, Newly elected United National says not illegally the disaster was linked to a weak approval has been obtained for Kandy. Party (UNP) Deputy Leader constructed foundation and miscalculation in the the construction of buildings Contd. on page 2 Ruwan Wijewardene plans to construction of the overall building. unite the forces of youth, women, intellectuals, artistes, professionals, 3,000 MT BASMATI RICE AT COLOMBO PORT workers, and the Buddhist clergy STOCKS SEIZED affiliated with the UNP to resist what it terms the Government’s autocratic march. 20A TO THE CONSTITUTION Will challenge in court: SJB Quality The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) would challenge the proposed 20th Amendment to the Constitution at the Supreme Court as soon as it is presented to Parliament. SJB General Secretary MP Ranjith Madduma Bandara told The Morning that they would be filing a case this week. testing after a year Sixty-two containers of turmeric, which were imported from India and had been seized by z Rice stock imported z Stuck at Colombo Sri Lanka Customs following the Government's decision to stop the importation of turmeric, were displayed to the media at the Orugodawatta Container Clearing Yard yesterday (21) from Pakistan Port for nearly a year PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM WDIG Bimshani Jasin Arachchi DESPITE COVID-19 BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Trade Agreement (PSFTA) that First woman DIG Around 3,000 metric tonnes (MT) of basmati rice would be beneficial to both stocks imported from Pakistan that have been countries. 44,000 Lankans appointed stuck at the Colombo Port for about a year are to Accordingly, the Minister The Sri Lanka Police yesterday be tested for quality verifications soon, according said that a Cabinet proposal (21) appointed its first-ever Woman to the Ministry of Trade. would be submitted to establish Deputy Inspector General (WDIG) government institutions to leave for foreign jobs of Police, by promoting former SSP This was mentioned by High Dr. Bandula Gunawardana. check the quality of all imported Despite the Covid-19 Lanka Bureau of Foreign the country last month, Bimshani Jasin Arachchi to the post, Commission of Pakistan in Sri During the meeting, the goods to the country as well pandemic, around 44,000 Employment (SLBFE). while another 210 have the Police Media Unit stated. Lanka Trade and Investment two countries had held a as to import rice within the Sri Lankans have left SLBFE General Manager registered with the Bureau Policies Co-ordinator Asmma lengthy discussion regarding quota of 6,000 MT to Sri Lanka the country for foreign W.M.V. Wansekera told to leave for foreign Bribery Commission Kamal at a meeting held the ways and means of using directly by the Government, employment so far this The Morning that a total of employment. files indictments recently with Minister of Trade the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Free under the PSFTA. year, according to the Sri 182 Sri Lankans had left Contd. on page 2 against Ravi and Arjun REOPENING AIRPORTS The reopening of the ISLANDWIDE POWER Call to conditionally country’s two airports – OUTAGE REPORT the Mattala International Still awaiting Airport (MIA) and the lift vehicle import ban Bandaranaike International Final z VIASL and VIAL to discuss with Minister instructions: Airport (BIA) – is still being The two main vehicle over the continued ban on discussed and authorities importers’ associations, imports, which has also caused are awaiting instructions, report the Vehicle Importers’ a spike in the vehicle prices as AASL The Morning learnt. Association of Sri Lanka well as the destabalisation of the Former Minister Perpetual Treasuries Ltd. Contd. on page 2 (VIASL) and the Vehicle retail market for car sales that Ravi Karunanayake Owner Arjun Aloysius Importers’ Association of Lanka specialise in imported vehicles. The Commission to Investigate delayed (VIAL), have raised concerns Contd. on page 2 Allegations of Bribery or Corruption CORRUPTION ALLEGATIONS AGAINST POLICE (CIABOC) has filed indictments The already delayed final report of the STATE UNIVERSITY EDUCATION against former Minister Ravi Fast action on probes urged committee appointed to investigate the Karunanayake and Perpetual BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA “We have witnessed serious countrywide power failure on 17 August is Treasuries Ltd. Owner Arjun allegations being levelled against to meet this week to evaluate its findings, Improving quality Aloysius at the Colombo High Court. Transparency International Sri investigative officers in the recent according to Ministry of Power Spokesman SEE FULL STORIES Lanka (TISL) has called on speedy past, based on altered testimonies Sulakshana Jayawardena. ON PAGE 2 action to probe allegations of provided by witnesses”. Contd. on page 2 corruption against police officers. Contd. on page 2 of education COVID-19 z Education Minister discusses steps to safeguard higher education quality In line with President Gotabaya Public asked to take precautions Rajapaksa’s “Vision of Prosperity” With a recent incident reported of a be unnecessarily afraid of a that persons arriving from came in close contact with them would emphasised in the Government’s youth who completed quarantine being new cluster being created,” high-risk countries that also be closely monitored. policy manifesto, Minister of tested positive for Covid-19, Ministry Epidemiology Unit Chief have aggressive outbreaks “The healthcare system is doing its Education Prof. G.L. Peiris stated of Health officials have urged the Epidemiologist Dr. are always separated from best to prevent the virus from spreading. that the university system in Sri public to take all necessary precautions Sudath Samaraweera told the rest, and whoever tests We also request that equal amounts of Lanka should be reformed to Minister of Education Prof. G.L. Peiris and follow health guidelines at The Morning. positive for Covid-19 is caution be observed by the public at all create a future generation that Sunday (20) which was attended all times. When asked about the immediately isolated and times,” Dr. Samaraweera added. will immediately acquire the latest by University Grants Commission “The person who was detected to have possibility of people who referred to the nearest As instructed by the Epidemiology technological know-how and use (UGC) Chairman Prof. Sampath contracted Covid-19 after completing are undergoing quarantine hospital, while whoever Unit, the public is urged to continuously that to reach the highest level of Amaratunga, University of quarantine was reported when we contracting the virus from follow the health guidelines to avoid the development. Peradeniya Vice Chancellor Prof. subjected the person for one last PCR patients whose results Epidemiology Unit spreading or contracting of the novel The Minister made these Upul Dissanayake, faculty deans, test before leaving the quarantine centre. come out positive, Dr. Chief Epidemiologist coronavirus. comments at a meeting held at and other officials. Therefore, the public does not have to Samarawera noted Dr. Sudath Samaraweera Contd. on page 2 the University of Peradeniya on Contd. on page 2 2 the morning INTERVIEW/NEWS Tuesday , September 22, 2020

BY MEERA SRINIVASAN to build upon, have come under threat. How will this impact national politics The TNA Spokesman says the ‘Rajapaksas must and Tamil interests in particular? alliance must pursue its objective Naturally, having come to power, the of a dignified solution to the Tamil Government is now seeking to appease national question and provide those forces and deliver their promise to honour their past their core constituency. In doing that, they better economic lives to people. Sri Lanka’s Tamil National Alliance have promised a new constitution, but as an TNA Spokesman immediate delivery, they brought forward (TNA) suffered a huge setback and Jaffna MP M.A. Sumanthiran the 20th Amendment Bill. in the August general elections, commitments’ But that seems to have caused concern losing six seats in Parliament. even among their own supporters who With the Alliance’s presence in authority election results of February 2018. of a dignified solution to the Tamil national ethnic conflict. Whenever we asked for either think that these powers in the hands the legislature having weakened One of the primary reasons is that we question. That is fundamental. Our efforts in our legitimate political rights is when we of the current incumbent itself is excessive and the Rajapaksas back in supported the (Yahapalana) Government in that area must continue and I think people suffered violence. So the whole struggle or that another president later in the future power at the centre, that too office from 2015 to 2019. The expectations must realise that in democratic space like for political rights itself became violent will abuse these powers. As for the 13th with a thumping two-thirds, of the people were very high then. They what we have now, with a preponderant and then ended up in a full-scale war as Amendment, although the provincial what are the prospects for the hoped that all their problems will be fully majority in the country being Sinhalese they call it here now. councils were set up in 1987 as a solution to TNA’s longstanding demand for resolved during that period. Although there and Buddhists, for a solution to emerge, we The processes in the United Nations (UN) the Tamil national question, it didn’t satisfy a political solution? Alliance was substantial progress in most matters, must win over at least a sizeable section of Human Rights Council for justice took the the Tamil side for one, who continuously all the issues (pending since the war ended) the majority community. form of transitional justice, in which you have claimed it is insufficient and not meaningful Spokesman and Jaffna MP M.A. were not fully resolved. I think there was a The other is, even as a political party, truth, justice, reparations, and the guarantee sharing of powers. Sumanthiran weighs in. Below are lot of disappointment over that fact. we need to get involved in providing of non-recurrence. In 2015, the Sri Lankan But it has also contributed to accentuating excerpts of the interview. Even the political solution, which is a better economic lives for our people. If Government offered a political solution by the fears of the majority community by historic demand of the Tamil people, did the Government is not co-operative in that way of a new constitution as the guarantee propaganda that strengthening the provincial The TNA suffered a huge setback in not materialise by way of a new constitution regard, then I think we must at least facilitate of non-recurrence. All the other pillars of councils will result in the secession of the the August parliamentary elections, that was promised. We made great progress job opportunities, increase economic transitional justice are also important, and country. The draft 20th Amendment may and has ceded ground to both hardline on that front too, but finally the question is activity, etc. through participation by our we have been pursuing those as well. But address those fears as well. Sinhala people Tamil nationalists and allies of the whether it was achieved or not. There may Diaspora community. eventually, it must result in a permanent believe that if there is a strong President, Rajapaksa Government. What are the be other reasons also, but I think primarily solution to the root cause of the conflict. then any attempt to divide the country can Alliance’s reflections? these are the two reasons. What about justice questions? actually be dealt with by that President, as It is a very serious setback. We have been The justice question is linked to the Both the 19th Amendment that the TNA opposed to a weak Executive, not being reduced from 16 to 10 seats in Parliament. Going forward, what will the TNA do? political solution. Questions of justice backed and fiercely defended, and the able to prevent any fissures in the country. This is not very different to the local Well, the TNA must pursue its objective and accountability arose because of the 13th Amendment that you have sought (The Hindu)

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Kalinga Indatissa PC, in a letter to the President latest vehicles introduced to the market.” chancellors, UGC officials, and Ministry of Municipality in... yesterday (21). Gamage said that the shortage in brand new Education officials to discuss the possible steps Bribery... Therefore, taking legal action over such The BASL also called for the immediate units is now creating a grey market where that could be taken to safeguard the quality of Karunanayake has been charged under an incident would be handled by the relevant introduction of relevant laws and regulations individuals are purchasing vehicles and reselling university education in the country. Section 19 (c) of the Bribery Act for taking authorities attached to the Municipal Council.” regarding building approvals and the it at a higher price, with the prices increasing due – Sarah Hannan up residence – all the while serving as the The DMC also noted that the on-ground team enforcement of the law wherever a person is to the lack of stocks. He urged that necessary Minister of Finance – at No. 5 PH2, Monarch had submitted their full observations. However, found to have contravened the legal provisions. regulations should be in place to control Housing Complex, acquired under Walt & Row the case against the owner of the building over It was also brought to the President’s attention individuals from bringing down vehicles for Public asked... Associates (Pvt.) Ltd., where the second accused death caused to two adults and an infant, and that a large number of commercial buildings what they claim to be as personal use, when in Dr. Samaraweera also noted that once a of the case Aloysius is a Director, during the endangering the neighbouring residents and have been constructed in the country, either fact it is to evade the tax system of the country, person completes the mandatory quarantine period from 12 February to 30 September 2016. businesses, will only be able to proceed after without approvals or contrary to the approvals creating competition against car sale owners period of 14 days and returns to their homes, The indictments allege that defendant studying the building plan approvals by the given during the last two decades. who have to undergo many regulations to import they are requested to observe a further 14-day Aloysius had paid a sum of Rs. 11.68 million, Kandy Municipal Council. vehicles. He also noted that permit holders are home quarantine period. through cheques of Walt & Row Associates “We have requested copies of the plans that now in a difficult position as they are unable to He said if people do not obey this guideline (Pvt.) Ltd. and Purchasing Capital Company were approved, as we were informed that the 44,000 Lankans... bring down the type of vehicle they planned to and later get tested positive, they are risking the for the said house. first construction had taken place in 2006 and The majority of these migrant workers have obtain using their permits. community from experiencing another outbreak. Aloysius has also been indicted under Section a renovation had taken place in 2016. We will left for Dubai, Romania, and the Maldives, “We are having a series of discussions, and Furthermore, the Ministry of Health has 19 (c) of the Bribery Act for aiding and abetting have to study both the plans to understand as he said. next week, hopefully, we can meet State Minister also instructed the relevant health departments the process. Accordingly, the total number of to where the oversight occurred,” Maj. Gen. “Including all new registrations and those of Transport Services Management Dilum from the Municipal Council to conduct random indictments filed against the two defendants (Retd.) Ranasinghe elaborated. who are returning, a total of 840 have been Amunugama to discuss our issues and find sample collections from areas the public tends in this case is six. Meanwhile, yesterday the owner of the five- registered so far this month,” Wansekera added. workable solutions, and perhaps lift the ban to flock at to conduct their daily errands. storey building, Anura Lewke, told the media He noted that the sector at present was conditionally to allow some imports,” Gamage The health departments have also been that the building was constructed according to showing gradual improvement, while major elaborated. instructed to collect samples from densely Final report... the plan that was passed, and dispelling rumours improvement is expected with the reopening The VIASL also added that they are aware populated areas from time to time as well. He told The Morning that the final report noted that there was no illegal construction of airports and flight operations returning to that the Government had imposed these bans to – Sarah Hannan would be submitted within the next two weeks. that had taken place at his property. normalcy. stabilise the economy following the pandemic. Denying the allegations levelled against the “Some said that I fled the scene without “At present, these migrant workers are leaving However, it was suggested that it would not Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), that the delay taking any responsibility, which is not true. the country only through cargo flights and be wise to place a full ban for the foreseeable Still awaiting... was caused as they refused to provide crucial The building became unstable in the early several other flights in operation. But once future, as not everyone would want to drive Speaking to The Morning, Airport and data, Jayawardena explained that the committee hours of Sunday (20). We were alerted by our air travel returns to normal, there would be a vehicle brands such as Nano, Alto, and Renault. Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd. (AASL) was obtaining more clarification from the CEB neighbours, noting that one of the load-bearing massive increase,” he explained. “The requirement of each buyer category is Chairman Maj. Gen. (Retd.) G.A. Chandrasiri and the committee had already visited the places pillars was giving way, and just moments later Meanwhile, the SLBFE has introduced a different and we should be able to cater to their said that the two airports were still operating that were crucial to the investigation, such as my son shouted at me saying that the building new procedure to grant recommendations for growing needs, so we are looking at discussing only for repatriation processes and no decision Kerawalapitiya, Norochcholai, and the System was collapsing,” Lewke explained. migrant workers who lost employment due to the possibilities of at least importing a limited had yet been made by the Government regarding Control Unit, etc., several times. According to Lewke, his son had already the Covid-19 outbreak, to seek employment at number of vehicles in the coming months,” the reopening of the airports. “The committee is gathering information and got his wife and daughter out of the house, other places of work. Gamage added. It is reported that the Ministry of Tourism, evaluating all the information they gathered. managed to move the kennels and dogs out According to the Bureau, the new procedure Earlier this month, VIAL President Sampath along with the Ministry of Health and Ministry The task is not easy and the outcome should of the property, and taken their family vehicle was introduced with effect from 15 September Merenchige had stated that vehicle prices had of Aviation, is planning to seek approval to be perfect,” he said, adding that the data from towards the road. Just as Lewke had exited and all foreign employment agents were skyrocketed by around Rs. 200,000 to 300,000, impose a “Covid fee” to permit tourists to the CEB has to be collected from different the house, the building had started to crumble, informed of the new procedure via a circular. adding that the price hike would remain at that visit the country in small batches, enabling divisions, which is a time-consuming process. giving them no time to alert anyone. Under the new procedure, migrant workers until the ban on importation is lifted. the Government to cover its expenses for PCR The interim report submitted by the committee The Kandy Police said that further who are unable to return to the island and whose With the possibility of the ban being in place tests and to use the MIA exclusively for tourist three days after the power blackout has investigations are still underway and they are contracts have expired will be able to engage for the next two years given the current global arrivals and departures. identified that the power outage was a result awaiting records from the Kandy Municipal in other employment. economic climate, both importers pointed out However, the AASL Chairman stressed that of a failure on the part of the CEB to maintain Council, so further questioning can be carried The approval in this regard and the security that the stocks for personal use vehicles are fast there was no date set for the reopening of any the procedures, and significant lapses in not out against the party concerned. stamp for the passport could be obtained from reducing and is possibly creating a grey market of the airports in the country as of yet. carrying out recommendations mentioned in Yesterday, Lewke was summoned by the the Labour Welfare Division of Sri Lankan where one would buy a vehicle and wait for the Earlier, the Government was planning to previous investigation reports. Kandy Police to record a statement and it was Foreign Missions overseas. demand to increase and would sell it at a higher reopen the airports for operations from 1 The report stated that an error made by an after giving a statement to the Police that he – Maheesha Mudugamuwa price a few months after purchase. August onwards to boost the country’s tourism electrical superintendent at the Kerawalapitiya had addressed the provincial journalists who Merenchige urged the public not to fall into industry following the Covid-19 pandemic, Grid Sub-Station by incorrectly switching on were gathered. the trap of purchasing such high-priced vehicles but it has been delayed until all Sri Lankans an isolator after routine maintenance, while Call to... at this point, as they are negotiating terms with are repatriated. a section had been earthed, had led to a short The Morning contacted VIASL President the Ministry to conditionally lift the ban in the – Maheesha Mudugamuwa circuit and as a result, the Norochcholai Coal Set up... Shrikantha Gamage to inquire about the current coming months, so that customers would not Power Plant was also disconnected, forcing The task force should be authorised to deal status, to which he responded: “Although there have to pay a high markup on the vehicles the country to opt for intermittent power cuts. with any construction lacking proper approvals were news reports noting that Sri Lanka has they purchase. Fast action... – Maheesha Mudugamuwa or those which have been constructed contrary sufficient stocks of vehicles to last up to two- – Sarah Hannan “These allegations must be taken seriously, to the approvals granted, stated BASL Head and-a-half years, there is actually a lack of the and it is important that the authorities act swiftly to ascertain their accuracy,” TISL Executive First woman... Improving... Director Asoka Obeysekara said in a statement Upon the request and approval of the Discussions were also held on the development yesterday (21). TISL noted the lack of urgency, National Police Commission (NPC), Acting Cartoon of the day of physical and infrastructure facilities for the addressing allegations against police officers IGP Chandana Wickremeratne had submitted year 2020 to admit 405 more students to the investigating major corruption cases. nine nominations to NPC Secretary Nishantha engineering faculties of six universities and Weerasinghe. The Police Media Unit in a 360 additional students to the medical faculties. statement issued yesterday noted that SSP During the meeting, the officials also focused UNP to launch... Bimshani Jasin Arachchi, who was the Director on planning a programme to use the excellent The women’s force will be led by the Lak of the Bureau For the Prevention of Abuse works produced by universities for the benefit Vanitha Front, while the youth force will be of Children and Women, was prompted to of schoolchildren. It was also proposed to take led by the National Youth Front, the UNP the post of WDIG. WDIG Bimshani Jasin steps to appoint advisors for career guidance announced in a press release yesterday (21). Arachchi had joined the Sri Lanka Police in in the universities and to adjust the number of Several programmes are to be organised by 1997 as an Inspector of Police and in 2017 posts approved for the same. these collectives to create awareness about was promoted to SSP. The officials also agreed to hold discussions the dangers of the introduction of the 20th She obtained a Master’s in Human Rights with the Treasury and make arrangements to Amendment, environmental destruction, from the University of Colombo and a Bachelor provide special funds for the upliftment of attacks on the rule of law and parliamentary of Arts in Economics and Statistics from the the existing dental and veterinary hospitals at democracy, stifling people’s freedom, University of Ruhuna. the University of Peradeniya. The issues and intimidation and imprisonment of journalists, challenges faced by the deans in academic and tax hikes, burdening the public through the administrative matters were also discussed and lack of price controls, and the abolishment Will challenge... the Minister pointed out the long-term and of price formulas and depriving consumers “As soon as the 20th Amendment is tabled short-term solutions that could be provided in the resultant concessions. in Parliament, we will challenge it. Within the this regard. The Minister also instructed the Meanwhile, the Eksath Bhikku Peramuna week, we will file legal action at the Supreme officials to look into the future implementation will organise programmes to create awareness Court,” MP Madduma Bandara said. of external degree courses and how to plan future among the Buddhist clergy in Sri Lanka on He said the 20th Amendment was measures to safeguard their quality. the “constitutional crisis” in the country, in undemocratic and was against the best interests The discussion was held as an extension of addition to bribery, drug trafficking, and of the country. a series of meetings held with the deans, vice other crimes. – Skandha Gunasekara the morning Tuesday, September 22, 2020 3 business CEAT Kelani to generate BOI signs $ 29.32 m Rs. 150 m revenue for agreement with John Keells producers in September Hotels and Indra Traders Indra Hotels and the Cinnamon brand, the Red Colombo. With Resorts Kandy (Pvt.) property will be managed the addition of this new Ltd., a joint venture by Cinnamon Hotel property in the hill capital, between John Keells Management Ltd. Cinnamon Red Kandy Hotels PLC and Indra “It will feature signature will become the first and Traders (Pvt.) Ltd., services, facilities, and only Leed Gold-certified plans to build a 160- offerings, including an hotel in Kandy. expansive rooftop bar “The investment augurs room, three-star, and swimming pool, confidence in the lean luxury hotel in as well as a restaurant destination, looking The warehouse of a natural rubber supplier to CEAT Kandy. that will serve local and beyond the current crisis, The agreement was international cuisine on given the significance CEAT Kelani Holdings, which imparts knowhow to the dealers to signed on behalf of the both buffet and à la carte that the sector plays in sources all of its natural rubber help them improve the quality of RSS Board of Investment BOI Chairman Susantha Ratnayake formally presented the basis,” BOI said. the country’s economy. requirements locally, said its purchases grades. “We periodically audit dealers’ Certificate of Registration to Indra Hotels and Resorts Kandy (BOI), by BOI Chairman (Pvt) Ltd. Chairman Indra Silva Cinnamon Hotels and It is also aligned to the in September 2020 alone would reach operations and help them maintain Susantha Ratnayake Resorts initiated the Government’s overall 500 tonnes (500,000 kgs), generating high-quality standards,” Dadlani and Indra Hotels and The $ 29.32 million luxury property which is lean luxury concept and vision of generating a Rs. 150 million in revenue for Sri added. “As a result, many of our Resorts Kandy (Pvt) Ltd. project will facilitate expected to be completed segment to Sri Lanka revenue of $ 10 billion by Lankan producers in areas such as dealers are now recognised as ‘CEAT Chairman Indra Silva. the building of this lean in mid-2022. A part of in 2014 with Cinnamon 2025,” BOI added. Kegalle, Kalutara, Ratnapura, and approved NR (natural rubber) dealers’. Monaragala. This recognition not only helps them Increased production to meet local to be consistent suppliers to CEAT demand has enabled the company Kelani, it also helps them to establish Jatinder Biala re-elected Free Trade Zone to increase its monthly purchases of themselves as quality suppliers of RSS natural rubber in the domestic market grades to the rest of the local industry.” by as much as 35% by September, the CEAT’s ramping up of production Manufacturers’ Association Chairman country’s leading tyre manufacturer of truck and bus tyres since the start Isin Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. General of the Association has grown and disclosed. of the pandemic-linked lockdown Manager and Director Jatinder it has become an entity which In the pre-pandemic months of has resulted in the company now Biala was re-elected as the duly cares about the interest of December 2019 to February 2020, producing 100% of the segment’s President of the Free Trade entrepreneurs and investors. CEAT Kelani’s purchases of rubber requirements and enabled the Zone Manufactures’ Association Since its inception, the FTZMA averaged 366 tonnes a month, an Government to make a saving of Rs. (FTZMA) at the 40th Annual has grown, with its member generating average monthly revenue of 11 billion a year in foreign exchange. General Meeting (AGM) held at enrolment now representing over Rs. 107 million for local suppliers, the The company has also achieved an Vivanta Colombo Air Port Garden 75% of enterprises located in the company said. 85% increase in the production of in Seeduwa last week. Katunayake Export Processing “One of the major reasons for tyres for the “two-wheeler” segment The AGM also elected new Zone. Further, the Association has CEAT Kelani’s existence in Sri over the past three months, enabling a office bearers for the period developed a sound relationship Lanka is the availability of natural further saving of Rs. 350 million a year 2020/2021 and shared the with business chambers both rubber, and we have always been through import substitution. presentation of its annual report inside and outside Sri Lanka, and focussed on maximising local value CEAT Kelani can currently produce and the audited accounts for the also gets involved in establishing addition,” Managing Director Ravi two million tyres annually across preceding year of the FTZMA islandwide towards developing The FTZMA was founded in and making policy representations Dadlani observed. “With our ramping multiple categories, and an addition were also shared with their their business operations and 1981, three years after the first- to relevant government up of production in response to the of a further 200,000 car and van radial members. The auditors for the creating opportunities to foster and ever largest free trade zone was authorities,” the FTZMA said. temporary import restrictions imposed tyres is imminent with new machinery ensuing year were also elected safeguard their interest at all times. commissioned in Katunayake. There have been several other by the Government, our contribution being installed, pending the arrival of during the AGM. The FTZMA is a founding The organisation is the main free trade zones set up in the to local natural rubber producers has foreign technologists to commission There are over 60 member organisation of the apex body trade chamber of foreign direct country while using Katunayake increased sharply, by as much as 40% the additional capacity, the company enterprises under the wings – Joint Apparel Associations investors that pioneered activities as a model and the FTZMA is in value terms in just seven months.” said. of FTZMA which is having Forum (JAAF), which is the of the main industrial zone in looking forward to spreading its Increased production of truck, bus, Notably, CEAT Kelani Holdings has close links with the Board of umbrella body for apparel trade Katunayake and plays a pivotal membership in those free trade radial, and two-wheeler tyres by CEAT, kept the prices of its tyres unchanged Investment (BOI), Ministry, and of the country and it aims to be role in the national economy, and zones too. The FTZMA is the while supporting the Government’s since December 2019 to support all statutory bodies, building the “One-Stop Service Provider” is shaping it up while providing sole trade chamber that represents efforts to conserve foreign exchange customers and the economy, despite relationships and raising matters for all the member enterprises direct and indirect employment over 280 enterprises in all 13 BOI through import substitution, would the additional investments made in related to its members. The and all BOI investors housed plus means of living for hundreds zones and three more zones in also help the local industry achieve the increasing capacity and an increase in matters related to environment, in all the zones and outside of thousands of people in the Mirrijjawila (Pharma), Bingiriya, V-shaped post-pandemic recovery that market prices due to demand. labour, infrastructure, legal, the island, whilst representing vicinity. and Eravur, addressing common is expected of it, Dadlani said. CEAT Kelani Holdings’ customs, immigration, ports and them in all the forums. The “Over the years, the FTZMA issues in liaising with BOI and CEAT Kelani engages with a base of manufacturing operations in Sri airports, and logistics, etc. are Secretariat of FTZMA is run has been instrumental in resolving other state agencies. Moreover, the nearly 30 dealers for the purchase of Lanka encompass pneumatic tyres in discussed and taken care of. The by Secretary General Vasantha various challenges and issues FTZMA is also one of the main natural RSS (Ribbed Smoked Sheet) the radial (passenger cars, vans, and Association renders its services to Dias, established at Unit 18, with the relevant authorities in employer bodies representing the rubber and interacts with them on a SUVs), commercial (bias-ply and the members and all BOI investors Plaza Complex, Free Trade Zone, a professional and expeditious National Labour Advisory Council daily basis. Besides daily procurement radial), motorcycle, three-wheeler, and housed in and out of the zones Katunayake. manner. As such, the reputation (NLAC) since its inception. transactions, the company said it agricultural vehicle segments. Dialog introduces ‘Couple Unilever Sri Lanka adds Horlicks Blaster’ with unlimited calls and Viva to portfolio and SMS Unilever Sri Lanka, one of its commitment to provide of giving life to these brands’ relevance under heightened Dialog Axiata PLC can activate the package package acts as an Sri Lanka’s largest fast-moving healthy and nutritious food purposes of nourishing lives concern around health and announced the launch by reloading Rs. 123 ultimate accompaniment consumer goods companies, and refreshments to Sri Lanka, to serve the country where nutrition, we are confident of of the “Couple Blaster” and register the couple to the unlimited YouTube, yesterday (21) announced as more and more consumers nutrition-related challenges are the possibilities they present package facilitating all number by dialling #171#. Facebook, and WhatsApp its entry into the health connect with the global in need of being championed.” to unlock further trust and Dialog mobile customers The couple number to be plans being offered by food drinks market with the megatrend of wellbeing and Multiple essential nutritional confidence among consumers. with unlimited calls registered can either be a Dialog’s ‘Blaster’ range inclusion of two iconic brands, nourishment. properties consisting micro It is with this in mind that we and SMS between two Dialog prepaid or postpaid for all the digitally Horlicks and Viva into its food Unilever Sri Lanka and macro nutrients enrich welcome both Horlicks and numbers for as low as Rs. mobile connection. Mobile savvy youth who rely and refreshments portfolio. Marketing Director – Home Horlicks, while B vitamins and Viva into the Unilever Sri 123 (including taxes) per postpaid customers will on relevant, accessible, This announcement forms Care, Food, Refreshment, iron nutrients are entrenched in Lanka family.” month. The unique feature have the freedom to and affordable voice, part of the successful regional and Water Sharmila Bandara Viva. Since its inception in of this plan is that only change the couple number SMS, and data plans. merger between Hindustan said: “Horlicks and Viva are Unilever Sri Lanka Category 1938, Unilever Sri Lanka has one user needs to activate as and when they require This latest addition Unilever Ltd. (HUL) and cherished brands, which have Lead – Nutrition Milinda established itself as one of the it for both users to enjoy for a fee of Rs. 100, is a testament to the GlaxoSmithKline Consumer won the hearts and minds of Weerasinghe said: “Horlicks largest fast-moving consumer the benefit of unlimited for each change made. company’s commitment Healthcare Ltd. (GSKCH). generations. Deeply rooted in and Viva’s rich range of goods (FMCG) companies in calls and SMS. Prepaid mobile customers to facilitate over 15 With this, Unilever Sri Lanka the local culture, the brands beverage-based nutrition Sri Lanka. Its current product Dialog Mobile postpaid can change the other million of its customers takes over ownership for are considered an everyday products have enjoyed a vibrant portfolio includes 28 market customers can activate registered number free of with reliable, continuous marketing and distributing nutrition staple in households presence in the Sri Lanka leading brands in categories the package and register charge, once every month. connectivity without the Horlicks and Viva in Sri Lanka. across the country and we are health food drinks market such as home care, personal the couple number by “Understanding the loss of superior customer The company said the honoured to now represent segment, appealing to all care, and consumables. dialling #171#. Dialog emergent consumer needs, experience and quality inclusion of Horlicks and Viva them in Sri Lanka. We are age groups. As these brands Currently, 96% of its products Mobile prepaid customers the ‘Couple Blaster’ service,” Dialog said. into its portfolio is in line with also excited at the prospect enter a new era of consumer are manufactured locally.

3,000 farmers and outgrowers in the Nestlé Coconut Plan received 150,000 kgs of fertiliser and training Nestlé helps 3,000 farmers to grow resilient coconut on modern farming practices from crops. It gives me great pleasure to have been outfitted with a tube well part of our purpose as a ‘Good Food, the Coconut Cultivation Board note the strong positive impact of the and a micro-irrigation system. Good Life’ company, where we (CCB) and Nestlé at a recent event Nestlé Coconut Plan at the end of “Supporting the local coconut want consumers to know that Nestlé which marked the completion of the its fourth year, and the good growth industry has been close to our products are not only good for them plan’s fourth year. of the distributed plantlets so far, hearts for almost 35 years. Today, but also good for their community,” To help address the unstable which are showing a 95% success we contribute to more than 6,000 said Nestlé Managing Director coconut supply over the last few rate. The success of this programme farmers’ livelihoods by buying the Fabrice Cavallin. years, caused largely by drought and is a testament to the strength of highest quality Sri Lankan coconut Nestlé is known as the world’s crop disease, the Nestlé Coconut the public-private partnership for our Maggi Coconut Milk Powder. largest food and beverage Plan is helping people grow more between the CCB and Nestlé” weather and crop disease. The participants. It also encourages The Nestlé Coconut Plan, which company and is present in 190 resilient coconut varieties, and said CCB Chairman Jayantha first batch will mature in 2021. To farmers to plant short-term vegetable supports another 3,000 farming countries around the world with providing them better access to new Wickramasinghe. increase supply, the plan supports cash crops (inter-cropping) to families, is our latest endeavour to 308,000 employees and more technologies, best practices, quality Started in 2016, the Nestlé people to grow coconut in their receive an alternative income until help support the industry. We are than 2,000 brands. Nestlé Lanka planting materials, and professional Coconut Plan has provided 3,000 home gardens and in areas outside the coconut plantlets mature. As helping more people grow coconut has operated in Sri Lanka since agronomical support. farming families 19,000 coconut of the traditional coconut triangle many coconut growers struggle and increasing supply, by offering 1906 and manufactures most of its “Coconut is central to Sri Lankan plantlets of a special hybrid variety and has four model farms to help without a steady supply of water for special hybrid varieties that mature products locally, largely using local life and is one of our most important that is more resilient to adverse train and develop programme their crops, two of the model farms quicker and are more resilient. It is ingredients. the morning 4 Tuesday, September 22, 2020 brunch BY NAVEED ROZAIS This past weekend saw the conclusion of Season 9 of Derana Dream Star, Sri Lanka’s hottest music reality television show. This season saw Falan Andrea win the top spot In conversation with competing against fellow finalists Gihan Bandara and Nuwandhika Senaratne. Falan Andrea was crowned winner at the grand finale of Derana Dream Star Season 9 held on Saturday (19). Fresh off her big win, The Morning FALAN ANDREA Brunch caught up with Andrea to talk about The winner of Derana Dream Star Season 9 talks about her love for music, and her future what drew her to music, who she looks up to, and what she has planned. ÄÄ What drew you to music? I grew up with music; there was no exact time period when I felt drawn to music. As a child, all I can remember doing is singing. I went to Holy Family Convent, where I represented my house in the house choir and I was also in the main school choir. I was mostly involved in oriental music in school, as opposed to the western choir and music. I studied oriental music throughout school.

ÄÄ Which musicians inspire you? There are so many, it’s hard to pick just a few. But from a local perspective, classic Sri Lankan musicians like Madam Sujatha Aththanayaka greatly inspired me. From the new generation of local artistes, I Falan Andrea on stage after being announced the winner of Derana Dream Stary Season 9 love Umara Sinhawansa and Umaria Sinhawansa. They’re such versatile Achievers Lanka Business School, and I up being shortlisted. I’m bubbly, but I’m not that confident, artistes. They’re full of energy and also won that competition. A few famous I didn’t have a target or plan to become but the stage just brings out a completely their performances are amazing. artistes recognised me and my talent the ultimate winner. It was such a tough different side in me. They’re two artists I look up to and try because of that win, and it was a turning competition with an immensely talented to learn from. point. bunch. I’m truly blessed to have been able ÄÄ Did the pandemic affect your Internationally, I love Beyoncé I was feeling like my music life was to compete with such talented people. experience? and Celine Dion. They’re beautiful no more and that my passion for music was The whole Derana Dream Star Well, the initial public audition performers that you can learn so much not being fulfilled, and that’s when I saw experience has changed me so much as and some rounds took place before the from. the advertisement for Derana Dream Star. an artist. I have learned so much. The lockdown. Post lockdown, it was the final Personally, I never thought I would apply final 10 contestants make it to the Dream 16 who were competing. Normally, the ÄÄ How did you come to for a show, but I’ve watched Derana Dream Star Academy, where many artistes and process is shorter, but because of Covid-19, become a part of Derana Star for years and I’ve seen the kinds of professionals come and share knowledge we were asked to stay at home and it took a Dream Star? stars they produce. I decided to just take a with us through lectures and workshops. couple of months to get back to normal. chance and apply. I never thought I would We learned things like how to balance and Personally, I used the lockdown to After school, I couldn’t study more win, but here we are. project our voices as well as things we’d practice and learn. music or indulge in my passion for never have thought about, like how to music as much as I wanted to. I studied ÄÄ What was the process like? move our hands to capture the audience’s ÄÄ What’s next? human resource management. I’m one It was incredible. The first audition attention. I won the Derana Dream Star title of those people who always need to be was one big audition for the whole Western because the people liked me and voted for PHOTOS SAMAN doing something. I didn’t even wait Province. It took place in Moratuwa. When I ÄÄ What was it like performing me. I feel a huge responsibility towards my ABESIRIWARDANA for my Advanced Level (A/L) results got there, there was such a huge crowd, and on Derana Dream Star? fans. There’s a whole set of original songs before I moved on to the next thing. it was announced that only 55 people would It was an entirely different experience. being prepared that I’m very excited about. I did take part in “Friends proceed to the next round. I didn’t think There was a lot of pressure knowing that the We hope to start releasing singles during the in Action”, a music competition I had a chance, but since I’d come all the whole country was watching. I’m not really next two months and look at an album long organised by the Rotaract Club of way, I decided to just go for it – and I ended a very outgoing or bubbly person. I mean, term. Washoku Lunch A street food paradise LECS to host first edition of The Street Food Festival returns to Graze Kitchen, BY NAVEED ROZAIS options for the conscious food Park. Hygiene is being strictly lover. monitored, with all vendors Lanka Exhibition and The Street Food Festival being advised on hygiene Conference Services (Pvt.) Ltd. hopes to help Sri Lankans protocols. The LECS team and Hilton Colombo (LECS) will be hosting their experiment and build their BMICH are working together to first-ever edition of The Street confidence with regard to food, guide the crowds appropriately, Traditional Japanese food is Food Festival on 17 and 18 especially street food. “The with LECS staff on hand to collectively known as “Washoku”. October 2020 from 11 a.m. to 9 increased focus paid by The Street monitor social distancing,” One can feast through an entire p.m. at the Western Car Park area Food Festival on improving the Sooriyaarachchi shared, adding: Japanese buffet on Sunday, 27 of the Bandaranaike Memorial nutritional value of our traditional “All guests’ temperatures will be September, at Graze Kitchen, International Conference Hall street cuisine and promoting monitored on arrival and masks Hilton Colombo. There are about (BMICH), Colombo Sri Lanka. dietary diversification will further are compulsory. All our vendors 100 varieties in eight categories to The event is organised by LECS. enrich the eating experiences for will offer a takeaway option and feast on. You’ll get sushi, sashimi, LECS is a company with domestic and international tourists hand sanitisers will be available teppanyaki, yakitori, tempura, over 15 years of experience alike, and pave the way towards in common locations to ensure noodles, and a lot more. Sushi in producing trade-oriented better economic growth and the hygiene.” lovers will especially love the wide exhibitions. Other national-level promotion of food culture in our The Street Food Festival is range of Japanese food here. exhibitions organised by the country. In addition, it promises open to all food lovers and hopes Chef Hikaru Takahashi has LECS include the Construction to be a fun and exciting event that to inspire Sri Lankans to trust the more than 21 years of experience, Expo. LECS also organises includes a range of entertainment safety and hygiene of street food. so you know the food you’re exhibitions and trade shows that will be featured to cater Going forward, LECS hopes that getting has been tried and tested internationally for a variety of to the varied audiences,” said the framework created by The and deemed a success. industries, including the education LECS Project Manager Chamara Street Food Festival will help Discussing the menu, industry, the hotel suppliers Sooriyaarachchi. vendors to recognise their skills Takahashi stated: “Miso soup there shouldn’t be any pieces of dark meat, gizzards, skin, and industry, and the construction Sooriyaarachchi went on and would play an inspirational is a popular dish served in any rice left over in the soy sauce dish. other organs. industry. to stress that The Street Food role in creating a culture of safe Japanese restaurant. It should be If you want some sauce, make sure Tempura was introduced to The Street Food Festival Festival is organised while paying food across streets in Sri Lanka. treated like a drink. It is a cloudy to dip the fish part of the roll and Japan by the Portuguese residing in aims to celebrate Sri Lanka’s strict attention to the Covid-19 With an expected footfall of broth with small pieces of tofu not the rice. Nagasaki in the 16th Century, and diverse food culture and heritage Treatment Guidelines and over 10, 000 people, this two- and seaweed. While it’s normal Talking about noodles, he has become one of Japan’s most as well as street food classics Circulars issued by the Ministry day weekend event aspires to for most people to eat soup with explained that there are various famous dishes internationally. from around the world. The Street of Health. create a one-stop destination for a spoon, this should be sipped traditional Japanese noodle dishes. A special light batter is used Food Festival will offer multiple, “The Street Food Festival is food lovers that brings together right from the bowl. Tofu and Noodle dishes are very popular with seafood and vegetables and varying cuisines at affordable taking place in the main car park promoters of local and traditional seaweed left at the bottom of in Japan and are served both then deep fried. Okonomiyaki prices in what is set to become the at the BMICH; the Western Car foods. the bowl should be eaten with hot and cold depending on the is a type of grilled pancake into biggest street food festival to hit chopsticks.” season. Noodle restaurants and which various ingredients such as Colombo. He goes on to say that sushi food stands are common in Japan seafood, vegetables, and meat are The purpose of the festival rice shouldn’t be dipped in soy and you will find noodle stands mixed. Chawanmushi is a savoury is to create a platform for both sauce. Sushi is the most popular along train platforms. Soba are steamed egg custard that usually established and emerging street dish in Japan and the most famous native Japanese noodles made of contains pieces of chicken and food vendors, into the mainstream Japanese dish outside of Japan as buckwheat flour or a mixture of shrimp, and fish cake is yet another food scene so that they get their well. For over 2,000 years, rice buckwheat and wheat flour. Soba popular food. deserved space in the cities and be has been the most important food are about as thick as spaghetti, and All this and more can be respected by people. in Japanese cuisine. Sushi rice is are served either hot or cold and indulged in if you head over to The Street Food Festival’s cooked white rice flavoured with with various toppings. Hilton on Sunday, 27 September, vendors will offer street food seasoned rice vinegar. There are Meat was eaten in Japan in between 12 noon and 2.30 p.m. favourites from all around the various kinds of sushi dishes, such larger amounts only since the The lunch buffet is priced at Rs. world, including Sri Lankan, as nigiri sushi (hand-formed sushi), second half of the 19th Century. 4,888 Nett per person. Indian, Chinese, Mexican, and maki sushi (rolled sushi), and There are a variety of popular Prior bookings are Italian, among others. The Street chirashi (sushi rice topped with Japanese meat dishes. Yakitori recommended by calling the F&B Food Festival looks to provide raw fish). The sticky texture of is one such dish. It is skewered Reservations Desk on 0112 492 tantalising cuisines to food lovers sushi rice is like that for a reason. grilled chicken pieces seasoned 492. The al fresco area at Graze of any persuasion, with everything By dipping a roll of sushi in soy with salt or sauce. Almost every Kitchen offers a gorgeous view of from seafood to BBQ available, sauce, the rice becomes too soft, part of the chicken is used for the lotus pond, so try to bag a seat as well as vegan and vegetarian PHOTO MIKA FROM UNSPLASH losing its important texture. Also, yakitori including the white and there if you can! the morning 5 Tuesday, September 22, 2020 sports Marvellous! Namal at his best! Thriller in the desert Halep reigns in Rome Young Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Namal Rajapaksa delivered an Just the second match. The 2020 Indian Top-seed Simona Halep warmed up for next impressive, thought-provoking, and insightful speech yesterday (21) on his Premier league (IPL), sans spectators at week’s French Open by winning her first Italian vision on developing Sri Lanka’s sports for the future. It’s worth taking note of its venue in Dubai, produced a Super Over Open title after opponent Karolina Pliskova retired by everyone who has a dream of remaking another Susanthika and ‘96 World thriller just on its second match on Sunday injured yesterday (21) in Rome. Romania’s Halep Cup team. Will he go down the corporate path or will he deliver what Sri (20) – Delhi Capitals tied with Kings XI led 6/0, 2/1 against the Czech second seed, whose Lanka really wants? Too early to say. Yet, his speech yesterday at the Colombo Punjab at 157/8 in 20 overs before the movement seemed to be hampered from the start. School of Business Management on “Creating a Professional Sportsmanship Super Over tie-breaker was won by Delhi Halep, who won the French Open title in 2018, has Culture” indicated that he’s capable and has done his homework. Capitals chasing just three runs to win. now won 14 matches in a row, BBC noted. The Dwight Howard ‘Re-think’ Dwight Howard is talked of as a future National Basketball Association (NBA) Hall of Famer. Now in his 17th year in the NBA, Howard was taken by the Orlando Magic as the first overall in the 2004 NBA draft. He has since played in six NBA teams (twice with the Los Angeles Lakers) and has no championship ring to show for his efforts. Today, he’s with the Lakers LPL again, returning this season after a rather acrimonious stint in 2012-13 marked by to face testy exchanges with Kobe Bryant. It’s a different story now. The coach is different. There are different leaders on Los Angeles Lakers centre Dwight the floor and crucially, one Howard hangs on the basket could argue, one of them is as he dunks during the first LeBron James. The dynamics half of an NBA basketball game another are different. It would be hard against the Cleveland Cavaliers in to imagine Dwight Howard January 2020 of “2012-13 Howard” being seven minutes. silent about having to sit out Howard’s only NBA finals an entire series, but that’s appearance was with the Abu Jayed Rahi, what happened against the Orlando Magic in 2009 in the 27-year-old Houston Rockets in the a losing cause (1-4) against Bangladeshi right- second round of the playoffs. the Lakers. This time he arm medium-fast has a legitimate shot at a bowler, who has He was kept on the delay! shown “Covid-19- championship ring. z Clash with Pakistan like symptoms” bench Here are his thoughts: “I on Sunday while Those who called the had a chance to get there Super League taking part shots, so to speak, felt that once, and always promised in a camp in and two-week preparation for Howard didn’t have a role to myself if I had a chance to the tour of SL play against the small-ball get back there, I’d give my quarantine likely to Rockets. So he was, in the teammates everything I got words of one commentator, and lay it all out on the line.” delay LPL start relegated to being “a socially He got Jokic, Jamal distant cheerleader on the Murray, and Pail Misslap in bench”. foul trouble before halftime, BY REVATHA S. SILVA 17 November. The each picking up four teams playing three. And after The Lanka Premier League Bangladesh pacie will be Karachi Kings, INTERCEPTION the half “gave” (LPL) could face yet another Lahore Qalandars, Jokic his fourth, delay. The main reason is its Multan Sultans, and by Malinda effectively clash with the Pakistan Super Peshawar Zalmi. Abu Jayed Rahi Seneviratne crippling the League (PSL) and the strict Nuggets. In Not feasible for 16 minutes 14-day quarantine mandated some players by the Sri Lankan health on the court, authorities. The PSL team Quetta Gladiators shows ‘Covid-like Howard didn’t complain. he scored 13 points off 4-5 is to take part in the LPL too, under He had returned to Los shooting, had three rebounds, Adding to the obstacles befalling the name Galle Gladiators, and Angeles with a different two steams, and two blocks. this only high-profile cricket according to The Cricket Pakistan mindset; “I will do what it That’s presence. Presence tournament left in the island for the yesterday (21), the Sri Lankan symptoms’ takes for the team”. He even not only “when it matters” pandemic-ravaged 2020, another Government’s insistence on the proposed a non-guaranteed but “when called upon to be Bangladeshi Test player reportedly mandatory 14-day quarantine “has The Bangladesh Cricket the Bangladesh team skill camp, contract. His agent, Charles counted”. tested positive on Sunday (20) left the timely start of the league Board (BCB) confirmed tested on 18 and 19 September, Briscoe put it in a rather back- for Covid-19 ahead of their next (LPL) in danger”. yesterday (21) that two two cases have been identified as handed way: “It was about Dwight Howard will month’s tour of Sri Lanka (see boxed The above report explained cases have been identified as ‘borderline negative’ with one of Dwight proving to himself he not whine story). that the busy schedule of the two “borderline negative” in the them showing classical Covid- was ready for this role; he’d He didn’t put up such In such a context, the Sri Lankan leagues will not allow international tests conducted on Friday (18) 19-like symptoms,” BCB said in lost pretty much everything. numbers in Game 2. The health authorities, who are strictly cricketers to be in isolation for two and Saturday (19), including one a statement issued on Sunday. He felt like if he wanted to Lakers were comfortably adhering to the 14-day quarantine weeks. “Pakistan’s ... Shahid Afridi with "Covid-like symptoms". “As per the Covid-19 get anything back, he needed ahead most of the game until requirement for the Bangladeshi Test will be representing the Multan That one player, we learnt, is the management guideline to start from the bottom and the Nuggets put together a tour here, are highly unlikely to relax Sultans franchise in the PSL and if 27-year-old Bangladeshi right- and to maintain bio-secure work his way back.” run that saw several lead the existing measures for the LPL, he is to move to LPL after playing arm medium-fast bowler Abu environment standards, the changes. The Nuggets were which is to be held only 54 days in the PSL, undergoing 14 days of Jayed Chowdhuri Rahi who symptomatic individual along Then they needed him 103-102 ahead with 2.1 away from now. quarantine in Sri Lanka will not be has played nine Tests taking 24 with all the players who have LeBron and Anthony Davis seconds left on the clock and a practical measure,” the said report wickets. been in close contact with him (AD) would not paint Howard it took a buzzer-beating three Clashing with PSL too pointed out. It said that a member of their recently, have been isolated until that way, one feels. Howard pointer from AD to win it for The LPL was originally scheduled Test team, who was among the the next test on 22 September knew who led the team. He the Lakers. to be played from 28 August to 20 SLC asking for player 27 players who participated (today),” it further added. trusted LeBron’s judgment Maybe Howard is not the September. But on 11 August, it compliance in the training camp in Dhaka Earlier, Bangladesh batsman and AD’s too, even though player he was, at least not in was postponed to be held from 14 Tackling the issue, Sri Lanka ahead of their Sri Lanka tour, Saif Hassan returned positive the latter superstar was very terms of consistency. He’s November to 6 December, owing Cricket (SLC) has already notified has been isolated after showing again in his second Covid-19 much younger. obviously thrilled with the to Covid-19 restrictions. Yet, weeks all possible overseas players that “classical Covid-like symptoms”. test. Hassan’s second sample He sat it out. He cheered. 2-0 lead in the seven-game after the announcement of this 14 they need to undergo 14 days of Those who came in close was taken exactly seven days No grumpy looks, no series. The coach might November start, the Pakistan Cricket quarantine here before the start of contact with him have also been after he first tested positive. muttering or disenchanted bench him again. He may get Board (PCB) said they would resume the LPL. isolated, following the latest Hassan is currently being tweets. The Lakers beat the reduced minutes. We don’t the remaining four matches of the “We sent an email to all player Covid-19 tests conducted by quarantined at his home. Rockets 4-1. The job got know. Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2020 managers on Friday (18) stating that the board ahead of the camp Though he was named in the done. One thing is certain. on the same day (14 November), the players who are only willing to that began on Sunday (20). 27-man Bangladeshi Test squad, Next, the Denver Nuggets. Dwight Howard will not which was abruptly halted in March go for 14 days of quarantine need Their next round of tests will be Hassan hadn’t participated Different team, different whine. He might not deliver due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Those to inform us. Then, out of them conducted today (22), reports in Sunday’s training camp in strategies, different line-ups. beyond expectations. He four T20 games of PSL are now only we are going to select the from Bangladesh revealed. Dhaka. Howard got the call. The might not deliver as expected. scheduled from 14-17 November foreign players,” a senior SLC ex-co “Out of the 27 cricketers for (Courtesy ANI) Lakers felt they needed him However, whether or not he only to clash with the first four days member told The Morning Sports on to defend Nikola Jokic. They has another monster game of the 23-day-long LPL. Sunday. expected a physical presence (for minutes on the floor), PSL organisers, PCB based in about are the quarantine, franchise high-profile players who are willing and hopefully that he would rest assured he will give it Lahore, announced on 2 September 80% of arrangements arrangements, how the profits are to play in the LPL. Again, the PSL draw some fouls on Jokic. his all on the floor or, if on that the remaining four PSL 2020 are okay being shared, and also the final players too will practically be unable the bench, will make sure matches, which were postponed on “The IPG (Innovative Production decision of the IPL (Indian Premier to play in it with such stringent Delivering when it all vibes emanating from his 17 March, will be held in Lahore Group, the LPL title holders) are League) team. Anyway, I can see a health measures, which would mean mattered corner will be positive. on 14, 15, and 17 November. Both ready. They have lined up with lot of interest,” he added. that another date change for the LPL He put on a dazzling show, (The writer can be the Qualifier and Eliminator-1 will 12 franchise investors. There are But now the added Covid-19 would be the only viable option. The battling with Jokic, driving reached at malindasenevi@ be held on 14 November, while the parties from Canada, the UK, and concerns and the resultant adherence LPL’s tournament draft is to take hard, blocking shots, creating gmail.com or www. Eliminator-2 will be played on 15 India. They are about 80% okay. to a two-week compulsory place, meanwhile, in nine days on 1 steals, and even drawing as malindawords.blogspot. November, with the final fixed for The only factors they are concerned quarantine will only discourage October via video link. many as four fouls in his first com) the morning 6 Tuesday, September 22, 2020 education First transnational Headstart cites Musaeus education partnership between SL and Canada z Rosedale Academy and AIBS launch the as model of successful Global University Pathway Programme The Rosedale Academy in Ontario, Canada and the Asian Institute of Business and Science shift to e-learning (AIBS) proudly launch the Global University Pathway Programme People, rather than the funding from the Dialog Axiata- (GUPP), a unique pre-university technologies deployed, are supported Nenasa initiative. Private pathway programme that provides the key factor in driving schools or educational institutions Sri Lankan students with the a successful transition to can use the facility for a monthly exclusive advantage of accessing online teaching, a leading fee, with private institutions 500-plus leading universities and facilitator has concluded enjoying the added convenience of colleges in Australia, Canada, AIBS Chairperson Rohini Nanayakkara after working with being able to pay the fees through the UK, US, New Zealand, numerous schools during their Dialog, Mobitel, or SLT bills, and Singapore upon successful Sri Lanka’s Covid-19-linked the company said. completion of the programme in lockdown. Headstart and Guru.lk are Sri Lanka. currently running an online The GUPP comprises the Headstart (Pvt.) Ltd., the award- initiative in more than 250 schools Ontario Secondary School winning internationally recognised islandwide in partnership with Diploma (one-year university Sri Lankan e-learning solutions Dialog Axiata, Microsoft, and pathway) which can be completed provider, cites as an example the Commercial Bank of Ceylon, in 10 months of fulltime study at success of Musaeus College’s under the “Smart Schools” project. AIBS. The Ontario Secondary online teaching model, powered More than 3,000 teachers have School Diploma (OSSD) by the company’s involvement in been trained on teaching with qualification is jointly awarded by High Commissioner of Sri Lanka teacher capability improvement. technology over a period of the Ontario Ministry of Education to Canada and the Maldives One of the first schools in three years with the assistance and Rosedale Academy. David McKinnon the country to adopt the virtual of the Education Ministry and AIBS Chairperson Rohini High Commissioner of Sri teaching model in the lockdown Students continue with digital learning after the end of the lockdown provincial education offices under Nanayakkara said: “I am delighted Lanka to Canada and the Maldives period to deliver lessons on this project, which has won many to be a part of this path-breaking David McKinnon commented: a regular school timetable, College’s quick transition to enhancement, and the dedication accolades including an award in partnership, a first between “I extend my congratulations Musaeus College’s quantifiable e-learning in response to the and adaptive mindset of the 2018 from Microsoft as one of the Canada and Sri Lanka in the to Rosedale Academy and the accomplishments include the pandemic, Principal Nelum teachers to make e-learning work most successful programmes in the education space. AIBS is focused Asian Institute of Business and active involvement of over 300 Senadira said: “Our plans helped played a vital role in the school’s APAC region. on delivering internationally Science on their partnership to primary grades to Advanced Level us to adapt very quickly and digital teaching success. Although Headstart (Pvt.) Ltd. has been accredited qualifications in Sri deliver the Global University (A/L) teachers in the tech-based allowed us to begin conducting a technology for education has developing content for the ICTA Lanka and this is yet another Pathway Programme in Sri teaching method, the participation very successful online teaching been available for a while, the (Information and Communication initiative to bring a globally Lanka. The Rosedale Academy of over 6,000 students from all programme which started from pandemic highlighted its necessity. Technology Agency of Sri Lanka)/ accepted university entry is an independent high school in grades via Headstart’s single 20 March 2020. The lessons were An institution may have the best Ministry of Education on school qualification to our doorstep. Toronto, Canada (BSID# 668726), online platform, the development meticulously planned according to technology and hardware but curricula since 2009 and is a The Rosedale Academy, a inspected by the Ontario Ministry of a substantial digital content a set timetable for all classes from how teachers make use of this to subsidiary of Dialog Axiata. The globally renowned academic of Education and authorised to library by the teachers themselves, grades one to 13 corresponding deliver lessons is what makes the company was a tech start-up institution based in Ontario, grant OSSD course credits and and the successful completion of to the needs of the syllabus. This difference in a student’s learning with a project named “Vidunena” Canada, entered an agreement issue the Ontario Secondary online examinations for the second focused approach has, we are experience. This is where Musaeus under which the GCE A/L science with AIBS as its partner in Sri School Diploma. term for the entire school, the proud to report, seen us complete College excelled.” curriculum was provided to Lanka to facilitate the delivery “Sri Lanka and Canada enjoy company said. the second term’s work targeting Notably, when the country went schools in an e-learning format, of the Ontario Secondary School a longstanding partnership, Headstart attributed the focus on the beginning of August. This into lockdown mode due to Covid- through an ICTA grant. The Diploma (OSSD) to Sri Lankan which has for decades involved teacher capability improvement, would not have been possible 19, Headstart made available its company now owns the largest and Maldivian students.” collaboration in the field of rather than preoccupation with if not for the special training digital learning content platform e-learning interactive content Through this pre-university education. The ongoing Covid- tech support and hardware, as the provided by Headstart to the Guru.lk containing resources portal in Sri Lanka with more programme, students in Sri Lanka 19 pandemic has altered the cornerstone of Musaeus College’s master teachers and IT teachers of digitised material to schools than 650,000 learners and 8,100- will for the first time have access to way students learn, and we are success. who trained all the others, usually and private tuition institutes plus lessons to choose from. The the Canadian secondary education looking for innovative ways to While providing digitised in the late evenings or during the whose regular classes had been content knowledge pool includes curriculum, opening doors to maintain those education links. learning material to Musaeus weekends along with the team suspended. This enabled these university academics, teachers, post-secondary institutions in The Rosedale programme’s College, Headstart’s role from Headstart.” institutions to maintain their business leaders, corporate Canada and around the world. digital learning platform, which in fostering e-learning also Headstart Director/CEO (Chief interaction with students via the trainers, and soft skills trainers, The Rosedale model will also features multi-media content and encompassed assessing teachers Executive Officer) Hasitha platform, and keep up the learning and is the largest such education- contribute to strengthening interactive learning activities, for their tech capabilities, training Dela said: “The unwavering momentum without any physical related talent pool in Sri Lanka. local Sri Lankan education is one such way to enable Sri them on teaching with technology, leadership from the Principal contact until the situation could The company also provides institutions by including them Lankans to discover the high- and continuous engagement for and management of the school return to normal. e-learning content and platform into an international collaborative quality education qualifications training, support, and monitoring in embracing the shift to digital Access to Guru.lk content solutions to corporates, teaching network. that Canada offers, right here in of key performance indicators education, the investment is provided free of charge to institutions, the government sector, The Chairperson further stated: Sri Lanka,” he further stated. (KIPs). commitment provided for government schools with CSR and the general public under the “AIBS is proud to be associated in The Rosedale Academy and Commenting on Musaeus teacher training and capability (corporate social responsibility) brand name Guru.lk. this venture that will bring many AIBS believe in the utmost benefits to the education industry importance of grooming students in Sri Lanka including access to by providing a globally recognised global curricula, training, and qualification in a friendly yet certification of local teaching professional environment via a Moratuwa Toastmasters celebrate faculty, transfer of technology, holistic approach so that students and collaboration with global will evolve into future leaders 10th officer installation universities.” wherever they go. ‘SLT eSiphala’ by SLT gives enhanced facilities for e-learning With the increasing dependency on online teaching and learning at present, Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) launched “SLT eSiphala”, the online teaching platform that would enhance the digital teaching and learning experience. The advanced e-learning technologies available on SLT eSiphala allow teachers to connect with up to 20,000 students in a session and create virtual classrooms to organise them at a time when education is their teaching. The platform also mostly based in the digital arena. enables them to conduct live or To activate, users can log on to prerecorded sessions, along with www.slt.lk/esiphala. scheduling online assignments SLT and Mobitel offer special Members of the Moratuwa Toastmasters Club at the 10th officer installation ceremony and tests together with marking data packages to SLT eSiphala systems. In addition, online users with dedicated back-end The Moratuwa Toastmasters Club always backed her and led the club in of District 82. He is a Past President The club performed exceptionally certificates and progress reports support, through two special recently held its 10th officer installation achieving many awards. of the club and the first person to be well in the year 2019/2020. It was for each student can be issued packages, “LMS Lite” and “LMS ceremony for the term 2020/2021 at the Toastmaster Sachini Samarasekara appointed as an Area Director from able to achieve the highest status by through SLT eSiphala. Max”. These packages can be Merrill J. Fernando (MJF) Charitable was appointed President for the term the Moratuwa Toastmasters Club. receiving the President’s Distinguished The sessions can be made activated via https://internetvas. Foundation auditorium, Katubedda. 2020/2021. She outlined her plans The officers installed for the term Club and Golden Gavel awards, as interactive with the chat, slt.lk, the SLT self-care app, The Chief Guest and keynote for the upcoming year and pledged 2020/2021 by District Director well as all the membership awards whiteboard, screen-share, adding data bundles through speaker of the ceremony was Roshan to work together to raise the bar the Toastmaster Munawwara were President at the awards ceremony held on 5 and file-share features. As data add-ons or by calling Tissaratchy, who is a member of the Moratuwa Toastmasters Club set last Sachini Samarasekara, Vice President September. students can upload homework 1212. Similar packages are Board of Directors of Dilmah Ceylon year by focusing on quality rather – Education Hemaka Ganewatte, Vice The Moratuwa Toastmasters Club assignments and projects, both also available on Mobitel for Tea Company PLC since 2005. The than quantity. President – Membership Ruchitha is a community. The club was formed teacher and student can track eSiphala which can be activated Guest of Honour was District Director Moreover, Deepana Istaweera, Perera, Vice President – Public nine years ago to provide a positive their progress. The mobile- by dialing #170# and choosing for District 82, Toastmaster Noorul Nadee Balasuriya, Ruchira Fernando, Relations Damian Perera, Secretary learning environment where every friendly feature of SLT eSiphala e-learning. Mobitel users can Munawwara. Lihini Mohotty, Poojani Perera, Varuni Nesandi Silva, Treasurer Shamaran member has the opportunity to improve makes it more accessible to also get access to the platform Toastmaster Shereen Fernando, Ranasighe, Maneesha Thotagammana, Satkunanathan, and Sergeant-at-Arms communication and leadership teachers and students even on by selecting e-learning packages as the Outgoing President of the Ishanka Wijeratne, and Nuwan Yasas Ranasinghe. skills, which in return result in self- the go. Connecting to some of on the DataMart app or on www. Moratuwa Toastmasters Club, spoke Thilakawardhana were inducted as new The installation ceremony came confidence and personal growth. the best lecturers in Sri Lanka DataMart.lk. about the past year, reminiscing some members to the club by Toastmaster to a successful end with a number of The club provides a platform to its is made possible to students all For more details call or of the most memorable events that Raveen Lankanatha, who is the Area entertainment activities and inspiring passionate members who live in and across the island and benefits Whatsapp on 0705 004 000. took place. She thanked the team that Director for Area Four, Division D speeches taking place. around Moratuwa.