DEVELOPING AN ENERGY HUB COVID-19 A REFINING LOCAL CASES TOTAL CASES 3,388 PROCESS DEATHS RECOVERED ACTIVE CASES 130 13 3,245 RS. 70.00 PAGES 88 / SECTIONS 7 VOL. 03 – NO. 01 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2020 CASES AROUND THE WORLD RECOVERED TOTAL CASES 25,732,161 DECISIVE IMF STILL DEATHS WEEK AHEAD CONSIDERING 34,579,033 1,029,177 FOR 20A RFI REQUEST THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 8.10 P.M. ON 02 OCTOBER 2020 »SEE PAGES 8 & 9 »SEE BUSINESS PAGE 1 »SEE PAGE 4 Japan’s tit for LRT tat z Decides to hold transmission and distribution project z Concerned about SL debt situation and financial policy

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Greater Colombo Transmission bilateral co-operation are until the above mentioned situations and Distribution Loss Reduction treated with gravity by Japan. are improved,” the letter stated. In what is likely a reaction to the Sri Lankan Government’s Project Phase II towards the The policies included the “JICA shall follow the Government stance on the Colombo Light Rail Transit (LRT) Project, the appraisal stage”. request for a debt moratorium of Japan’s policies but we are willing Japanese Government has decided to put on hold the Greater The letter, signed by JICA South by the GoSL to Japan, the to restart the formulation process Colombo Transmission and Distribution Loss Reduction Asia Department South Asia Division construction of a new power regarding the project once the Project Phase II. 3 Director Naoaki Miyata, stated that plant, and the project for Government of Japan confirms the Japan is concerned about the current establishing an LRT system situations are improved.” In a letter written to the Director was seen by The Sunday Morning, debt situation of the Government in Colombo. The receipt of the above mentioned General of the Department of External the Japan International Co-operation of Sri Lanka (GoSL) and also its “We regret to say that the letter was confirmed by the ERD to Resources (ERD) of the Ministry Agency (JICA) said the Government financial policy. In addition Government of Japan will not The Sunday Morning when contacted of Finance, Economic, and Policy of Japan would “hold the formulation to that, it states the GoSL’s The letter from JICA give a clearance for preceding for clarification. Development on 7 May 2020, which process temporarily regarding the policies and actions for dated 7 May 2020 (sic) the project to appraisal stage Contd. on page 2 LNG POWER PLANT Much to smile about COLOMBO PORT CITY PROJECT SL-India No renegotiation of agreement The Government said the agreement to see whether there were work on the project was going on negotiations controversial and politically sensitive any clauses that were inconsistent as usual and as per the already Colombo Port City agreement signed with the Constitution, while clauses signed agreements. “There is no between Sri Lanka and China will that affect the national security of such renegotiation being carried out at on hold not be renegotiated, despite its the country would also be reviewed. present as to my knowledge,” he said. The negotiations between Sri Lanka and claims made prior to the election, Minister Rambukwella’s statement Last December, the Cabinet approved India for the construction of a 300 MW The Sunday Morning learnt. was confirmed by State Minister a proposal presented by Prime Minister liquefied natural gas (LNG) power plant is at Co-Cabinet Spokesman and Mass Nalaka Godahewa, who also said Mahinda Rajapaksa giving Prime a standstill, as the new Government is yet to Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella no such discussion to renegotiate the Minister’s Secretary Gamini Senarath take a decision on whether or not to continue said there was no discussion to agreement was going on at present. the authority to appoint a committee to with the project, The Sunday Morning learnt. renegotiate the Port City agreement. In the meantime, Colombo Port evaluate the feasibility of the Colombo A well-informed source attached to the Nevertheless, prior to the election City Project Director Bimal Prabath International Financial City (CIFC). Ministry of Power said that several rounds the Government said it will review the also told The Sunday Morning that Contd. on page 2 of discussions were held between the two parties under the previous Government, CAPITALENVIRONMENTAL DESTRUCTION HEIGHTS but the new administration is yet to give its consent to the agreements reached between CAPITALRS. 34 MILLION HEIGHTS the two parties. RS. 34 MILLION Contd. on page 2 Only 20 UPWARDS UPWARDS MRP ON COCONUTS incidents CAPITAL HEIGHTS RS. 34 MILLION Second recorded VISIT OUR UPWARDSWEBSITE Sri Lanka Police Media VISIT OUR gazette to Spokesperson SSP Jaliya Senaratne CAPITAL HEIGHTS+94 763112233 on Friday (2) said that 20 incidents RS.35SHOW APARTMENT MILLIONWEBSITE UPWARDSRS. 34 MILLION of deforestation and illegal logging READY FOR INSPECTION UPWARDS had taken place across the country rectify first? VISIT OUR and the media’s reporting had PROJECT NEARING+94 763112233 COMPLETION WEBSITE BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA SHOWassisted APARTMENT the Police to promptly take action and continue further VISIT OUR +94 763112233WEBSITE The Government is to publish another READYinvestigations FOR INSPECTIONas well. SHOW APARTMENT www.capitalheights.lk gazette notification on the maximum retail Contd. on page 2 SHOW APARTMENT +94 763112233 price (MRP) of coconuts in order to rectify READY FORREADY INSPECTION FOR INSPECTION the previous gazette’s error in using inches PROJECT NEARING COMPLETION to measure the circumference of a coconut. State Minister of Finance and Capital Markets and Public Enterprise Reforms COPE MEETING PROJECT NEARINGPROJECT NEARING COMPLETION COMPLETION A senior source at the Consumer Affairs Ajith Nivard Cabraal (seated) and Central Bank Governor Prof. W.D. Lakshman Authority (CAA) told The Sunday Morning sharing a moment at the joint press conference last Wednesday (30) held at the Ministry of Finance in Colombo Probe on that the mistake would be corrected. PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE Contd. on page 2 PROVINCIAL COUNCIL SYSTEM Lanka Coal CULTIVATING HEMP President to receive report and Lakvijaya The State Minister of Provincial “I will be submitting a The Parliament watchdog group, the Councils and Local Government comprehensive report on the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE), Lanka’s Affairs is to submit a report to provincial councils and will show is to summon Lanka Coal Company (Pvt.) President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on how the provincial council system Ltd. during its first meeting while the the disadvantages of the provincial has failed the country.” Norochcholai Coal Power Plant (Lakvijaya next export? council system. Contd. on page 2 Power Station) will be called soon after. Minister of Trade Dr. Bandula Gunawardana Contd. on page 2 claimed that Sri Lanka could easily pay off its MT NEW DIAMOND outstanding debts by 2025 with the potential commercial gains that the country could get by exporting products made of hemp. Towing may take two months “We are looking at the possibilities of BY SARAH HANNAN Speaking to The Sunday Morning, to the Attorney General’s (AG) cultivating a commercially viable strain of Sri Lanka Navy Spokesperson Capt. Department.” hemp, of which the extracts can be used for While the Sri Lankan Government Indika De Silva said: “The Maritime Capt. De Silva also noted that given medicinal purposes when turned into hemp waits for the settlement of the fire Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC), the northeast monsoon period that is oil. Given the many uses of the plant, I see no mitigation and rescue claim billed against which is operated under the Sri expected in the coming weeks, the harm in conducting research about the plant the MT New Diamond, the Sri Lanka Lanka Navy, gave permission for the vessel’s contracted salvers will have and then manufacturing various products that Navy estimates that it would take over distressed vessel to be towed out of Sri to be given sufficient time to tug it out can be exported.” two months for the vessel to be towed Lankan territorial waters only after the of its current position. Contd. on page 2 away from Sri Lankan territorial waters. settlement is made, as communicated Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning NEWS Sunday, October 4, 2020 Contd. from page 1 Concerns were raised by the new studying the programmes it had already It has been confirmed that two government to collect samples from the beachside in the Japan’s... Government regarding the high cost of the implemented. and opposition politicians are involved in the eastern coast and posted an observation team ERD Director General Ajith Abeysekera project. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa destruction and the Minister emphasised that he to study the behavioural changes of marine life said following receipt of the letter, JICA had In the proposal to cancel the project, which will take steps to enforce the law against them and aquaculture in the surrounding and adjacent verbally informed the Government that the was put forward by the Transport Ministry irrespective of their rank. areas of the bunker oil spill. letter would be disregarded later, but since the and approved by Cabinet last week, it was Only 20... – Sarah Hannan Speaking to The Sunday Morning, NARA Government could not wait till Japan makes stated that the project was cancelled after it Incidents were reported in Hanthana in Kandy, Environmental Studies Division Head Dr. its decision, the Government initiated an was observed that the LRT Project would be Kalpitiya Mangrove Forest, Eluwankulama in K.W.S. Weerasekara said: “The first observations open tender process for the Greater Colombo unable to achieve the desired results. Wanathawilluwa, Muhudu Katuwa in Marawila, Probe on... recorded by our team at the site noted that the Transmission and Distribution Loss Reduction Highlighting the reasons for cancellation, Morawewa in Horowpathana, Ramsar-protected COPE Chair MP Dr. Charitha Herarh told The turtles were the first to react to the change in the Project Phase II. the cabinet proposal stated that according to wetland site in Anawilundawa, Managalapura, Sunday Morning that they were being probed seawater column due to the dilution of bunker “We have already received the green light the basic plan of the project, it was proposed Kawanthissapura, Minneriya, Knuckles on the basis of special audit reports and would oil in the area. They have been swimming closer for the project from the Asian Infrastructure to introduce a light rail service which would Forest Reserve, Welikanda in Polonnaruwa, be questioned when the Committee first meets to the surface, which indicates the air within Investment Bank (AIIB),” he said, adding that present travelling along the overland railway Ihala Kalawewa in Anuradhapura, Negombo on Tuesday, 6 October. the water column could be polluted to a certain the total cost of the project was around $ 50 tracks as an alternative mode of transport to Lagoon Mangrove Forest, Malavi Wewa “We will call Lanka Coal Company (Pvt.) Ltd. extent and that it is hindering their underwater million and the Government was yet to take those commuting to Colombo for employment Reserve in Kekirawa, Somawathiya National on the 6th. A special audit report by the Auditor breathing capacity.” a decision on the LNG power plant. and other purposes in private vehicles. Park, Wanniyagama Reserve, Hedeniya in General’s (AG) Department has highlighted NARA’s Samudrika vessel is afloat at In addition, the ERD Director General However, the previous Government took Kandy, Kirindi Oya Reserve, Kanthale, and several irregularities such as coal purchasing the site and a team of research scientists is stressed that the bilateral relationship between the necessary steps to change that plan and Galenbindunuwewa. arrangements, power shortages, etc. that we continuing their observations and research to the two countries was not affected due to the implement the proposed LRT system on a The complaints that have been lodged from must look into.” support the marine pollution report that MEPA suspension of several projects, and the ongoing railway track built on towers, which could these sites pertained to felling trees and torching On Thursday, 8 October, COPE will hear will be preparing with the assistance of other commitments from Japan to Sri Lanka are cause severe environmental damage. The the reserves, destroying mangrove forests, from the Norochcholai Coal Power Plant. universities. going on without any hindrance. cabinet paper stated that if the project is clearing forest reserves using heavy machinery, “There was a special report on the operations According to NARA’s estimations, the “Currently, projects worth around $ 3 billion implemented, a large number of buildings encroachment of state-owned land (Department of the Lakvijaya Power Station and its observations will have to continue on a are being conducted with funds received from including houses and business premises of Forest, Department of Wildlife Conservation, environmental impact. We have summoned fortnightly basis for the next three months, JICA. It usually grants around $ 500 million will have to be demolished, and the cost of Sri Lanka Land Reclamation and Development representatives of the Ministries of Power with monthly situational updates to be conducted to Sri Lanka annually,” Abeysekera added. constructing the railway track on towers will Corporation), clearing of forest reserves for and Energy, Ceylon Electricity Board over the next three years in order to assess the The projects funded by JICA that were be immense. cultivation purposes, sand mining, and treasure (CEB), Lakvijaya Power Station, Central extent of the pollution that was caused by the mentioned by the ERD Director General hunting, which has caused destruction in forest Environmental Authority (CEA), and the bunker oil spill from the distressed MT New include the renovation of the Kelani Bridge reserves. Provincial Environmental Authority of the Diamond ship. and Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), No renegotiation... “Not only have we made arrests and taken North Western Province.” which are proceeding without any hindrance. An eight-member committee was appointed legal action against individuals, but we have He said that COPE would take up another “The Kelani Bridge project is about to be to evaluate the legal implications – one member also taken measures to inform the relevant state special audit report on the feasibility study SL-India... completed,” he added. each to consider the economic aspect and urban authorities to take further legal action against and the procurement process of the Central “India was keen on funding an LNG power Meanwhile, numerous attempts made by The development scope, study the engineering such entities or persons,” SSP Senaratne added. Expressway Project on 20 October, for which the plant of around 500 MW, but under the Ceylon Sunday Morning to contact JICA were futile. proposals, consider the provincial regulatory About 25 suspects had been arrested and Road Development Authority and the relevant Electricity Board (CEB) Long-term Energy Leading up to the Cabinet’s decision and administrative impact of CIFC, as well have been subjected to remand custody or have officials and institutions have been summoned. Generation (Expansion) Plan, the system last week to cancel the LRT Project, the as analyse the financial and commercial been litigated. An audit report on the water pollution will could accommodate only another 300 MW Government implied that preparations were department, along with a professional to Minister of Environment Mahinda Amaraweera also be taken on the same day. and therefore, several rounds of discussions were being made to cancel the already signed look into the possible sociological impact last week noted that steps will be taken to “Another issue we’re going to look at is the held,” the source said, adding that at present, agreement with JICA pertaining to the funding of the project. punish anyone who acts illegally, destroying audit report on water pollution in the Kelani the negotiations were at a standstill as the CEB of the LRT Project stretching from Malabe The eight-member committee handed over its the environment, regardless of their rank. River. This is mainly focused on the drinking has decided to go for project tendering. to Colombo Fort which was launched by the final report consisting of recommendations to Amaraweera said: “Only four or five incidents water-related issue in the suburbs of Colombo. When contacted by The Sunday Morning, previous Government under then Megapolis Prime Minister Rajapaksa. Recommendations had taken place in forest reserves. All others are We have summoned the National Water Supply CEB Chairman Eng. Vijitha Herath said and Western Development Minister Patali have been made in the report to proceed connected to land encroachments into state-held and Drainage Board (NWSDB), Water Resource negotiations had not yet begun under the new Champika Ranawaka. with the project in an effective manner after underutilised land.” Board (WRB), Board of Investments (BOI), Government and that the CEB was fully focused CEA, and local government agencies which on the tendering processes. are related to this issue.” Yet, the unsolicited proposals, such as The final matter COPE would take up is government-to-government, will be considered queries on an audit report on the ongoing in the future if there is a request, he said. issues in the coconut industry. Meanwhile, the CEB is to call for tenders – Skandha Gunasekara for the construction of the second LNG power plant in Kerawalapitiya next month. Herath said that along with the construction of President to... the LNG plant, the tender would also be called “It will show whether the money being for the LNG supply next month. Furthermore, expended by the Central Government to he said the construction of the already tendered provincial councils is benefiting the people,” LNG power plant would commence next month. State Minister Dr. Sarath Weerasekara told Meanwhile, Minister of Power Dullas The Sunday Morning. Alahapperuma had stated that two LNG power He added that he expected to hand over the plants will be constructed by the year 2023 as report within the month. a solution to the power crisis in the country in “I have always maintained that there was no the future. need for the provincial council system and just He has also stated at a meeting held at the because I’m the Minister of the same subject, CEB last week that during the last five years, does not mean I will change my stance.” only 300 MW was added to the national grid – Skandha Gunasekara but the demand for electricity is growing at 6% a year. The Minister had said that for the country Towing may... to be in line with the President’s “Vision “Towing away such a large vessel with for Prosperity” policy statement to address tonnes of crude oil is not going to be an easy the potential power crisis in the future, the task, and the speed with which they could contribution of green and renewable energy to tow would be only about two nautical miles the country’s power grid should be increased per hour. Originally, the ship was to reach to 70% by 2030. India’s Paradip Port. However, given the – Maheesha Mudugamuwa current position of the crude oil tanker, the salvors are looking at taking it to either calmer seas or the next closest port, after which the Second... crude oil transfer is to take place,” Capt. De “Another gazette will be published shortly, Silva added. which will fix that oversight and refer to On Thursday (1), the Marine Environment centimetres and millimetres,” sources said. Protection Authority (MEPA) had written to the Sources added that the MRP would be AG’s Department copying President Gotabaya enforced regardless of the mistake in the gazette Rajapaksa, Secretary to the Ministry of notification. Defence Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne, Last Friday (25), the CAA issued a gazette Commander of Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral notification stipulating an MRP for coconuts. Nishantha Ulugetenna, and Merchant Shipping As per the gazette notification, the maximum Secretariat Director General A.W. Seneviratne, price for a coconut that had a circumference stating that the vessel could only be towed of over 13 inches was Rs. 70. away after the investigations are completed However, National People’s Power (NPP) and the claims of Rs. 440 million are settled member Attorney-at-Law Sunil Watagala, in full. earlier this week, told The Sunday Morning When asked about the current responsibility that there was a flaw in the current gazette of the MRCC, Capt. De Silva noted that they notification as inches was not recognised as a have two monitoring vessels deployed in form of measurement in Sri Lanka. the vicinity of the MT New Diamond ship, “Sri Lanka recognises the metric system adding that the sailors are shadowing the and inches is not legally a valid form of movements of the ship and ensuring that they measurement. This could result in the gazette are not attempting to tow it out of Sri Lanka’s notification not being enforceable and thus, any territorial waters. wrongdoers could forgo a penalty,” he explained. Earlier last week, MT New Diamond Recently, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) Captain Sterio Ilias appeared before the Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake told the Colombo Magistrate’s Court, after which media that authorities would not be able to he faced a travel ban. penalise those who fail to follow the new MRP The Captain was held in remand custody at due to the error in the gazette. the request of AG Dappula de Livera following an observation made by Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris on 17 September, Lanka’s next... stating that the Captain and the crew of MT “I have been told that there is a lot of medicinal New Diamond had abandoned the ship when value to the extracts of the plant which we the fire broke out while transporting crude should exploit as there is a high demand for such oil from Kuwait to India, adding that their products in foreign countries,” the Minister said. irresponsible actions resulted in a disastrous Dr. Gunawardana told The Sunday Morning situation. The Additional Magistrate had then that the Government could use the Sri Lanka issued summons, noting that the Captain of Army or even the Special Task Force (STF) to MT New Diamond, who was named as a guard the cultivations to ensure that no plant suspect, had failed to co-operate with the that is grown within those farms would leave ongoing investigations. the premises. On 28 September, National Aquatic Given the commercial viability of hemp- Resources Research and Development Agency related products in the international market, (NARA) oceanographers had observed that the Dr. Gunawardana stated that Sri Lanka will turtle habitat in the eastern seas was impacted be able to easily turn a profit and settle all its by the MT New Diamond bunker oil spill. debts within a period of five years if the hemp NARA had deployed their research teams industry is properly established in Sri Lanka. Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 Page 3 4 the sunday morning SPOTLIGHT Sunday, October 4, 2020 LRT project derailed BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA loan of around Rs. 48 billion to Sri Lanka for the project. The loan for the project The inconsistency in the transport was offered on highly concessional terms strategies of the country came to and conditions, including a 40-year light last week once again with repayment period for funds obtained the official cancellation of the for consultation services with a grace Colombo Light Rail Transit (LRT) period of 12 years, a 0.1% interest rate Project which was at its final stage per annum for civil work and equipment, before construction was to begin. and a 0.01% interest rate for engineering The cost of cancelling the project services. Accordingly, in the project, the stands at $ 30 million, to be borne preliminary base cost estimated during the An evaluation of the LRT in its through public funds. feasibility study was $ 1,374 million and current format has found that it is The cancellation of the long-awaited including price escalation, contingencies, very expensive – in fact, it is more project, which was identified as the best and interest, Sri Lanka and the Japan expensive than any other investment solution to urban traffic congestion in the International Co-operation Agency (JICA) project signed by Sri Lanka. area, raised myriad questions regarding estimated the loan amount as $ 1,850 Therefore, we have to ensure that how the country would handle the ever- million. it brings the best returns. A large increasing transportation demand in the As learnt by The Sunday Morning, the number of buildings will have to be already congested Colombo metropolitan detailed design of the LRT Project has destroyed, including many houses area within the next decade. already been completed by local and and businesses, which is not practical As learnt by The Sunday Morning, international consultants, and based on Cabinet Spokesman Minister discussions on the necessity of an LRT the final engineering cost estimated, the Keheliya Rambukwella commenced in the mid-90s and proper project cost has now come down to $ 1 planning on the proposed project began billion. in 2015. After receiving the Cabinet’s looking at an alternative solution to the Ministry of Urban Development and the total loan amount, consultancy fee, approval in 2017, the planning of the No alternative solution? already cancelled Colombo LRT Project. Housing and the Department of National unit cost of the rolling stock, the Japanese project commenced in 2018. When contacted by The Sunday The Minister’s comment clearly implies Planning of the Ministry of Finance; these monopoly over said rolling stocks, The detailed design of the project was Morning, Transport Minister Gamini that the mega project worth around $ parties were also copied in the letter. issues pertaining to design, the marshy completed and the project was at the Lokuge said the Ministry was currently 1 billion was cancelled by the Cabinet The quick succession of the incidents lands selected as locations for the depot stage of calling for tenders when the new without conducting a proper study on pertaining to the cancellation of this and workshop, costs that may arise, the Government decided to cancel it. whether it was economically viable or not project raised concerns as to whether environmental impact, and the restricting While it was cancelled by the Cabinet or without exploring alternative solutions. the decision was taken in consultation of the design consultancy service and last week, which claimed that it was However, in contrast to Minister with transport sector experts, especially supervision to a lump-sum contract costly, transport experts claimed the total Lokuge’s comment, Ministry of Transport since the present administration was keen instead of a time-based contract. project would cost only around $ 1 billion, Secretary Monti Ranatunga told The on managing the country in a scientific The LRT’s Project Management Unit which, as per international cost estimates, Sunday Morning a week ago that the manner. (PMU), in its lengthy explanation to is the average cost for the construction of Ministry hadn’t analysed the costs of the In January this year, former Ministry Secretary Dr. Wickrama, seen by The an LRT. project, even though President’s Secretary of Urban Development, Water Supply, Sunday Morning, stated that the land Furthermore, the proposed 15 km Dr. P.B. Jayasundara, in a letter sent to and Housing Facilities Secretary Dr. acquisition for the project was already Colombo LRT was expected to save Ranatunga the same week, instructed him Priyath Bandu Wikcrama wrote to the in progress as lands in depot areas Rs. 38 billion per year in public funds to close the project office with immediate Project Director of the LRT expressing his were identified and details on the same from the time it commenced operations. Even if you need it in another effect, as it was observed that the LRT concerns over the project funded by JICA. were sent to the Valuation Department The project is expected to reduce travel 10-15 years, you need to start Project was very costly and not the In his letter, copied to the Secretaries for valuation purposes. Discussions time from Colombo Fort to Malabe to planning now. This is the problem – appropriate cost-effective solution to the of the President, Prime Minister, and were also held with the relevant chief approximately 30 minutes. inconsistencies in our transport plan traffic problem. Treasury, he raised eight concerns secretariats, provincial/zonal directors, The loan agreement on the project was UoM Senior Lecturer and LRT Project Furthermore, the letter went on to state regarding the project and requested that a and principals of the school buildings signed between Sri Lanka and Japan last Consultant Dr. Dimantha De Silva that a suitable alternative solution could response be sent by 10 February 2020. affected along the trace. March. Accordingly, Japan had extended a be worked out in consultation with the The concerns raised in his letter were: Contd. on page 10

In the wake of the import DEVELOPING AN ENERGY HUB restrictions imposed on the country to save foreign reserves, the trade unions (TUs) attached to the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) urged the Government to take immediate steps to refurbish the age-old refinery, since it results in losses amounting to A refining process several billions. z z a report of a committee appointed in As the TUs claimed, the country Failure to upgrade refinery Continuous losses incurred by 2013. would save billions of dollars costs billions annually CPC Rs. 337 billion by 2019 The purchasing had been conducted annually if it could refurbish the via a procurement committee based I will take up the challenge to already-existing refinery and thereby re-imposed. While Iranian support on engineering estimates, it is also create energy conservation in reduce the importing of refined bodes well for the country’s oil learnt. the next five years. I believe I petroleum products. refinery capacity, obstacles may Palitha said the four boilers of the was appointed as the Energy Speaking to The Sunday Morning, arise during project development, refinery were as old as the refinery Minister to fulfil the ‘national UNP-affiliated Jathika Sevaka particularly regarding financial and various requests had been made dream’ of making Sri Lanka Sangamaya (JSS) CPC Branch transactions resulting from sanctions. since 2002 to upgrade the refinery an energy hub of Asia President Ananda Palitha stressed that The drafting of a tender to expand to get at least 100,000 MT of refined Minister of Energy the 50-year-old Sapugaskanda Oil Sapugaskanda began in 2018 by the petroleum products per day. Udaya Gammanpila Refinery, which had a daily output of Petroleum Resources Development “In 2013 also we made a request, 50,000 barrels, producing a mix of Ministry and as of January 2019, and the then CPC appointed a 14 billion leading to an overall loss of diesel, kerosene, gasoline, furnace oil, the Ministry was also considering committee. But up until 2016, nothing Rs. 12 billion of the CPC, it stated. and naphtha, was currently operating proposals for a new private sector- has been done,” he stressed. The continuous losses accumulated at a very low capacity. owned refinery that could serve both “The boiler was imported from by the CPC over the years stood at If the refinery works at its domestic demand and export markets. the same company which made the Rs. 337 billion at the end of 2019, maximum capacity, the CPC would According to the Central Bank, the equipment of the refinery. It is from which has had a significant impact not have to incur heavy losses and import bill for refined fuels reached $ Italy. After only about a year or two, on the operations, thereby weakening spend money to bring down refined 3.43 billion in 2017. a leakage of one pipeline was noticed its balance sheet in the absence of petroleum products, Palitha said. process 38,000 BPSD (barrels per increasing gasoline demand and phase by the engineers. During this time, the equity infusion. Trade receivables The real issue with the delay in steam day) (5,200 mt/d [measurement out lead in gasoline. The existing Italian boiler older boiler had also been repaired by stood at Rs. 95 billion at the end of refurbishing the country’s only tonnes per day]) of Iranian light crude Kerosene Unifiner was revamped to Concerns have been raised over the engineers,” he explained. 2018, and have increased to Rs. 164 refinery is that the CPC couldn’t oil. process diesel and the existing gas the importation of low-quality However, the CPC officials alleged billion by the end of 2019, resulting obtain loans from any international Even though the capacity of crude oil unifiner was rehabilitated in 2003 boilers from Italy during the previous that even though the boiler should in the CPC’s exposure to the Bank bank due to the hedging issue, distiller was 5,200 mt/d, the unit was to meet the sulphur specification of Government by spending millions be working for at least 10 years, a of Ceylon (BoC) and People’s Bank Palitha said, adding that in 2002, capable of processing 5,800 mt/d of 0.3% weight in diesel. of rupees to replace one of the four guarantee period had not been given (PB) to close at Rs. 566 billion. The the estimated cost to refurbish the crude oil. Crude oils similar to Iranian In addition, small and medium-scale boilers of the old Sapugaskanda Oil by the Italian company. CPC has been financing operations refinery was only $ 18 million, light, such as Upper Zakum and Arab energy conservation projects were Refinery owned by the CPC, The Nevertheless, the CPC has already of the electricity sector in particular, but now, it would cost around $ 69 Light, were able to process in the implemented to make the refinery Sunday Morning learnt. informed the Italian company to send with about Rs. 102 billion remaining million. plant, meeting required specifications. operation energy efficient. Refinery It is learnt that the boiler was the spare parts and the local engineers unpaid at the end of 2019. Treasury Sri Lanka consumes around According to the CPC, liquefied consists of the utilities section which imported from Italy in 2016 based on are currently conducting the repair guarantees amounting to $ 1.8 3.6 million metric tonnes (MT) of petroleum gas (LPG) production supplies electricity, water, steam, work of the boiler. billion have been issued to cover the petroleum products each year, of which started in 1971 and the Naphtha instrument air, etc., required for Meanwhile, in the Final Budget exposure to the above two banks, around two million are refined at Merox Unit was modified to process plant operation. In addition, 65 tanks Position Report of the Ministry of according to the report. Sapugaskanda. The country consumes LPG. Special boiling point spirit are located within the refinery for Finance, it is stated that the total Commenting on the existing around 30 million litres of gasoline, (SBPS) production also started crude oil, finished and intermediate cost of the fuel-based imports of the refinery, Energy Minister Udaya 130 million litres of diesel, and 18 in 1971 using existing facilities. products, and four crude oil tanks at CPC for 2019 was $ 3,359 million, Gammanpila said that only 20% of million litres of kerosene each month. The Crude Distiller Unit was the Orugodawatta tank farm. accounting for about 17% of the total local fuel consumption was refined But at the moment, it has to de-bottlenecked to increase the imports of the country. Since the cost in the country and therefore, five import a large quantity of the refining capacity to 50,000 BPSD Expansion plans of imports accounts for about 95% oil refineries would be opened up, refined products to meet the (6,900 mt/d). Several companies from China, of the total expenditure of the CPC, apart from the plans to refurbish the country’s requirement due to the low A new Kerosene Merox Unit was the Middle East, and Russia were in its financial performance is directly Sapugaskanda Oil Refinery. production capacity of the ageing installed and commissioned in 1981 preliminary discussions to develop affected by the dynamics of the global “I will take up the challenge to refinery, Palitha added. to process Jet A1 and the high energy- 100,000 barrels per day (BPD) at the The boiler was imported from oil price movements and the exchange create energy conservation in the next consuming kerosene unifiner was refinery with the CPC. the same company which made rate. five years. I believe I was appointed Refinery not operated thereafter. The Crude In May 2018, the Iranian the equipment of the refinery. It While the sales to the transport as the Energy Minister to fulfil the The CPC was established by the Distiller Unit was again revamped to Government announced plans to is from Italy. After only about sector of Rs. 430 billion accounts for ‘national dream’ of making Sri Lanka CPC Act No. 28 of 1961 and entered process Far Eastern crudes such as help Sri Lanka construct a new oil a year or two, a leakage of one 65% of the total revenue of the CPC, an energy hub of Asia, as outlined in the importation, distribution, and Miri Light, and the Naphtha Unifiner refinery and refurbish Sapugaskanda. pipeline was noticed by the it recorded a loss of Rs. 26 billion in the ‘Mahinda Chinthana’ manifesto in marketing of petroleum products capacity was increased to 1,100 The development came shortly after engineers 2019. The balance 35% represents 2010,” Gammanpila added. throughout the country. The existing mt/d in 1992. The Platformer Unit former President Maithripala Sirisena JSS CPC Branch President other sectors including aviation, He said the country spent a colossal oil refinery at Sapugaskanda was was revamped in 1999 to increase became the first international leader Ananda Palitha domestic, industry, and power sum to import petrochemicals. commissioned in August 1969 to its capacity to 650 mt/d, to meet the to visit Tehran after sanctions were generation, recording a profit of Rs. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa Country Partner of the Year 2019/2020 for Sri Lanka & Maldives

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Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 Page 5 6 the sunday morning SPOTLIGHT Sunday, October 4, 2020

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA BUWELIKADA DISASTER from the NBRO, the local authorities and other project- Unplanned construction approving agencies, which and poor-quality design approve any construction within have been identified as the the landslide-prone districts, need main reasons behind the to request their clients to submit man-made catastrophe of NBRO’s clearance certificate. the collapse of a building NBRO identifies Local authorities and other project- in Buwelikada, Kandy last approving agencies will issue month which took the lives their clients the copies of the of three including a newborn relevant application and guidelines to complete the application at baby, according to the a nominal fee of Rs. 25. If the National Building Research application is issued by a local Organisation (NBRO). causes for collapse authority or any other project- Speaking to The Sunday approving agency, the official Morning, NBRO Director General z Unplanned construction and z NBRO hands over report to stamp of that local authority/ Eng. Dr. Asiri Karunawardena agency should be clearly placed on said the detailed report of the poor-quality design blamed Central Province Governor the application. investigation conducted by the High-rises under scrutiny NBRO on the Buwelikada incident It’s a well-known fact that has been completed and handed the official procedures for Meanwhile, concerns have also over to Central Province Governor resolving disputes in the been raised over the unregulated Lalith U. Gamage on Thursday (1). building industry do not construction of high-rise buildings According to him, the NBRO function effectively and in urban areas. has identified that one of the that the current system of High-rise buildings have main reasons for the collapse of certification of building plans continued to sprout unabatedly the building was the structural also stimulates corruption in the capital city of Colombo instability caused as a result as much as it does not over the last decade in order to of the poor-quality design and guarantee the quality of compensate for a lack of space construction. projects for the city’s rapidly growing “It’s a five-storey building and population, bringing to the fore the structure was not adequate to to take legal action against illegal public concerns about the rules and hold the building capacity,” he construction,” he added. their safety. stressed, adding that the complete The recent man-made disaster in UDA Director General details of the report would be Buwelikada, Kandy was an eye- Prasad Ranaweera said revealed to the public by the opener for the entire nation on the the UDA would review relevant authorities. quality of constructions, whether all approvals granted for The investigation had been private or public. condominium projects during conducted as per a request made by It also diverted the attention of the previous Government, Governor Gamage soon after the law enforcement authorities as well as there were a number of incident had occurred. A committee as policymakers to the loopholes allegations levelled against has also been appointed to look in the procedures followed by The collapse of a building in Buwelikada, Kandy last month took the lives of three including a newborn baby the procedures followed by into the matter and a separate local governmental institutions the then UDA and the then report on the incident is also being when approving a building plan, guarantee the quality of projects. evaluating the existing landslide Ministry while approving prepared by the Kandy Municipal especially in high-risk, landslide- The approval of building plans susceptibility of the land selected projects Council (KMC), while another prone areas. by local government institutions At present, the NBRO is for the intended construction report has been requested by the It’s a well-known fact that the has now come under scrutiny examining the lands. Because based on the existing geological, While some see high-rises Governor to inspect the condition official procedures for resolving following the deadly disaster in of the proposed construction, if geotechnical, and hydrological as a symbol of growth and of all the buildings in the city. disputes in the building industry Buwelikada. there is a landslide activated, characteristics of the terrain modernity, critics say that an The Central Province Governor do not function effectively and that we will give recommendations enclosing the selected site; unchecked building brings along also told the media that there are the current system of certification Regulating building evaluating the possible changes attendant problems such as traffic quality including what kind of incidents where the owners have of building plans also stimulates building is suitable for the in slope stability due to the congestion, waste management constructed the buildings without corruption as much as it does not When asked by The Sunday respective plot of land required ground preparations issues, as well as potential damage following the proper plans which Morning what steps have been NBRO Director General and slope modifications for from disasters like fires as some were approved by the municipal taken by the NBRO to regulate the planned construction; evaluating builders have cut corners with Eng. Dr. Asiri Karunawardena council. Landslide-prone building constructions in landslide- the possible changes in slope respect to ethics, safety, legality, The building structures in districts prone areas, Dr. Karunawardena stability due to the impact of and transparency, thus harming the landslide-prone areas, especially said: “At present, the NBRO is noted that the NBRO is planned construction on the locals who have been living in the in Kandy, should be constructed Kandy, Matale, Nuwara Eliya, examining the lands. Because of co-ordinating with relevant parties. hydrological characteristics of the city for many years. as per the architectural designs Badulla, Kegalle, Ratnapura, the proposed construction, if there It’s mandatory to get NBRO terrain; recommending planned Speaking to The Sunday Morning, that are suitable for such areas, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, and is a landslide activated, we will recommendations when there is a construction with necessary Urban Development Authority he stressed, adding that the Hambantota have been declared give recommendations including construction in a landslide-prone conditions when the potential (UDA) Director General Prasad heavy building architecture was landslide-prone districts by what kind of building is suitable area, he said, adding that they of landslides/slope failures are Ranaweera said the UDA would not suitable for the area and the NBRO. Therefore, all for the respective plot of land. try to regulate the quality of the minimal; studying the terrain in review all approvals granted for therefore, steps should be taken to constructions that take place “So far, we were not requested building with local authorities, for detail when there is a potential condominium projects during the change the design types in future within those 10 districts need to to conduct the structural stability which a discussion is underway. of landslides/slope failures, previous Government, as there were constructions. obtain NBRO’s clearance. of the building. But with this and if mitigation is viable, then a number of allegations levelled “These people have to live in this However, exemptions may incident, we have identified that Minimising man-made recommending introduction of against the procedures followed by area and they have nowhere else apply to certain areas located ensuring the structural stability of disasters remedial measures for the intended the then UDA and the then Ministry to go. Therefore, like in Japan, a within the Kalutara, Galle, the building is a vital task. We have According to the NBRO, the construction to minimise the while approving projects. suitable structural method should Matara, and Hambantota given the necessary guidelines to objective of giving clearance for susceptibility for any anticipated He also alleged that those be applied,” he said. Districts as well as the local authorities and if they need construction in landslide-prone landslides/slope failures; and granting approvals for these The Governor also stressed the Mahiyangana, Embilipitiya, further advice with regard to the areas is to minimise the landslide discouraging construction projects are also involved in need to take legal action against Dambulla, and Galewela local structural stability of a certain disaster risk and also to increase where there is a susceptibility to corruption and bribes and that the the illegal constructions within the authorities, depending on the building, we are in a position to the safety of life and property from landslides/slope failures for which UDA will review all procedures KMC. “There is a legal officer at characteristics of the terrain. give such advice.” future slope instabilities. remedial measures are not feasible. and regulate the construction of the KMC and it’s one of their tasks Furthermore, Dr. Karunawardena This objective is achieved by To obtain a landslide clearance high-rises in urban areas.

Environmentalists raised concerns over the unregulated filling of wetlands in the FILLING OF WETLANDS IN COLOMBO Colombo District as they claimed it poses a huge threat to the remaining wetland cover. Colombo can be considered a city built on and around wetlands. Over 500 years ago, the ancient Kingdom of Kotte From green to red zone? flourished in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte lying land in the area. The protestors and centred on a fortress surrounded by complained that the officials had secured lakes and marshes known as Diyawanna their lands to build a drainage system and Oya and Kolonnawa Oya. Most of these filling activities were water tank, and offered them other lands Whilst much has changed in the done by the Government. Even the to engage in farming in exchange. intervening years, today, the home of the Central Environmental Authority According to these protestors, their Sri Lankan Parliament and administrative (CEA) is situated in a wetland and lands were grazed as part of a project centre for the country can still be found Parliament is also situated in a to fill up low-lying land. “If they could situated on a reclaimed island on a lake in wetland not inform us in person, they could have the suburb of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte CEJ Executive Director put up a board with the message,” one at the centre of the Colombo Metropolitan Hemantha Withanage protestor said during the demonstration. Region (CMR). Elaborating further, the CEJ Executive Speaking to The Sunday Morning, was covered with wetlands several Director stressed that most of these Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) decades ago. wetlands in Colombo hadn’t yet been Executive Director Hemantha Withanage “Most of these filling activities were declared. “For example, Attidiya and stressed that there were only around 2,000 done by the Government,” he alleged. Thalangama are declared under the CEA, hectares of wetland cover remaining in “Even the Central Environmental but the authority cannot take any action Colombo at present. Authority (CEA) is situated on a wetland pertaining to any incident,” he added. Over 75% of the land in Colombo and Parliament is also situated on a was covered with wetlands many years wetland,” he continued. Wetland extent diminishing ago and with the development activities According to the report titled “Colombo taking place, the wetland cover was Lack of co-ordination Muthurajawela wetland Wetland Management Strategy of Metro gradually decreased, and now, there are As highlighted by Withanage, one of Colombo Urban Development Project”, around 2,000 hectares of wetland cover the main reasons for unregulated filling proper co-ordination between these it is estimated that wetlands currently remaining, he said. was the lack of co-ordination between the departments,” he stressed. cover approximately 19 km2 or 15.4% of 2 According to him, the land from relevant authorities that approve the filling When an application to fill land is Sri Lanka firmly stands committed to 121.5 km comprising densely urban, peri‐ Muthurajawela via Kotte up to Bolgoda activities. made through one institution, it looks into protect and sustainably manage these urban, and rural environments. However, “Approval should be taken from several aspects that are relevant to it and approves natural assets that contribute to our formerly, the extent of wetlands was much institutions. There’s no single institution the application if the specifications it unique and rich biodiversity greater. that controls and monitors wetlands requires are fulfilled. Generally, when Freshwater wetlands dominate, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the If they could not inform us in person, in Colombo; part of this is under the one institution approves one application, United Nations Summit on Biodiversity accounting for almost 85% of all the they could have put up a board with Department of Wildlife Conservation, the other institutions also approve it, wetlands. Almost two-fifths of the the message part is with the CEA, and part is with Withanage noted, adding that the biggest wetlands are dominated by herb species, A protestor in Raththanapitiya, the Irrigation Department of the Sri issue was when government institutions Meanwhile, a protest was staged including the extensive active and Boralesgamuwa Lanka Land Development Corporation started filling these lands for development in Raththanapitiya, Boralesgamuwa abandoned paddy lands. (SLLDC). As a result, there was no activities. last week against a project to fill low- Contd. on page 14 Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 Page 7 the sunday morning Sunday, October 04, 2020 EDITORIAL/POLITICS Predicament of Decisive week ahead for 20A The Supreme Court (SC) of Sri Lanka has seen its share of anex-president political upheavals in the past, Maithripala Sirisena once famously boasted that he used all of his but the hearing of 39 petitions vast political acumen, spanning 40-plus years, to secure the presidency filed against the proposed in 2015. In hindsight, it can be inferred that the acumen he refers to is in 20th Amendment Bill as well the fact the art of deceit he seems to have mastered over the years. This is the as the seven intervening poser staring the nation in the face today in light of the questions being petitions would definitely be black box asked on whether his actions in those five years were based on personal a tough one. It would be quite by Capt. Vasabha benefit or the causes he was purportedly fighting for in the context of similar to the time when the what has been transpiring at the ongoing Presidential Commission of SC had to hear petitions filed Marathon hearings Inquiry probing the Easter Sunday attacks. against the constitutional At the time Sirisena secured the Opposition nomination as its common crisis brought about by former The AG has informed court that candidate, he was sitting pretty as Health Minster of the then Mahinda the determination of the Court would Rajapaksa-led Government. Therefore, the announcement came as a President Maithripala Sirisena have to be made on or before 13 huge shock not only to the rank and file of the United National Party during the latter part of 2018. October and that the Government (UNP)-led Opposition, but also to the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP)- However, this week would intended to move amendments to the led Government of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, which saw Sirisena as be a decisive week for the 20th proposed Bill at the committee stage the reincarnation of the biblical Judas, having made the announcement Amendment Bill. debate in Parliament. of his parting soon after having his last supper of hoppers with the then The members of the SC bench However, Justice de Abrew had President. hearing the petitions, headed by responded to the AG’s statement by Having secured victory in January 2015, owing to the support of Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya, saying that there were no guarantees the common Opposition while his own SLFP voted en masse for the Buwaneka Aluwihare, Sisira de that the amendments will be moved incumbent President, it didn’t take long for Sirisena to prove himself Abrew, Priyantha Jayawardena, at the committee stage, and the to be a misfit in the role. From the word go, he failed to understand the and Vijith Malalgoda, commenced determination of the SC will be fundamental purpose for which he was put in that chair. Soon enough, considerations last Tuesday (29 based on the Bill that has been the citizenry can only speak during He has said the SC, in its it became clear that he was more a court jester than a politician of any September). published in the gazette. this short period, or have to hold determination on the 19th principle or substance. Having assumed leadership of the SLFP by default Attorney General (AG) Dappula At the outset of the first day of their silence forever,” Fernando had Amendment, had held that the on assuming the presidency, he paid little heed to its founding principles. de Livera on Tuesday informed the the hearing last Tuesday, the Chief submitted. transfer of power attributed to one So much so that he was a conspicuous absentee at its Founder’s Day bench that the Government intends Justice had informed counsel for the He had said even more obnoxious organ of the government to another commemoration last week. to bring amendments to the proposed petitioners that the Court intended is the amendment to reintroduce organ or body would be inconsistent Today, it is becoming increasingly clear with the evidence being revealed Bill at the committee stage in to conclude hearings by Friday (2) urgent bills, in which case the SC with Article 3, read with Article 4 before the Presidential Commission probing the Easter Sunday attacks Parliament. and had requested them to limit will have only 24 hours to rule on of the Constitution. He had pointed that Sirisena has more to answer for than what initially met the eye. He According to those amendments, submissions to 30 minutes each the constitutionality of a bill, and if out that the 20th Amendment sought is becoming increasingly isolated with his own chosen appointees in the the period that must elapse before while filing written submissions if the President so decrees, up to 72 to transfer various powers from one former defence establishment pointing the finger at him as the individual the President could use his powers to they so wish. hours. organ to another. most responsible for what took place on Easter Sunday 2019. dissolve Parliament will be changed During Tuesday’s hearings, counsel Fernando had noted that the He had explained that when the What is shocking, according to the evidence presented before the from two-and-a-half years to one for petitioners challenging the Bill enactment of these clauses would Bill is taken as a whole, it is a clear Commission so far, is that Sirisena is reported to have specifically year. had argued that the 20th Amendment eat away the judicial power of the attempt to shift power from one instructed the Terrorist Investigation Department (TID) of the Police, Also, the number of members of sought to alter the basic structure people and will prejudicially impact organ of government to another and headed at the time by DIG Nalaka de Silva, to drop its investigation the Election Commission (EC) is and framework of the Constitution, the sovereignty of the people. that the evolutionary process of a into the extremist activities of the National Thowheed Jamath and hand to be increased from three to five, take away the power of one organ of Fernando had further said that the constitution must be progressive and it over to the State Intelligence Service (SIS), which in itself is not an and one of its members will be a government and transfer it to another, Constitutional Council set up by the not regressive. investigation unit. It has been claimed that Sirisena was regularly briefed retired officer of the Department and trample on the sovereignty 19th Amendment made the process Sumanthiran had further spoken on the activities of this organisation, but for reasons best known to him of Elections or EC, who has held of the people. The counsel for the for making appointments a more in relation to the clause to allow no action was taken on the ground to put a stop to them, leave alone office as a Deputy Commissioner petitioners had also pointed out that consultative one, and leaving the dual citizens to be elected to arresting the head of the outfit who had by then been identified for his of Elections or higher. The other giving the President full immunity power in the hands of one person Parliament, saying that while there extremist ideology and hate speech. members are to be those who from suit would create a position leaves potential for abuse and was no provision for Sri Lankans If this was not bad enough, things took a turn for the worse following have distinguished themselves in above the law of the country. politicisation. to hold dual nationality when the Sirisena’s arbitrary decision to sack his own Government and issue any profession or in the fields of They had submitted that the clause He had added that the replacement 1978 Constitution was enacted, it specific instructions to the defence establishment not to keep the then administration or education. to reintroduce blanket immunity for the Constitutional Council has become possible since then for Prime Minister, State Minister of Defence, and even the IGP abreast of It is learnt that the clause for the President should not only under the 20th Amendment, which Lankans who have sworn allegiance certain developments. As a result, these individuals had not been invited dealing with the appointment be passed by a two-thirds majority has been named the Parliamentary to other countries to continue to for Security Council meetings ever since, according to witness accounts. of the Auditor General is to be in Parliament, but must also be Council, is only tasked with making hold citizenship, which would allow It has been reported that the Former President and Defence Minister amended. The amendment is to approved through a referendum. non-binding observations, while the people with divided loyalties to sit in even glossed over the multiple intelligence warnings of an imminent entail that a qualified auditor be Counsel Suren Fernando, President can proceed to do as he positions where crucial decisions are attack and did not think twice about leaving the country on a private appointed by the President after who appeared for Samagi Jana wishes. “Such a council does not made for the country. visit days before the attack without even appointing an acting minister inquiring into the observations Balawegaya (SJB) General Secretary enhance the quality of democracy He had added that the provisions to oversee this critical subject. It also transpired before the Commission of the Parliamentary Council as Ranjith Madduma Bandara, had and is a drain on public finances.” of the 20th Amendment to allow the of Inquiry that Sirisena had subsequently allegedly made overtures to well as to bring the Offices of the dealt with several of the clauses that Fernando had noted that removing President to refer a bill rejected by the IGP to take responsibility for the security failings with the assurance Secretary to the President and are to be introduced by way of the the Offices of Secretaries of the Parliament to people at a referendum of being “looked after” with an ambassadorial post. Secretary to the Prime Minister 20th Amendment, including the one President and Prime Minister, and will strengthen the hands of the What is intriguing is the fact that Sirisena, in an unprecedented move, under the oversight of the Auditor granting immunity to the President. companies in which the Government executive like nowhere else in the chose to personally “observe” the proceedings of the inquiry even as General. Both these clauses have He had observed that this takes has more than 50% shares, from the world, and set up a super position the IGP made his controversial revelations from across the hall. We do not been included in the draft away the rights of the citizens to oversight of the Auditor General, where the person is immune and not know whether Sirisena’s presence was intended as an intimidatory 20th Amendment Bill tabled in initiate action against the President leaves grave room for corruption. unaccountable. tactic to silence the IGP, but the fact of the matter remains that the top Parliament. and places one person above the law. He had added that such exclusions Sumanthiran had urged the SC cop has stood by what he said. A new section is to also be added He had further observed that if the would be aggravated by the to rule the entirety of the Bill as In an effort at damage control, the former President then hastily issued to Clause 57: “All applications 20th Amendment is enacted, citizens’ immunity given to the executive. unconstitutional and declare that it a press release disputing what the IGP had said, only to see him land in instituted under Article 126 against participation in the lawmaking According to Fernando, the cannot be enacted into law. more hot water. He was subsequently summoned before the Commission the Attorney General (AG) in process would be further reduced executive and the legislature have President’s Counsel K. Kanag- and severely reprimanded to desist from such action which was perceived respect of anything done or omitted with the reintroduction of urgent been given two separate mandates Iswaran, who appeared for Tamil as being in contempt of the Commission. Three Catholic Bishops who to be done by the President in his bills, as well as the reduction of by the people, and questioned if one National Alliance (TNA) Leader MP followed Sirisena in issuing a press release based on proceedings before official capacity and ending on the the time duration between a bill mandate can be used to crush the R. Sampanthan, in his submission the Commission were also reprimanded on the same grounds. The no day immediately preceding the being published in the gazette and other. had warned that, if enacted, the nonsense attitude of the Commission must be commended. date of commencement of their Act presented to Parliament from 14 to President’s Counsel MP M.A. 20th Amendment would deface and Given what has already transpired, it begs the question as to what exactly shall be continued and disposed of seven days. Sumanthiran, who appeared for defile the country’s Constitution, Sirisena was playing at, given his lethargic, non-committal attitude in the accordingly.” “We have a very limited period to the Centre for Policy Alternatives and destroy its basic structure and job as described by witnesses, that resulted in colossal damage not only The Article on the powers and challenge unconstitutional bills at (CPA) and its Executive Director framework. to life and property, but the country’s image as a whole, which will take functions of the President is also to present, which is 21 days, but this Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, He had noted that the enactment years to rebuild. The mandate of the Commission of Inquiry is to find be amended to include the words: will be reduced to 14 once the time had submitted that the entirety of of the 20th Amendment is a move at out if there was any lapse on the part of the government in preventing “To ensure the creation of proper period for a bill to be published in the Bill is unconstitutional, and arrogation of power of monarchical the attacks and if so to identify those responsible for the lapses. conditions for the conduct of free the gazette is reduced to seven from is in violation of the fundamental proportions, adding that the The Commission, for its part, has gone much further and deeper into and fair elections, at the request of 14 days. As there is no room for principles which make up the separation of powers is an inherent the matter than any of the other commissions that were appointed by the the Election Commission.” post-enactment legislative review, bedrock of the Constitution. feature in the Constitution, and there previous administration for the same purpose, which offers some sort should be no room to pluck from of hope and consolation to the hundreds of victims, some of whom are one arm and place it in the hands of still nursing physical wounds while thousands of family members of the another. victims will forever suffer with the mental scars. Counsel for seven petitioners Meanwhile, in an interesting development last week, Minister Prasanna made submissions on Tuesday while Ranatunga had a chilling message for those who may be found guilty further submissions continued on of negligence in general and for former President Maithripala Sirisena Wednesday (30 September). in particular. Ranatunga went on record stating that if Sirisena is found guilty of negligence or wrongdoing with regard to the Easter attacks, he People’s sovereignty will be punished irrespective of whether he supports the Government On Wednesday, Counsel Eraj de or not. He went one step further and accused Sirisena of supporting the Silva, representing United National Government for his own protection. Given this state of play, Maithripala Party (UNP) Deputy Leader Ruwan Sirisena must surely be a worried man these days. Wijewardene, had said that priority What is at stake here is not just justifying the relevance and existence should be given to the sovereignty of yet another presidential commission, but the establishment and of the people and Buddhism in strengthening of the premise that all who hold public office will henceforth the country should not be harmed be held accountable for their actions and/or inaction and will have to and could not be changed by any face the consequences. It will go a long way in rebuilding public trust amendment to the Constitution. in the individuals, institutions, and Government itself in executing the De Silva had noted that the duties and responsibilities thrust on them through the people’s mandate. people would be deprived of their It goes without saying that when the example is set right at the top, its sovereignty and all the powers effects will trickle down to the lowest rungs and that cannot be a bad thing would be vested in the hands of in a country struggling to discipline a bureaucracy that has long been the President, and the power of the used to passing the buck. This Commission will define where the buck legislature and the judiciary would stops and therein lies the positive aspect of all the negativity associated be diminished. with that dreadful Easter Sunday. He had further said that paragraphs 3-57 of the draft 20th Amendment No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. Bill were against the Constitution. Fax - 011 2 673 441 De Silva had further observed General - 011 5 200 900 that the draft piece of legislation Director Sales & Marketing - 077 3 866 143 vests the power of the legislature Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367620 and the judiciary in the hands of the E-mail - [email protected] President and the provisions would see the rule of law, accountability, 9 EDITORIAL/POLITICS

EXECUTIVE PRESIDENCY VS. WESTMINSTER PARLIAMENT Decisive week ahead for 20A TIME TO CHOOSE; The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka of Jaffna S.C.C. Illangovan, members of the Samagi Youth Force Lihini Fernando and Rasika Lakmal Jayakody, EC member Prof. Ratnajeevan Hoole, HYBRID SYSTEM Samagi Youth Force Chairman MP Mayantha Dissanayake, UNP General Secretary Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, UNP Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene, WON'T WORK: Attorney-at-Law P. Liyanarachchi on behalf of the Sri Lanka People’s Front, 20 lawyers including Attorneys-at- Law Namal Rajapaksa and Achala ALI SABRY Seneviratne, the Sri Lanka Press Institute, Eric Senadhiratne Balasuriya, and Arif BY SARAH HANNAN Shamsuddin Ibrahim Lebbe Hajjiar. Meanwhile, seven intervenient The last week was entirely ‘Govt. yet to decide on PCs’ petitions were filed in the Supreme Court dedicated to consider the What is the Government’s Having diverse views, I don’t supporting the 20th Amendment. petitions that were filed view about the concerns that see it negatively; in fact, it is a Of the seven petitions, three were filed objecting the proposed India has expressed about positive thing and a sign of a will bring a new constitution. by Education Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris, 20th Amendment (20A). the continuity of the 13th thriving democracy. We campaigned on the basis Labour Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva, Amendment? As long as the 13th that we will abolish the 19th and State Minister Nalaka Godahewa, It has now become clear No. We have not discussed Amendment is in place and Amendment, so both these things and one by Sri Lanka Podujana that the amendments are in the 13th Amendment as of the PC systems are part of the are our priorities. Basically, that Peramuna (SLPP) General Secretary fact paving the way to a brand yet. The 20th Amendment Constitution, I personally feel has been done in two stages. Sagara Kariyawasam. new constitution which will be has nothing to do with the that those PC elections should Of course, the processes and the equilibrium among the three The petitioners have stated that the drafted no sooner the 20A to 13th Amendment. Everything be held, and there is nothing have started simultaneously, main sectors of governance being lost. draft of the 20th Amendment was the Constitution is moved and that is to do with the 19th wrong in that. so we will go back to the 19th That is also against the power-sharing compliant with the existing Constitution seconded in Parliament in the Amendment is what has been But whether the PC system Amendment and then we will policy; the law of trust is also violated and that it need not be approved at a coming weeks, about which disputed and there are no should stand or whether it also draw a new and strong and this draft delegates ruling powers to referendum, as approval with a two-thirds civil society, political parties, overlapping issues that need to should be abolished and what constitution. a person with dual citizenship, he had majority in Parliament was sufficient. and concerned citizens are also be discussed that concern the the devolution mechanism on added. expressing their reservations. 13th Amendment. such a system is, are matters The 1978 JR Constitution PC Ronald Perera, representing PM confident The Sunday Morning had a which have been debated for has been blamed for the UNP General Secretary Akila Viraj Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mahinda brief chat with Minister of Justice There seems to be diverse some time now. That debate all-powerful executive Kariyawasam, had said that the judicial Rajapaksa last week expressed Ali Sabry PC regarding the views within the governing will go on, which is something presidency and many other power of the people mentioned in confidence in the successful completion contents of the draft 20A, what party. Whereas some good for the country and it is ills in governance. How will Articles 3 and 4 of the Constitution as of the process to implement the 20th becomes of the 13th Amendment, members, including the acceptable. For all Sri Lankans the 20A improve the present well as the executive power of the people Amendment to the Constitution. and what is to be expected from State Minister for Provincial to feel that they are part of this governance structure? are violated. The Premier had noted that diverse the new Constitution. Councils (PCs), have said country and that they are all Rightly or wrongly, there In addition, fundamental rights and the opinions within the Government over the Following are excerpts of the that the PC system is futile equal citizens of this country is is a constitution which has franchise of the people are violated, he proposed piece of legislation would come interview. and is something that a good way forward. been followed. As long as that had added. together as one voice with necessary was imposed forcibly in constitution is there, that is the Attorney-at-Law Viran Corea, amendments being introduced during the Suspicions have been raised Sri Lanka by an external Will the PC system be executive presidency-based appearing for the petitioners, had said the committee stage of the debate, resulting by governing party allies over force, another group in the scrapped in the proposed constitution. So, the President 20th Amendment directly damaged the in the passage of the Bill. some clauses in the 20A. Will Government has dismissed new constitution? has to face the people five sovereignty of the people as enshrined According to Rajapaksa, there was there be amendments to the the claim and called for The Government needs to years down the line. The people in Article 3 of the Constitution. “The no problem with regard to obtaining the 20A at the committee stage as delayed PC elections to be decide whether they would entrusted the power to him as provisions of this Bill allow a dual citizen necessary two-thirds majority for the assured by the Government? held. How do you see this? do away with the PC system. the President. If he cannot be to rule the country, thereby directly passage of the Bill in Parliament. It is an instruction that we got Having diverse views is I on my own cannot decide entrusted to govern the country, affecting the independence of Sri Lanka.” The Prime Minister has made this from the Cabinet of Ministers, the good. Having pluralistic views on that and the Government then the people will have their PC Crishmal Warnasuriya, appearing observation during a meeting with Prime Minister, and the President in a democratic system cannot has not given me the mandate mandate to say what needs to for four petitioners including Dr. Ajantha newspaper editors and electronic media which was given in writing to be suppressed. Everybody to comment on such matters. be done. That has happened Perera, had said: “Article 5 of the Bill heads at Temple Trees last week. the Attorney General, which was has the freedom of opinion; I But as you see, diverse views throughout, as displayed during violates the rule of law, and the balance He had noted that various individuals later handed over to the court as have no problem with people are there, so that is a matter the presidential elections of of powers between the executive, and parties within the Government could well, so we will be moving those having different and diverse that has to be deliberated to 2010, 2015, and 2019. legislature, and judiciary will be lost.” hold different views about the 20th amendments at the committee views on the existing PC come to a consensus. The Meanwhile, Attorney-at-Law Gehan Amendment and necessary changes stage. system. Ultimately, those devolution of the power- Isn't there a danger in Gunatilleke, who appeared for Samagi would be brought about at the committee views have to be brought sharing mechanism – I think vesting so much power in an Youth Force member Rasika Lakmal stage of the debate. Questions have been raised before proper forums and everybody agrees – should individual, given the risk of the Jayakody, had stated in court that holding The Premier had further pointed out over the Prime Minister’s need to be discussed to come be there. However, the size same powers falling into the citizenship in any other country typically that the committee appointed by him had committee report on the 20A. to a decision. We are bound and model of such a system is hands of someone who could entails pledging allegiance to a sovereign also submitted a report to him and had Why have the contents not by collective responsibility. debatable. abuse the office? other than the people of Sri Lanka. expressed confidence in mustering the been made public? We have been continuously He had argued that Clause 17 of the necessary two-thirds majority. There was no report as such The Auditor General will be necessity or an evil? raising concerns of “what Bill, which repeals restrictions on dual When a question was posed on whether that was prepared by the study empowered to continue to do My personal view on happens if this goes to the citizens being elected to Parliament or he was agreeable to reducing the powers committee that Prime Minister what he is assigned to do. There the executive presidency is wrong person”. This argument holding the office of president, would of the Prime Minister, Rajapaksa had Mahinda Rajapaksa had are not going to be any changes immaterial at this time. You are has always been there. But send the country crashing back to an era smiled and responded that it depends on appointed. The committee read in the method the Auditor correct when you say that it either if the power is vested in the in which those with allegiances to foreign the person who holds the post. through the draft amendments General or the Auditor General’s has to be an executive presidency wrong person and if he does powers would wield legislative and However, given the growing to the Constitution and had a Department operates. or a Westminster parliament; something against the country, executive power. displeasure among some allies of the discussion. The point that was It is only the functionality that you cannot have a hybrid system there is a mechanism in-built in Providing examples in court of some governing party over certain clauses in discussed was brought before the needs to be reformed. There is and it has not worked well in the Constitution to tame such a foreign citizenship oaths, Gunatilleke the proposed 20th Amendment, there is Cabinet, which was taken into no point in having some cabinet many parts of the world. So, scenario. had quoted Section 42 of the British growing speculation that some members consideration by the Cabinet and committees to show that there we will have to choose between You can impeach someone Nationality Act 1981, as amended of the governing party would refrain from suggested at the committee stage is some kind of transparency the two. The 1978 Constitution and others can object the (paragraph 26): “I, (name), swear by voting when the new piece of legislation meeting for amendments. available. was designed for an executive impeachment. President Almighty God that, on becoming a is subjected to a vote in Parliament. Transparency, in fact, should presidency-based constitution. Gotabaya Rajapaksa knows this British citizen, I will be faithful and bear The Federation of National Will the recommendations of be executed from the ground The executive power, in very well. He does not want this true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Organisations, which is a key ally of the committee be introduced to level. So the Auditor General’s terms of the people and their power to be consolidated for Elizabeth the Second, Her Heirs and the Government, has openly criticised the 20A at the committee stage? Department will continue to Constitution, is itself vested with himself to achieve something Successors according to law.” the 20th Amendment and has expressed What are the clauses in the 20A operate. the President. So, you cannot personal. Rather, it is to deliver He went on to read out the oath of suspicion over the manner in which the that will be subject to change? The other institution is the tinker with it. As you say, the on the promises he has made citizenship according to Section 337 (a) Government was trying to implement the We have already submitted National Police Commission. country has to take a decision; and to get the government of the US Immigration and Nationality piece of legislation. the clauses to the Supreme Court In that segment, the Inspector whether the executive presidency mechanism working; that is what Act of 1952 as well: “I hereby declare, The likes of Minister Wimal following the committee stage General of Police needs to be should be totally abolished and he has communicated. on oath, that I absolutely and entirely Weerawansa, after publicly objecting to amendments, from which some empowered and should have a total parliamentary system be renounce and abjure all allegiance and certain clauses of the 20th Amendment, had been brought in after the the responsibility to oversee the established. Why does a dual citizen fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, have now placed the responsibility of consulted due process within the functions of the Sri Lanka Police. But if you try to clip the need to enter the Sri Lankan state, or sovereignty, of whom or which its amendments in the Prime Minister’s government parties and also after Because his powers were taken powers of the executive Parliament? What has the I have heretofore been a subject or hands. considering some of the concerns away and given to someone president, neither he nor the Sri Lanka Freedom Party citizen.” It is in this backdrop that several expressed by civil society. else, there was nobody to take others in Parliament can perform, (SLFP) told you about their Apart from the constitutional norms at senior government ministers have responsibility. which turns it into a recipe for reservations on the 20A? stake, Gunatilleke had also pointed out stated that several members of the main Will the 20A have an adverse The case of IP (Inspector of disaster and sends the country I don’t think that these issues that there could be practical implications Opposition, the SJB, were in discussion impact on transparency and Police) Nishantha Silva is the into anarchy. That was very need to be given undue attention, of removing the disqualification. This with senior government members to accountability in governance best example; when he was visible during the previous because in Sections 1, 2, and 3 includes dual citizens being appointed extend support to the 20th Amendment due to the concentration of involved in certain incidents Government. Over the past of Article 21 of our Constitution, to cabinet positions which would in Parliament in order to ensure a two- power in one individual? and the IGP (Inspector General four or five years, we saw how it states that irrespective of the leave them privy to matters that are thirds majority. I don't think so. Basically, what of Police) wanted him to be one person introduces a bill, manner in which you achieve of a highly sensitive nature including Another governing party member, the 20A entails is that we go back removed from active service, the other person withdraws; citizenship, once you achieve bilateral agreements as well as defence State Minister Vidura Wickramanayake, on the 19th Amendment (19A), the CID (Criminal Investigation somebody says they are with it citizenship and become a Sri and procurement. As a cabinet member, was also in the news last week, first and everything that was in place Department) had transferred and another says that they are Lankan citizen, for all intents and they could also be privy to sensitive over a report that he had decided not to prior to the 19A will be in effect. him elsewhere. But the National against it; and everything that has purposes, he/she becomes a Sri information that directly pertains to the support the 20th Amendment following For example, we are abolishing Police Commission got involved been unfolding for the past few Lankan citizen. interests of the country in which such a a request by his sister. However, the Audit Service Commission, and cancelled his transfer. What months before the Easter Sunday You cannot be discriminating member is also a citizen. Wickramanayake denied making such but that does not mean we are happened next was that he fled Commission shows how bad it against anyone saying that they a decision a few hours after the news abolishing auditing itself. All the country and now they cannot could be. have become citizens of the Petitioners and intervening made it to social media. the power that is vested in the even go after him; by the way, he country either by registration or parties Meanwhile, SJB MP Rishad Auditor General will stand. The is not a dual citizen either. The Government has said as a dual citizen. The 39 petitioners include Attorney- Bathiudeen was also a topic of Auditor General’s Department This is about the functionality it received a mandate to As a Sri Lankan citizen, you at-Law Indika Gallage, SJB General discussion after photographs of him will function, similar to the way of the State. amend the Constitution. are entitled to the rights that are Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara, shaking hands with Minister Chamal it functioned before 2015. Wasn’t the mandate for a new stipulated in the Constitution. TNA Leader R. Sampanthan, the Rajapaksa at an official event went viral Some entities are trying to There have been continuous constitution, rather than for There cannot be a problem. CPA and its Executive Director Dr. on social media. paint a picture as if audits were calls for the clipping of powers an amendment, as claimed by There are enough and more dual Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, citizen Soon after the photograph was seen introduced to this country by the vested with the executive some governing party allies? citizens of Sri Lanka that have Anil Kariyawasam, Transparency on social media, a news story quoting 19A. Audits have taken place presidency and successive President Gotabaya rendered their yeoman service International Sri Lanka (TISL), former Bathiudeen saying that his party was since time immemorial, going presidents had also pledged to Rajapaksa’s vision statement in to the country, including our Uva and Central Provinces Governor reconsidering its stance on the 20th back to the colonial times during abolish it. What is your view of 2019 “Vistas of Prosperity and incumbent President. Rajith Keerthi Tennakoon, human rights Amendment made it to online platforms. the Dutch colonisation. the executive presidency; is it a Splendour” specifically said we Contd. on page 14 activist Shri Abdul Sanun, a resident Contd. on page 14 10 the sunday morning VIEWS/SPOTLIGHT Sunday, October 4, 2020

available for Rs. 70, and that is unbelievable for me. This, I think, is a very good decision Standardising taken by the Government. The high price of turmeric, although costs helps unbearable right now, won’t last more Priyanka Kumudu Perera than a few more months, I believe, HOUSEWIFE because local manufacturing will kick in As this is a time everyone is facing – this is the only way to get our country difficulties, some of the measures to back on our feet after the Covid-19 standardise the costs of basic items are a pandemic. The importation of unnecessary real relief to us. We really appreciate the items such as Vesak lanterns, national standardisation of the price of coconuts last flags, etc. was also stopped and this gives week. When there is a proper mechanism local businesses a chance to prosper and in place, traders will not be able increase people a chance to explore new business prices on a whim. ventures and improve home-grown economies. Overall, I feel positively towards these changes and I think it is May work in the actually helping the people. long term only EASING COST OF LIVING Thiloka Namal Perera Impossible to FINANCE MINISTRY BUDGET OFFICER build economy This is a very challenging time for everyone. People cannot live off what amidst pandemic they earn; although the government sector workers are being paid their full salaries, Shriyantha Godage private sector workers are suffering from PUBLIC up to unbearable levels. However, what’s GYM INSTRUCTOR pay cuts while some were evern laid off. surprising here is that the people who The Government is doing a good job. The rain is not helping either, as it prevents would otherwise have shouted, yelled, The way the payment of the electricity bills day contractors from earning a living. and made an all-round fuss about it are was managed was very impressive, because I believe the solutions taken by the miraculously keeping quiet. I can’t say for the foremost concern on everyone’s mind Government may work on a long-term sure why that is, but people are simply not was how they were going to pay the basis. Although, at the moment, everything speaking up. bills post curfew, after living at home for is causing strain on the common people; it YET TO There is a serious issue and real suffering over two months. I think these steps are is they who have to limit their expenses to happening, with more to come. mostly long-term solutions which we will only food, it is they who have to let go of appreciate in the next few years. We simply small luxuries and work hard for minimum have to realise that it is impossible to build wages, whereas people in power still get an economy during a global pandemic, so their cushy allowances to maintain their Feeling no relief we will have to trust our Government and luxurious lifestyles. I think decisions should FEEL Inoka Saparamadu hold on for a little bit longer. be made to help the majority of the country. PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER Personally, I am not feeling any relief as a result of any measures taken to alleviate Perfect time for Helpless public the cost of living in the past few weeks. The prices of spices are through the roof, local production RELIEFBY PUJANEE GALAPPATHTHI and medicine and some baby products are needs protection not available due to import bans. While the Padma Gunawardene Lakshitha Prasad The Government assured that, given the circumstances, it was doing Government has stabilised the prices of some ATTORNEY-AT-LAW COPYWRITER everything in its power to stabilise the cost of living. It stated that essential goods, I think we are spending The cost of living is very hard to tackle I don’t know if any proper processes were several steps were being taken in that regard, including reducing the those savings on all the other things we need, these days, but the steps taken by the put forward by the relevant authorities, prices of essentials such as rice, dhal, and coconut. However, is this which have increased in price. Government have eased the pain. I believe because the cost of living increases on a really helping the people? Do they feel any relief from their financial I can understand that this is just how these trade restrictions and import bans are daily basis. It is understandable to an extent burdens at all? To find out, The Sunday Morning spoke to some things are at a time like this; we can a great encouragement for businessmen though, because this is a crisis faced by the concerned citizens. complain but there is not much the and wonderful support for the agricultural entire world, and simple policy changes in Government can do, so I guess we have to sector of the country. If this is not the our country will not solve the problem. But ride this wave and hope for the best. time to start growing everything locally, I believe strict regulations should be put in Owners’ Association, we managed to 250 g instead, and even those who usually I don’t know what is. The increase in place in reference to trading and businesses urge the Government to bring it down to a buy 1 kg of rice are now buying 500 g; manufacturing in Sri Lanka will also because people try to take undue advantage reasonable price. even onions are now priced at Rs. 200/kg manage the unemployment problem in the of helpless people most of the time. Keeping the bakery open costs me about and potatoes cost Rs. 170/kg. Chance for home- long run, so I think now is the time for Sri Just last week, as a result of the Rs. 6,000 a day now, and I don’t think The change is being felt very drastically. Lanka to become strong from within. exuberant turmeric prices due to the current there’s anything the Government can do The price of turmeric is a whole other grown economies situation, a racket where a person was to help. This is a problem faced by the situation on its own. Turmeric, which used selling dyed flour as turmeric was exposed entire world and it is apparent that the to be Rs. 70/100 g is now Rs. 500. Rich to prosper in our area – this is an example of where Government is doing their best to curb this people are able to buy but the majority, which Slightly helping people are helpless. wave. All we can do is hope for the best. obviously cannot afford it, will have to cook Deepika Nilanthi without it – that too in a country where our MONETARY BOARD RESEARCH the people palates have grown accustomed to five spices. OFFICER I personally think it is the responsibility of Chrishan Senerath SALES EXECUTIVE Govt. doing Forced to manage the Government to manage prices and lower the cost of living of the people. And I believe Since the lockdown was lifted, I was its best with less food People not the steps taken by the current Government paid only half my salary from my firm, Shifan Mohamed Sarath Jayasinghe in these times are really helping; especially and it is not at all easy to maintain a family BAKERY OWNER BUSINESS OWNER IN COLOMBO speaking up the reduction in the price of coconut. I used with that. The prices of rice and other In the beginning of August, things were to supply coconut to my husband’s office essentials have become stabilised, which extremely difficult for us; I considered Prices are very high now. Essentials Nimasha Premadasa canteen over the past few years and I know has helped a lot, although prices of other closing down my business because it like dhal have gone up in price, which has GROCERY STORE OWNER IN WELLAWATTE that during August-December, coconut essentials such as soap have increased. was nothing but a liability. The price of become a major issue as some people who Even soap and soap power have prices are close to Rs. 100 and due to the So I think what the Government is eggs was the highest in the history of our only consume dhal and rice can’t even increased in price by small amounts. impossibility of meeting the demand- doing is slightly helping the people, but country last month and with a great deal have that anymore. People who would Since this Government came to power, supply ratio, I always opt out of supplying certain things just cannot be stopped and I of effort, through the All Ceylon Bakery usually buy 1 kg of sugar are now buying prices have skyrocketed; it has truly gone coconut during that time. However, now it is believe now we all have a waiting game.

Contd. from page 4

design started in 2018,” he continued. proposed LRT system was implemented, it Government could pursue, Dr. De Silva The project consultant then explained that will incur a heavy operational cost,” it stated. said: “When we decide what technology to by the time the Cabinet decided to cancel the At last week’s cabinet briefing, Cabinet use, we need to consider the capacity of the LRT project... project, the project office was ready to start Spokesman Minister Keheliya Rambukwella system. A bus system can carry only 10,000 the tender process. said: “An evaluation of the LRT in its current passengers in one direction in an hour. The President mum Highlighting statements made by a group “Even if you need it in another 10-15 format has found that it is very expensive – next stage is a Bus Traffic Transit (BRT) Concerns were also raised over the of transport sector experts who criticised the years, you need to start planning now. This in fact, it is more expensive than any other system, which is what they are trying to do silence maintained by President Gotabaya project since its inception in 2015, Dr. De is the problem – inconsistencies in our investment project signed by Sri Lanka. at present; a BRT can increase the capacity Rajapaksa pertaining to the cancellation of Silva noted: “While criticising the project, transport plan,” he stressed. Therefore, we have to ensure that it brings from 10,000 to 13,000, which is marginal, the Colombo LRT. some transport experts say Sri Lanka doesn’t the best returns. A large number of buildings especially given that you can’t have a BRT As claimed by experts engaged in the need an LRT now but needs it in another 10 Questioning its feasibility will have to be destroyed, including and bus service operating simultaneously. detailed design of the project, the President years. They are contradicting what they said The proposal to cancel the project put many houses and businesses, which is not The next option would be to implement an has been misguided by a group of so-called a decade ago. forward by the Transport Ministry and practical.” LRT (30,000 pax), monorails, or urban rails. transport sector and economic experts. “Those who initially recommended the approved by the Cabinet stated that the The Minister also said the Government If these don’t fit, there is metro. They also believe that if the President LRT, when the project began later in 2015, project was cancelled after it was observed was studying the issue of reducing “You should decide what’s best based on was privy to the true picture and gravity of started opposing it saying that the LRT that it was unable to achieve the desired congestion within Colombo, and would the size of the city. When deciding on the cancelling the project without having an was not needed. Following a public outcry, results. present fresh proposals to resolve the best solution, the number of passengers that alternative solution and without conducting they changed their tune and said we need it Highlighting the reasons for the problems over the next few months. you are going to take in 20 years should be a proper technical evaluation, he wouldn’t in 10 years. These are the people who are cancellation, the cabinet proposal stated that However, he refrained from mentioning the considered.” have cancelled this project, which was sabotaging the project.” according to the basic plan of the project, options policymakers would explore. Commenting on the present solutions to expected to resolve 10% of the traffic According to him, the issue in Sri Lanka’s it was proposed to introduce a light rail traffic congestion discussed by policymakers congestion in Colombo by 2025. transport sector is that those who are service which would present travel along Sustainable solutions such as lane law, park and drive, etc., he said recommending transport plans to the sector the overland railway tracks as an alternative In contrast to the Government’s the focus should be on finding a sustainable Decades of planning are not transport experts. mode of transport for those commuting statements, LRT consultant Dr. De Silva solution. When contacted by The Sunday Morning, “Any metro system will take a to Colombo for employment and other noted that the project was approved by the “We should consider how many people University of Moratuwa senior lecturer and minimum of 10 years from planning to purposes in private vehicles. Cabinet only after a proper feasibility report using private cars can be converted to using LRT Project Consultant Dr. Dimantha De implementation. That is exactly what However, the previous Government took was prepared and an Environmental Impact the transportation solution. The BRT would Silva said different plans were put forth from has happened to the Colombo LRT. The steps to change that plan and implement Assessment (EIA) was conducted by the be a solution only for three years. That is 1996 onwards, all of which recommended planning started in 2015; it took four years the proposed LRT Project on a railway project office in 2017. why we need an LRT. solutions to minimise the traffic congestion to complete the acquisition planning and a track built on towers, which could cause In addition, he denied the allegations “While it is costly, it’s not as costly as in the area. detailed design,” he stressed. severe environmental damage. It was also levelled by the Government that the project they say – it can save Rs. 38 billion a year. “Several discussions on the project since “With regard to the progress over the last found that if the project is implemented, a would damage the environment. In addition, 10% of total congestion will be 1996 revealed that project planning could three years, even though we started planning, large number of buildings including houses Furthermore, he highlighted the reduced. go into around 10 years while the LRT takes a group of experts blocked it for one year, and business premises will have to be importance of looking for an alternative “One LRT won’t solve the problem. The another 10 years to build. Unfortunately, which then led to it getting delayed, after demolished and the cost of constructing the solution prior to cancelling the project for system should be developed and sustainable however, the people who made the which it ultimately got approved and the railway track on towers will be immense, the which a detailed design had already been and scientific solutions should be considered recommendations are the very people who feasibility was done. Following this, funds cabinet paper stated. completed by spending millions of rupees. by the Government to solve the present are now criticising the project,” he stressed. were sourced and work on the detailed “Moreover, it has been found that if the Highlighting the alternatives the traffic congestion,” he added. the sunday morning 11 Sunday, October 4, 2020 FOCUS

PLANTATION WORKER WAGE HIKE Still a bitter cuppa z Labour Minister goes on the offensive z Planters’ Association to submit fresh proposal

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA model,” Bulumulla noted. that will take place. He wanted the basics He then went on to say that it was to work out and the modality of payment, The Minister of Labour and the unrealistic of the Minister to demand the and we will give it to him. We have to regional plantations companies implementation of the salary increment start negotiations with the unions over the (RPCs) appear to be at loggerheads within two weeks, particularly due to salaries because they could make other Line houses at the Kenilworth Estate over the implementation of the the Collective Agreement in place which demands despite us handing it over to the which were built in the British colonial era Rs. 1,000 per day wage hike for will expire only next January, adding that Government. This is always the case.” PHOTO © GLOBAL PRESS JOURNAL estate workers, with the Minister therefore, the current salary will continue Bulumulla then affirmed that it was not insinuating that the companies until such time. possible to give the proposed Rs. 1,000 current tea prices. a big question mark. To implement any new were absconding from facilitating “Generally, two to three months prior, we per day wage for estate sector workers, “If the productivity is not included into this salary scheme, it must be included into the the pay hike. start negotiations with the relevant parties; as the Minister had requested, at the model, the sustainability of this industry is Collective Agreement,” he pointed out. Minister of Labour Nimal Siripala de Silva told The Sunday Morning that he met with RPC representatives recently, where he had instructed that the daily wage demand of Rs. 1,000 per day for estate sector workers be brought into effect. However, he said that RPC representatives had objected over losses that would be incurred. “I summoned them for a conference and there were certain estates that said they were running at a loss. I pointed out to them that they were not charitable organisations to be conducting business running at a loss, in which case, the prudent thing to do is to hand over these estates to the State Bank and say we are running at a loss, and then the Government will be able to take it over and pay the salaries that were proposed,” de Silva pointed out. He said he had not received a definite and direct response and therefore, had given a period of two weeks to bring the salary hike into effect, adding that he had an alternative which would compel the companies to do so. “I think the general feeling is that most of the owners are prepared to pay but they want to negotiate. So, I have given two weeks’ time for them, after which I have a plan to implement. I don’t want to reveal the plan because they will prepare themselves. I have a plan to make them pay. I want this handled amicably and the best thing to do is to come to an agreement like it was done before.” He then criticised the RPCs for failing to uplift the conditions of the estates and alleged that other sources of income such as mining in the estate lands were being exploited. “The other thing is that most of them can pay but they are not developing the estates; instead, they are earning from other methods. They are living on extra, miscellaneous income, such as through mining and timber harvesting. But there are a lot of lands available for replanting, increasing productivity, and manuring; if they do all these properly, they will be able to get a better yield and thereby pay the workers,” he further explained. De Silva also pointed out that the Government has taken over a lot of the additional expenses of the RPCs under its own budget, leaving less costs to be incurred by RPCs. “For example, earlier, the healthcare of the plantation workers was under the estate management, but now they don’t have to pay a single cent for healthcare. Infrastructure development in the estates has been taken over by the by the Government as well – we are tarring/ completing the roads, providing water, and the Indian housing scheme is assisting with housing. All these should be provided by the estate companies.” Asserting that no successful businessman would continue the same conduct of a loss- making enterprise, the Minister said he was confident the wage increment would be implemented as the RPCs could not justify their excuses. “There is something hidden here, isn’t there? Then, about the outgrower model – no, first they should start with this (the wage hike) as those models (outgrower model) will take time to be properly introduced. After two weeks, I’m confident they will agree because I have demolished all their arguments. There hasn’t been any other minister who has taken this much interest and done this,” the Minister emphasised. Meanwhile, newly appointed Planters’ Association of Ceylon (PA) Chairman Bhathiya Bulumulla told The Sunday Morning that they would submit a proposal on a new salary scheme based on productivity. “Actually, we have not said ‘no’ to this (the Minister’s request). We have given a proposal but the unions did not agree. We have given a productivity-based model but the unions are asking for a flat rate. But such a flat rate cannot be afforded by the plantation companies at the current tea prices. So, we will now modify and submit another proposal. Discussions are going on and (a decision is) still not finalised. Before two weeks, it will be finalised and the Minister will be provided with a new salary 12 the sunday morning FOCUS Sunday, October 4, 2020

BY SARAH HANNAN PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM CHILD ABUSE CASES Just over a month into Prof. G.L. Peiris assuming duties as the Minister of Education, the education We have asked the system has been facing a Chairman of the UGC to write to the Bottlenecks complete overhaul with the large employers of this new minister being tasked country and to gather with transforming the local some indication of education system from the jobs they have in the system? preschool to tertiary level. on offer and would Discussions are ongoing be made available z Speeding up progress on reported cases at various levels, and the in the next few BY PUJANEE GALAPPATHTHI (CYPO), the Probation of Offenders stakeholders are meeting years, along with AND DINITHI GUNASEKERA Act No. 10 of 1948, the Youthful with him on a weekly basis the skills and Offenders (Training School) Act to discuss the progress of aptitudes they are “The first time I was abused, I was No. 42 of 1944 (YOTSA), and the each initiative that is being looking for six years old. He was a family friend National Child Protection Authority rolled out. The Sunday and had a wife and a kid of his own. Act No. 50 of 1998. Morning recently met with As he was a father, he was deemed In addition, Sri Lanka is also Prof. Peiris at his office in trustworthy and would occasionally party to the United Nations Isurupaya amid a busy babysit me. He would touch me Convention on the Rights of the everywhere; sometimes get me alone Child (UNCRC) since 1990. The public day to get an overall in a room, when no one was around. “Legal and Institutional Assessment idea on what he and the This went on for two years. I felt of Sri Lanka’s Justice System for incumbent Government dirty. That is the best way to describe Children” conducted by the United plans to do with the it,” said Dominique Croos Sedra. Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) proposed reforms that are With the dramatic increase in child in 2017 states that Sri Lanka’s legal to roll out in the coming abuse cases in 2020 and the stagnant framework lacks a uniform definition weeks. nature of the legal proceedings of of a child, an internationally Below are excerpts of the these cases, Minister of Justice acceptable age of minimum criminal Mohamed Ali Sabry PC declared responsibility, fails to consider interview. to the media that the Government the deprivation of a child’s liberty Complete is looking into the establishment of being a matter of last resort, fails to How will the proposed separate juvenile magistrate courts prioritise the diversion of children education reforms change the to tackle the plethora of child abuse away from the formal justice system, way education contributes cases handled in Sri Lanka annually. and fails to distinguish the responses towards the country’s Officials of the National Child applicable to children in conflict with development? Protection Authority (NCPA) shared the law and children in need of care One of the urgent problems in with The Sunday Morning that the and protection. the entire spectrum of education overhaul of Ministry proposed the incorporation To get a clear understanding of is the obvious mismatch between of 25 juvenile magistrate courts in the legal framework, we spoke to education and employment the country. Attorney-at-Law Shalini Fernando. opportunity. Fernando commented that Of course, we have to increase The current situation although we have a long list of laws our university intake. Last year, A special audit report in August and sections including international the total number of students who education 2020 revealed that the relentless rise treaties and conventions, our issue is entered our state universities in the number of child abuse cases in implementation. was about 31,000. This year, Sri Lanka was a result of numerous we are looking at increasing it drawbacks within the NCPA, SDIG Priyantha cited the up to 41,500, which reflects an together with procedural drawbacks legal conflict between the increase overall. in our legal framework – mainly the child’s inability to consent For instance, in the faculty sector delay in formulating the National to sex against the possibility of medicine, in comparison Child Protection Policy, the absence of marriage at a young age to last year, there are 369 of a national database on child abuse, according to some laws (Islamic additional students admitted; and the snail’s pace progress of these law and the Muslim Marriage the engineering faculty has an complaints. and Divorce Act [MMDA]) as a additional 405 students. Overall, Prof. G.L. Peiris It is reported that over 35% of the notable challenge in handling 10,500 more students have total number of complaints received child abuse cases been admitted to universities propose to do this islandwide on from a recognised vocational Will online teaching be an by the NCPA are from the Colombo, this year. We are also looking a district basis in order to gather training institute. aspect the Ministry is looking Gampaha, Kurunegala, and Galle “We have child brothels, child at establishing 10 city-based their thoughts with regard to In Australia, it is known as at? Districts. Due to the lack of special prostitution, and paedophilia universities with the support the reforms that are necessary sub-degree courses. These are Very much. It is the way courts that look into child abuse cases, rampant in the island, and the State of Asian Development Bank in the curricula to move it away methods that are called lateral forward and the country is these cases remain unattended. doesn’t take action against it due to (ADB). from the present system of note entry into the university system. getting accustomed to that very According to data collected in the corruption. In fact, even the statistics A very large number of learning. You do not have to necessarily rapidly. year 2012, there was an average of six are denied and hidden. Private students who qualify to gain There is also a shortage of follow the conventional years between the beginning of the organisations and charities have entry to a university have textbooks in the Advanced Level method, and can use the lateral Will homeschooling be allowed investigation and the commencement conducted research and estimate demonstrated their competence stream. In many subjects, there method to enter a university. to be practised at any point, of a child abuse case in court, and as child prostitution affects 40,000 to benefit from higher education, are no textbooks available, so This is something that we given that a parent is qualified of 30 September 2019, 1,153 out of children in Sri Lanka; 30,000 of which is quite satisfactory. But teachers are compelled to give a have to consider seriously in to teach their children and 2,845 reported complaints remained them are little boys.” at the same time, you have to note in order to give the students our system and see whether complete the Department of unresolved. The lack of a child-friendly consider what employment a point of reference or revision that kind of flexibility will be Education-approved tests and Currently, there are only two approach to legal procedures is also prospects are available for the material. helpful. Department of Examinations- specialised juvenile courts in the part of the problem. products of our state education I am working with the National Then there is an examination approved local tests? country, which results in child abuse “The legal procedures are long system. Institute of Education and called General Information In our preschools, in particular, cases being heard alongside other drawn, gruelling, and even more The leaders of the corporate state universities to produce a Technology (GIT), which can we want to encourage that matters, thereby resulting in an traumatic for the child. There’s sector tell me that there are jobs, textbook for the relevant subjects be viewed as a good idea, as method of education. overwhelming delay. hardly any sensitivity or comfort but when they interview people, that are on offer for Advanced for students who sit for the We are looking at inculcating An exchange with NCPA Chairman provided. You are named and shamed they find that the interviewees Level students. Advanced Level examination, values in a child at a very Prof. Mudhitha Vidhanapathirana rather than served justice. Girls often do not have the skills they are there is an option to sit for GIT. formative stage. So the home revealed that this backlog of cases have to leave their hometowns and looking for. Is the Ministry looking at Then a student who is selecting environment can be ideal and could be resolved by establishing reinvent themselves in a new town,” We have asked the Chairman drawing case studies from the field of studies in the liberal beneficial to inculcate traditional more courts that solely deal with child added Fernando. of the University Grants foreign education systems? arts or humanities will have values, improve the parent-child abuse cases. Speaking on developments in Commission (UGC) to write We would like to draw a certain amount of exposure bond, and improve moral and In addition to the Justice Minister’s the law, Fernando remarked that to the large employers of this in positive elements and to computing and information spiritual values. If one is to make proposal, the NCPA has proposed the private citizens movements and country and to gather some experiences of all countries. technology and language a beginning in nurture and care, inclusion of nine juvenile magistrate organisations are working with the indication of the jobs they Remembering all the time that training like English. one is to make that beginning courts in each province together with State to achieve that goal. Presently, have on offer and would be we cannot copy the experience All of that will better equip at a child’s formative stage. Of eight high courts especially dealing Women in Need and Child Protection made available in the next few of any country and apply it the student for a job when they course, parental and child contact with child abuse cases and complaints. Force are the frontrunners. years, along with the skills and mechanically here, we have to complete their studies. is important at an early stage. Presently, the entire island houses It is not news that child abuse cases aptitudes they are looking for. adapt it to suit the conditions of The problem in our country’s only one high court that deals with are one of the toughest to tackle. A Then, the university system Sri Lanka. With the global pandemic preschools is that the majority of child abuse matters and it is located in conversation with Crimes, Organised will need to adapt their courses in In our system today, which is still prevalent, many schools them are not run by government Anuradhapura. Crimes, Crimes Intelligence, Women such a way to develop and refine a very conventional system, the had to adapt to distance entities. The vast majority is “We believe our proposal will help and Child Abuse Prevention Bureau, within our university system, student follows the conventional learning methods. How run by religious institutions and solve these problems from within and Narcotics and Election Range the skills for which there is an route of Ordinary Level, will the Ministry facilitate non-governmental organisations. each province and provide quick and Division Senior Deputy Inspector identified demand. Otherwise, Advanced Level, and then technology-based learning at Less than 15% are run by the equitable solutions in the process of General of Police (SDIG) W.L.A.S. we are producing more and more university. But Sri Lanka also all levels? Government, but there must empowering our future generations,” Priyantha and Attorney-at-Law graduates, increasing the pool of has a very highly developed Distance learning is a new be some method of regulation said Prof. Vidanapathirana. Harshana Nanayakkara made this discontent. system of tertiary and vocational concept for Sri Lanka and because there are huge notion more apparent. education. there has been some level of differences in standards. How the law works According to the SDIG Priyantha, The National Institute of We have a university resistance on many levels. We Some are excellent and others The primary legislation governing a typical child abuse case is handled Education said the school of tertiary and vocational have been used to the student are just money-making institutes children’s justice in Sri Lanka includes by police officers in collaboration curricula will shift from education, and then we have learning from the teacher face- and pioneering businesses the 1995 and 2006 amendments in the with the Special Police Investigation teacher-centric education to 19 colleges. Those colleges to-face. But Covid-19 brought without any quality control. That Penal Code, the Children and Young Unit of the NCPA. student-centric education. and the institutes under them about a transformation of is something we need to look at Persons Ordinance No. 48 of 1939 Contd. on page 14 What measures will be in place cater to as many as over 200 attitudes in that regard, because regulating. to ensure there is a smooth different vocational disciplines it left people with no choice transition? such as plumbing, carpentry, and online training became With child abuse and teen We are placing a very heavy woodwork, beauty care, and the standard method of putting pregnancies still rampant, will emphasis on curriculum designs cookery. material in front of the student. the Ministry consider adding because our curriculum has not In the vocational education Now we need to make use sex education to the school been revisited or updated for system, there are eight levels. of that opportunity and have curricula and the university a very long time. We need to Say at the end of level four, leading authorities in particular curricula? ensure the curricula not only you get a certificate. In most subjects such as geography Definitely. The school in the universities but also countries, you can use that level or economics supplement the curriculum reforms are brought in the schools are relevant to four certificate as a passport for instructions that are given at in to keep step with the evolving contemporary social needs. entry into a university system, schools. Later on, if the system challenges of society. As a social We want to involve parents, often getting exemption from is successful, you can do it on problem manifests itself, the teachers, students, alumni the first year and joining a an islandwide basis and there education system has to take that associations, parent-teacher university course from the will be a great deal of savings onboard. Otherwise, the system associations, religious leaders, second year onwards, and made in maintaining school gets left behind. and community leaders. We follow a training programme buildings and other facilities. Contd. on page 14 the sunday morning 13 Sunday, October 4, 2020 FOCUS

ACCESS ROAD THROUGH RUMASSALA Following due process? z 40-foot access reduced to 25 feet z Road widening by Habaraduwa DS

BY SARAH HANNAN It was just last year that the work in progress Araliya Unawatuna Beach Hotel (AUBH) caught our attention, when environmentalists raised concerns on whether they had obtained proper environmental impact assessments (EIAs) to continue with the construction of the hotel. The Sunday Morning in July 2019 wrote about the whole controversy that surrounded the Last year, the AUBH construction in an article titled management was looking to Aerial view of the hotel site “Controversy over Unawatuna”, widen the road that leads to in which it was mentioned that Jungle Beach, so that their when asked, the Department of guests could drive through population density in the adjacent Coast Conservation and Marine to the hotel. Many residents village, our management has Environment Protection Authority from the area protested and the requested the Habaraduwa DS (MEPA) officials noted that the AUBH management gave up office to only widen it up to 25 project had obtained the necessary the idea to widen the road feet.” clearances before they broke CEJ Executive Director Araliya Group of Companies ground. Hemantha Withanage Chairman Dudley Sirisena, in a Once again, the AUBH recent social media post, noted has become a project that is that the AUBH would be his final heavily discussed amongst Justice (CEJ) Executive Director project before he retires from his environmentalists, as the hotel is Hemantha Withanage told The busy business life: now looking to build an access Sunday Morning. The almost completed Araliya Unawatuna Brach Hotel “This is the last project I will road to the site. Having to abandon the original complete before retiring from a “Last year, the AUBH road that the AUBH had in Withanage pointed out built on either side of this road will very busy business life, and I am management was looking to mind, there is speculation that that if the access road gets lose a considerable portion of their pleased to announce that it will widen the road that leads to Jungle hotel owner Dudley Sirisena is approved, there will be real estate,” Sirisena had explained. soon be open to thousands of Beach, so that their guests could attempting to gain road access considerable destruction Therefore, Sirisena had noted families in the area. drive through to the hotel. Many through the Rumassala area. to the ecosystem of the that he is going to ask them to “The 300-room star-class hotel residents from the area protested Withanage pointed out that if the peripheral borders of the allow a 25-foot-wide road to be also generates thousands of direct and the AUBH management access road gets approved, there Rumassala Sanctuary constructed, which would allow and indirect jobs, and has also gave up the idea to widen the will be considerable destruction borders of the Rumassala two vehicles to pass. launched a programme to develop road,” Centre for Environmental to the ecosystem of the peripheral Sanctuary. Meanwhile, The Sunday public spaces in the area, using During a development Morning contacted the project my personal wealth. In that sense, committee meeting that was held office that is overseeing the AUBH If I am to request the this whole project will be a source in Unawatuna recently, Dudley construction to clarify who was Habaraduwa Divisional of income generation for the Sirisena had participated and was going to construct the road and Secretariat (DS) to widen the Unawatuna area. seen explaining to the members whether they were in fact cutting road as per the plan, many “That is why I consider it a how he was going to gain road a road through the Rumassala of the houses that are built on privilege to be able to invest the access to his almost complete Sanctuary as speculated by either side of this road will lose last rupee I’ve earned as a local hotel. environmentalists. a considerable portion of their entrepreneur in this land and to be “The original survey plan for Responding to our query, an real estate able to devise a programme that the area has a 40-foot access road. official from the project office Araliya Group of Companies will distribute its benefits among However, when I drove down that noted: “Contrary to the claims Chairman Dudley Sirisena the people of the country. road, I observed that there are made by environmentalists, the “So, as a local entrepreneur who settlements. If I am to request the road that provides access to the started from scratch, I sincerely Araliya Group of Companies Habaraduwa Divisional Secretariat hotel will still be through the road, but will wait until the hope that it will help you look Chairman Dudley Sirisena at (DS) to widen the road as per the village. We are not privately Habaraduwa DS office develops positively at your journey so far a site visit on 20 September plan, many of the houses that are funding the construction of this the road. Considering the and make your life a success.”

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA Customs personnel inspecting He elaborated that waste remaining waste containers. a container of waste illegally imported from the UK disposal incurred heavy expenses “We are waiting for the court Over 200 containers of municipal PHOTO © THE GUARDIAN for such countries and therefore, case to conclude. They have waste from a foreign land flooded such scams were profitable. verbally told us that there are no the Port of Colombo in 2017 when “The racket here is that the barriers to re-export the containers, it was illegally imported to the service of the disposal of waste has but there are some legal country. Now, Sri Lanka Customs is a high profit margin, especially in proceedings remaining. After these vying to obtain compensation from the UK where waste disposal is a legal processes are completed, we the culprits. costly matter. So, these racketeers will take a decision to re-export.” In 2017 and 2018, a total of 263 smuggle the waste out of the He noted that the Basel containers full of waste material country promising to dispose of it. Convention had been violated from the UK arrived at the Colombo This is an international smuggling and that there was precedence in Port. At the time, speculation was racket and there are poor countries other countries to consider when rife that these containers contained around the world that will accept seeking compensation. In the hazardous waste material such as such waste for money.” meantime, he said that they are medical waste including corpses. He said that while compensation looking into what action can be Superintendent of Customs Lal was still being negotiated, British taken with regard to compensation Weerakoon, however, clarified that authorities had agreed to accept as well as penalising the culprits there was no such medical waste. another 130 containers, adding that under the provisions of the Last Saturday (26), the the Customs Department has not Customs Ordinance. Customs Department was yet calculated the compensation as able to have 21 of these negotiations have not progressed container reshipped to thus far. England while the remaining “They (British authorities) This was a smuggling attempt 242 were under lock following have agreed upon the need for done by a private company. orders from the courts compensation. They have also One of the companies is agreed to receive another 130 registered in the UK while the “The containers hold municipal containers; but all are still being brother or another relation had waste, such as household waste. negotiated. There are a lot of set up a second company in Sri There is no medical waste. Earlier, parties involved in this, including Lanka. So the company in the there was an allegation to this the High Commission as well as UK has shipped the garbage to extent, but upon inspection, we ILLEGAL WASTE CONTAINER IMPORTS environmental organisations. So, the company in Sri Lanka could not find any medical waste. their input would also be needed Superintendent of Customs Those allegations are not confirmed. when calculating compensation.” Lal Weerakoon Allegations of there being dead Nevertheless, he said that they bodies are completely false. They were now facing a practical issue were baseless media reports.” of needing additional containers as “We have to look at other Last Saturday (26), the Customs the waste could not be compressed countries as well, as there is Department was able to have 21 Customs to be to be reloaded and fitted into their precedence. They have imported of these containers reshipped to original containers. Most of these these containers, grossly violating England while the remaining 242 containers had been unloaded the international Basel Convention were under lock and key following and emptied to examine their and other rules and regulations.” a court order. contents, and now the Department He said that diplomatically, the “There were 263 containers is facing an issue with reloading matter of penalising the private altogether which arrived. We have compensated the containers, as they do not have company had been condoned by sent 21 back to England and there a compression mechanism. both the British and Lankan High are 242 remaining. Of those, 130 z Compensation sought z 21 out of 242 containers “As a result, there is a need for Commissions. have been stored at the Board of additional containers. Now we “The compensation will be Investment (BOI) Katunayake from private company sent back to the UK are negotiating with the shipper sought from the private company. Free Trade Zone (FTZ) premises to get more containers. The 130 We have informed the British High while the other 112 are inside the Weerakoon noted that this was company in the UK had sent the in the UK while the brother or containers that are to be sent will Commission in Sri Lanka and our Colombo Harbour within various part of an ongoing international waste containers to a relation another relation had set up a have to be increased.” High Commission in England, terminals. The remaining containers racket to dispose waste from who had set up a separate private second company in Sri Lanka. The Meanwhile, Sri Lanka Customs of our stance, and there are no are part of a court case in Sri Lanka developed countries and Sri company in Sri Lanka. company in the UK has shipped Media Spokesman Sunil particular objections from these now. The court has ordered to retain Lanka had fallen victim to such “This was a smuggling attempt the garbage to the company in Sri Jayarathne said that they are authorities. So, after the court the containers at the Harbour and a smuggling scam. He explained done by a private company. One Lanka. This had nothing to do with waiting for the court proceedings proceedings are over, we will look the BOI premises in Katunayake.” that an individual with a private of the companies is registered our two countries.” to conclude to reship the into the matter of compensation.” 14 the sunday morning POLITICS/SPOTLIGHT Sunday, October 4, 2020

Contd. from page 9 Contd. from page 6

Attorney-at-Law Sanjaya Gamage, and Dr. 13A to the fore Time to choose... Decisive... Chamil Liyanage. Amidst all talk of the proposed 20th From green... He was a dual citizen when he was the This gave way to speculation on whether Amendment, another constitutional issue Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and acted Bathiudeen was among the Opposition Opposition agitation came to the forefront last week. Complexes of wetland mosaics as the de facto Minister of Defence at the time MPs in discussion with the Government Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, comprising woodlands, tall and short the Civil War ended. It was under his brilliant to switch allegiance after supporting the said last week that the 20th Amendment during the online bilateral discussion with herbs, and open-water habitats cover leadership that the 30-year war was ended; if 20th Amendment. Finally, Bathiudeen had been brought forward as a result of Prime Minister Rajapaksa last weekend, had approximately a third of all the wetland not for his leadership skills, we would have made a statement saying that his party, the the Government’s internal power struggle. emphasised that implementation of the 13th areas. probably not ended the Civil War in 2009. All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) “If constitutional changes are taking Amendment to the Constitution is essential Open-water wetlands, such as tanks, So, it is about the person, as I previously had not made a final decision on the 20th place, it must be done for the future of the for carrying forward the process of peace lakes, and canals cover just over 20% of all said. IP Nishantha Silva was not a dual Amendment. country, the people, and their betterment,” and reconciliation. the wetlands, the report stated. citizen and is not in the country even. Look It is therefore evident that there’s Premadasa said at a public meeting. Modi had called upon the new The report also stated that since the days at Arjuna Mahendran, who was not a citizen much focus on the Opposition as well as Premadasa had insisted that the 20th Government in Sri Lanka to work towards of the Kingdom of Kotte, wetlands within at all, and both had done massive damage to governing party members with regard to the Amendment should be defeated to protect realising the expectations of Tamils for the CMR progressively degraded, were the country. Therefore, I would reiterate that passage of the 20th Amendment Bill in the the favourable environment that was equality, justice, peace, and dignity within a infilled, and lost. Much of this damage is it is about the person and personality. House. created through its preceding amendment. united Sri Lanka by achieving reconciliation considered irreversible. The state and extent He had also noted that the amendment nurtured by implementation of the of wetlands loss across the CMR vary. Some Some of the Sri Lankans who are SLFP weighs in must further seek to end the power struggle constitutional provisions. estimates suggest that wetlands comprising residing in foreign countries have done However, key constituent partner of between the President and the Prime The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) had the Kolonnawa marsh were reduced by as tremendously well as world citizens. If the Government, the Sri Lanka Freedom Minister by granting them powers. welcomed the stand taken by Indian Prime much as 65% since the 1980s. Similarly, they can make use of them, why not allow Party (SLFP), has admitted that it has some “Through this, we can create a Minister Modi on the Sri Lanka Tamil issue. as much as 60% of paddy lands across the them to enter Parliament. What is the big concerns over the 20th Amendment. democratic system in which neither the “We welcome PM Modi calling on wetlands of CMR may have been converted deal about it? SLFP General Secretary Minister President nor the Prime Minister will have Sri Lanka to address the aspirations of to non‐wetlands for use over a similar time I personally have no problem with a Dayasiri Jayasekara had said the SLFP too much power,” Premadasa had added. the Tamil people for equality, justice, period. Other estimates place the figure dual citizen being allowed to contest in will discuss its concerns with President The SJB is engaged in an islandwide peace, and respect within a united SL close to 22% across the city. Yet, this still parliamentary elections. We have enough Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister campaign against the 20th Amendment and including by carrying forward the process represents a significant loss. What is clear is safeguards to look after our matters and Mahinda Rajapaksa. a rally held under this programme came of reconciliation with implementation that wetlands, irrespective of type, continue prevent such disasters taking place. He had said this while speaking at an under attack last week. of constitutional provisions,” the TNA to be lost and degraded across the CMR. This is an exaggerated argument just event held to commemorate the 61st death Stones were thrown by an unidentified tweeted. to attack the 19th Amendment. The dual anniversary of the party’s Founder S.W.R.D group at a political meeting attended by Addressing a special media conference, Prez. commits to protecting citizenship clause that was entered in the Bandaranaike at the SLFP headquarters last Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa in Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda had wetlands 19th Amendment, in my personal opinion, is week. Ratmalana last Tuesday. said that he had continuously maintained Meanwhile, addressing the United Nations a very political and personal issue now. “We have several concerns over the 20th However, the following day the stance that the 13th Amendment must be Summit on Biodiversity last Wednesday (30 I do not see a problem in a dual citizen being Amendment to the Constitution. But we (Wednesday), the Police had arrested two implemented. September), President Gotabaya Rajapaksa given the chance to enter Parliament. A dual will not discuss that openly. We hope to persons and they were remanded till this “My position has not changed,” he had said: “Sri Lanka is home to two UNESCO citizen is someone who is considered to be raise the issues with the President and Prime week by courts. said. (United Nations Educational, Scientific, conferred that he is capable of or is suitable to Minister,” he had said. “Where is the law and order promised Meanwhile, State Minister of Provincial and Cultural Organisation) Natural Heritage be conferred to hold the country's citizenship. Jayasekara had further noted that it is time by the Government? The freedom enjoyed Councils and Local Government Affairs Sites: the Central Highlands and the If this is not so, the person shouldn’t have been for the SLFP to do proper politics at the by the Opposition is a measure of the Sarath Weerasekara had said that he is Sinharaja Rainforest Reserve. We are also given dual citizenship in the first place. cost of facing several challenges, including strength of democracy in a country. opposed to the 13th Amendment. He proud of our six sites recognised under the losing ministerial portfolios and other However, yesterday, Government had proposed a new system to replace Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. How long will it take for the 20A to positions. thugs tried to disrupt a meeting where the provincial council system that was “Sri Lanka firmly stands committed come into effect, given that there are The SLFP had appointed a 10-member the Opposition Leader was speaking. implemented under the 13th Amendment. to protect and sustainably manage these opposing petitions that are presented by committee to study the proposed Isn’t this an indication of the decline of Weerasekara had gone on to say that he natural assets that contribute to our unique the Opposition parties and some from 20th Amendment Bill and submit democracy in this country today?” SJB would not want to be seen as a traitor of and rich biodiversity,” President Rajapaksa Government-friendly parties as well? recommendations to the party. General Secretary Madduma Bandara the country and would stand by the stance told the virtual gathering held under the Is there a definitive time frame for the SLFP General Secretary Jayasekara, had questioned at a press conference last that there was no necessity for a provincial theme of “Urgent Action on Biodiversity for second reading to take place? issuing a release, stated that after the week. council system in the country. Sustainable Development”. We do not have a definitive time to bring recommendations of the committee are He had called on the Police Department Meanwhile, referring to the 13th President Rajapaksa pointed out that in the 20A to the Constitution or to draft taken into consideration, the SLFP will to carry out an independent investigation Amendment to the Constitution, the Prime despite the rapid decline seen in biodiversity the new Constitution. We are awaiting the present its ideas and proposals to the and find those who were involved in the Minister had told newspaper editors and globally over the recent decades, Sri Lanka determination of the Supreme Court to come committee appointed by Prime Minister incident. electronic media heads that whatever is is deeply committed to upholding the to the Speaker of the Parliament. Then we Mahinda Rajapaksa. “It is really deplorable that the Leader in the Constitution has been implemented overarching spirit of the Convention on will take note of the determination and do The 10-member committee appointed by of the Opposition was attacked, stoned, and justice and fairness to all communities Biodiversity. everything in terms of the law; depending on the SLFP includes: Minister Nimal Siripala particularly when the Government has will be ensured when a new constitution is “There is a critical need for a what the determination says, we will carry de Silva, Prof. Rohana Lakshman Piyadasa, the primary responsibility to protect the enacted. transformational change in the out the second reading. Minister Mahinda Amaraweera, State Opposition, especially the Leader of the He had noted that provincial council relationship between nature and people In my personal opinion, it will take Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara, State Minister Opposition,” SJB MP Eran Wickramaratne elections had been postponed not by this and contemporary global environmental anything between four to five weeks for the Duminda Dissanayake, MP Shan Wijayalal had said at the same press conference. He Government and it was his Government that governance,” he added, according to the second reading to commence. De Silva, President’s Counsel Faiszer had added that the matter should be taken held elections for the Northern Provincial President’s Media Division (PMD). Musthapha, MP Sarathi Dushmantha, up by the Speaker. Council for the first time. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa Contd. from page 12

when they graduate. and the hearing of the case,” from the time s/he enters the Then they have also expressed Nanayakkara. system. This could only be Complete... started a system where when Bottlenecks... There are a number of done by conducting more a student has decided on a The tender age of most or less similar and so are its agencies that are involved accurate and feasible research What measures will the Definitely. Take a field career in the corporate sector child victims is always a respective problems. Except when it comes to a child to uncover the problems Ministry take to improve like nursing – people who for vocation and so on, for a problematic factor, as young in very few cases, there are abuse case. Between every that cause the delays in the infrastructure facilities are qualified in that field can student to be initiated into the children tend to forget certain no technical difficulties in stage of the respective cases and not just focus on in rural schools to reduce command an international corporate culture while being details when giving testimony conducting investigations and proceedings, various concluding child abuse case overcrowding in “popular” market demand. When we assigned to the said institute in court, and they’re usually concluding the cases. There administrative steps have to numbers. schools located in the city? look at market opportunities, under an apprenticeship for a much older when the case is is no uniform time period. be taken. As the law stands, the We are devising a system we must not confine ourselves short period of time. taken up. My experience has been such “I feel like there are major minimum penalty of 10 years to increase the number of to market opportunities in These are changes that are In addition, Nanayakkara that, starting from the date delays in the administrative for statutory rape can be national schools – that is to Sri Lanka, but must also necessary in our educational explained: “The victims the offence is committed, steps in addition to the reduced to a suspension on implement three national look further towards the institutions. would have grown up and it would take at least three substantial steps mentioned the judge’s discretion during schools at each divisional international situation. would be legal adults and to four years for the child before. If we can at least special circumstances. The secretariat (DS) starting with We do not have to go How have your initiatives even married individuals victim to give evidence and to trace the points at which taxonomy of the country’s 123 DS divisions, where there on sending housemaids to adapt zero tolerance by the time the trial takes conclude the case.” administrative delays occur, Penal Code also defines rape isn’t a single national school. to the Middle East; the towards ragging in place. These adults, at times, The country’s legal and then a few months or even as “forced sexual intercourse/ About three weeks ago, consequences of that have universities and the prefer to hide the abuse justice system presently has years can definitely be cut penetration by a man of a I met with 19 principals been socially disastrous. We suggestions made to they went through. They an unfavourable reputation from the period taken for case woman without her consent”, of larger schools from all have to upgrade one notch implement a surveillance would deliberately cover-up pertaining to the speedy conclusion. which belittles sexual provinces and I tried to and ensure they are skilled committee to monitor such evidence due to the desire conclusion of any case for “We cannot solve this issue offences amongst males. It encourage them to think of migrant workers. behaviour in an attempt to forget and move on that matter, let alone child by simply pointing fingers is no doubt that this poses a adopting some of the schools to put an end to such due to embarrassment and abuse cases. Nanayakkara at the Police, the Attorney considerable obstacle to boys in other areas to experiment University education has harassments taking place re-traumatisation.” pointed out the saturation General, or the high courts. who are survivors of abuse. in social equity, sharing of several teething issues, progressed? SDIG Priyantha cited the of work and responsibility The media can also definitely A study conducted by the resources, and sharing of where graduates have a The policy of zero tolerance legal conflict between the assigned to the high courts play a role in this.” National Resource Centre resource personnel. difficult time securing on ragging will actually be child’s inability to consent as a key catalyst for further Consistent, periodic, and for Reaching Victims shows I have been here a little employment after they implemented because it is a to sex against the possibility delays. This is a prime continuous research carried that globally, boys and girls over a month and the main graduate due to their lack of calamity. of marriage at a young age example that justifies Minister out on a regular basis (at least experience similar rates of demand schools have is to practical skills in the field. Take this case which got a according to some laws Sabry’s recommendation of a once every three years) to childhood abuse (48.6% and admit children into the better- How will you address this lot of publicity when a first- (Islamic law and the Muslim separate court in dealing with investigate the root causes, 51%, respectively). known schools. There is huge issue? year student of the University Marriage and Divorce Act child abuse cases. bottlenecks, and other factors Experts suggest a high pressure because parents This has already been of Sri Jayewardenepura, [MMDA]) as a notable “The bulk of child abuse contributing to delays in the tendency of the abused to feel that the most important done. I visited the University Pasindu Hirushan, was challenge in handling child cases I’ve come across have system is deemed essential. become abusers, thereby thing they could do is to give of Peradeniya about two subjected to ragging and abuse cases. only three to five witnesses. If “There is also currently continuing a vicious cycle – the child an education at a weeks ago and met the Vice sustained life-threatening In addition to this, proceedings are carried out on little attention paid on many studies conducted by prestigious school. Chancellor, Deputy Vice injuries when a lorry tyre Nanayakkara, through his a day-to-day basis, I believe following up among the globally reputed organisations We can diffuse this to some Chancellor, and deans of all was toppled on him. That expertise in the legal field, that ‘an average child abuse actors involved in such a case. confirm this notion. In a extent if the larger schools faculties. child survived by a whisker pointed out long-term case’ could be concluded in After the investigations are similar vein, according to the make their facilities available They admit about 1,200 – now the boy has recovered challenges such as delays five to six working days. It’s done, the Police direct the non-profit charity Childhelp, to one or more schools that students every year to the to the extent where he can in systematic procedure as a good move not only for investigation documentation children who experience are located in other districts. Faculty of Arts and the total contemplate and resume another major contributory child abuse cases but for any to the relevant magistrate child abuse and neglect are The response was very number of a single intake his education at the same factor to the prolongment of other case – unfortunately, court and there would be no nine times more likely to get positive and supportive, comes up to about 4,500. university. We are doing child abuse cases. Delays in it doesn’t happen,” further follow-up from the involved in criminal activity. which has led to the Ministry In 2018, they introduced everything possible to help the investigation process and Nanayakkara stated. side of the Police on that In addition to the legal and of Education calling for a a system where certain him continue his higher in approaching the Attorney particular case. After the due structural amendments that follow-up meeting with the compulsory elements are built studies. His father had to give General (AG) for advice, and What can be done? documentation is checked and need to be made, it is evident same principals to deliberate into the programme of liberal up his job to care for this delays in the AG giving that Curbing or attempting to sent through to the Attorney that much work needs to be on the proposals. arts and humanities. child. We have obligations advice are examples. minimise the issue at hand is General, there would again done collectively as a society These are not optional towards catering to his “From a purely judicial far from impossible. be a lack of follow-up on to bring forth lasting and Vocational training is an subjects and are compulsory necessities. perspective, it takes three to “There are many steps that case from the side of the expeditious solutions. area that is looked into by like computing, information Students are sent to four years for a child abuse that could be taken, but courts, and so on.” It is apparent that as much your Government. Will technology, communication universities for higher case to be concluded from the the foremost ground-level In his final remarks, as there are many bottlenecks the curriculum at state- skills, entrepreneurship, and education, and such incidents date of the incident,” stated solution for all pre-existing Nanayakkara stressed the and loopholes to be looked run vocational training two English diplomas which will not be tolerated. We Nanayakkara. problems is maintaining a major role the NCPA could into systematically, the institutes too be reformed to they have to follow, which are looking to ensure the “There is nothing called co-ordinated effort with the play if they simply create a attitudes and thinking patterns match the changing needs of will greatly enhance their university system is geared to an ‘average child abuse cohesion of all the agencies proactive mechanism which of our society needs to the workforce? acceptability for employment be effectively functional. case’. Every case is more involved in the investigation keeps track of the victim change. the sunday morning 15 Sunday, October 4, 2020 SPORTS Namal’s vision Thrills and spills at z New Sports Minister elaborates on his plans for the future the Chess Nationals instructive play (16.Bc5!) from Sri Lanka’s first-ever Namal Rajapaksa could be the International Master to exploit that. most innovative Minister of Sports THE CHESS and Youth Affairs of our time. He Romesh Weerawardane – will have his supporters as well CORNER Chinthaka Anuruddha: Round 8 as his distractors. Too “corporate- by Dulan Edirisinghe 1.e4 d6 2.d4 Nf6 3.Nc3 g6 4.f3 Bg7 5.Be3 c6 6.Qd2 oriented”, one could say, but many Nbd7 7.O-O-O Qc7 8.h4 h5 9.Nh3 b5 10.Kb1 a6 11.Ng5 others will opine that that’s the Bb7 12.Ne2 e5 13.g3 d5 14.Bh3 dxe4 15.dxe5 Nxe5 way forward. Last week, we explored what made Ranindu Liyanage 16.Bc5! Nd5 17.fxe4 Nc4 18.Qe1 Ndb6 19.Qf2 Bc8 a deserved winner at the recently concluded National With the two bishops cutting through the heart of black’s Coming to Parliament from far-off Championship. Today, we look at some of the most exciting position, black’s last move is an attempt to exchange one. Hambantota and having been educated moments from this blue riband event of the Sri Lankan at the classy S. Thomas’ College, Mount chess calendar. With the abilities of 14 of the most talented White found the brilliant Lavinia before captaining the country in players in the country on display, there was plenty of such 20.Bd7+ which forced black’s rugby, Rajapaksa should have first-hand “edge of the seat” stuff. resignation after 20...Qxd7 experience of the two social spectrums in 21.Rxd7 Bxd7 22.Qxf7+ sports – the village and the metropolis. After In this second round Kd8 23.Qxg7 Re8 24.b3. taking up the position with high expectations, encounter, the white rook Minul Doluweera, one of Rajapaksa will complete his first two months has just ventured out to e7, the two former champions in office on 12 October. for which black has replied After 19...Bb7-c8 in the field, finished the event His vision for the development of with the unsuspecting 32... strongly and was rewarded sports in the country was most profoundly Kc7-b7. with the silver medal. His sharp round 11 encounter featured expressed at a lecture Rajapaksa delivered 33.Rf7! and all of a a picturesque checkmate. on 21 September at the Colombo School Romesh Weerawardane- sudden, the whole white army of Business Management (CSBM) Dhanushka Bandara works harmoniously to trap In a sharp position, black’s under the topic “Creating a Professional White to move the mighty black queen, that 31...f5 enabled white Sportsmanship Culture”. too in the middle of the board. to deliver the first punch, The following are some of the key ideas Black cannot escape without suffering fatal material losses. followed by more punches that he presented in the lecture. Young Maheesha Dabarera, making his first Nationals and the eventual knockout. There is one sports association which has appearance, was the early front-runner, both in terms of 32. Bxf5+ Qxf5 33. Re7+ won the world title. Every time an elected points and sheer entertainment. His third round game Kd6 34. Qxa6+ Kc5 35. body gets appointed, the television rights against Romesh ended in a draw, but not before providing After 31...f5 Qa7+ Kxd5 36. Qb7+ Kd6 money that has been earned by the previous ample evidence of his swashbuckling style. Minul Doluweera-Rasika 37. Qb6+ Rc6 38. Qd4+ elected body is spent by a subsequent interim Samaranayake Qd5 39. R2e6# committee (IC). Maheesha Dabarera – Romesh The final checkmating Weerawardane: Round 3 position deserves a diagram. In 1999, about $ 10 million earned by the The new Sports Minister’s elected body was spent by the IC. Again, it vision will have supporters as 1.e4 g6 2.d4 Bg7 3.Nc3 d6 4.f4 a6 5.Nf3 b5 6.Bd3 holds an election and finds $ 27 million. In well as fierce distractors as well Bb7 7.O-O Nd7 8.e5 e6 9.Ng5 Nh6 10.d5 exd5 11.e6 six months, an IC comes in and the account Nc5 12.exf7+ Nxf7 13.Nxf7 Kxf7 14.f5 Kg8 15.fxg6 is emptied. In 2002, a $ 57 million agreement will come in for our sports. Now, if there opportunity to have a 10-year scholarship hxg6 16.Bxg6 Rxh2 17.Bf7+ (17.Kxh2 Qh4+ 18.Kg1 is signed and again an IC comes and spends is a talented child in the village, that’s a in a High Performance Centre abroad. Our Bd4+) 17... Kh8 18.Rf5 Rh7 19.Bg5 Qd7 20.Bg6 d4 that. What I believe is if a committee is huge headache to those parents because initial target is the Commonwealth and 21.Bxh7 Kxh7 22.Qh5+ Kg8 23.Raf1 Ne6 24.Rf7 Qc6 elected, they have done so by making a they don’t have enough money to support Asian Games. Next will be the Olympics. and we reach a tense position where both the kings are commitment. that child’s sports. under heavy fire. We plan to provide 333 functional training Cricket and athletic Independent associations centres to the sports clubs in the country training hubs The game ended in an There are some associations that spend on within the next three years. They will be We will build 10 synthetic tracks, each exciting draw after 25.R1f3 their elections more than what they spend low-cost and outdoor, yet high-efficiency having four 130-metre lanes in 10 sports Qe8 26.R3f6 dxc3 (26... Nxg5 on their main annual national competition. structures. They are not for government schools under next year’s budget. The 27. Rxg7+ Kxg7 28. Qxg5+) They need to do justice to the players. institutions, but are rather for the sports Sooriyawewa National School will be 27.Bh6 Be4 28.Bxg7 Nxg7 What we believe is that the associations clubs in the villages. identified as “a cricket school” and one 29.Rxg7+ Kxg7 30.Qh6+ need to act independently. The Ministry parallel class will be formed in it with talents Kg8 31.Qg5+ Kh8 32.Rh6+ should only prepare the right environment Sports schools identified in the country. White to move Bh7 33.Qf6+ Kg8 34.Qg5+ for them to work. The associations should We already have 25 sports schools in the The Sooriyawewa Stadium will be its Kh8 ½ - ½. But in the above Minul concluded the run without any political interference. island. We are going to have one parallel class training centre. I have already informed Sri diagrammed position, white missed a golden opportunity tournament by producing in those schools from Grade Eight, which Lanka Cricket to identify the talents with to crown his attack by playing 25.Rxg7+! Nxg7 (25...Kxg7 another memorable Three pillars will include 40 children. Talents found in the a view to introducing them into full-time 26.Rf7+ Kg8 27.Qh7#) 26.Qf7+ Kh7 27.Rf3. combination in the final They need to work according to a corporate districts will be sent to those sports schools. cricket. The Homagama Mahinda Rajapaksa However, in the very next round, Dabarera’s opponent round. structure. For selections, the Minister should A private body is supporting us to digitise School will similarly become a training wasn’t so fortunate. not intervene. There should be a professional the 25 schools and set the main base in our school for both track and field. body to do that. There are three pillars: Ministry. National coaches of the respective After a rather complicated 39.Re2-e6 Checkmate! Leisure sports, competitive sports, and sports sports will be able to monitor the 25 schools Not dependent on series of exchanges, black economy. We have also identified eSports from Colombo. government funds played the natural 25… as a new norm. Kabadi will go for a franchise model, like Kb8 only for white to find 19.Nf6+! Kh8 (gxf6 Geo-tagging system the Indian Premier League and European the brilliant 26.Bc6!, forcing 20.Qg4+ Kh8 21.Bxf6#) Functional training centres We are introducing a geo-tagging system Football, at the end of this year. The Football a checkmate (26...Kxa7 20.Qc2 gxf6 21.Bxf6+ I want to raise our sports economy up to by the end of this year. That will put Federation also has expressed their liking to 27.Ra1+). Kg8 22.Qe4 black missed $ 1 billion. This idea became a problem for together the 1.6 million schoolchildren, go for a franchise model. Maheesha Dabarera- Round eight saw a battle the difficult-to-find defensive some when I first said it. It is not a very all the youth organisations, and all the Sports cannot depend on government funds. Lakshitha Randil between two seasoned resource 22...Nxe3 23.fxe3 big amount. I think we can take our sports sports associations on a single platform. It has to be a self-sufficient industry. For that, Black to play veterans. The 2007 National Qc2 here. h5 23.Qh4 1-0. Champion Chinthaka to an international level only if we achieve The top 10 athletes picked from the next the right method is to develop from bottom After 18...Nc4 that target. It is only then that the money National Sports Festival will be given an to top, not the other way around. Anuruddha took a calculated gamble by opening up Minul Doluweera- the centre before castling with 13...d5. It took some Romesh Weerawardane Kandy eyes women’s cricket revolution BY HAFIZ MARIKAR IN KANDY Cricket Apsari Tillakaratne, Central Province Head Coach Malcolm Over here in Kandy, cricket Perera, and Central Provincial Coach promoters have teamed up to support Amila Pinnaduwa, along with six girls’ and women’s cricket as part of district coaches, also graced the a massive “year 2020 plan”. That’s occasion. why the Kandy District Cricket Tillakaratne assured that SLC would Association (KDCA), with the able assist the CPCA in all significant support from the Central Province matters pertaining to the development Cricket Association (CPCA), runs a of women’s cricket in the area. cricket programme around the Kandy city, bringing children together to Reaching wider range foster the next generation of women’s At present, five women’s teams cricketers in the country. from the Kandy District, four from This women’s cricket development the Kegalle District, and three programme was held on 28 September from the Nuwara Eliya District at the Pallekele International Cricket are playing hard-ball cricket. This Stadium and was a tremendous will be increased up to 10, and tape- success. There were participants ball cricket will also be introduced from 64 schools in this awareness to 10 schools in each of the above programme that was held with school three district. Matches will be played coaches and teachers in charge of zone-wise within the district. Inter- cricket in those schools taking part district matches will also be played in it with tremendous enthusiasm. within the province in addition to inter-school-friendly matches. Apsari pledges SLC’s KDCA President Pereira assured support that they will uplift women’s cricket A top cricket promoter, CPCA in Kandy while requesting from A women’s cricket development programme was held on 28 Chairman Sarath Ekanayake, SLC to organise a club tournament September in Pallekele with the participation of 64 schools. Secretary Janaka Pathirana, KDCA that could accommodate new Taking part in the event were Sarath Ekanayake, Roland President Roland Pereira, Sri Lanka outstation clubs at higher Pereira, and Apsari Tillakaratne Cricket (SLC) Head of Women’s competitive level. Djokovic cruises on to Colour bar in swimming too French third round Simone Manuel, who became the first Afro-American woman to win an individual Novak Djokovic continued his dominant start to the Olympic gold medal in swimming at Rio in 2016, has revealed that racism almost French Open with a ruthless straight-set win against caused her to give up the sport as a youngster. “I had a time when I wanted to quit,” Lithuanian world No. 66 Ricardas Berankis in the she said during a webinar second round. The world No. 1 won 6-1, 6-2, organised by the US Olympic and 6-2, meaning he lost just 10 games Paralympic Foundation titled in his first two matches. Djokovic, “Race, Sport, and Social Change: 33, is one of the favourites to Learning with Team USA”. “I win the tournament and put didn’t feel it was the sport for together an almost flawless me, because I didn’t feel that performance to triumph I fit in… I was being treated in one hour and 23 differently because of the colour minutes. “I felt really of my skin,” the 24-year-old from good. I hope I can Texas, who topped the podium carry on like this,” at Rio in the 4 x 100 m medley Djokovic said. and the 100 m freestyle, said. Sunday,sports October 4, 2020 Chris Gayle out of LPL? Australia women BY REVATHA S. SILVA Probably the biggest attraction of this year’s remain No. 1 proposed Lanka Premier League (LPL), West Indies’ z Annual update of women’s ODIs and T20I dashing batsman Chris Gayle, has withdrawn from cricket rankings the tournament, a source privy to the tournament’s arrangements told The Sunday Morning Sports on India leapfrogged New Zealand Their massive lead of 39 points Friday (2). to third position in T20Is after the over second-placed India is the International Cricket Council (ICC) largest by any team (men or This will be a severe blow on are to go under the hammer annual rankings update of women’s women) in any form of the game. the beleaguered league, which for the LPL auction which will international cricket, the ICC said It comes on the back of 3-0 series has already been hampered be held on 9 October. It was on Friday (2). Australia has retained wins over India, Pakistan, New by an array of continuous reported earlier that the five LPL top positions in the ICC women’s Zealand, England, West Indies, postponements. franchises will have a choice of team rankings for both ODIs and and Sri Lanka, and an earlier 2-1 Already in the “non-present around 150 players to bid for. T20Is. win over England at the start of players list” is the 31-year- Each of the five franchises In other noteworthy changes in the ICC Women’s Championship, old England batsman Jonny can buy up to six international the latest update issued on Friday, only a few months after England Bairstow, the above source players. That means the which expunges results from had won the ICC Women’s Cricket added. LPL is likely to include 30 the 2016-17 season, weights the World Cup in 2017. “There are a lot of high- international cricketers and 65 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons at profile players who have local cricketers, with each squad 50%, and the 2019-20 matches at Sri Lanka 10th in ODIs expressed their willingness to having 19 members. 100%, South Africa has overtaken India (121) and England (119) play. But we have not been As per the current schedule, New Zealand to fourth place and have lost four points each while officially informed yet about the tournament will be held from Bangladesh has leapfrogged Sri clinging onto their second and third Gayle’s non availability,” a 21 November to 13 December. Lanka to eighth in the ODI table. positions, respectively, while South senior Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) It is to feature 23 matches, to be Africa (107) enjoys a 13-point lead official said on Friday. played in Dambulla, Pallekele, Record lead for Australia over New Zealand (94), with the Chris Gayle Now the LPL has to depend and Hambantota. in ODIs West Indies (85), Pakistan (77), could have been on international “stars” such as However, the Government’s Six-time ICC Women’s Cricket Bangladesh (61), and Sri Lanka the biggest attraction of the Daren Sammy, Darren Bravo, approval for a shorter quarantine World Cup champions and winners (47) following in that order. beleaguered LPL Shahid Afridi, Ravi Bopara, period for overseas players is of both editions of the ICC Women’s The women’s T20I rankings table Colin Munro, Vernon Philander, yet to be secured; a hurdle that Championship, Australia’s stellar sees Australia and England retain and Munaf Patel for attraction. had forced the postponement display during the rating period saw the top two positions, with their Those international players of the LPL at least three times. them win 20 of 21 ODIs, increasing points tally remaining 291 and 280, their tally by eight points to 160. respectively. Do you have any purpose in playing tennis? The game of tennis is becoming ever all players – not only the players, but even Mental – tennis can be played as a form more popular and widespread in Sri Lanka. Dinith the parents and coaches – should have a of relaxation, but they still need to do it to More and more players are taking to the Pathiraja roadmap for the development of their future. the best of their abilities. game in increasing numbers. There are All stakeholders should be well aware of This is a very basic and rudimentary more tournaments played at the moment the purpose of playing the game of tennis. approach to setting up purposes to play than ever before. More players and parents ON COURT With this in mind, it needs to be looked at tennis. This needs to be thought out and are getting increasingly involved and more whether these purposes can be achieved at approached to suit the individual needs of coaches are “cropping up” from all corners their initial stages. the players themselves. of the country. With the expansion of this the country and its future direction, going game, especially to the suburban cities of forward. Tennis’ four basic parts A clear purpose Colombo, people belonging to the new The game of tennis in its very basic form The most important factor is that all players social strata are starting to take it up. This is No coherent answers breaks down into four parts; technical, should have at least a basic and clear purpose evident when watching any of the important One of the most striking things that this tactical, physical, and mental. With these for playing tennis. This purpose should not be tournaments that are held at the Sri Lanka writer came across was the fact that most aspects in mind, the purposes of playing set in stone! It can certainly vary depending Tennis Association (SLTA) in Colombo. players or in most cases, the parents, could tennis can be looked at as an introduction. on the aptitude the player shows for the game As was said in this space last week, the not answer some simple queries. These Technical – the first and most important when he/she progresses through the age SLTA finished one of its long-postponed queries were mostly friendly questions such purpose in playing tennis should of course groups. But what is most important is that tournaments, the 2020 Clay Court Nationals, as: “Why are you playing tennis?” or “what be to become a professional or semi- they need to have some idea or understanding recently at its premises. Even with the is your purpose in playing tennis?” or “what professional player so that he/she can make about their true potential. current Covid-19 situation in the country do you hope to achieve by playing this a living through the game. All players should use these purposes and with its resulting financial difficulties, game?” It was absolutely astonishing to see Tactical – secondly, the players can play to set for themselves “SMART goals”. It it was still very encouraging to see the that most players and parents had not even tennis to use it as a vehicle for their higher is not hoped to discuss that topic in this Dinara de Silva of St. Bridget’s Convent, number of players who took part in that thought about the answers to these simple educational aspirations by achieving a column as it has been discussed before. Colombo won the Girls’ Under-12 Singles title tournament. Having been a coach for more questions and they really struggled to come scholarship to another country through their But these purposes and “SMART goals” at the 2020 Sri Lanka Clay Court Nationals in than 25 years in tennis, this writer took that up with a coherent answer. In fact, some prowess in the game. Such scholarships will help individual players develop with Colombo last month, beating Onali de Silva opportunity to speak to as many players and very sheepishly admitted that they had not are widely available especially in the US. an “end game” in sight. Otherwise, playing 6/0, 6/0 in the event’s final parents as he could, so as to derive opinions really thought about such questions before. Physical – thirdly, the players can play the game of tennis will be similar to being PHOTO ISHAN WANNIARACHCHI to find out the real situation of the game in This got the present writer thinking that the sport of tennis for health purposes. in a rudderless ship.

Printed by the Kalukodayawa, Malwana Press & Published by Liberty Publishers (Pvt.) Ltd. 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7 WHY NOT RELY A ‘RAIL WAY’ SOLELY ON OUT OF THIS RENEWABLE TRAFFIC MESS ENERGY? »SEE PAGE 5 »SEE PAGE 7

Sunday, October 4, 2020 IMFbusiness still considering RFI request Sri Lanka is still engaged in discussions with the z 76 nations out of 102 approved z SL among 20 to 30 countries pending International Monetary “On financial support, we are was approved $ 237.7 million. On to decide. We have provided the in April this year. In mid-April, Fund (IMF) with regard assessing all relevant conditions 3 June, Mongolia was approved relevant facts and figures from Nozaki, then IMF Acting Mission to its request seeking on their request for an RFI, taking $ 99 million under RFI. The total our end.” Chief for Sri Lanka, confirmed a Rapid Financing account of the new Government’s of the approved funds under this When asked how urgently Sri to The Sunday Morning Business Instrument (RFI) from the policies and efforts to address the facility was $ 31 billion by end- Lanka requires RFI support and that this request was being Fund, according to an IMF daunting economic challenges September. if Sri Lanka could afford to be reviewed. Nozaki added that official. posed by Covid-19,” Nozaki When contacted, Secretary excluded from this financing, he the RFI, if approved, could added. to the Treasury and Ministry of said that it was not desperately potentially replace the $ 1.5 “We are continuing to engage Following the global outbreak Finance S.R. Attygalle confirmed needed by the country. billion existing Extended Fund with Sri Lankan authorities and of the pandemic, IMF received to The Sunday Morning Business “We have not pressed for that. Facility (EFF) arrangement of Sri are considering the full set of about 102 requests from countries that discussions are ongoing. That is just for reserve support. Lanka with the IMF, from which options for engagement,” IMF seeking RFI support. As of mid- “We have held discussions When we have $ 7.4 billion Sri Lanka has so far received $ Mission Chief of Sri Lanka September, about 76 out of these and we will be having further in foreign reserves, it is not a 1.3 billion. Masahiro Nozaki told The Sunday 102 requests had been approved, discussions. But they (IMF) have dangerous situation. Reserves In May, IMF Communications Morning Business in response to according to the IMF. This to assess and decide. I do not are there to use when there is a Department Director Gerry Rice, a query made by us. means that Sri Lanka is among know what their procedure is. problem. We do not see any issue during a virtual meeting, stated Nozaki noted that the IMF approximately 20 or 30 countries Normally, they will wait till the as such,” he said. that the IMF will be working is also factoring in the new that have not been granted RFI include a number of Asia-Pacific On 29 May, Bangladesh was budget is presented to decide. Sri Lanka submitted the in close co-ordination with the Government’s policies to arrive support. countries such as Bangladesh, approved $ 488 million under They have to have something request to the IMF for emergency Government to assess all relevant at its decision. The 76 approved countries Mongolia, Myanmar, and Nepal. RFI while on 26 June, Myanmar concrete such as policy documents financial support under the RFI factors related to that request. SL considering ‘Corona Economy on recovery path zThird quarter data encouraging corresponding period last year. Foreign remittances BY MADHUSHA month of last year, according to $ 277 million, according recorded an impressive Corridor’ with India THAVAPALAKUMAR to EDB. to Customs statistics. growth of $ 702.1 million in zNew Zealand and Australia say ‘no, thanks’ The third quarter (Q3) of Despite the decline in The Covid-19 outbreak July 2020, a growth of 24.9% 2020, which is also the first exports, some products like in Sri Lanka came on 11 compared to the same period BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR quarter of the year in which coconut-based products, March, and the March last year. Worker remittances Sri Lanka did not endure a electrical and electronic merchandise export earnings dropped to $ 375 million in In a bid to gradually revive the shut- Covid-19-induced curfew components, spices and figures reflected this sudden April after most of the globe down tourism industry, Sri Lanka or lockdown, came to an essential oils, and food disruption with only $ 646 entered lockdown. Tourism is in discussion with the Indian end last Wednesday (30), and beverages recorded a million being earned for the High Commission in Sri Lanka to with several key economic positive growth of 22.88%, month. This was a nearly Signs of recovery create a “Corona Corridor” with India, indicators of the country 8.32%, 19.4%, and 11.45%, 42% drop from the $ 1,112 Sri Lankan rupee one of the top three tourism-generating showing signs of recovery. respectively, during the recorded in March 2019. The Sri Lankan rupee stood markets of the country. Amongst these indicators, month of August 2020 Worker remittances between Rs. 181 and Rs. 184 A Corona Corridor or a “Travel some have managed to compared to August 2019. Worker remittances is the against the US dollar since Bubble” is an exclusive partnership bounce back to their pre- Meanwhile in July, Sri primary foreign exchange late last year to 12 March between countries that have pandemic levels, while a few Lanka’s export earnings earner of Sri Lanka, this year, until the first Sri demonstrated considerable success have shown gradual signs increased to $ 1,060 million which took a dramatic Lankan with Covid-19 was in containing the pandemic within their of recovery. However, the from $ 1,020 million a month drop following the global identified on 11 March. Since respective borders. A Corona Corridor tourism industry is yet to ago. July export earnings pandemic as most of the 13 March, the rupee saw a allows nationals of each country to begin recovery due to the were in fact higher than the migrant workers lost their gradual depreciation until travel within the corridor zone. closure of the airport and the $ 999 million achieved in the jobs or were staying at home 9 April when it reached the Sri Lanka Tourism Development global restrictions on travel. same month last year. due to lockdown in their Rs. 200 mark. Authority (SLTDA) Director General During a virtual bilateral meeting between Sri Lankan Premier Mahinda Rajapaksa According to EDB respective countries. From 10 April to 14 May, Dhammika Wijesinghe told The Sunday and Indian Premier Narendra Modi two weeks ago, Modi proposed launching a Largely recovered Chairperson Prabhash Nevertheless, worker the rupee hovered between bilateral air bubble between Sri Lanka and India. This photo was taken during a Morning Business last week that the State visit by Rajapaksa to India earlier. Exports Subasinghe, export earnings remittances saw a growth in Rs. 191 and Rs. 199 against SLTDA had several discussions with The Export Development went through a “V-shaped August as it recorded $ 664.5 the dollar. It should be the Ambassador of India to Sri Lanka, between the Prime Ministers of due to the pandemic as of last week. Board (EDB) and the Central recovery” following the local million, recording nearly a noted that the country was but the final decision depends on the India and Sri Lanka two weeks ago, In addition, the SLTDA has also held Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) outbreak of Covid-19. The 30% growth compared to reopened on 11 May after stance of the local health authorities. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussions with Australia and New are yet to release September export recovery momentum the same month last year. seven weeks of islandwide “There are high-end tourists in India proposed launching a bilateral air Zealand, which are amongst the top export statistics. However, was carried into June from In August 2019, Sri Lanka lockdown. Since then, the who are actually isolated from the rest bubble between Sri Lanka and India. 10 ranked countries in the latest World Sri Lanka’s exports during May, a month in which recorded only $ 518.2 million. rupee has shown signs of of the population. We are considering It is notable that these discussions Survey on Pandemic Control conducted the month of August 2020 Sri Lanka earned $ 602 In the first eight months of recovery, as during Q3, the reopening to them, but everything is are ongoing while India stands as the by the YICAI Research Institute in recorded a dip of 19.2% to million, which was a huge this year, Sri Lanka managed rupee managed to stay within still under discussion,” Wijesinghe second worst-affected country from the China on 108 countries. Sri Lanka is $ 947.7 million, compared to improvement compared to to record $ 4.35 billion the range of Rs. 184-187 added. ongoing pandemic, with over six million ranked the second in this index. the value of $ 1,033.3 million the previous month of April worker remittances compared against the dollar. During a virtual bilateral meeting Covid-19 cases and over 98,000 deaths Contd. on page 2 recorded during the same in which earnings plummeted to $ 4.41 billion during the Contd. on page 2 Tea on track to reach No alcohol advertising even for CSR BY THE SUNDAY MORNING as it would be in “complete original export target BUSINESS DESK violation” of the provisions of the NATA Act. BY UWIN LUGODA tea from Iran and Iraq. Russia, Ukraine, and other key The National Authority “With regard to “While the current revenue markets. This new campaign on Tobacco and Alcohol liquor manufacturers on Tea exports are set to target is reachable, we have a has now been slightly tweaked (NATA) has ruled out the implementing CSR and reach their revenue target few concerns with regard to the post Covid, based on the current possibility of allowing EPR projects, the NATA for the year 2020, despite gradual decline in tea production demand for digitalisation. alcohol manufacturers Act clearly states that no the interruptions from the each year,” said Molligoda. The campaign is mainly focused to conduct awareness person shall use a brand Covid-19 pandemic and For the last five to six years, on three unique selling points campaigns even for corporate name or trademark of, or the gradually decreasing there has been a decline in the total inherited by Ceylon tea. According social responsibility any symbol associated production of tea in Sri Lanka, to Molligoda, the main selling (CSR) projects, citing the with, an alcohol product trend in tea production. with tea production in 2015 being point for local tea is its authenticity, regulations against alcohol whether directly or Speaking to The Sunday 326 million kg while in 2020 it as international consumers advertising. NATA Chairman indirectly in connection Morning Business, Sri Lanka is estimated to be around 290 demand genuine products in NATA Chairman Dr. Dr. Samadhi Rajapaksa with the promotion of any Tea Board Chairman Jayampathy million kg. Molligoda explained the current environment. The Samadhi Rajapaksa told The Bodaragama, seeking the educational, cultural, social, Molligoda stated that the Board is that this was mostly due to adverse second and third selling points Sunday Morning Business NATA’s opinion on the or sporting organisation, confident that they would reach weather conditions and the lack of of Ceylon tea are the health and that allowing liquor possibility of allowing liquor activity, or event. And their annual target of $ 1.24 billion tea nursery development, making wellness aspects attached to it. manufacturers to undertake manufacturers to engage in no person can conduct and has not made any serious it one of the Tea Board’s primary He stated that consumers are now CSR and extended CSR and EPR projects to a social activity which Tea Board Chairman revisions to their original target Jayampathy Molligoda concerns. demanding more nutritious foods producer responsibility eliminate environmental includes or acknowledges for 2020. “If we do not have the correct and beverages, and will not mind (EPR) projects would pollution caused by the any financial or other As of August 2020, the Tea tea in August 2020, which made amount of quantity and production, paying a premium price to do so. indirectly pave the way for disposal of 180 ml empty assistance that has been Board recorded revenue of $ up 12% of merchandise exports, our exporters may not be able to Furthermore, he stated that their manufacturers to market liquor bottles. given by, or on behalf of, 805.57 million in tea exports, an declined by 13.27% YoY (Year- market our tea globally.” global promotional campaign is and promote their products. According to Rajapaksa, the manufacturer, importer, export revenue of just over $ 100 on-Year) to $ 102.97 million, and Despite this, he stated that the currently using social media as The decision comes in response to the letter, he or distributor of such million a month, which makes the the export volume also declined by Tea Board has already launched well as the Sri Lankan embassies following a letter sent had informed the Department alcohol product towards realisation of $ 400 million in the 16.01% in August 2020 compared their global tea production and and foreign missions to penetrate to the NATA Chairman of Excise that the NATA is such organisation, activity, last four months of 2020 likely. to August 2019. The decline was marketing campaign, which is set the international market more on 30 August by Excise unable to give permission or event,” Rajapaksa noted. However, export earnings from mainly due to lower demand for to cover 12 countries including effectively. Commissioner General A. to implement such projects Contd. on page 2 2 the sunday morning business NEWS Sunday, October 4, 2020 Abans to divest Abans Finance Moody’s downgrades stake to Softlogic Capital Abans PLC, the of 47% to the recently principal lines of business controlling shareholder traded price of Rs. 20.50 include finance leasing, of Abans Finance PLC, as of 28 September 2020, mortgage loans, personal BOC, HNB, and Sampath will be selling its stake in or accept 11 shares in loans, and acceptance the finance company to Softlogic Finance PLC for of time and savings Moody’s Investors Service yesterday which is itself correlated to sovereign lead to any rating uplift because the banks’ Softlogic Capital PLC, every six shares held at deposits. The company (29) downgraded the long-term creditworthiness.” BCAs are already at the same level as the the holding company of Abans Finance PLC on the currently operates across foreign currency deposit ratings Moody’s has also lowered Sri Lanka’s sovereign rating. Softlogic Finance PLC, subsequent amalgamation. the island through a of Bank of Ceylon (BOC), Hatton macro profile – a key input to the banks’ Moody’s will subsequently withdraw with a capital gain. The This transaction is subject network of branches and National Bank PLC (HNB), and BCAs – to Week-from-Week, to reflect the the ratings of BOC. Moody’s said it has Boards of both Abans PLC to obtaining all necessary customer service centres. Sampath Bank PLC (Sampath) to deterioration in the operating environment. decided to withdraw the ratings of BOC for and Softlogic Capital PLC shareholder approvals Softlogic Finance PLC Caa1 from B3, and the banks’ long- In particular, the coronavirus outbreak its own business reasons. approved the proposed and regulatory approvals was established as a term local currency deposit ratings has weighed on Sri Lanka’s already Upgrade or further downgrade transaction on Tuesday (29). from the Central Bank of registered finance leasing to Caa1 from B2. The rating outlooks, weak economy and has weakened the Shareholders of Abans Sri Lanka, the Colombo company in 1999. The where applicable, are Stable. Government’s fiscal position. An upgrade of the BCAs and long-term Finance PLC will have Stock Exchange, and the company operates through Moody’s expects the banks’ asset deposit ratings of HNB and Sampath is the option to accept cash Securities and Exchange a branch network of The rating actions conclude the review quality to worsen significantly as a result unlikely, given that they are already at the at a price of Rs. 30.1 Commission of Sri Lanka. 36 locations and offers for downgrade that was initiated on of coronavirus disruptions, although the same level as Sri Lanka’s sovereign rating through the mandatory Abans Finance PLC leasing, mortgage loans, 20 April 2020, and follow Moody’s increase in problem loans will not be and the outlook on the sovereign rating is offer for every share held was established as a personal loans, gold loans, downgrade on 28 September 2020 of Sri evident until 2021 because of regulatory Stable. in Abans Finance PLC, registered finance leasing and acceptance of time and Lanka’s sovereign rating to Caa1 from B2, forbearance measures, including a A downgrade of Sri Lanka’s sovereign which reflects a premium company in 2006. The savings deposits. with a Stable outlook. moratorium on loan repayments. rating could lead to a downgrade of the Moody’s has also downgraded the “The banks’ profitability will also BCAs and long-term deposit ratings of Baseline Credit Assessment (BCA) of BOC deteriorate largely because of higher credit HNB and Sampath. Moody’s could also to Caa1 from B3, and those of HNB and costs and a compression in net interest downgrade the banks’ BCAs if there is a Cinnamon Training Sampath to Caa1 from B2. The downgrade margins, following successive policy rate material deterioration in asset quality. A of the BCAs of BOC, HNB, and Sampath cuts by the Central Bank. The banks’ capital significant decline in capitalisation could is driven by the downgrade of Sri Lanka’s and funding will, however, remain as key also pressure the banks’ BCAs. sovereign rating, Moody’s said. strengths.” BOC, headquartered in Colombo, Academy to boost supply “The three banks have significant Moody’s incorporates a high or very high reported total assets of Rs. 2,722 billion at credit exposure to the sovereign through level of government support in the long- 30 June 2020. HNB PLC, headquartered in their holdings of government securities term deposit ratings of the three banks. Colombo, reported total assets of Rs. 1,244 of qualified technicians and lending to the domestic economy, However, it explained that this does not billion at 30 June 2020. The Cinnamon Training Academy on 4 March 2020 and concluded with (CTA), in partnership with the the certificate-awarding ceremony on University of Vocational Technology 22 september 2020. Twenty individuals BOI promotes EPZs to Japanese investors (UNIVOTEC), recently completed a from various parts of the island received 10-day “training of trainers” (ToT) the qualification to deliver trainings United Nations Industrial Mohottala stated. compared to other countries in programme for the cinnamon industry. up to Level 4 within the National Development Organisation Introducing the Katunayake, the region. The ToT series, which was Vocational Qualification (NVQ) (UNIDO) ITPO Tokyo hosted Mirigama, and Hambantota Shigeki Nakagawa, Chairman inaugurated by UNIVOTEC Dean of the framework, which is an internationally a webinar on “Investment export processing zones of Nakagawa Corporation, Faculty of Education Sudath Liyanage recognised vocational certification Opportunities in Export (EPZs) as potential locations the parent company of and CTA Chairperson Sarada de Silva, framework. NVQ-certified technicians Processing Zones in Sri Lanka” for Japanese investments, Tropical Findings located in aims to increase the supply of qualified would be regarded as competent with the Board of Investment BOI Executive Director of the Katunayake EPZ, shared cinnamon technicians in the country, individuals to fulfil requirements of the of Sri Lanka (BOI) and the Investment Promotion Prasanjith the company’s 40 years’ thereby contributing towards increasing labour market for cinnamon harvesting Embassy of Sri Lanka in Japan Wijayatilake elaborated on experience of producing the quality and quantity of Sri Lanka- and processing. recently, supported by Japan BOI Director General Sanjaya investment opportunities in jewellery components in Sri originated Ceylon cinnamon that meets With export sales of $ 176 million Mohottala External Trade Organisation manufacturing auto components, Lanka. Highlighting Sri Lanka’s the quality requirements demanded by last year, cinnamon is Sri Lanka’s (JETRO). macroeconomic priorities of the pharmaceutical products, investment advantages, he the export market. highest grossing spice and one of the UNIDO ITPO Tokyo Head newly appointed Government, medical devices, and electric provided special insights into the De Silva thanked the European Union leading foreign exchange earners. Yuko Yasunaga commenced the BOI Director General Sanjaya and electronic components, country’s high level of education, (EU) and the United Nations Industrial Sri Lanka’s cinnamon output also programme, creating a positive Mohottala introduced the new as well as in the logistics quality workforce, good security, Development Organisation (UNIDO) reflects the largest share in the world sentiment towards the investment targeted strategic sectors for sector. His presentation also pleasant living environment, and for their financial and programmatic market. Ceylon cinnamon in particular environment in Sri Lanka. foreign investments. detailed the fiscal incentive supportive free trade agreements support, respectively, to capacitate the possesses distinctive taste and aroma, Highlighting Sri Lanka’s “Effective management of packages offered by BOI. Next, (FTAs). CTA in becoming a full-fledged training setting it apart from other products strategic location, Embassy the Covid-19 pandemic has not Motoji Suzuki, Managing The webinar concluded with facility for the cinnamon industry. in its category like cassia which has of Sri Lanka in Japan only seen low numbers in terms Director of Kohoku Lanka, an emphasis on the years of “International market demand for a far higher content of courmarin, a Charge d’Affaires Chandana of fatalities and spread, but has a company manufacturing mutual trade and investment Ceylon cinnamon continues to outpace compound that is shown to be toxic Weerasena’s introductory also resulted in national exports optical communication between Japan and Sri Lanka available supply. Thus, a felt need of the to the liver and kidneys and is also speech detailed a number of breaching the $ 1 billion mark components, presented a dating back to 1971, highlighting spice industry, particularly plantation carcinogenic. points encouraging the Japanese last month. Thus, I think you testimonial on his company’s Japanese contributions to owners and suppliers of raw cinnamon, The training programme harmonises business community to consider will agree with me in this regard operation during Covid-19. He multiple sectors, which is a is to qualify labourers as cinnamon cinnamon harvesting and processing Sri Lanka as an investment that the economic outlook for specifically commended Sri solid foundation to attract more harvesting and processing technicians,” practices under a common framework, destination. Sri Lanka is quite positive, given Lanka’s successful operation foreign direct investments (FDIs) the CTA said. particularly the rules of production, Presenting the key the circumstances of 2020,” in controlling the pandemic from Japan. The training programme commenced control procedures, and cueing quality. Contd. from page 1

generating markets of Sri Lanka. September alone it recorded a net foreign sold by foreigners hiked to Rs. 3.9 billion This year, January arrivals were recorded SL considering... Tourism arrivals had been gradually outflow of Rs. 8.08 billion compared to that same week. at 228,434, a Year-on-Year (YoY) drop However, Wijesinghe stated that recovering after the Easter attacks and the Rs. 8.06 billon a month ago. Net foreign The following week, the first week of of 6.5%, while February arrivals were discussions with New Zealand and Australia reported arrivals into the country stood at outflows in the month of September and June, foreign purchases recovered to Rs. 1.2 recorded at 207,507, a YoY drop of 17.7%. were not successful as the two countries 1.9 million in 2019, compared to 2.3 million August were significant as net foreign billion, while stocks sold by foreigners were March arrivals dropped to 71,370 compared are “not into travel because they consider in 2018. This year, January arrivals were outflows reported in July were Rs. 3.35 valued at Rs. 1.5 billion. At the end of the to the 244,328 arrivals during the same themselves safer”. 228,434, a year-on-year drop of 6.5%, while billion. second and third weeks of June, foreigners period last year. Nevertheless, New Zealand and Australia February arrivals were 207,507, a year-on- During the first quarter of this year, bought stocks worth Rs. 1.1 billion and Rs. are planning to create a Corona Corridor year drop of 17.7%. March arrivals dropped foreign companies’ inflow into the CSE was 704.6 billion, respectively, while shares sold in time for Christmas. Moreover, Australia to 71,370, compared to the 244,328 arrivals Rs. 30 billion while its outflow was Rs. 35 by them amounted to Rs. 4 billion and Rs. No alcohol... is also planning to create corridors with during the same period last year. billion. Meanwhile, inflow from foreign 3.3 billion, respectively. In response to an article published by us Japan, South Korea, and the Pacific Islands, individuals during this period was Rs. 416 However, despite the foreign outflows, on 13 September, under the title “Alcohol including Fiji, which were ranked below Sri million and outflow was Rs. 179 million. CSE has recorded consistent gains of 31% in advertising ban to be relaxed?”, he denied Lanka in the YICAI’s research. Economy... Overall, the first quarter reported net foreign the All Share Price Index (ASPI) and of 27% receiving a collective request from alcohol On a further note, Wijesinghe stated that Treasury bills and bonds held by outflow of Rs. 5.42 billion. in the S&P SL20 Index since reopening on manufacturers to relax the provision of the discussions are underway to create Corona foreigners However, the CSE was closed for 11 May 2020. The Securities and Exchange NATA Act and added that the only letter Corridors with Thailand, another country Treasury bills and bonds held by trading in the last two weeks of March, Commission (SEC) last week claimed that the NATA received on this matter was amongst the top 10 list of YICAI, and with foreigners recorded a satisfactory after the S&P SL20 Index, which includes Sri Lanka is one of the markets that recovered the aforementioned letter from the Excise Poland, which has so far managed the Month-over-Month (MoM) growth in the 20 largest companies by total market the fastest from the impact of the coronavirus Commissioner General. pandemic impressively. September, as it grew to $ 13.4 billion in capitalisation listed on the CSE, dropped pandemic, in comparison to countries in the On 27 August, Minister of Environment Even though, the Corona Corridor, by end-September from $ 12.24 billion on 28 by 5% several times, triggering 30-minute Asia Pacific region, recording positive price Mahinda Amaraweera vowed to ban 180 definition, means travellers who travel August. halts in regular trading during the week that returns in US dollar terms. ml liquor bottles, considering the damage within this respective border do not have to Treasury bills and bonds held by began on 16 March. “This reflects the strong confidence the caused by the improper disposal of these go through on-arrival quarantine, Sri Lanka foreigners witnessed $ 83 billion net The following week it remained closed investors have placed in the market and bottles as they are sold in large numbers. is yet to take a decision as to whether usual outflow even before the end of the first half for four days with the Government declaring the future economic growth of the country. Since liquor manufacturers expressed their quarantine procedures would be applied to of this year, according to CBSL’s indicators. holidays. It was opened on 20 March, only Significant contributions to turnover have concerns about the proposed ban, authorities these travellers. Treasury bills depleted at a rate higher than to close shortly after opening. Since then, been recorded in the Colombo, Gampaha, requested the manufacturers to come up with Meanwhile, speaking to The Sunday that of the time of the October constitutional the CSE remained closed until 11 May, Kandy, Kurunegala, Galle, Kalutara, and alternative proposals. One of the proposals Morning Business, a spokesperson from crisis in 2018. Foreigners pulled out a effectively not recording any flows into or Matara Districts,” it said. manufacturers suggested to the Department the Ministry of Tourism stated that the whopping Rs. 28.12 billion worth of out of the CSE. Local investors have contributed to of Excise was to permit them to display Ministry is planning to permit groups of investments in Treasury bills and bonds Before opening for trading on 11 May, the approximately 68% of the total market posters/banners raising awareness amongst travellers from selected countries, if local in the first three weeks of March alone, CSE installed a new system under which the turnover. their consumers on how to recycle quarter travel agencies come forward to take the which amounted to over 67% of the total market would automatically close for the Furthermore, The CSE has seen an arrack bottles after consumption. responsibility of getting them down. The net foreign outflow reported from 1 January day if the S&P SL20 Index dropped by 10% over 63% increase in Central Depository This request was also necessitated by permit will be given following a discussion to 20 March this year, which was Rs. 41.55 or more. The week from 11 to 15 May saw a System (CDS) account openings since the the option given to the industry by the with the health authorities. billion. During the curfew period from 20 number of trading halts, and Rs. 1.5 billion digitalisation of the end-to-end operations authorities to charge Rs. 50 as a refundable Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, one amongst March to 11 May, Rs. 39.9 billion in net in foreign inflow was reported during the of the market on 17 September 2020, deposit for every quarter bottle purchased. the top three foreign exchange-earning foreign outflow was reported from Treasury week while Rs. 5 billion in outflow was according to the SEC, which is another This Rs. 50 would be returned to the sources of the country, came to a complete bills and bonds held by foreigners. reported in the same period. Overall, Rs. 3.5 strong sign of local investor confidence in consumer when the empty bottle is returned standstill following the local spread of Nevertheless, this trend eased as since billion in net foreign outflow was reported the market. to the seller. Covid-19 and a resultant closure of the the reopening of Colombo on 11 May up to during this particular week. Nevertheless, sources informed us that Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) for the third week of June, net foreign outflows Meanwhile, at the end of the second week Long road to recovery alcohol manufacturers were not in favour tourists in mid-March. The Government is from Treasury bills and bonds were just Rs. after reopening, foreigners bought stocks Tourism arrivals and earnings of this option, as quarter bottles are bought yet to take a decision on the reopening of the 1.6 billion. As at the end of the third week worth Rs. 1.6 billion, an improvement Tourism came to a complete standstill almost entirely by daily drinkers and an airport for tourists. in June, Treasury bills and bonds held by compared to the first week, while they sold following the closure of the Bandaranaike increase of Rs. 50 would put the quarter Even before the closure of the airport, foreigners amounted to Rs. 21.6 billion. stocks worth Rs. 1.5 billion compared to Rs. International Airport (BIA) on 18 March. bottle beyond consumers’ reach. Sri Lanka was struggling to attract tourists, During the period from 3 July to 29 July, 5 billion the previous week. It still remains at zero level up to date as It is learnt that due to these additional mainly due to stringent travel restrictions Treasury bills and bonds reported a net During the third week, after the reopening authorities are yet to take a decision on measures, alcohol manufacturers might incur imposed in China in the early weeks of foreign outflow of Rs. 3.65 billion. of the CSE, foreign purchases witnessed a reopening the airport. about Rs. 15 million as additional costs. The this year to mitigate the spread of the virus. The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) drop compared to the week prior, as it was Tourism arrivals stood at 1.9 million in leading alcohol manufacturer alone sold China is one amongst the top five tourism- continues to suffer foreign outflows as in reported at Rs. 593.1 million, while shares 2019, compared to 2.3 million in 2018. 55-65 million quarter bottles last year. the sunday morning business 3 Sunday, October 4, 2020 INSIGHT

By Dhananath Fernando

Parenting a child is a difficult task. It is no How bad parenting doubt that educating and teaching a child takes a significant amount of time and effort for all parents. The bigger the pile of homework, the more it becomes an affair of the leads to bad credit household, requiring the highlighted as positives. The The under an IMF facility. We have difference between government attention and time from Government has further provided approached the IMF 16 times for revenue and government’s non- either parents or caregivers. a commitment to reduce the debt- bailout programmes. This isn’t a interest expenditure.) Some parents take an easy to-GDP ratio, serve all external Coordin tion Problem point of pride, but indicates how Both measures are painful, but route; instead of encouraging creditors without delays, and by irresponsibly our economy has the Government has the political their child to get the work done, uphold a clean record of debt been managed over the years. capital and political strength they do it themselves and bestow servicing. An IMF restructuring to pass through key essential the child with all the credit. This However, Moody’s evaluation, have resorted to borrowing in Government enjoys the benefit programme will not uplift Sri reforms. Unfortunately, although may be owed to the fact that which was in the works since international sovereign bonds of two main strengths, a key Lanka’s credibility to the point we measure ourselves with what the assigned task is above and April, highlighted concerns at high interest rates of about strength being the successful where a credit rating downgrade we intend to do, the markets and beyond the grasp of a child, or over servicing debt of about 6.6%, with an average repayment management of the Covid-19 can be reversed. However, it outsiders assess us with what we simply because parents can’t $ 4 billion (between 2021 and period of nine years. It is no pandemic, which has also been provides additional confidence have done and continue to do. afford to allocate the time and 2025) with a reserve level of doubt that our economic woes are praised by the World Health for creditors and investors who Similar to parenting a child and effort required to assist their $ 7.4 billion, along with low deep-rooted in these poor policy Organisation (WHO). At the are looking to invest in high-risk encouraging the child to complete child. Undoubtedly, both reasons growth predictions. Moody’s solutions. international stage, this can markets even at a premium rate. their assigned homework, the are not in the best interest of the estimation of raising the debt- It is vital that we acknowledge be our ticket for a possible Sri Lanka has spent 42% of path to hard reforms is difficult child and will certainly hamper to-GDP ratio of 100% exceeding the damage caused by these debt restructuring, giving the the last 70 years under an IMF and time-consuming. But we his or her learning curve and the median of 86% in the Caa1 measures and formulate a strategy Government leverage to convince facility. We have approached all need to support and help growth. category has been highlighted to overcome it. the International Monetary the IMF 16 times for bailout the Government to carry out Given the above phenomenon, as a fundamental reason for the The diagnosis is clear – our Fund (IMF) of a credible debt programmes. This isn’t a these hard reforms, as it is I can’t help but notice similarities downgrade. interest payments take 47% of restructuring plan. point of pride, but indicates ultimately being carried out for between common parenting Moody’s estimation of raising our revenue and 30% of our As per the below graphs, how irresponsibly our the betterment of our beloved mistakes and the Sri Lankan the debt-to-GDP ratio of expenditure. a greater portion of our economy has been managed motherland and ourselves. economy. Our economy has 100% exceeding the median The first step to manage this foreign debt is in international over the years (The writer is the Chief adopted a habit of conveniently of 86% in the Caa1 category downgrade is to build credibility sovereign bonds (ISBs). The Operating Officer of Advocata ignoring hard reforms for political has been highlighted as a in financial markets. This is both IMF programme, of course, will The second strength is the Institute. He can be contacted at motives and instant gratification. fundamental reason for the painful and time-consuming. come with conditions which are Government’s opportunity to [email protected]. Learn This has resulted in long-term downgrade However, this is not an excuse to painful, but it will also bring present a convincing budget with more about Advocata’s work at damage to the country’s economy. postpone much-needed reforms. credibility to Sri Lanka within serious reforms in November. www.advocata.org. The opinions Moody’s Analytics downgraded Moody’s downgrade forecasts Doing too little too late would international financial markets. The budget needs to have a expressed are the author’s own Sri Lanka’s credit rating from B2 the possibility of Sri Lanka’s lead to severe consequences, This will require a commitment comprehensive strategy on views. They may not necessarily to Caa1 last week with a “Stable” credit rating being further further hampering our debt from the Government to maintain improving government revenue reflect the views of the Advocata outlook. While the Government downgraded by other rating sustainability. fiscal discipline. Sri Lanka has and achieving a positive primary Institute or anyone affiliated has made a statement expressing agencies such as Fitch and S&P To build credibility, the spent 42% of the last 70 years balance. (Primary balance is the with the institute) their disagreement with Moody’s in the coming months. This credit rating downgrade. It is will thrust Sri Lanka into the important to understand Moody’s “Speculative Grade: Very High rationale in depth. Long-term Risks” category, raising serious measures to correct these concerns over the possibility of problems are vital, and hard acquiring money in international reforms may be the only way out. capital markets. The risk attached The effective containment to this doubles as the coming of Covid-19 and the recent years are burdened with heavy performance of the stock debt repayments. market has been reiterated by the Government as part of their How can this be success story. Additionally, managed? the rebound of exports and Prevalent data highlights foreign worker remittances are that consecutive governments

John Keells unveils new golf resorts z ‘Sunrise Ridge’ and ‘Peacock Valley’ around Victoria Golf Course

BY UWIN LUGODA approximately 2,000 sq. ft. in in accordance with international size, consisting of two bedrooms United States Golf Association Sri Lankan real estate giant John complete with a kitchenette, (USGA) standards. The real advantage of owning Keells Properties expanded their living room, and private deck. The resort first partnered this property is that you have already diverse portfolio yesterday The property consists of 16 with Troon in 2019 to ensure a hassle-free investment, (3), with the announcement of two townhouses, with each being consistent quality to all their because you do not have to new sets of luxury properties based around 10 perches. guests. The industry-leading golf deal with its construction or in and around the Victoria Golf and Sunrise Ridge also guarantees management company operates maintenance; it is all done Country Resort in Digana. buyers a hassle-free experience, at over 450 locations around the by us Spanning an area of around 517 providing their townhouses to be world, which include the likes John Keells Holdings PLC acres, the main property is set to professionally managed by the of The Grove in London and the Assistant Vice President and accommodate the luxury resort, the Victoria Golf and Country Resort. Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Head of Sales – Property Group real estate property, and an 18-hole Shums explained that this property According to Shums, the 120- Nadeem Shums golf course. Named “Sunrise also acts as a good investment for acre golf course is ideal for both Ridge” and “Peacock Valley”, the buyers, as the company will use amateurs and professional golfers, two properties are set to be some the townhouses as a part of the with an academy dedicated to train which is recognised and respected of the most unique real estate resort and the owners will get a golf enthusiasts. It is a 73-par, globally by the golfing community. properties available in Sri Lanka, share of that revenue, and also get 6,933-yard championship course Moreover, Destination Golf according to John Keells Holdings up to 90 days of free stay at the with undulating grounds for a more is an approved member of the PLC Assistant Vice President and property each year. challenging game, and has been laid International Association of Golf Head of Sales – Property Group “The real advantage of owning with Zorro Zoysia grass brought Tour Operators (IAGTO). Nadeem Shums. this property is that you have a down from Georgia, USA with a Shums stated that the owners Speaking to The Sunday hassle-free investment, because state-of-the-art irrigation system. of the two properties will also get Morning Business, he stated that you do not have to deal with its The course has also been the the added benefit of being a part The two new properties of John Keells It is a 73-par, 6,933-yard construction or maintenance; it is recipient of several awards in of the Troon family, garnering championship course with the two residential properties will surrounded by the golf course, all done by us.” the last two years, once being them special benefits from other undulating grounds for a be located in separate parts of the each ranging between 47 and These property owners will ranked by Golf Digest as one of Troon-operated golf courses. Other more challenging game, main property, with Peacock Valley 139 perches. Shums stated that also automatically have access to the “100 Most Beautiful Golf activities in the Victoria Golf and and has been laid with Zorro being at the heart of the golf course these lands are going to be the the Victoria Golf Course, which Courses in the World” and the Country Resort comprise cultural Zoysia grass brought down and Sunrise Ridge being dotted most exclusive plots in the entire is currently being managed by “Most Memorable Golf Course in tours and sports, including facilities from Georgia, USA with a alongside the course. property. one of the world’s biggest golf Asia 2019” by Destination Golf. for swimming, tennis, paintball, state-of-the-art irrigation Peacock Valley is designed to As for Sunrise Ridge, he stated operators, Troon International. The The latter is one of the leading archery, horse riding, hiking, system be a set of premium land plots that these are luxury townhouses, 18-hole golf course is designed golf travel publishing companies, cycling, and table tennis. 4 the sunday morning business VIEWS Sunday, October 4, 2020 Something all can agree on The new Government, in its from not being overwrought by the true impact of an outbreak on a cluster, especially when people led by local buying, in what is first few weeks, has made the fear of living with a pandemic our health and the pressure on our drop their guard and don’t take indicative of improved sentiment plenty of missteps and raging around us. Even most critics medical systems, so taking things precautions. The truth is that even among both retail and institutional plain bad decisions that would agree that for this singular for granted comes naturally. The with the proactive stance taken by the investors. And there is effort have garnered both public feat, if nothing else, the President recommended restrictions including Government in Sri Lanka, the worst being made to correct underlying ridicule and anger. We spent and his Government, along with face coverings and distancing may be yet to come. The priority issues – whether policy-wise – in the health authorities and the public are frustrating, given we’ve been now is to move forth with the right our markets and institutions in the last week taking jabs administration, deserve plaudits. practising them for half the year. But precautions so that our devastated preparation for better times ahead. at the Government over a As the world mourns a million if ever there was a time to trust in economy is given its best chance to Corporate sentiment is turning circumference-based grading Covid deaths, Sri Lanka remains what our public officials advice, this recover. around and the isolation felt in the system for coconuts. well ensconced from the pandemic THE is it. There is plenty of bad news. There immediate aftermath of border raging elsewhere. This past week, HEADLIGHT Yet, there have been several is no denying that tourism will be closures is giving way to a spirit of Previously, there has been the total number of infected patients near-misses – the Matara case, for the worst-affected for the longest; making the most of the conditions outrage over what some allege to being treated in Sri Lanka remained more. The US has seen over 200,000 example, and the contact between key export markets such as the US here and now. be unrestrained deforestation. The under 150; all new positive patients deaths from seven million cases local port staff in Colombo and and the UK as well as the Middle Amidst all this good and bad contents of the 20th Amendment were border cases while over while the European Union’s Red an Indian oil tanker, where a crew East are among the worst affected, news, there is general appreciation and the speed with which it is being 7,000 are undergoing quarantine at List now includes Spain, France, member tested positive. While the so our key export industries will of the fact that the Covid impact passed through Parliament has also government-managed centres. Belgium, the Netherlands, and Government’s robust tracing, testing, continue to feel the pinch; the debt on Sri Lanka has been almost divided opinion, even within the Compare Sri Lanka’s case to Denmark. In the Middle East, cases and isolating has ensured we enjoy moratoriums will whittle away in entirely on the economy while the ranks of the Government. that of our neighbour India. India and deaths continue to mount while a sense of security and freedom that the coming months, when the real general public, especially the older However, in the greater context, surpassed six million total Covid Russia and Brazil join the US and many parts of the world do not, it is impact will be revealed. generations most vulnerable to the our ability to criticise, laugh at, and cases last week, a number that the Indian among the worst-affected dangerous to assume that the danger But there is also good news. The virus, has been kept safe from a dwell on the flaws and sins of our Indian Council of Medical Research nations. is over. Far from it. It only takes one, Colombo Stock Exchange enjoyed health standpoint through a well-co- politicians at this moment comes says could in reality be 10 times Sri Lanka was shielded from often silent, infection to easily create a strong performance last month ordinated effort. Are dedicated IT departments actually productive? BY IOM LANKA more motivated to be up to date with For all but a very few the latest technology, large companies, having an methodology, and skills in-house IT department is yy Agility: As technology similar to buying a railroad is one of the fastest when all you really need changing commodities, is the transport facility. keeping up to date Nowadays, it makes more requires frequent sense to outsource. un-learning and re- On the face of it, letting learning. This requires BY SHIHARA MADUWAGE somebody else process your investment in training valuable and confidential as an ongoing activity. A video showing a transgender business data may not Whilst this is often not individual being denied entry to a Why diversity sound terribly attractive to a priority with in-house popular bar in Colombo due to her you. For instance, what if IT due to day-to-day “appearance” took Sri Lankan social there’s a leak? However, “firefighting” activities, media by storm a couple of weeks the high staff turnover for professional ago. The bouncers in the video were and less formal controls, organisations, this is a unable to articulate what exactly training is paramount which are common in core requirement about this individual’s appearance was most in-company IT so offensive, but the implication was departments, make the yy Overstaffing: When you that it had to do with her transgender chances of an information employ your own staff, identity. Whether the bouncers were for companies leak far higher than that you have to ensure there acting on their own, or whether from a professionally are standby resources to they were instructed to do so by the z managed outsourcer or substitute staff during management, was not clear. Covid-hit businesses can no longer afford to discriminate service provider. long periods of leave to To their credit, the management August 2020 have declined by 60%, top international tourist-generating not outlawed. The fundamental Therefore, the question be granted (which can took quick action; within hours of the compared to the same period last year. markets, decrimanlised same-sex rights recognised by the Sri arises: As a CEO, should vary from 21 days to 42 video being released, they issued an This means that businesses can no relations in 2018. Many other tourist- Lankan Constitution include non- I outsource or build up days annually), public apology, fired the bouncer involved longer afford to discriminate against generating markets in Europe and discrimination under Article 12 (2), a dedicated IT team/ and mercantile holidays, in the incident, and committed to anyone, especially not the LGBTIQ America have even granted LGBTIQ which states that “no citizen shall be department? A review of etc. This not only drives sensitise the staff on issues faced by community in Sri Lanka, which persons the freedom to marry. Since discriminated against on the grounds the potential benefits and up your headcount in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, accounts for a significant portion of tourism is the third largest foreign of race, religion, language, caste, sex, pitfalls should shed some non-core areas, but it intersex, and queer/questioning the population and contributes to the exchange earner for Sri Lanka, political opinion, and place of birth, light on this dilemma. has also been found that (LGBTIQ) community in Sri Lanka. national economy. practising diversity and inclusion and or any one of such grounds”. leaders of most large Later, the management withdrew Apart from the fact that it is being sensitive towards the LGBTIQ At least on two occasions, the Sri The argument for in- firms sometimes feel the termination of the bouncer’s unethical to discriminate against community is of utmost importance Lankan Government had committed sourcin intimidated and are held employment and instead decided anyone due to their SOGIE, D&I if Sri Lanka is to reap the maximum before the United Nations (UN) that A primary perceived to ransom by colossal to include him in their mandatory training can offer several tangible benefits from the tourist industry. LGBTIQ persons are constitutionally advantage would be IT departments which sensitising discussion. benefits to companies. Broadly, Furthermore, abiding by protected, and non-discrimination direct “control” over your have been their very own While the establishment was D&I in the workplace means hiring international non-discriminatory on SOGIE is implicitly included “own” employees. Most creations, owing to the quick to react to the controversy, individuals regardless of their age, standards is important to becoming under this constitutional provision. organisations feel that specialist nature of IT its reputation has been damaged gender, sexuality, race, religion, competitive in international markets, In fact, with the intervention of the this allows policies and All of the above puts a somewhat, with the revelation that at physical abilities, mental health, not just for businesses in the tourism Human Rights Commission in 2016, procedures to be better massive financial burden least one staff member discriminated backgrounds, and experiences, so sector, but also in other sectors. the Registrar General’s Department managed. “Perceived” on the overheads of an against a patron based on their sexual long as they fit the company values and the Ministry of Health issued being the key factor. organisation and therefore orientation and gender identity/ and can carry out their roles. It also The bottom line is that, with two circulars, to provide Gender the bottom line. expression (SOGIE). means that these individuals are the changing global trends Recognition Certificates (GRC) to Potential Unfortunately, this is not an isolated compensated fairly. When it comes and technological and social transgender persons who wish to disadvantages or So, it there a incident. Many places in Sri Lanka to the service industry, it also means advances, it is becoming harder amend the gender assigned to them at pitfalls solution? – be it restaurants, cafes, or even treating customers equally and not and harder for companies birth in official documents. In a nutshell, the Yes. Talk to the five-star hotels – stigmatise, harass, discriminating against anyone based operating in Sri Lanka – whether What this legal landscape means drawbacks of in-sourcing professional service and discriminate against LGBTIQ on their demographic traits or SOGIE. they are local or foreign – to is that businesses have no excuse to IT support results in poor providers in the given persons in Sri Lanka. Denying entry According to the research of get away with stigmatising, discriminate against anyone based on performance in four key technology stack or area. into establishments, misgendering Michelle Fullerton (Bank of America harassing, abusing, and/ their SOGIE. areas: Objectivity, currency This way, you not only get or using incorrect pronouns, hurling Merrill Lynch, London, UK), being or discriminating against The bottom line is that, with of knowledge/skills, the very latest facilities, derogatory remarks, and other such LGBTIQ friendly helps businesses marginalised groups, including the changing global trends and technological agility, and but you will also retain the actions are all too common. retain staff. High staff turnover is the LGBTIQ community technological and social advances, overstaffing. Each of these agility to steer your business costly, especially during uncertain it is becoming harder and harder for is explained below. better by spending quality Why is diversity and inclusion economic times – like the one we are Navigating the legal space companies operating in Sri Lanka time on your core activities. (D&I) training so important? living in right now. Finding skilled Due to the colonial hang-ups in – whether they are local or foreign yy Objectivity: For You can also ensure In such a context, it is vital that Sri and talented labour is a common issue Sri Lanka’s legal system, same-sex – to get away with stigmatising, instance, your IT staff uninterrupted services by Lankan businesses, particularly those that many companies in Sri Lanka sexual relations among consenting harassing, abusing, and/or might dissuade you specifying your minimum in the service sector, train employers face, and practising diversity and adults is criminalised by Section 365 discriminating against marginalised from investing in more expected service levels and employees on D&I, including inclusion in the workplace can help and 365 A in the Penal Code, which groups, including the LGBTIQ efficient technology (SLAs) and also have the sensitising them to LGBTIQ issues. businesses avoid costs associated with state that carnal intercourse against community. The choice is simple: if they think it could flexibility of changing your It is more necessary now than ever high labour turnover. the order of nature and acts of gross Practice diversity and inclusion and jeopardise their jobs as service provider, thereby before because businesses, especially Moreover, being diverse and indecency are criminal offences get ahead of the pack or get left it may expose a lack of keeping such suppliers on those in the hospitality and leisure inclusive – particularly LGBTIQ punishable by law. behind with archaic practices that are knowledge or skills their toes. This is a win-win industries, have been hit hard by the friendly – can help businesses In addition, the Vagrancy Law no longer acceptable. yy Skills: One of the key situation for both parties Covid-19 pandemic. attract more customers, especially and Section 399 of the Penal Code (The writer is the Media differences in in-house when done right. For instance, data from the Sri in the tourism and hospitality sector. regarding cheating by impersonation and Communications Officer IT, as opposed to (iOM Lanka [Pvt.] Ltd. Lanka Tourism Development Consensual same-sex relationships are also used against the LGBTIQ at Equal Ground, the only professional IT support, [formerly EDS] is one Authority (SLTDA) show that no among adults are not a criminal community in Sri Lanka, particularly LGBTIQ organisation in Sri is the stipulation and of Sri Lanka’s first IT tourist arrivals have been recorded offence in most of the countries against transgender individuals. Lanka conducting diversity practise of standards. solution providers and has from April to August of this year, due around the world. In fact, as of 2017, That said, what is important to and inclusion training and As IT expertise is the been in operation since to the termination of all passenger only 72 countries – including Sri understand is that, while “acts of sensitising programmes. Further core competency of 1979. More information flight and ship arrivals into Sri Lanka Lanka – still criminalised same-sex gross indecency” and “unnatural information is available via media@ professional technology is available on www. from mid-March. As a result, the total sexual relations among consenting carnal intercourse” are criminalised, equalgroundsrilanka.com or +94114 providers, they are iomworld.com) arrivals recorded from January to adults. India, one of Sri Lanka’s technically, diverse SOGIEs are 334 279) the sunday morning business 5 Sunday, October 4, 2020 SOLUTION

electronic ticket system would make By COLOMBO’S MEGACITY PROBLEM it easier for local and international visitors to make tickets reservable and Dr. Nicholas Ruwan remove the risk of third parties selling Dias and Niresh tickets at higher prices Eliatamby yy No more queues required – commuters do not have to stand in a queue or line A ‘rail way’ out of to wait for their turn when they book There are 92 railway stations their train tickets online. From the throughout the Greater Colombo comfort of their homes and with ease region, with hundreds of miles of use, commuters’ tickets can easily of rail tracks. This system can be booked via multiple online portals. The tickets are sent to their email inbox easily be developed to cater to (with QR code) after they have paid for the transportation needs of most this traffic mess a reservation areas, of not just Colombo but the on the laptop or an SMS on their mobile entire Greater Colombo region. The phone instead of printing their ticket yy Cashless and secure payment – if commuters purchase their tickets result will be the swift reduction of Asian context road traffic, the elimination of our online through a secure payment portal on a website or mobile app, it doesn’t transport mess, and the creation Across Asia, nations focused on development have poured investment into have to be paid for in person, and the of a happier and more productive process is cashless. Credit cards can population. public transport by rail, from the bullet trains and high-speed trains of Japan and be used or funds can be transferred via wire or paid through payment gateways A global issue China to the super-efficient metro systems of Malaysia and Singapore. In India, city yy Easy access to the ticket – train City traffic jams are not a Sri Lankan railway systems have been a focal point of tickets do not have to be printed problem; it’s a global one. Villages grow investment. The Indian Railways policy because technology used shows when into towns. Towns grow into cities. Cities of dealing with ageing engines that are commuters have made a reservation on grow into megacities. Megacities become barely five or six years old, as far back their smartphone or on other handheld congested with roads lacking the capacity as the 1990s, was to introduce a highly devices to cater to the transportation needs of successful domestic programme to turn millions of workers and schoolchildren at diesel locomotives into electric ones. Figure yy Ability to use e-wallets specific rush hours. Almost every megacity 2 shows the small size of Sri Lanka’s then opts for a rapid rail transport system, railways. Railway app personalisation features either on ground, below ground, or above should be: ground. What’s true of London, Shanghai, Quick fixes yy Travel planning and Mumbai, is also true of Colombo. yy Upgrade website (www.railway.gov.lk) yy Ticketing Our Railways’ grand vision yy Mobile app for e-ticketing yy Payment It is worth noting here that the vision yy LED train arrival/departure indication of Sri Lanka Railways is: “To be the most boards: A computerised LED train yy Ticket validation (QR code) sought-after land transport provider in Sri display board with an ETA and a yy Food orders Lanka, providing unsurpassed value to our platform not intended to operate on stakeholders.” trains. Current information is provided yy Shopping Sri Lanka Railways carries just 6% of from the office of the station manager. yy Preference Sri Lanka’s passenger traffic and 0.7% of The LED screen provides full train data freight. It operates only 396 trains daily of the station, and is also integrated with yy Share information (source: Sri Lanka Railways website). coach signage boards and automated ads yy Multi-commuters yy Challenges Long term Renting device yy yy The challenges that have prevented n Usage of data-driven approach User navigation Sri Lanka Railways from achieving its Railways departments manage an yy Notifications vision include: increasing amount of data that contributes to the digital economy to achieve all its yy Location-based experience yy Resistance to electrification of trains capabilities. In order to provide accurate, yy Real-time feedback yy Lack of modernisation of tracks up to date information, it provides quick, informed decisions and business benefits, yy Integrations to third-party systems yy Resistance to introduction of modern as selection, review, interpretation, and Conclusion trains Dematagoda, Wellawatte, Bambalapitiya, yy With unprecedented expansion in high- forecasting are automated. This is achieved yy Insufficient expansion and Kollupitiya, Slave Island, Secretariat, speed railways, China is leading the by a strong, robust, and secure architecture The answer to traffic in Greater modernisation of stations Baseline Road, Kotta Road, Narahenpita, way, and further rail investment in India of information and governance. With Colombo clearly lies in railways, and and Kirulapone; some large, such as Fort and South East Asia can help to get data management in mind, the relevant Sri Lanka Railways is very well placed yy Lack of co-ordination with public bus and Maradana; some mid-sized, such as the transport sector on track under the information is shared across the industry with the primary requirement of land and transport services to provide a complete Slave Island; and some very small, such Sustainable Development scenario and more widely, enabled by railways and connecting tracks between stations. More and seamless service as Secretariat. Solutions for Sri Lanka their customers in developing new services buses on the roads would simply increase yy Operational and financial efficiency It is from the Greater Colombo region and applications. Figure 5 demonstrates this. road traffic. Widening roads is a messy that people stream into the city on a yy Focus on developing existing railway n Optimised maintenance and costly business due to the need to yy Lack of investment and maintenance daily basis for work and school. Within network in Greater Colombo through IoT acquire private lands and the resulting yy Regular train delays the Greater Colombo region there are a yy Make use of parallel lines to alleviate Optimised maintenance keeps the train legal challenges. total of 92 stations. Apart from those in running all the time, promoting minimal Meanwhile, technology has made yy Inadequate train frequency the volume burden on busy existing rail Colombo city, there are 31 on the Main lines train service interruption. Real-time shared rail travel amazingly easy. An online yy Train capacity at peak times Line up to Polgahawela, nine on the asset safety tracking with a wide range e-ticketing system for ordinary rail tickets Coastal Line down to Panadura, 13 on the yy More detailed management by means of linked sensors feed the Internet of permits simultaneous reservations and yy Poor safety record Puttalam Line up to Negombo, and 27 on of communications on train control Things (IoT) together, the decision-making payments and prevents unnecessary yy Recurrent crossroads accidents the Kelani Valley Line up to Avissawella. improves the frequency of trains and the method for predictive maintenance. Health wastage of time. Commuters can maintain These stations are almost all connected number of rolling stocks asset machine learning improves and the travel timings efficiently if they can yy Very high number of crossroads with double or triple rail lines. increases train availability through big regularly get rail tickets online for all yy Bus routes connecting trains to ensure data analytics and artificial intelligence. stations. yy Insufficient use of ICT (information and The global situation good intermodal connectivity communications technology) Modular robustness infrastructure and units There is really no reason that Greater yy Railway network values, (1 [low]-7 yy Current rolling stock production and are easy to maintain and repair through an Colombo’s transport system, if rail-based, A 2018 performance report from Sri [high]), 2019 – country rankings: For upgrade automated system that makes the operation cannot rival that of Singapore or any Lanka Railways stated that the use of timely, safe, and efficient. modern city. 2019, the average was 3.61 points for yy Upgrade track repair and maintenance information technology procedures is a 101 countries. The highest value was challenge, due to the lack of personnel, 6.8 points in Japan, and the lowest was yy Electrify the Ragama-Negombo, physical resources, and the right attitude. 1.2 points for Albania. Sri Lanka was Avissawella, and Veyangoda-Colombo- For Sri Lanka, land is not an issue 3.8 points (Sri Lanka ranked 48) Panadura lines yy Present the method of e-ticketing In most cities, the biggest challenge yy Rail is one of the most energy-efficient in building a rail transport system is the modes of transport and accounts for 8% yy Encourage and extend rail freight with lack of land, with available land having of global motorised transportation and appropriate facilities and equipment for already been taken by buildings; thus 7% of freight, but just 2% of energy rolling stock demand for transport the need to install tunnels underground yy or use elevated railways, which are y Invest in importing locomotives and y The rail network of commuter and high- constructing local trailers both difficult and costly. But Sri Lanka speed trains has steadily expanded over Railways already has the land. There the past decade, laying the foundation yy Establish and expand freight facilities exist 12 railway stations within the city for easy, low-emission transport in and for the Colombo, Hambantota, of Colombo – Colombo Fort, Maradana, between cities Kankesanthurai, and Trincomalee Ports through trains yy Turn main stations into commercially viable centres and shops Figure 5 Use of ICT n Flow commuters technology (The writers are Managing Partners In the 21st Century, technology has Flow commuters technology entails the of Cogitaro.com, a consultancy that finds changed many aspects of life, including management of train information and the practical solutions for challenges facing the way many of us reserve train tickets. automation of the tickets gate information, society and different industries. Dr. Dias The e-ticketing system helps commuters camera information, other big data from is a digital architect and educationist to book tickets from the comfort of their existing surveillance cameras (CCTV) based in Kuala Lumpur. He holds a homes and offices or anywhere in order to and video infrastructure, and utilises BSc in Computing from the University make buying tickets more convenient for video analytics technology; such is the of Greenwich, a Masters in Computer travellers. This makes things particularly big data and machine learning technology Software Engineering from Staffordshire easy for those residing in remote locations. that analyses commuters’ activity and University, and a PhD from the University The main benefits of using the online forecasts and simulates scenarios. These of Malaya. He is completing a second reservation programme are: technologies can analyse data from a wide doctorate in Business Administration range of viewpoints and visually reflect yy Convenience – commuters can reserve from Universiti Utara Malaysia [ruwan@ states from train congestion to station or cancel tickets from their home or cogitaro.com]. walking flows, thereby avoiding the entry office Eliatamby is a lecturer in marketing, of ticketless travellers and beggars. human resources, and mass yy Saves time and effort — commuters can n Advanced mobile app communications based in Colombo. He save time for their trip by not having E-tickets are becoming popular rapidly, is an author and was formerly associate to wait in the queue for the railway conveniently, and easily in our fast-paced editor of a newspaper and editor of various reservation office lives. The benefits of paperless travel both industry magazines. He holds an MBA for railways and for passengers are: from London Metropolitan University yy Go green – commuters can also travel and an LLM from Cardiff Metropolitan by presenting a soft copy of their ticket yy Flexibility and transparency – the University. [[email protected]]) 6 the sunday morning business INNOVATION/NEWS Sunday, October 4, 2020 DFCC Bank Sri Lanka gets Uber celebrates 65th safety helpline, finally anniversary today z 24x7 line first announced in February BY UWIN LUGODA of the rider, and very rarely driver partners not wearing Six months after it was first announced, global ride- masks. hailing giant Uber finally launched its 24x7 safety According to Vaish, they helpline in Sri Lanka to further strengthen its safety have experienced these feature and customer experience. same post-Covid calls in Sri Lanka, with calls about driver The company first As part of Uber’s safety partners not wearing masks From left: DFCC Bank Deputy Chief Executive Officer Thimal Perera, announced the Uber safety features, the safety helpline being rarer here due to Uber’s Chief Executive Officer Lakshman Silva, and Chief Operating Officer helpline alongside two other is accessible to the riders strict safety policies and the Achintha Hewanayake safety features – RideCheck, through the shield icon which local authorities enforcing it. a feature that detects trip appears on the app during a He stated that safety is DFCC Bank celebrates its 65th anniversary irregularities, and Pin trip. This icon will then lead their number one priority and 65th anniversary today (4). It offers Verification – in February the user to the safety helpline therefore the company has was the first bank to be listed In an effort to give back to this year. These were icon, which, once swiped, will included Covid-related content on the Colombo Brokers’ customers, numerous bundled meant to underscore Uber’s connect the rider with an Uber on the feature, in addition to Association, the predecessor offers and fee waivers on commitment towards making representative who is a part of training drivers to sanitise of the Colombo Stock products and services will safety one of its highest their local support team. the vehicle in front of the Exchange. be offered to customers priorities across all regions it Vaish explained that the riders and featuring an online As a part of the bank’s 65th acquired during the month operates in. However, these support team based in Sri checklist for both the driver anniversary celebrations, of October. Customers could plans hit a roadblock when the Lanka is ready to assist their and the rider on whether the the bank said it has declared avail themselves to a free Covid-19 pandemic struck. riders in all three languages: opposite part wore a mask the month of October as the school bag and water bottle In an exclusive interview Sinhala, Tamil, and English. and sanitised their hands. bank’s anniversary month for every deposit of for Rs. Uber South Asia Head of Central Operations Pavan Vaish with The Sunday Morning However, if the need arises Furthermore, Uber distributed and has planned a number 10,000 and above made to Business, Uber South Asia for additional support such “We offer multiple levels for riders, as Uber’s driver Rs. 10 million worth of of activities to engage with the DFCC Junior Children’s Head of Central Operations as added research, the issue of support; we do this so that partners have always had a personal protective equipment varied stakeholders. Savings Account during this Pavan Vaish stated that the is then escalated to a support whatever issues the rider is help/support line available (PPE) to their driver partners DFCC will declare open anniversary month. initial launch of the safety team in their Asia Pacific facing, we can support them.” to them. While the feature is in Sri Lanka and has partnered the Pinnacle Centre at its A 65% discount will be features was supposed to take regional centre, which is based He stated that if there is only available during the trip, locally with Dettol. new location at No. 80, applicable on the processing place a few weeks after its in India. an emergency during the trip if there are any other issues Speaking on the response Horton Place, Colombo 7, fee of home loans and announcement. He explained and the rider needs immediate post trip, such as the rider of their Indian market to the exclusively for the Pinnacle personal loans and leasing that this was after they actively assistance, the rider is advised leaving an item behind in the new feature, Vaish stated clientele. The Pinnacle facilities will also be looked into user feedback to contact law enforcement or vehicle, the rider can contact the reception has been very Centre will facilitate banking offered to retail customers which showcased demand for medical help directly. This is the driver partner within 30 positive. He explained that transactions speedily, who come on board during an on-trip 24x7 safety helpline because the authorities need to minutes after ending the trip. this was due to Uber listening conveniently, and in complete the month of October. A for riders. talk to the impacted party, and Having launched in to their rider base and giving confidentiality, the bank said. 65% discount offer can be The new safety helpline is the helpline will not be the countries like India prior them the feature they needed. The Pinnacle Centre offers availed at supermarkets, set to provide riders with the most suitable channel for that. to its launch in Sri Lanka, “We are always open personal space exclusively hotels, online shopping sites, option to get in touch with However, if the rider is Vaish stated that the feature to rider feedback in all for the Pinnacle clientele, clothing outlets, etc. This Uber’s safety team, should having an urgent issue which was mostly used by riders geographies we operate designed and equipped to discount will be offered on they have an urgent but non- is not an emergency, they due to payment disputes, in, and what we saw in Sri facilitate a personalised DFCC credit cards at over 50 emergency issue during a trip, can call the helpline, where verbal altercation with driver Lanka was that the users banking relationship. This merchant partners during the such as reporting misbehaviour an agent will first determine partners, the driver partner wanted a way to contact Uber centre also has customer anniversary month. by a co-passenger, a dispute what the exact problem is and driving too fast, or the driver representatives if they are in meeting spaces, a lounge, with a driver, or a breakdown. either solve it then and there partner deviating from the need of any support while and an entertainment area as DFCC Sahanaya loan At the tap of a button, riders or contact the rider later if route. But since Covid, the they’re on a trip. We also have well to make their visits more scheme for SME clients can immediately connect with the issue requires them to do calls to the helpline have a roadmap of safety features productive and pleasant. The “DFCC Sahanaya” Uber’s response team, where additional work. also included driver partners which we will roll out within In line with the bank’s concessionary loan scheme safety experts will be available The new safety helpline frequently coughing, not the next 12 months.” sustainability strategy of was introduced to provide 24×7. The new safety helpline feature feature is only available disinfecting the car in front PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA promoting “cycling” for a relief to the export-related healthy work-life balance, businesses, identifying a the Pinnacle Centre has been significant need in the market designed to accommodate owing to the negative impact cycling at the centre, and of the Covid-19 pandemic Laugfs Gas Fonterra provides as such, it is equipped with on the local business sector, changing rooms for customers and the country’s small who want to cycle to the and medium-sized (SME) fodder and equipment location. exporters to aid the revival launches DFCC partners of the sector in the island. The new loan scheme to dairy farmers with Caritas on amounting to approximately Fonterra Brands Lanka an educational Rs. 2 billion has been extended hotline 1345 has implemented specific scholarship to export-related, export- Home-grown liquefied solutions together with its programme oriented customers in order to petroleum gas (LPG) service dairy farmers to improve Additionally, DFCC has provide immediate relief and provider, Laugfs Gas, recently milk quality and yield, partnered with Caritas Sri encourage them to avail market launched its dedicated hotline which includes the provision Lanka-SEDEC (Social and opportunities for the future. 1345 to facilitate the swift of fodder and farming Economic Development and efficient delivery of gas equipment. Centre) to provide educational MSME supply chain cylinders and refills to all parts Smallholder dairy farmers support to over 100 youth financing of the island. The company form the backbone of the who are from low-income DFCC has recently added a At Fonterra Brands Lanka’s Pannala Training and Demonstration said this service is an extension dairy industry, contributing Farm, cut fodder is prepared for distribution to neighbouring families with educational supplier financing scheme to of its efforts to pioneer the to 90% of Sri Lanka’s local farmers in the vicinity scholarships, so as to its existing gamut of products digitising of LPG retailing in milk supply. Organised enable them to continue targeting suppliers of Export Sri Lanka. knowledge-sharing, training, their education without any Agriculture Crops (EACs), The hotline is manned by a a sustainable business interruption. namely spices (cinnamon, team of professionals based model, and the transfer of pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, at the Laugfs head office deep dairy expertise can DFCC’s flagship branch etc.) and high-value fruits and located down Maya Avenue, help upskill these farmers in Kurunegala vegetables, thus showcasing Colombo 6. The entire process and lift their dairy farm DFCC’s Kurunegala its commitment towards is handled and monitored by a have been the first mover in performance and income, branch will be relocated to unbanked and underbanked panel of trained executives to providing multiple platforms Fonterra said. coincide with the bank’s segments. Further, the scheme ensure a fast, efficient service to the customer and to embrace With this purpose in mind, 65th anniversary at No. 77, is expected to ease out the to customers, as opposed cashless, contactless payment Fonterra Brands Lanka Dairy farmers participate in the Dairy Discussion Group series Colombo Road, Kurunegala. working capital cycle of the to dealing with a computer for the same via digital means.” and Indian Subcontinent kicked off by Fonterra Brands Lanka’s first Sri Lankan MD Vidya This five-storied building exporters engaged in EACs, programme or AI. Furthermore, he noted that Managing Director (MD) Sivaraja and her team is also equipped with an and hence provide a financial Commenting at the launch this hotline was not merely to Vidya Sivaraja recently “Our country is rich all grow together and find auditorium and training solution to strengthen the of the hotline, Laugfs Gas order, but acts as a window for initiated the Dairy in resources, talent, and solutions as a community.” centre, a regional office, and value chains of EACs. PLC Cluster CEO/Director the customer to connect with Discussion Group series ingenuity. We are committed Access to free fodder a credit hub. The building Commenting on this Chaminda Ediriwickrama said: Laugfs, mediating as a “virtual with a group of farmers to championing this is available for farmers in consists of solar power milestone of 65 years, “Laugfs, as the forerunner receptionist” – the hotline is in Bingiriya, Kurunegala, potential in line with the the vicinity of Fonterra’s and an energy-efficient DFCC Bank CEO Lakshman of the local energy industry, geared to receive complaints together with Fonterra’s nation’s priorities.” Pannala Training and cooling system, thus playing Silva stated: “Over the is pleased to transform the (if any) and inquiries and Supplier Relationship A recent Dairy Discussion Demonstration Farm. Indra a role towards a greener years, DFCC has evolved, market with the use of modern provide product details and Officers (SROs). Group was held at the Jayasinghe, a dairy farmer environment. diversified, and grown to communication tools. This is dealer information around the “Good insight comes farm premises of one of from Kuliyapitiya, who meet the changing needs a natural progression of our clock. from the grassroots level, Fonterra’s dairy farmers, recently received fodder Hand washing booths of Sri Lanka’s resurgent efforts to achieve optimum In addition to the hotline, and through our Dairy Dharmashri Thennakoon, from the farm, said: “At a to 65 schools across economy, our customers, efficiency with the help of customers can order via their Discussion Group series and included other farmers time where accessibility the country institutions, and the people. technology. Now customers website www.laugfsgas.lk or by which we initiated in July, from the neighbourhood. and costs of fodder is a With the objective of DFCC would have never can order their gas right from visiting any Laugfs Gas outlet. we have looked into the Speaking on the initiative challenge, getting extra curbing the spread of Covid- reached this position in such home and have the cylinder or Incidentally, the Laugfs website various challenges faced Thennakoon stated: fodder from Fonterra 19, DFCC has initiated a competitive space without refill delivered to their doorstep is the only LPG website by our hardworking dairy “The discussion, which helped me sustain my a special school project, the trust placed in us by our within a matter of minutes. where a customer has the farmers. Such consultations also covered fodder operations.” offering hand washing booths customers, backed by the “The need for a hotline convenience of making a real- have been valuable in management, was a valuable Fonterra Brands Lanka’s to identified rural schools support of our loyal staff. was felt strongly during the time online payment. Laugfs co-creating solutions to help learning experience. I was smallholder dairy farmer across the country, which DFCC has always been, and Covid-19 lockdown. To benefit has an extensive network of improve milk quality and very appreciative that this network supplies milk for has been endorsed by the will continue to be, focused customers, we launched the dealers and partners around the yield. The solutions we are was followed with the its Anchor and Anchor Ministry of Education. These on developing individuals and Whatsapp number 0768 427 country. implementing are in line provision of grass-cutting Newdale brands, including booths will be installed and businesses to grow through 427 during this period and Laugfs Gas was founded in with the imperatives called equipment. We hope set yoghurt, stirred yoghurt, maintained by the bank at innovative and responsible streamlined our delivery 2001 when the Government of out by the Presidential Task Fonterra continues to host drinking yoghurt, fresh multiple locations identified financial solutions, which will operation to offer maximum Sri Lanka liberalised the LPG Force for Economic Revival discussions such as this in milk, UHT milk, and by the schools within the lead to sustainable progress coverage. We are glad to industry. and Poverty Eradication. the future where we can flavoured milk. school premises. for all.” the sunday morning business 7 Sunday, October 4, 2020 ENERGY

BY MADHUSHA THAVAPALAKUMAR Would it be a surprise to know that Sri Lanka was producing almost 100% of its electricity demand from hydropower until mid-1995, but Why not rely solely on the increased electricity demand driven by rapid economic growth and limited facilities to develop hydropower facilities made the country shift to fossil fuels gradually for a major portion of its demand renewable energy? since then? According to a report issued by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Sri z Sri Lanka’s advantages and limitations in becoming 100% RE Lanka’s energy sector last December, Sri Lanka was in fact self-sufficient for its to contribute 30%, while wind energy will Morocco, as part of the Climate Vulnerable electricity generation, especially in terms contribute 50% of the total demand,” the Forum, pledged to use only RE for of hydropower alone. Nevertheless, with ADB report noted. electricity generation by 2050. the increasing demand for electricity, The assumption is that a significant The ADB’s report estimates that hydropower’s contribution to the demand portion of domestic and commercial use total investments to the tune of $ 54-56 began to deplete, as easier and quicker ways will be powered by solar energy through billion will be necessary in the power of producing energy through fossil fuels an accelerated adoption of rooftop solar sector to achieve the 100% RE scenario. such as petrol and coal were utilised for infrastructure. However, at the same time, Furthermore, by 2050, the report estimates energy production. a very high concentration of solar energy is that the 100% RE scenario can potentially This was the case not only for Sri Lanka, likely to pose balancing issues for the grid save Sri Lanka $ 18-19 billion by avoiding but also for many other countries that went and until storage facilities have evolved to the use of imported fossil fuels. through significant developments in the past become commercially viable, demand that Nevertheless, as ADB noted, Sri Lanka two to three decades, thereby mostly failing cannot be met by solar will be primarily does not have the domestic capability to produce the local energy demand through catered to through wind. to fund large-scale RE projects from Renewable Energy (RE) sources as they Global energy experts suggest that commercial banks. The country has to rely used to do. Sri Lanka must consider the adoption of on multilateral support and on foreign banks However, the world is slowly shifting additional, advanced RE technologies such with low-cost finance, to bolster RE growth. away from fossil fuels, the dominant form Victoria Dam as geothermal, wave, tidal, and offshore Further, Sri Lanka might have to face of energy that accounts for more than wind as part of a 100% RE electricity technical challenges in terms of inadequacy three-fourth the greenhouse gas emissions, Asian region. India’s per capita energy plants have been developed by private generation scenario in the future. of ancillary systems to support the grid in a globally. The new shift has been again consumption is a little more than that of small power producers (SPPs), while 247 However, before any decisions on these high RE scenario. High penetration of RE towards RE sources that could decarbonise Sri Lanka, with 644 kWh. Pakistan, Nepal, MW of committed power plants are in technologies and their involvement in the is likely to induce intraday variability in the energy system in the decades to come, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh are behind various stages of development by the CEB, 100% RE scenario are taken, there is a need power supply and this variability needs to be making the environment greener. Sri Lanka with significant differences in per the ADB in an assessment on Sri Lanka’s to conduct detailed assessments to explore addressed with a strong ancillary system. As According to data, around 11% of the capita energy consumption. energy sector said. Approximately, 48% their feasibility and viability in Sri Lanka. of now, grid balancing is only done through global primary energy was produced The country’s energy demand is being of the total existing CEB system capacity The CEB’s long-term generation plan hydro plants. For the replacement of thermal through renewable technologies in 2019 as catered mostly by fossil fuels both, imported is installed in 17 hydropower stations and believes that the solar capacity in Sri Lanka capacity by renewables to be successful, capacity installations and investments into and indigenous non-fossil fuel. In terms 32% of the total energy demand was met by will rapidly grow, more than wind, and Pump Storage Power Plants (PSPPs) are this sector continue to take place alongside of the indigenous non-fossil fuel energy the major hydropower plants in 2018. its energy contribution will grow steadily going to be very important. rising awareness on climate change, caused sources, biomass power accounted for about When hydropower generation becomes over the planning period with the projected The ADB highlighted that PSPPs will by fossil fuels. In fact, investing in RE 39% of the total energy production in 2015, lower than average, the country uses diesel development. be essential to manage prominent peak has become an economic opportunity, and while large hydropower accounted for 9% and fuel oil to augment power generation and off-peak characteristics of the daily yy Biomass power in Sri Lanka this is evident by the fact that over $ 280 and new RE (solar, small hydropower, and during peak periods and to bridge the demand pattern. Without setting up the billion investments were made in the sector wind) accounted for 3% of the total energy generation gap when planned new power Biomass is mainly used for cooking, necessary ancillary infrastructure, achieving globally, last year. production. generation projects are delayed, according and it is also used for thermal energy Sri Lanka’s ambitious RE targets will be Being blessed with abundant resources to About 50% of Sri Lanka’s energy was to the ADB. requirements in the industrial sector. difficult. produce RE, Sri Lanka too has made some generated through fossil fuel coal and In its long-term generation expansion plan It consists of agricultural residue and In addition, the non-availability of proper contribution towards this global shift over petroleum with about 10% and 39% from 2020-2039, the CEB noted that further yields from rubber replantation activities. incentives to develop RE-based capacity the past few years. The contribution is now contribution, respectively, to the total energy exploitation of hydro resources in Sri Lanka According to the CEB, growing biomass as is a major obstacle towards achieving the set to be boosted under this Government production that year. It should be noted that is becoming increasingly difficult owing a fuel for dendro power generation gained desired RE targets. An integrated national as the President has instructed the relevant coal and petroleum are imported fossil fuel to social and/or environmental impacts attention in the recent past. energy policy formulation to support RE authorities mid-last month to undertake resources and these imports weigh on the associated with large-scale development. Although biomass has the largest share of growth is the need of the hour. the necessary plans to generate 70% of the country’s import expenditure. On the other primary energy supply (39% contribution to Moreover, Sri Lanka lacks local research yy Solar power production country’s electricity demand through RE hand, per capita energy consumption is on the total energy requirement in 2015), it has and development to promote local capacity sources by 2030. the rise with improving living standards. Sri Lanka hardly passes a day with very very limited use for electricity generation. development; Sri Lanka has limited or Amidst the renewed focus on the local Also, Sri Lanka’s public transport sector little sunlight, thanks to its geographical As of end-2017, there were 10 biomass- negligible research facilities dedicated to the RE sector, this week, The Sunday Morning entirely depends on energy generated from location. This makes the country an ideal based small power producers with a total development of RE resources locally, thus Business is taking a look at Sri Lanka’s fossil fuel. place to generate solar power. According installed capacity of 26.1 MW. The Sri creating an industry which is dependent on existing RE capacity installations, the A target set by the respective Government to the CEB, solar resource maps of the Lanka Renewable Energy Master Plan importing RE expertise and resources. hidden potential of this sector, and the in 2014 to generate 10% of the country’s country indicate the existence of higher (REMP) estimates that the country has the future plans the Government has in place to electricity demand through RE sources solar resource potential in the northern half, potential for 2,400 MW of biomass-based A household solar achieve their vision by 2030. was met. Nevertheless, along with the eastern, and southern parts of the country. generation capacity. panel in Sri Lanka successful achievement of the target, the “Resource potential in other areas, yy Wind power production Wind turbine country’s fossil fuel energy production including mountainous regions, is mainly too was increased, according to the Asian characterised by climatic and geographical The country has good wind energy Development Bank (ADB). features. The exploitation of available resources that are concentrated in the north According to a research paper on resources requires the consideration of western coastal area and in the central “Renewable energy resources in South competing land uses and the availability highlands. Greater wind power potential Asian countries” by the Energy Centre of transmission and distribution is mainly available in the areas that are of Maulana Azad National Institute of infrastructure,” the CEB noted in its plan. exposed to the southwest monsoon. Only Technology Bhopal in India, in terms of According to the ADB report, the annual a portion of the total available potential is According to the ADB, another major solar energy generation, Sri Lanka has the average Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) economically exploitable due to various obstacle towards this goal is that as potential to produce 5 kWh of solar power varies from 4.5 to 6.0 kilowatts per hour per reasons such as competing land uses, Sri Lanka’s electricity sector is largely RE production: Where is per day. In terms of hydropower, the country metre square per day (kWh/m2/day) across accessibility, and environmentally sensitive dependent on hydro plants, any variability has the potential to produce 2,000 MW, the country. concerns. in the monsoon pattern hits the sector hard. Sri Lanka? while the potential for wind power is 24,000 During the day, solar energy alone will Harnessing the exploitable wind power Only after the requirements of domestic Sri Lanka is an island destination popular MW per day. be sufficient to meet the country’s demand. potential is subjected to various technical water consumption and irrigation are met, is among international travellers mainly for At the same time, during the day, there is constraints such as power systems stability, permission for power generation from hydro its tropical weather, due its geographical Sri Lanka’s RE production likely to be significant curtailment of wind power system operation, seasonality, and projects granted. location close to the equator. According in detail power if the energy generated is not stored. variability. Although hydro plants’ Plant Load to the Department of Meteorology due yy Large-scale hydropower production The total storage requirement is expected In 2003, the National Renewable Energy Factor (PLF) in Sri Lanka is in the range to the location of Sri Lanka, within the to be 15,000 MW. The technical resource Laboratory (NREL) assisted Sri Lanka in of 50%, there are concerns about the non- tropics between 5° 55’ to 9° 51’ North In Sri Lanka, a country with stunning potential for solar power generation is developing its Wind Resource Map. The availability of capacity in the future. For any latitude and between 79° 42’ to 81° 53’ East waterfalls and rivers, hydropower is estimated to be 6,000 MW. first commercial wind power plants were scenario incorporating RE in the electricity longitude, the climate of the island could be undoubtedly one of the most developed Nevertheless, delays in policy enactments established in 2010 and the total capacity generation mix to succeed in the country, it characterised as tropical. RE methods of the nation. There are and technical constraints have hindered the of wind power plants by end-2018 was 128 is imperative that it address the challenges Moderated by oceanic winds, Sri Lanka about 18 large-scale hydropower stations early deployment of solar photovoltaics MW. By end-2017, Sri Lanka had a total and deploys measures to mitigate them to has a year round hot, wet, and humid in Sri Lanka, which include the Victoria, (PVs) in the country. Net-metred rooftop installed generation capacity of 131 MW. the furthest extent possible. climate with two monsoon seasons, south Laxapana, Samanala, Wimalasurendra, PVs were allowed since 2008, and since The exploitable wind power potential is western and north eastern. While this is a Udawalawe, and Inginiyagala Dams. The 2016, surplus energy sent out to the grid estimated to be 5,600 MW. Government’s future plans preferable climate for travellers, it is also Victoria Dam has the highest capacity, was paid. The CEB has identified these exploitable During a virtual meeting held between the ideal climate to access a variety of RE followed by the Kotmale and Randenigala Rooftop solar PV systems became wind resource potentials and prioritised their Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and sources easily. Dams. increasingly popular with the introduction development activities together with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India RE, which is often referred to as clean In addition, there are a number of small of the net-metering system in 2010 and expansion of transmission infrastructure. pledged to provide a $ 100 million line of energy, is collected from sources that are and medium-scale hydropower plants as the Government-initiated “Battle for In the next 20-year period, Mannar and credit to deepen co-operation in RE, with naturally replenishing, such as solar, tidal, well. Few of them are situated in upper Solar Energy” programme in September the northern areas will be focused on wind particular emphasis on solar projects. wind, water, biomass, and geothermal. Huluganga Falls, Ranwala Oya, Moragaha 2016. Rooftop solar PV installations can power development on a large scale and the Along with the aforementioned plans to Energy derived from moving water is Oya, Gomale Oya, Upper Magal Ganga, significantly reduce the land use and Puttlam, eastern, and central highland areas increase RE capacity, the Government of Sri hydropower, the conversion of energy from and Giddawa. environmental concerns, particularly will contribute to small to medium-scale Lanka is pursuing new power solutions for sunlight into electricity is solar power, The contribution from hydropower in urban and suburban areas with the wind power resource development. the Vavuniya General Hospital and about 20 electricity generated from wind is wind plants varies with rainfall during the availability of rooftop spaces. The CEB is in the process of other hospitals across the nation. The World power, power produced from the fall and two aforementioned monsoon seasons. According to the CEB, the first commissioning a 100 MW wind farm in Bank is assisting as part of a multi-sectoral rise of tides in the ocean is tidal power, During wet years, hydropower generation commercial solar power plants were Mannar. The wind farm is expected to pandemic response in Sri Lanka. energy produced from animal or plant increases even beyond 40% of energy, commissioned in 2016. The ADB noted that generate approximately 337 gigawatts per In addition to these future plans of the material is biomass power, and power but in dry years, oil-fired thermal power by mid-2017 there were eight small-scale hour (GWh) annually and this would be Government, gradually addressing the derived from the conversion of heat to plants are heavily used to bridge the gap in solar power plants with a total installed the first large-scale wind power project above-listed obstacles identified by the electricity is geothermal power. hydropower generation. capacity of 51.36 MW. developed in Sri Lanka. During the first ADB will possibly pave the way to generate Even though Sri Lanka is already in the In terms of hydropower generation, There were 93.7 MW of rooftop solar stage, 103.5 MW of wind power will be 70% of the national electricity requirement RE sector and is producing hydropower on according to the ADB, Sri Lanka has PV systems connected to the national grid developed in the southern coast of Mannar through RE, as envisioned by the current a large scale, compared with other tropical already developed almost all the economic by end-2017, and the total grid-connected Island. Under the long-term generation plan Government, while also assisting Sri Lanka countries, the current RE production of potential for hydropower generation in solar PV capacity was targeted to reach 200 of the CEB, wind is expected to become the in fulfilling its pledge to the UNFCCC. Sri Lanka, given its natural resources, is large-scale power plants. Most of the major MW by 2020. Solar PV development in Sri largest source of energy in the next 10 years. Even though the initial steps of the RE somewhat insignificant. hydropower schemes are associated with Lanka has been gaining momentum with plans might cost a colossal sum of money, Sri Lanka’s two main rivers, Mahaweli the decreasing technology costs and global Hindrances to RE growth becoming RE self-sufficient in terms of the Per capita consumption and and Kelani, on which 1,370 MW of large trends in the improvement of solar PV In an endeavour to embrace renewables national electricity demand will ease down production hydropower plants and 20.5 MW of small technology. more fully, Sri Lanka, while attending the the pressure on import expenditure, thereby Sri Lanka’s per capita energy hydropower plants have been developed by “The generation mix between wind and 22nd Conference of the Parties (COP) to the narrowing the trade deficit and preserving consumption in kilowatt per hour (kWh) the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). solar energy has been determined to be United Nations Framework Convention on the much-required foreign exchange is 636.3, one of the highest in the South About 350 MW of small hydropower such that by 2050, solar energy is expected Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Marrakech, reserves. 8 the sunday morning business TECH/ADVERTORIAL Sunday, October 4, 2020

BY UWIN LUGODA After 15 years of existence, the Sri Lanka-based international product engineering and 99x unveils ‘Scandinavian’ technology innovation exporter, 99X Technology, recently changed its name to 99x, while also completing a identity for next growth phase revamp of the company. The shorter variant of the In 2018, the company’s growth Tracified acts as a blockchain- company name was part of the was 40% and last year, the pace based platform in the ecommerce company’s new visual identity, and accelerated to 48% with profitability space, and was built with the was revealed to the media during improving by 30%. Sekaram stated goal of enabling authentic sellers a press briefing on 29 September. that as per independent analysts, to prove the quality of their At the event, 99x Co-Founder and 99x is worth between $ 30-40 product to the intended market. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) million. It can also be used by any of the Mano Sekaram commented on the According to 99x Chief Operating participants in a supply chain company’s new identity and stated Officer (COO) Shehani Seneviratne, to share information with other that this was geared towards 99x’s the company made several participants including the end- goal of embracing a simpler and contributions to the industry, and consumers, in a credible way via a more distinct look. has worked towards being at the public blockchain. He explained that since they forefront of Sri Lanka’s IT industry. The start-up is also the first served primarily Scandinavian She stated that they did this by product of 99X Technology clientele, 99x’s new visual identity 99x Co-Founder and Chief Executive 99x Chief Operating Officer Shehani 99x Chief Marketing and Corporate building winning products for a Sri Lanka to be successfully embraced the simplicity in design of Officer (CEO) Mano Sekaram Seneviratne Affairs Officer Chrishan de Mel global clientele, locally, and actively commercialised with an that region and channels it through a from binary code where “ones and Compound Annual Growth Rate 25 ongoing, active customer working towards giving back to the international partnership, simple yet bold logo and look. zeros are cleverly arranged” to form (CAGR) in the past five years. engagements, with the average local IT community and shaping providing them both the funding “Entering this new chapter in their new logo. 99x sells several digital products duration of a customer engagement emerging talent at a university level. and market access. our story as 99x, we look forward “What sets us apart is that we and services to their Scandinavian being around five years. The company’s university Seneviratne stated that the to further increasing our global provide an unparalleled level of clientele; these include full stack Furthermore, the company has outreach programme Dotitude people working at 99x, in addition footprint through the creation of collaboration with clients. We development, cloud migration, over 50 international and local helped over 50,000 graduates from to engaging in their core work, impactful digital products together listen, advise, challenge, and grow product conceptualisation, mobile awards for excellence in exports, both local and private universities purposefully give back to the with our clients. The new look also together in the journey of launching applications, user experience quality, governance, and employee over the last 10 years, and has active community, both through the embraces the fun, playful side of a successful product.” such as prototyping, machine empowerment. These awards collaborations with 20 universities company’s own initiatives and by our greatest asset – our people – Since its establishment in 2004, intelligence, and blockchain. include the Best Work Place in Asia across the country. playing an active role in various and signifies that we are tech team the company has built over 150 Seeing a growing demand for for four years, as well as the Best Adding to 99x’s list of industry associations, universities, players.” digital products and platforms for its services, 99x increased its team Work Place in Sri Lanka for eight achievements, Tracified, a company higher education institutes, and Highlighting some of the clients in Scandinavian countries by 200 in the past two years, and consecutive years; the company incubated within its innovation more. Under its new name and elements of the brand, 99x Chief Norway, Finland, and Sweden. The despite the challenges faced due to was also recognised at the National centre/accelerator StartupX look, 99x will focus on creating Marketing and Corporate Affairs 80% Sri Lankan-owned company the Covid-19 pandemic, continued Export Awards in 2012, 2017, Foundry, recently received an equity even further impact through newer Officer Chrishan de Mel stated that currently employees 350 locals, and to on-board 50 more employees and 2019, winning gold in their investment from 360ip, a venture and more innovative ways. the essence of the brand is derived has seen its revenue enjoy a 36% this year. The company also has respective category multiple times. capital firm based in Tokyo. PHOTOS SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA DLB presents first digital Laugfs Gas products to be sold at Abans Domestic LPG giant Laugfs lottery of South Asia Gas and consumer durables The Development powerhouse Abans entered Lotteries Board (DLB) into an agreement recently to last Tuesday (29) marked enable customers to purchase a significant turning point cooking-related products in its history by launching including new empty gas the first digital lottery of cylinders, gas cookers, free South Asia, “Sasiri”, under standing cookers, and other the patronage of Secretary appliances at Abans outlets to the Treasury and the islandwide. Ministry of Finance S.R. The official signing of Attygalle. Secretary to the Treasury S.R. Attygalle checking the DLB Sweep app the agreement took place Customers are now profits earned from the sale accounts of the winners at Colombo City Centre From left: Director/CEO Chaminda Ediriwickrema, Laugfs Holdings Group Managing Director/CEO Piyadasa facilitated to purchase this of the lottery is remitted who are fortunate to be the (CCC) on 30 September Kudabalage, Abans Group Managing Director Behman Pestonjee, Chief Marketing Officer Buddhika digital lottery in the name to the President’s Fund winners of this Sasiri digital 2020, with the participation Dharmawardena of Sasiri through the “DLB and it is expected that the lottery. Further, the prizes of Laugfs Holdings Group As truly local brands that both brands in the long run, The Abans Group is Sweep” app introduced money will be remitted to of printed lottery tickets Managing Director Piyadasa enjoy sustainable success, we especially during this time engaged in a number of by the DLB. Furthermore, the Covid Fund from the can be collected either from Kudabalage, Abans Group are well positioned to offer of economic crisis. The business segments including Lagna Wasana, Super Ball, President’s Fund. the distributor or the head Managing Director Behman customers accessibility to partnership offers customers retail operations, services, and Shanida lotteries can The first draw of this office of the DLB. (Tito) Pestonjee, Chief reliable, high-quality cooking- the advantage and ease of logistics, manufacturing, also be purchased online Sasiri lottery is due to be DLB declared that it has Marketing Officer Buddhika related product without delays purchasing Laugfs Gas real estate, and infrastructure through the same app. held on 14 October. The made all arrangements Dharmawardena, and Laugfs or other interruptions that products, hassle-free, as it will and the conglomerate is well Sasiri can be purchased draws will then be held to conduct the draw of Gas PLC Director/CEO might cause inconvenience,” be made available through the known for representing some as an online lottery and as a every Wednesday and this lottery, going beyond Chaminda Ediriwickrama. said Kudabalage. extensive Abans showroom of the world’s best brands in printed lottery ticket. Saturday and customers the traditional systems “This alliance is a “I am pleased and honoured network across the country,” Sri Lanka. The main objective have the opportunity to and applying digital significant event in the to announce the agreement commented Pestonjee. Laugfs Gas is a pioneering of the introduction of win prizes, including cash technology. consumer retailing industry in signed between two of the The two companies plan energy provider in Sri Lanka, this Sasiri lottery ticket prizes of Rs. 100,000 by This new digital lottery Sri Lanka, where two of the most renowned homegrown to reach out to customers which is involved in the is to make a financial way of matching three can be purchased by most trusted and well-reputed companies in Sri Lanka. through the partnership with provision and installation contribution to the Covid numbers. downloading the DLB Sri Lankan brands come This strategic partnership promotions, price and service- of LPG for its numerous Fund established during Arrangements have been Sweep app on to a together to serve Sri Lankans, will be the stepping stone to related offers, and much more, customers within the the recent past to face the made to credit the cash smartphone or tab using offering a high level of numerous mutual benefits as the alliance unfolds in the domestic, commercial, and pandemic. Therefore, the prizes directly to the bank the link www.dlb.lk/apps. customer service excellence. that will enhance and enrich near future. industrial sectors. AIA Insurance takes Pan Asia Bank conducts tree annual conference online planting at Jethavanaramaya In commemoration of its 25th anniversary, Pan Asia Bank held an auspicious tree planting ceremony at the north side of the Jethavanaramaya Stupa in Anurudhapura, the sacred historical temple. The programme is initiated under Pan Asia Bank’s green initiative, the “Haritha Sammana” project. The AIA Digital Company Conference 2020 “Thousands of Buddhist Pan Asia Bank Director/CEO Nimal Tillekeratne is seen planting the very first medicinal plant in the AIA Insurance hosted Upul Wijesinghe made Resources Thushari devotees and tourists Jethavanaramaya sacred garden, inaugurating the tree planting project its first-ever “AIA Digital presentations highlighting Perera and Director/ annually visit eight sacred Company Conference the company’s Chief Officer – Legal, places in Anuradhapura, and the area, Pan Asia Bank has CEO Nimal Tillekeratne led to enhance greenery. At the 2020”, which was performance during the Operations, and External Jethawanaramaya is one of come up with this worthy the proceedings by planting ceremony, Pan Asia Bank broadcast live across year while applauding Relations Chathuri the main holy destinations. initiative as its corporate the first sapling, while Chief planted and offered 100 the company’s branches the achievements of Munaweera. “BLACK” Due to the dry climate which social responsibility (CSR) Guest and Chief Incumbent at medicinal trees with cages and head office, with all individuals and teams Band Leader Ranil prevails in the Anuradhapura to the society as the ‘Truly Jethavanaramaya Ven. Ihala to the priests, with the aim employees tuned in. alike. Amirthiah provided District, most devotees and Sri Lankan Bank’,” Pan Asia Halmillewe Rathanapala of reaching another 500 AIA CEO Nikhil The event was hosted musical entertainment to tourists suffer in the intense Bank said. planted the second sapling medicinal trees with cover Advani and Deputy CEO by AIA Director – Human the digital conference. heat. As a little step to green Pan Asia Bank Director/ to inaugurate the initiative cages across the country.

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IT’S LIKE COMING HOME: TARU VILLAS – LEELA WALAUWWA »SEE PAGE 3 Sunday,brunch October 4, 2020 Re-imagining

TRAVELin a mid-pandemic world

PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM

BY NAVEED ROZAIS In this backdrop, The Sunday couldn’t really get the most out of For companies like Fox Resorts Morning Brunch caught up with a before” within the country. which cater to the luxury market, Most few different hospitality companies Focusing on developing the going local can be a feasible option World Tourism Day fell on 27 September. As a nation that Sri Lankan operating at different levels of the domestic market and attracting until borders open and foreign travel resorts are tourism market to gain insights the local traveller is something resumes, but for accommodation is one of the world’s top travel destinations, the marking generally well into potential ways that tourism the travel sector has focused on providers who work with mid-level of such a day was bittersweet, looking at this past year geared for social can evolve in the near future, extensively in recent months, but the and budget travellers, going local is distancing, as considering a world where we may local market alone cannot sustain not always sustainable. and how the pandemic has wreaked havoc on Sri Lanka’s they are built in need to deal with Covid-19 and the this multibillion-dollar industry. Popular backpacker spot Tuk tourism sector. Despite a feasible vaccine nowhere in sight a tropical style risk of contracting it as a daily part For Fox Resorts, a small Tuk Hostels has ceased operations of architecture, of our lives. collection of boutique hotels and until further notice, given the situation and the world being put on hold for basically the entirety where large partner properties around Sri of the pandemic and the closing of open spaces Going local Lanka, the local market has always international borders. As a city hostel of 2020, we as humans need to make a decision: Do we and natural Speaking on World Tourism played an important role in their geared towards backpackers and continue pressing pause or do we adapt and live with ventilation Day, Fox Resorts CEO Chris Quyn operations. “Fox Resorts has always budget travellers, catering to the local are key design emphasised the importance of paid a lot of attention to local market is not easy to do, particularly this new virus? This question is extremely powerful for aspects at going local, urging Sri Lankans bookings as around 40% of our because of local attitudes to hostels construction to use the closing of international bookings have always been from Sri as well issues with health and safety the tourism sector, as it is an industry that simply cannot Fox Resorts CEO borders as a chance to “visit a city Lankans. We have always honoured that come from the shared space survive in the long term without foreign travel. Chris Quyn you’ve never had the chance to local rates, even during peak tourist model of hostels. explore and revisit places that you seasons,” noted Quyn. ││Contd. on page 2

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this year, the Indira Cancer Trust has teamed up with a number of organisations to raise awareness and launch a Touch, Look, Check (TLC) campaign in Sri Lanka to promote breast self- examination. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a TOUCH, Attendees at the conference organised by Indira Cancer Trust worldwide annual campaign that takes place PHOTO ESHAN DASANAYAKA in October to highlight the nature of the fixed day. chance that breast cancer can be cured. disease and educate people about methods They shared that breast cancer is by As for carrying out self-examination, LOOK, of prevention and early detection. far the most common cancer in women they provided that the best time to do a At a conference held on 30 September worldwide and also in Sri Lanka, where monthly breast self-examination is seven at the Trust in Maharagama, they shared that the incidence has been rising steadily in days after your period starts; if you are this campaign has been used in many other past years. Whilst following prevention menopausal, fix a day monthly, and it is best CHECK countries to raise awareness with regard to strategies, early detection of the disease advised to start at 20 years and make it a October is Breast breast cancer, and it has shown to be very remains the cornerstone of breast cancer habit. They added that there is no age limit Cancer Awareness effective in early detection and treatment control. When breast cancer is detected for TLC. of the disease by promoting regular self- Month early, and if adequate diagnosis and ││Contd. on page 2 examination of breasts every month on a treatment are available, there is a good 2 the sunday morning brunch TRAVEL/CAUSE Sunday, October 4, 2020

“your stay” as the property itself is an and while they can cater to any palate, experience. they do offer a wide variety of vegan Eraeliya Villas and Gardens Owner dishes as well. Anna Egorkina, a Russian interior Speaking about the difficulties they designer, expressed her love story with faced during the curfew period, Anna Eraeliya Villas and Gardens, sharing that shared that while things were undoubtedly she came across this most picturesque tough, it allowed them to focus on the little bay all the way back in 2008 in local market experience and learn from Weligama, and after the war ended, she the experiences of the Sri Lankan people decided to make something of it. Having who stayed with them. She said that discovered the location, she said that she they introduced multiple promotions wished to do something that justified the to encourage visitors, including loyalty beauty of the place. programmes where they send special She shared that back then Weligama membership cards to their guests and was not so popular among tourists. special offers to locals. However, unsurprisingly, things have definitely changed since then. “I think the Weligama Beach is the most beautiful beach in Sri Lanka as it is swimmable all year round. We have a beautiful sunset settled around palm trees, and it is the best place for beginner-level surfers to get their start,” she said. Having run an interior textile company for over two decades with her sister, Anna’s background is in interior design and she shared that back when she studied colonial architecture, she was always most impressed by the different types of it that were scattered PHOTOS SUDARSHA LAKMAL around the island, and was thus inspired by those designs. She further added that contemporary tropical architecture courtesy of Geoffrey Bawa also played a huge role in her inspiration for the design of the Eraeliya property. She said that going into it, what she I think the Weligama Beach is the set out to do was create something that most beautiful beach in Sri Lanka looked like it was always there; to make as it is swimmable all year round. something equally beautiful to honour We have a beautiful sunset settled and suit the beauty of the place. She said around palm trees, and it is the best Eraeliya Villas she believes she succeeded as many of place for beginner-level surfers to get her clients ask if the house had always their start been there and whether they added only Eraeliya Villas and Gardens Owner the pool. Anna Egorkina Eraeliya Villas and Gardens has a total of nine luxurious en suite bedrooms Anna also shared that she is spread over five unique buildings, constantly looking to collaborate with each inspired by various elements Sri Lankan artists, stating that they even and Gardens: representative of our island, and there are have an artists’ residency programme, two more to be completed in two months’ where they invite the artist to stay at the time, shared Anna, adding that they hope property, at the moment between Monday to conduct a giveaway on their Instagram to Friday, where they provide meals A WORK OF ART where they would decide who gets to stay and even materials for the artist, who is BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE Our stay at the property was certainly a particularly special in what it offers to its at the new rooms for the first time. encouraged to get inspired and create art. unique one, with its location being unlike guests as a concept; while most boutique They also offer daily yoga and fitness In exchange, Eraeliya Villas and Gardens Situated in Walliwala, Weligama, anywhere else we’ve visited before; hotels often offer increasingly elaborate classes, and they also have their own in- will keep one piece of their art and the situated at a slightly elevated landing, the amenities, which, frankly, one hardly house massage therapist who combines rest is theirs to have. Anna encouraged Eraeliya Villas and Gardens health science and traditional practices any local artists to please reach out, as occupies a special little corner in property stands almost looming above the uses during their one or two-night stay, as seabed while allowing easy access to it, one would often use the hotel to simply from around the world. Anna shared that she wishes for her property to be ever the now-famous tourist spot in the complete with a perfect view of the ocean. rest, spend the night, and enjoy a meal, they favour clean and sustainable living changing and would like to include a wide southern coast. Eraeliya Villas and Gardens is also at Eraeliya, your holiday is exclusively and encourage healthy eating as well, variety of styles of art.

of Covid-19 on the global economy that will also affect the disposable Re-imagining travel... income of budget travellers worldwide. safety in the case of Fox Resorts and Contd. from page 1 Quyn’s vision of future travel resorts around the island in general. is very hopeful. “I envision that Sri “Most Sri Lankan resorts are Lanka will be an even more highly For exclusive villas that focus on generally well geared for social sought-after travel destination small groups of travellers, the local distancing as they are built in post Covid, as travellers will be market is something that indeed can a tropical style of architecture, more conscientious about safety. Ministry of be catered to, particularly in a time where large open spaces and Health National With our incredibly low number where local travel is the only option, natural ventilation are key design Cancer Control of infections, Sri Lanka is even I. Nanayakkara Lalith Ramani Fernando Programme and exclusive use of a property by aspects at the point of construction. more attractive – our Government’s from Sri Lanka Darmawardana from Ramani Director Dr. Janaki one group of travellers is an effective The mainstream hotels and city Cancer Society from LD Salons Salons Widanapathirana handling of the crisis has been way of avoiding infection. hotels, though, built with narrow extraordinary. There will, of The Kadju House, a beach villa corridors and tighter spaces, will course, be greater demand for in Tangalle, has seen a spike in have to reduce the numbers they our uncrowded beaches and open occupancy in recent months. The can take in and also ensure that wildlife parks; destinations with TOUCH... team at The Kadju House attributes ample space between tables are less pollution and lower emissions; this to guests looking for an isolated maintained in the restaurants. Contd. from page 1 As cancer cases and generally more ecologically space designed in such a way that However, I feel this will affect city mount due to friendly travel destinations. Sri  minimises interactions between staff hotels more than the resorts. At the conference, it was better detection I envision that Sri Lanka Lanka scores top marks in all of and guests and where they can follow “All hoteliers have received discussed how cancer in Sri and more reporting, will be an even more highly these areas, and tourists are sure to safety measures easily. clear guidelines from a host of Lanka is steadily on the rise sought-after travel destination take note,” he shared. the number of authorities that publish scores of and as per the World Health post Covid, as travellers will be Sri Lanka as a destination fatalities has dropped Maintaining safety pages of information on what has Organisation (WHO) – Non- more conscientious about safety. inspiring confidence was a sentiment significantly due International borders have been to be done to minimise the spread Communicable Diseases With our incredibly low number shared by The Kadju House team to more effective shut since March on the grounds of the virus and best protect guests (NCDs) Country Profiles, of infections, who felt that travellers will be more treatment methods of maintaining national health and and staff. The fundamental success 2014 – 75% of the total of Sri Lanka is even more likely to visit Sri Lanka because safety. There are different schools of factor though is to never relax your 138,000 deaths are due to attractive of its effective management of cavity cancer are detected in thought on the effectiveness of this standards, but instead continue to NCDs, which include cancer. Fox Resorts CEO Chris Quyn the pandemic. The team felt that males. move. Some applaud the move as a keep pace with the ever-evolving As cancer cases mount this effective management would As part of Breast Cancer way of maintaining the greater good, guidance from these agencies. No due to better detection and be likely to attract richer global Awareness Month, the while others raise concerns over this matter how friendly the guest or staff Covid-19 be on the travel sector as more reporting, the number tourists who are looking for safe and organisers proposed a number causing more harm than good in the member may be, their mask must well as on Sri Lanka as a destination of fatalities has dropped exclusive destinations to travel to. of ways to spread awareness long run, particularly if Covid-19 isn’t stay on; no matter how busy you and brand? significantly due to more Sri Lanka’s biggest strength in your workplace, suggesting going anywhere for a few years. With are as an employee, you must wash The team at Tuk Tuk Hostels effective treatment methods. is its diversity as a destination that examples such as requesting no definite date set to reopen borders your hands. As hoteliers, we need to sees a difficult road ahead, with its They shared that this applies offers travellers of all persuasions a the staff to wear pink ribbons for international travel (some say maintain these measures in the long Co-founder Hashan Sirisena sharing to Sri Lanka as well, where unique and captivating experience. during the month of October, December, some say April), tourism, run without compromise to safeguard from a personal point of view that most hospitals have reported Covid-19 has changed the face of as well as observing “Wear in particular, is left disadvantaged not only our guests, but also the budget tourists would be a lot less an increase in the number of many industries, and tourism will it Pink Day” on 23 October because of its dependence on foreign members of our team.” likely to travel again until about end- patients visiting the outpatient where all employees wear travellers and income. 2021. This is in part due to airport definitely be one of them. Sri Lanka departments (OPDs) for pink to work. But what about safety once Imagining the future and travel restrictions complicating is nothing but resilient, and this too cancer screening. Indira Cancer Trust is foreign travel recommences? How Inevitably, borders will reopen travel and adding risk and expenses, is something for us to overcome. From the research amassed, working with many partners do hotels, villas, and hostels need and travel will resume, with or as well as procedures like quarantine they stated that out of all to promote awareness this to adapt? Quyn of Fox Resorts without Covid-19. But what adding valuable time and added cancers, the most evident cause October, simply because early commented on long-term health and will the long-term impacts of expense to their travel, and of death in males was mouth detection saves lives. not to mention the effects and oropharynx cancer (18.8%) whilst in females it was breast If you are planning an cancer, adding that along with event, need support, or the deaths, the same pattern is seen with the detection of new want to support patients cases of cancer. Every year, with breast prostheses or approximately 4,000 cases of wigs, please do call their breast cancer are detected in helpline on 0112 088 288 females, whilst approximately or 0710 774 488. PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE 1,900 cases of lip and oral the sunday morning brunch editorial [email protected] 011 5200900 the sunday morning brunch 3 Sunday, October 4, 2020 TRAVEL

Entrance of Leela Walauwwa

toilet before somebody else comes in and uses it, why should they be doing up a guest room perfectly and not live like that?” she queried. Cleanliness and a general sense of care for one’s own environment, according to Taru, translate into a person going above and beyond Main living room at Leela Walauwwa PHOTOS AND VIDEO SUDARSHA LAKMAL in the hospitality industry, and I couldn’t have agreed more. All one had to do was look around and observe her own staff in action at It’s like coming home Leela Walauwwa. Watch video | The Sunday Morning

Entrance at Rampart Street Watch video | passion for training was evident The Sunday Morning as her staff seemed to move about Brunch Taru Villas – the walauwwa unseen, but ever available to meet our every need. Taru Villas – Leela The food was perfectly prepared and Walauwwa is available as a splendidly presented. villa for bookings for groups “When you go to their homes, no matter how small they are, you of family and/or friends. see the legacy that you’ve taught Visit their website for some Leela Walauwwa them. Their bathrooms are spotless great resident offers and and dry. There are hand towels or promotions throughout BY JENNIFER ANANDANAYAGAM again: Preserved a home, heritage, evident in how ardently she spoke of history, and story within a luxury them and their many talents, which toilet paper,” said Taru, talking about the season. her unscheduled visits. “Most often, Think sitting in a tastefully furnished hall overlooking a hotel setting. she is keen to notice and bring out. We went a little further and The boys that make up her staff come I don’t inform them that I’m coming Call: 0112 340 033, beautiful pool and garden with a cup of coffee in your hand, to see their children and their wives. +94761 377 670 or laying in the most comfortable of beds and getting lost in outside the property, crossing a from families where their fathers single-track railway line to dip are fishermen, vegetable sellers, and I barge in,” she laughed. a book with the songs of birds keeping you company. Picture our toes in the sand and sea of a mason basses. They were picked – “If you don’t teach them how @TaruVillasSL taking a mid-afternoon dip in the pool with friends and seemingly untouched golden beach, raw – by Taru and taught the ropes to take care of their spaces, how can family scattered across the gardens nearby, or sitting down and were lucky enough to catch of the hospitality industry – every they serve a guest? If they live in a [email protected] for an intimate meal with people you love and enjoying food the most glorious sunset in quiet little thing from serving a guest pigsty, if they go to the bathroom and don’t wash their hands or clean the www.taruvillas.com/ prepared with so much attention to detail. Imagine gathering serenity. The beach, maintained by well to preparing exotic dishes. Her leela-walauwwa/ at a table for a friendly game of cards, or sitting back on a Rock Villa, was again pristine and couch ready to get lost in a good movie. peaceful. Taru Villas – Leela Walauwwa looking directly at the gracefully embodies this sense of intimacy placed pool in a lush green garden when it houses its guests. that also houses a gazebo where one From the moment you climb up can either read a book or enjoy a the path flanked by lush greenery – cup of evening tea. Over to the left gardens kept so immaculate – you of the gardens, a short flight of stairs All Inclusive 24h are almost accosted by the feeling of leads you to an elevated garden visiting someone’s beautiful home, space that houses an outdoor spa Food & Beverage and by the first few hours of your area. stay, this home becomes your home The villa’s rustic tones are too. reflected in the meals as well. % It was love at first sight for In keeping with the rural village OFF Nayantara Fonseka, fondly referred surroundings of Induruwa, exotic 50 to as Taru. Taru is the Founder Sri Lankan flavours are combined and Chairman of Taru Villas – a with international cuisine and Covid-19 Health collection of 14 properties in the presented at the dining table with Protocol island – and it is hard to miss her utmost care. It’s hard to miss Taru’s distinct touch and sense of style architecture evident in the food – in all of them – architecture and cuisine inspired by her cosmopolitan interior design-wise. worldview, wide travels, old family Poolside at Leela Walauwwa “I was always looking for recipes, and enthusiasm for creating Breakfast the next morning FREE something inland; everything of excitement on the palate. CANCELLATION was graciously arranged at Taru AVAILABLE ours was on the beach. I wanted Villas – Rampart Street. Turning something for my own,” shared into the Fort and a little away from Taru, referring to the property which all the hubbub was Rampart Street dates back to the 18th Century. She which offers tuk tuk rides to its fell in love with the “dilapidated I was always looking for something inland; everything guests in a black trishaw bearing house” and the old gates in the front. its name. By now, our party had “I loved the approach.” of ours was on the beach. I AHUNGALLA BEACH · GALLE ROAD - 80562 wanted something for my own come to expect this “sense of Hotel Riu Sri Lanka “The idea was for me to retire Taru” within all her properties and Taru Villas Founder and here one day,” she laughed, adding, Rampart Street was no different. BEFORE NOW 50% Off EXTRA 10% Off however, that she doesn’t see Chairman Nayantara Fonseka retirement around the corner. Taru: A woman who cannot From Rs. 30,484 /- From Rs. 15,242 /- From Rs. 13,718 /- Leela Walauwwa is located Free cancellation rate Non-refundable rate in Induruwa, in a secluded luxury be contained in words private villa setting. Everything Taru herself is a woman you about its original architecture has can’t “unmeet”. She arrived at All prices are per person / per night in a standard double room been well preserved and this is Leela Walauwwa late one evening and was instantly concerned with Off er valid until October 31st, 2020 for stays until October 31st, 2020. Discounts already included in the palpable as soon as you set foot in price shown on riu.com. Given the new situation caused by Covid-19, there may be some changes to the property. From the old gates at taking good care of her guests, offering us drinks and more each hotel’s services or facilities that diff er from what is described on the website, in order to meet each the entrance to the open courtyard country’s hygiene requirements. Conditions apply. adjoining the main living area, great hospitality. Refusing to be the care has been taken to conserve the centre of attention, she pulled up To put your mind at ease so you can pack your things and enjoy the best 24hr All-inclusive rich heritage of the venue, and this a chair in the corner of the room, we are off ering: is something Taru believes in doing overlooking the pool, and told me • Free modifi cation and cancellation option available. with all of her properties. Other properties her story in the most unpretentious • Elevated health and hygiene standards. The villa has four stylish air- One evening of our stay was way. I was both entertained and • Travel safe with RIU Protect - our free and included medical care guarantee. conditioned double rooms that can taken up by a short visit to Taru intrigued. More advantages: comfortably accommodate up to Villas – Rock Villa in Bentota, “My life story is about my nine guests. The king-size beds, a short distance from Leela staff and nothing else,” she shared Children policy: Free up to 5 years old. From 6 to 12 years only 50% of the adult rate will be charged colonial-themed photographs and Walauwwa. From the moment we candidly, referring to how she when the room is shared with two adults. All children must be included in the reservation process. got off our car and walked down its was moved for days when the paintings on the wall – all give the Honeymoon & Anniversary Off er: contact us for further information and bookings. rooms a sense of being surrounded long corridor towards the pool to pandemic hit and 78% of her staff by history, surrounded by a story. when we got on the beautifully kept had asked her to just feed them Adjoining the open courtyard is garden and turned around to view and nothing else. Empowering the main living area with the dining the villa in all its glory at sunset, I people is at the core of why she Information and Bookings: does what she does, and this was space on the right. Again decorated was bewitched. Taru had done it www.riu.com · 0 915 22 00 22 (Opening hours 8am · 6pm) · [email protected] with paintings that each tell a story, the space houses a large glass-top Christmas and New Year Season with Taru Villas ARUBA · BAHAMAS · BULGARIA · CAPE VERDE · COSTA RICA · DOMINICAN REPUBLIC · GERMANY table with coffee table books and Book your festive getaway to followed by a five-course curated dinner; IRELAND · JAMAICA · MALDIVES · MAURITIUS · MEXICO · MOROCCO · PANAMA · PORTUGAL SPAIN · SRI LANKA · TANZANIA · UAE · USA jars filled with sweets, which I an exclusive villa, starting from Rs. festive aperitif and canapés followed by found to be a unique touch. Each of 27,750 per person/per night for the a traditional Christmas dinner curated the common rooms – the TV room Christmas season. This is available for by Taru herself; pre-dinner cocktails As you like it and the game room – has the same 14 to 16 guests. Some of the inclusions and canapés by the poolside followed feature. to mention are breakfast, lunch, and by a BBQ dinner; and New Year’s Day From the living area, you’re dinner; island nibbles and tipples traditional Sri Lankan breakfast. 4 the sunday morning brunch ELDERCARE Sunday, October 4, 2020

An inside perspective on assisted living The Sunday Morning Brunch visited Jude Senior Serenity and spoke to a few of its long-term residents for their views on assisted living and how the elderly Sri Lanka’s elderly can adapt to living in an assisted living facility. Ranjith, who has been in assisted living for nine years, said: “I had a bypass operation and my children aren’t here. They live in England, and my wife isn’t able to look after me. I came here and assisted living and found it very comfortable and very BY NAVEED ROZAIS encouraging for people like us to stay.” Another resident, Anne, shared: “I Sri Lanka’s elderly population is came with my husband because he was growing. Now, this is not at all a very sick. He passed away a few years bad thing – it’s an indication of our ago, and I decided to stay here because the life expectancy increasing and our staff is very nice and kind-hearted. I have healthcare services improving. my freedom here as opposed to being at home, which is also why I like it here.” But a growing ageing population George, also a resident at Jude Senior does come with its challenges. Serenity, noted: “When you get married As of 2019, according to a paper and have children, you look after them, published by the Journal of the and at a certain stage, they get married and College of Community Physicians of settle down. At this stage, you shouldn’t Sri Lanka, 12.4% of Sri Lanka’s total interfere with their lives – you must allow population was over 60, and this them to carry on with their lives and find number is growing. Sri Lanka is also a place of your own. I can’t do certain in the world’s top 50 countries with things on my own, which is why I’ve the largest elderly populations. decided to come here. This place is meant for old people like us to help us out in all With the International Day of Older our problems.” Persons falling on 1 October, now at the cusp of a new decade and with a new government taking the helm, it seems as good a time as any to look at some of the key issues Sri Lanka’s elderly population faces. Dealing with issues of the elderly Dr. Tilak De Silva (MBBS), who Ranjith Anne George specialises in eldercare and serves as the Assisted living facility Jude Senior Serenity President of the Primary Care Respiratory As a doctor who worked closely with Group (PCRG), shared that one of the key the form of neglect from their families and caregivers or open hostility and violence. elders, Dr. De Silva noticed there was a issues elders face is quality of care. clear lack of professional long-term care “There is a social stigma with elders. options for the elderly, which led him to It is felt they should be kept at home in start Jude Senior Serenity 15 years ago at a any kind of crisis. Medically, elderly custom-built facility in Negombo. communities are increasing all over the “Elders of a certain age and with world because of advanced healthcare. specific conditions need to be around It is expected that elderly communities professionals and other people who worldwide will double by 2025.” understand what they’re going through,” The social pressure to look after Dr. De Silva explained. “The team at Jude elders at home also frequently leads to Senior Serenity is professionally trained, complications, be it because of unqualified from the matron-in-charge through to the attendants or lack of oversight. “When nurses and aides. Jude Senior Serenity also elders try to take care of themselves, there creates an engaging social atmosphere, with can be confusion that can lead to missed group activities as well as spiritual activities medicine or an overdose which can lead to The main difficulty with assisted for all religions.” further complications, making them less living is the social stigma that comes Dr. De Silva explained that many able to look after themselves. with it. Elders are afraid to leave their elders face psychological difficulties, “There is also an increasing trend homes and families, and families are whether it is about coming to terms with among elders in diseases like Alzheimer’s also reluctant to commit their loved Dining area their age or psychiatric illnesses like and dementia; this is often not diagnosed ones to assisted living facilities dementia. Many elders find it difficult to properly in the early stages in part because Jude Senior Serenity Founder elders looking for traditional medicine.” of the assisted living facility Jude Senior explain these stresses to their families, and the public lacks awareness and also because Dr. Tilak De Silva Kannangara said that HelpAge Sri Serenity, explained that assisted living plays Jude Senior Serenity pays careful attention the symptoms of these conditions – such Lanka also maintains a daycare centre a crucial part in eldercare, particularly for to mental health, organising for counsellors as forgetfulness, wandering around, in Ratmalana, a novel concept where elders who are no longer able to look after to visit regularly, allowing elders to release and aggressive behaviours – are often approximately 60 elders in the area visit themselves. their burdens. overlooked and lead to hostility between Combating these issues “When it comes to choosing to go From a national perspective, every day and engage in various social elders and caregivers.” into assisted living, many elders make the Liyanawaduge shared that HelpAge Sri activities before returning to their families. HelpAge Sri Lanka, the country’s decision themselves,” Dr. De Silva said. Lanka conducts a variety of programmes “We also conduct the HelpAge Youth leading charitable NGO (nongovernmental “The decision is also made by families who and initiatives. Education Programme which visits schools organisation) working for and on behalf have come to realise that their loved one is “Our flagship programme is to perform around the island to educate youths on the of Sri Lanka’s elderly, weighed in on not safe at home and is better served in an cataract surgeries on elders in need. The importance of helping and caring for elders. broader issues the elderly face. HelpAge environment with constant care and trained surgeries are performed at HelpAge Eye We believe it is the duty of children and Sri Lanka Executive Director Samantha professionals who can respond effectively Hospital in Wellawatte and are completely families to look after elders in their old age Liyanawaduge and Communications in an emergency, and when the time comes, free of charge. To date, HelpAge Sri and we always encourage schoolchildren Manager Ananda Kannangara shared make them comfortable towards the end of Lanka has performed over 38,000 cataract not to neglect them (elders) and also not that many of our elderly are not of sound their lives.” surgeries. Our other initiatives include a to send them to elders’ homes during their financial background and they are also twilight days and isolate them from their unable to work, either because of their nationwide mobile medical service for elders; programmes that disadvantaged families.” health or because of the workforce not The HelpAge Sri Lanka Programme being welcoming to the elderly. This leads elders; free equipment like wheelchairs, Our flagship programme is to perform walkers, crutches, hearing aids, and other Division also provides microfinance loans cataract surgeries on elders in need. to many elders being exploited. Elder abuse to elders to start livelihood activities such is also a significant problem, whether in medical aid; and an Ayurveda centre for The surgeries are performed at as agricultural activities, animal husbandry, HelpAge Eye Hospital in Wellawatte home gardening, dressmaking, carpentry, and are completely free of charge. vegetable cultivation, garages, and small To date, HelpAge Sri Lanka has boutiques in order to giving elders access to performed over 38,000 cataract resources they can use to build sustainable surgeries livelihoods in their old age. HelpAge Sri Lanka Executive Director Assisted living in Sri Lankan society Samantha Liyanawaduge Another way to minimise issues of the elderly while providing quality care “We need to cater for elders. Health is assisted living, where elders live in wise, sometimes it’s difficult, especially dedicated elders’ homes with round-the- when elders have specific needs, medications, clock attention and care. and diets. The main difficulty with assisted Assisted living is a controversial topic, living is the social stigma that comes with particularly in Sri Lankan society where it. Elders are afraid to leave their homes and looking after the elderly is something that families, and families are also reluctant to rests with the younger generations and is commit their loved ones to assisted living treated as a family responsibility. facilities because of the stigma.” Eldercare room at Jude Senior Serenity Dr. De Silva, who is also the Founder PHOTOS ESHAN DASANAYAKA HelpAge to conduct elders’ walk in Divulapitiya HelpAge Sri Lanka is set to celebrate The Department of Demography at the major role in the elders’ walk organising day, except on public holidays, at the people made to society. International Day of Older Persons 2020 on University of Colombo will also assist the committee, highlighted that HelpAge is one HelpAge Eye Hospital, Wellawatta along Liyanawaduge further said the a grand scale with its annual elders’ walk in elders’ walk. of the leading social welfare organisations with various disability equipment including objective of conducting the walk is to Divulapitiya, Gampaha on 6 October at 9 During the parade, all elders will wear working for senior citizens in the country. spectacles, wheelchairs, crutches, and raise awareness on the issues of elders and a.m. Over 500 elders between the age group special attire provided by HelpAge Sri “We have been engaged in elders’ hearing aids, free of charge. demand their rights and entitlements for of 60 to 90 years will attend the parade. Lanka. They will carry placards titled “Age annual walks during the last several years HelpAge Chairman Deshabandu Tilak them to live with dignity. This year’s parade is conducted by is not a barrier to lead an active role in the with the objective of strengthening elderly de Zoysa said that ageing is a challenge in All elders will thereafter take part HelpAge, jointly with the Divulapitiya life”. citizens living in all parts of the country.” today’s world and celebrating International in fun-filled activities such as singing, Divisional Secretariat (DS) and the Senior HelpAge Sri Lanka Executive Director He said that HelpAge provides free Day of Older Persons is an opportunity to dancing, and performing in stage dramas at Citizens Federation of Divulapitiya. Samantha Liyanawaduge, who plays a cataract surgeries to all needy elders every highlight the important contributions older the DS office conference hall. the sunday morning brunch 5 Sunday, October 4, 2020 ENVIRONMENT/WILDLIFE

BY DINITHI GUNASEKERA leopard in question as well, before its body The population density is 336 persons per was abhorrently dismembered. square km, with almost double this density The Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera WWCT data from 2010-2020 shows in the wet zone. There is also poverty pardus kotiya), a beast with a tawny THE SURGING that of all the leopards that get caught to distributed differently in different parts of yellow coat adorned with dark spots these wire snare traps, 90% secure a sure the country.” ticket to the afterlife. Forty-seven leopards Digging deeper into this detestable and close-set rosettes, and a more were trapped in wire snares over the past 10 crime against wildlife, organisations such eye-catching veneer as opposed to THREATS TO years, and that has accounted for 42 leopard as the Serendipity Wildlife Foundation the commonly cited Indian leopard, deaths in itself. extended their willingness to investigate the could be said to be one of Lanka’s “There is legal provision about snaring recent climb in leopard deaths using modern most valued attractions. with penalties set in that regard that could and cutting-edge technologies such as These apex predators are adored by be increased in severity. Implementation artificial intelligence (AI), biometrics, facial locals and foreign folk alike, as they rush of law is key and there is now a concerted recognition, surveillance, and open-source to Wilpattu and Yala from all parts of the LANKA’SLANKA’S effort to improve on this,” explained Watson intelligence technology. While they say a world, many a time with the sole purpose of about Sri Lanka’s current stance on wire possible foreign link to these killings is a going on a safari to catch a glimpse of these snares. rising question, it has yet not seen the light magnificent creatures. “The illegalities and severity of this of day. Alas, it is said that Sri Lanka’s existing crime need to be known better by the “We understand that they are leopard population is less than 1,000, and public. Capturing an animal in a snare is bad investigating the possibility of foreign with each passing day, the number only enough, but escalating to selling its parts, links, but I don’t know if they necessarily seems to be dwindling. It is not news that even opportunistically, is a much greater suspect it,” stated the WWTC experts. the Sri Lankan leopard is shortlisted as crime as this is the type of activity that “The leopards are prey to snares. It is only “Endangered” on the IUCN (International is causing the global extinction crisis we in this last incident that there has been a Union for the Conservation of Nature) currently face. situation where the carcass was cut up for Red List since as early as 2016, and the possible sale, and as mentioned before, general public has been made aware of this there is a small local market that needs to be heart-wrenching news of the population of addressed and dealt with. Lanka’s most famous big cat being on the If there is indeed a rise in bushmeat “Yes, there is, as we all know, illegal decline through the headlines time and time BIG demand in Sri Lanka, it is imperative international trading of wildlife – which is again. that there are some targeted awareness the third largest illegal cross-border trade programmes to show how dangerous it (after human trafficking and the illegal drug Population falling CATS is to eat bushmeat: SARS-CoV-2 has trade) – and a very close eye needs to be shown us that kept on how this is to impact our wildlife as drastically Conservation biologist Sri Lanka’s exposure as a nation increases.” The Department of Wildlife Dr. Sriyanie Miththapala Conservation of Sri Lanka (DWC) and Preventive measures the Wilderness and Wildlife Conservation Moving forward into a more Trust (WWCT) estimate nearly 20 recorded “We are attempting to create increased progressive world in which animal rights leopard deaths since January this year, of awareness about this issue together with the are considered as important as human rights, which 10 were killings. authorities – to put out the message that this the journey towards curbing the magnitude Two endangered leopards, including a cannot be tolerated and will be dealt with of this prevalent issue is much more than a rare melanistic black panther, were killed more strictly. Increased ground patrolling mere walk in the park. after getting caught to traps, within less and thereby the removal of snares, and Increased awareness on its illegality and than a span of a week. Another was found spreading awareness on its illegality and educating the country’s constituents on its severely injured in early June 2020. indiscriminate destruction, are a must. Penal Code is crucial. To add fodder to the already blazing “There also needs to be a concerted “Information on fines and jail terms fire, on 25 September, the Ududumbara effort to understand where Sri Lanka falls of setting snares needs to be widely Police arrested three individuals in terms of the commercial wild meat trade, disseminated so as to discourage the setting transporting parts of a leopard; they were which could be on the rise here as it is of these snares. These penalties also need carrying a severed head and different parts internationally.” to be implemented. Also, better land use of the beast’s body for sale, and 17 kg of In addition to these major threats, planning needs to be done so that vegetable leopard flesh in total. Watson and Dr. Kittle, through extensive plots are not put wherever people like and In conversation with WWCT Co- research and proactive measures undertaken in areas used by wildlife, as this does not Founder and Managing Trustee Anjali for the Leopard Project of the WWCT, benefit either the people or wildlife. Watson and WWCT Founding Trustee and gathered that the loss of habitat and Principal Investigator Dr. Andrew Kittle, fragmentation is a continuously pointed The Sunday Morning Brunch learnt that the out major yet silent threat. The clearing of recent heinous event is not exactly a new small parcels of forested and mixed land-use There is legal provision about snaring occurrence. areas in addition to the reckless behaviour with penalties set in that regard “It was a shock to see, as this sort of of safari cab drivers in national parks are that could be increased in severity. thing is gruesome, especially coming on the among other issues. Implementation of the law is key heels of the shot leopard that was still being and there is now a concerted effort to dealt with,” shared Watson and Dr. Kittle. Comparing improve on this “However, we do know that dead WWCT Co-Founder and Managing leopards are occasionally butchered internationally “To be honest, comparing it to other Trustee Anjali Watson for their parts here. It appears that it is PHOTO KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM countries we have worked in, Sri Lanka is usually animals that are accidentally not too bad,” expressed Watson and Dr. caught in snares where the perpetrators “Alternative methods for vegetable plots for consumption and for various medicinal If a widespread demand for Kittle. opportunistically butcher to try and sell that are not as destructive need to be looked beliefs – as well as for teeth and claws for commercialised bushmeat is on the rise, “The fact that the public care about the parts. These parts are the teeth, claws, into. Also, why poaching is occurring, so as amulets and jewellery. But this does not however, which at present is questionable, these issues is in itself evidence of it. The and skins, although flesh is eaten as well in to understand the difference between the need seem to have been a widespread practice. it is an avenue for many more multifaceted recent incidents are due to the changing some areas. In this instance, the skin was for food security and commercial novelty sub-issues to arise. environment of the pandemic, which very poorly removed, which suggests that consumption, as each needs to be dealt with Speaking to The Sunday Morning resulted in increased destructive land use this was not a professional operation. in its own right,” affirmed Watson and Dr. Brunch, conservation biologist Dr. Sriyanie practices (land conversion to vegetable “Of course, this is the kind of thing Kittle on possible preventive measures. Of course, this is the kind of thing that Miththapala stated: “If there is indeed a plots) and food security issues. This could that needs to be carefully monitored as “We need to improve our needs to be carefully monitored as there rise in bushmeat demand in Sri Lanka, it become the new norm as people get used there is always the potential for wider and communication about conservation, and we is always the potential for wider and is imperative that there are some targeted to these negative actions. It is therefore more intense demand to arise. Also, we need to create awareness about why the Sri more intense demand to arise. Also, we awareness programmes to show how important to act now to ensure these issues know about these animals because they get Lankan leopard is important ecologically, know about these animals because they dangerous it is to eat bushmeat: SARS- do not escalate.” intercepted and there are obviously animals economically, and culturally. We need to get intercepted and there are obviously CoV-2 has shown us that.” Dr. Miththapala’s comments were that are killed that are not known about.” show clearly the links between ecosystem animals that are killed that are not much similar to Watson’s concerns. Being truly reprehensible in its wellbeing and human wellbeing. known about Laws and penalties However, she stated that the prompt action regard, the recent surge in leopard deaths, “Leopards are apex predators and WWCT Founding Trustee and Principal that was needed to counter wildlife crimes specifically those intentionally leading in place therefore, they not only influence the and injustice against animals in general to entrapment through the utilisation of Investigator Dr. Andrew Kittle According to Section 31, Subsection 2 functioning of ecosystems, but also provide had to be “a part of a much bigger picture wire snare traps, could be linked with the of the Flora and Fauna Protection Ordinance umbrella protection to all other species with addressing a range of issues”. increasing demand for bushmeat, possibly (FFPO), the Sri Lankan leopard is a the ecosystem,” said Dr. Miththapala in her “There is also a well-known and “We have rampant habitat destruction within Chinese communities and residents strictly conserved species. If an offence is final remarks. well-established demand for other types of and degradation, overexploitation of natural in the Central Highlands in Sri Lanka where committed against the Sri Lankan leopard, As inhabitants of an island with such bushmeat (e.g. wild boar, deer, sambar). resources, pollution, invasive alien species there is talk that consuming leopard flesh is the perpetrators can be arrested even marvellous creatures that add to our nation’s Many people may have partaken in this with spreading in various parts of the country, a cure for asthma. without a warrant on a non-bailable offence attraction, we need to truly be proactive and the incorrect belief that it has no impact. and we are experiencing the impacts of However, Watson and Dr. Kittle said with up to five years in jail. not just say: “Save the leopard!” Whether this incident represents an example climate change. As a result, over 1,300 this cannot be confirmed, stating: “It is not The main cause for these untimely “If all the beasts were gone, man would of this longstanding but relatively low-level species of flora and over 1,200 species possible to determine if this is the case at leopard deaths and fatal injuries are wire die from a great loneliness of spirit, for trend or whether it represents an increase of fauna are under threat. The underlying this juncture. There has long been a fairly snare traps. The black leopard deaths in whatever happens to the beast also happens is uncertain. Again, monitoring of this is 2009 and 2013 were both due to these traps, driver of these changes is that we have limited local market for leopard meat – both critical.” to the man.” and this seems to be the case for the recent many people in a very small area of land. – Chief Seattle

from Sri Lanka’s first islandwide survey, and more importantly, how to escape a WNPS Monthly Lecture: Living dinosaurs crocodile grip should you ever be in the unfortunate situation of being attacked “Living Dinosaurs Crocodile and history: Find out how the fossil by a croc! Psychosis; Crocodiles in Archaeology, of an extinct crocodile, crocodile tooth 5. Discover History, Folklore, Traditional Medicine, ornaments from the 4th Century ACE, and Importance of crocodiles: where the most powerful antibiotics and Human-Crocodile Conflict” is the a world map of Sri Lanka from 1290 ACE come from and how crocodile blood title of this month’s Wildlife and Nature depicting two crocodiles was discovered, is used to treat anemia and many other Protection Society (WNPS) lecture to be as well as much more interesting aspects of the importance of crocodiles. delivered by Dr. Anslem de Silva on 15 information that you may be hearing for Dr. de Silva is the current Regional October 2020, from 6 p.m. onwards at the the first time. Chairman of the Crocodile Specialist Group Jasmine Hall of the Bandaranaike Memorial 2. Traditional medicine: Discover unusual, for South Asia and Iran of the International International Conference Hall (BMICH). traditional treatment techniques used in Union for Conservation of Nature/Species Often called living dinosaurs, the event of crocodile attacks, including Survival Commission (IUCN/SSC). He crocodiles can be called one of the most a mode of “protection” used against has worked extensively on reptiles and successful as a species living on planet crocodile attacks in the 14th Century. amphibians of Sri Lanka for nearly 60 years Earth today, as they have existed virtually 3. Crocodiles in Sri Lanka: How to and has to his credit nearly 500 publications unchanged for the past 65 million years. identify the two crocodile species in Dr. Anslem de Silva on various aspects of herpetology – this Crocodiles are also the largest reptile in the island and interesting accounts of human-animal conflicts in Sri Lanka, includes nearly 60 books and chapters in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is known as one of PHOTO © RISHI GUNASINGHE communal fishing and crocodile houses the human-crocodile conflict is also prestigious publications (some published the best places to watch mugger crocs in Crocodile with Russel viper or “kimbul gewal”. a serious issue which is often not abroad in the UK and India). all of Asia. 4. Human-crocodile conflict: Even presented on five aspects of crocodiles of adequately addressed. Find out details The WNPS lecture is open to all; For the first time, a lecture by Sri though the human-elephant conflict Sri Lanka: about interesting crocodile attacks, how entrance free. Lanka’s own “Crocodile Dundee” will be 1. Crocodiles in Sri Lankan archaeology (HEC) takes centre stage in relation to crocodiles “plan” their attacks, drawn 6 the sunday morning brunch HEALTH Sunday, October 4, 2020

Hope is a fundamental facet of human existence. Understanding the central role of hope in healing and personal growth is an essential element Taking a deeper look of psychotherapy more commonly known as “talk therapy”. It helps in learning to take control and respond to challenging situations in our lives. However, finding the correct therapy is not at psychotherapy without challenges. In this perspective, we spoke to group sessions. Also, similar The success of to medications, psychotherapy University of Colombo these sessions Faculty of Medicine  is ineffective or even harmful depends largely on the if the wrong type of therapy is Department of Psychiatry active participation given for a condition. This is Head, senior lecturer, and of both the patient likely to happen if psychotherapy consultant psychiatrist and the therapist. A is delivered by an unqualified Dr. Madhubhashinee trusting relationship person who will not be able to Dayabandara. must be formed as they guide a person through emotional If delivered appropriately, work towards healing. challenges. psychotherapy is an effective To avoid being exploited, This will help yield the Dr. Dayabandara suggested tool to curb a broad range of maximum benefits mental illnesses and emotional that the client seek help from a difficulties. Psychotherapy when forest. This incident explains clinical psychologist registered combined with medication has how psychotherapy can be with the Sri Lanka Medical shown to be more effective than employed in a very effective, Council (SLMC) or a consultant when treated with medication personalised manner. Many psychiatrist – a doctor who alone in many conditions. It religious and spiritual practices specialises in the treatment of can be utilised to treat various have components that promote mental illnesses. Psychiatry units mental health conditions under positive mental health such in many large hospitals of the the guidance of a psychiatrist, as mindfulness, strengthening country will be able to provide psychologist, or other qualified connections between people and many of the psychotherapies mental health provider. community and assisting with outlined above. These services Even though it usually grievances. It can be employed can be accessed by visiting the involves talking, other methods to help eliminate or control outpatient department (OPD) and such as art, music, drama, and symptoms that can be troubling, requesting to see a doctor working movement can be used. However, thereby helping a person in psychiatry. The University among them, talking therapy seems function better. According to the Psychiatry Unit (Ward 59) of the to be the most predominantly used American Psychiatric Association, National Hospital Sri Lanka is one form. During these sessions, we psychotherapy can be used with Psychotherapy session such unit where clients can access are made aware of our moods, regard to “difficulties in coping these services. Many government feelings, thoughts, and behaviours, with daily life; the impact of institutions such as divisional thus enabling us to take control trauma, medical illness, or loss, secretariats, the National Child of our lives and face challenging like the death of a loved one; and Protection Authority (NCPA), situations by developing healthy specific mental disorders, like and reputed non-governmental organisations have counsellors coping mechanisms. depression or anxiety”. often during childhood. The relationship Psychotherapy can take Types of psychotherapy providing services. These services Counselling – this is a less Psychodynamic therapy was between the can be accessed by anyone many approaches and it should developed by Sigmund Freud be delivered on an individualised formal form of psychotherapy counsellor and client is needing counselling. There have that involves fewer sessions. but is not used much in modern helpful when someone been reports where clients are basis. What works for one as psychiatry. a treatment modality might Often, counsellors deal with is in distress. One financially, emotionally, and even Cognitive behavioural therapy not be ideal for another. Even only a specific subject such as aspect of counselling is sexually exploited. This can be (CBT) – this helps the client though it can be referred to using bereavement, drug abuse, etc. problem-solving where easily avoided by going to well- Counsellors help clients express identify erroneous thinking and reputed and accredited institutions. various names such as therapy, replace these thoughts with more the aim is to focus on talk therapy, counselling, and emotions, vent, and provide a pressing issue of the Finally, Dr. Dayabandara information. The relationship adaptive ones. This is often used emphasised that psychotherapy, if psychosocial therapy, all these in depression. client and guide them terms fall under one broad between the counsellor and utilised appropriately, is a powerful Interpersonal psychotherapy to overcome these umbrella. client is helpful when someone tool to bring about healing and is in distress. One aspect of (IPT) – this looks at how our issues wellbeing. Therefore, when Dr. Dayabandara stated that relationships with others can this type of therapy has been used counselling is problem-solving choosing a therapist, it’s important where the aim is to focus on a contribute to stressful situations Hypnosis occurs when a person to choose a qualified registered even during ancient times. One such as bereavements, disputes, is in a state of highly focused very famous story documented pressing issue of the client and practitioner who can deliver guide them to overcome these or relocation. This method concentration, diminished personalised therapy best suited for in scriptures is the story of Kisa provides coping techniques and peripheral awareness, and Gotami. She lived during Lord issues. When under stress, it is your condition. difficult to clearly identify the strategies to better deal with heightened suggestibility. Buddha’s time. Following the University of Colombo Faculty of these situations. This power of suggestion death of her son, she couldn’t Medicine Department of Psychiatry best course of action a person can About the writer Family and couple (systemic) is often used to facilitate some come to terms with his demise Head Dr. Madhubhashinee take. Problem-solving counselling The writer, Dr. Dineshani Dayabandara therapy – this form of therapy desired behavioural changes. and she took him to the Buddha will help the person identify Hettiarachchi Sirisena, is a family the various options available as involves other members of However, this is infrequently used with the hope that he will bring Psychotherapy can be in psychiatry. physician with a special interest solutions, choose one, act on it, the family to help work out in rare genetic diseases and him back to life. However while delivered on a one-on-one basis or problems together. the Buddha didn’t deny the can involve others, such as family and evaluate the results. There are Ethical issues regenerative medicine currently request, he asked her to find a members, a couple, or a group. The also other forms of counselling A very close relationship working as a that are related to one’s health Hypnosis handful of mustard seeds from a success of these sessions depends Hypnosis is a frequent request develops between a therapist and lecturer at the family that hadn’t experienced largely on the active participation and wellbeing, such as genetic client during psychotherapy. It Department of counselling. by clients seeking psychotherapy. the loss of a loved one. This of both the patient and the Hypnosis is a technique used in involves talking about sensitive Anatomy, Faculty Psychodynamic (psychoanalytic) activity made her realise that therapist. A trusting relationship psychological treatments and only and private issues. Therefore, of Medicine, death is inevitable. must be formed as they work psychotherapy – this is when it’s important to ensure the University of the therapist helps the client works for certain conditions. In Putting aside her grief, towards healing. This will help some cases, such as psychosis, it client’s confidentiality. This Colombo, she buried her son in the yield the maximum benefits. understand current problems in might be compromised in large Sri Lanka. the context of past experiences, can even aggravate the condition.

11th Annual Symposium on APHNH reiterates Vaccines and Infectious Diseases The 11th Annual yy “PCR: Unravelling the physicians, pharmacists, and that healthcare worker Symposium on Vaccines and mystery” by University of marketers of vaccines. Infectious Diseases, organised Colombo senior professor of Its objectives are to study by the Vaccine and Infectious microbiology Prof. Jennifer vaccine and vaccine-related Diseases Forum of Sri Lanka, Perera issues, and educate healthcare safety is patient safety will be held on 11 October 2020 yy “Vaccination of the professionals and the public at the Faculty of Medicine of immunocompromised” by about it. It is now recognised In commemoration of World health workers faced the most To keep doctors and physicians safe, the University of Colombo. Kandy Teaching Hospital by the Ministry of Health and Patient Safety Day, the Association of significant threat through increased non-emergency surgeries were only The Chief Guest will be consultant immunologist Dr. the World Health Organisation Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes exposure. Dr. Peiris affirmed that the performed if the patient had tested University of Colombo Vice Dhanushka Dasanayake (WHO) as a stakeholder in Chancellor Prof. Chandrika matters regarding vaccines and (APHNH) recognised that healthcare association and its members made it a negative for Covid-19. Additionally, yy “Pneumococcal vaccine: Wijeyratne. The keynote it has had regular discussions worker protection has been integral priority to follow Covid-19 precautions clinical practices like emergency Next priority for Sri Lanka” address on “Facing challenges with them. In fact, the to ensuring patient safety during the and operational guidelines. intubations were carried out in isolated by Vaccine and Infectious of Covid-19” will be delivered WHO supports the annual pandemic. The Ministry of Health directives areas, and ultraviolet air sterilisation Diseases Forum of Sri by National Institute of symposium of the forum. In keeping with the trajectory of laid out stringent regulations that was introduced to ensure that nurses Lanka President senior Infectious Diseases (IDH) At present, the forum is this year, the theme for World Patient APHNH member hospitals and and doctors would not be in immediate consultant paediatrician Dr. senior consultant physician Dr. advocating the introduction of Safety Day was “Health Worker nursing homes abided by. In addition danger. H.T. Wickremasinghe Safety: A Priority for Patient Safety”. to World Health Organisation (WHO) “Our thorough precautions are Ananda Wijewickrama. the pneumococcal conjugate Healthcare institutions internationally hygiene practices, hospitals made a testament to our commitment to This will be followed by The symposium will be of vaccine to the National focused on the link between healthcare it a priority to triage and isolate protecting employees and patients, lecture discussions on: much use to specialist and non- Immunisation Programme, worker safety and patient safety, and patients and visitors. Additionally, which, so far, we have done yy “Can we forget influenza” specialist doctors, staff nurses, and the influenza vaccine to discussed initiatives used to protect member institutions proactively added successfully,” said Dr. Peiris. by Medical Research pharmacists, and medical high-risk groups, especially frontline workers. precautionary measures. Notably, “The best defence against Institute National Influenza students. pregnant women. “Sri Lanka has had one of the in most hospitals, daily internal any outbreak is a healthy medical Centre Head Consultant The Vaccine and most successful Covid-19 responses in sanitation audits were conducted workforce. We need to keep investing Medical Virologist Dr. Jude Infectious Diseases Details regarding the world, with only 236 active cases and batch rotation was introduced to in health worker safety, and the Jayamaha Forum of Sri Lanka was registration could be founded in 2009 by doctors as at 16 September 2020. The key to minimise the risk of exposure. lessons we learnt will be useful if there yy “Why have we failed to obtained by calling Dr. interested in vaccines and this resounding success was keeping Beyond these foundations, is ever another crisis of this nature. control TB” by senior Dulmini Kumarasinghe on vaccination. It consists of the men and women in the frontlines APHNH hospitals recognised that Keeping our healthcare workers safe is consultant respiratory 0763116767 or emailing paediatricians, microbiologists, of this crisis safe,” said APHNH a concerted effort to keep health the least we can do after the enormous physician Dr. Kirthi kdulminimanoja@yahoo. immunologists, President Dr. Lakith Peiris. workers safe would also have to sacrifice they have made for our Gunasekera com. During the ongoing pandemic, include medical process reengineering. country.” epidemiologists, family the sunday morning brunch 7 Sunday, October 4, 2020 GAMES/TOONS

9 Sitting on 58 “Give it __!” 10 Silent 60 Hosiery headaches61 SOLUTION FOR 20 SEPTEMBER Crossword 11 Type of blouse Subdue with a shock CROSSWORD CLUES 12 ‘40s-’50s “Giant Brain” 62 Telltale warning, maybe Across 49 Wanderers you out of a corner 13 Stable supplies 65 Gorsuch colleague 1 It often involves a 50 Feeling blue with the 92 Pallid 14 Cool 66 Marshall Plan pres. password wrong publisher? 93 First baseman Wally most 15 Formal choice 69 Dental office simulation 7 Really wet spot 53 Seed cover famous for being replaced 16 Judge’s choice 70 Power co. output 12 Lucy’s neighbor of old TV 54 Sean of “Stranger Things” by Lou Gehrig 17 Missouri tributary 71 Street __ 17 Narrow, roadwise 55 Miami suburb with a 95 “Was __ harsh?” 18 River to Lyon 72 Like some orders 18 Town square art Seminole-derived name 96 Mex. miss 20 Modern crime-solving aid 73 Gripes 19 Aced 59 Timbuktu’s land 97 Intl. commerce group 23 Blue Jays, in crawls 74 Exceed 21 Abrasions 60 Type of card or watch 98 “ÀQuiŽn __?” 26 Vie for office 75 Time for night owls 22 Banking convenience with 61 “My Cousin Vinny” Oscar 99 Liable to sing? 31 Chinese menu assurance 78 Wine label word the wrong comic magician? winner 101 Tracking device 32 Blue 80 Texter’s “My bad” 24 Prince Valiant’s love 63 Dom PŽrignon maker, 102 African currency with the 34 Arrived in a cloud of dust, 81 Ways of looking at an issue 25 Appear suddenly familiarly wrong mapmaker? maybe 85 Impressive, as a deal 27 Prepare for cooking, as 64 Narcissism 105 “You didn’t start yet, did 35 Golfer’s pocketful 86 Latin catchall beans 66 Underworld you?” 36 CIA predecessor 87 One-named Swedish 28 Org. once led by Bush 41 67 Part of 41-Acr. 107 Watergate judge John 37 TV warrior princess singer with the 1997 hit 29 Hereditary unit 68 Metalworker with the 108 Enter 38 Green shampoo “Show Me Love” 30 Les ƒtats-__ wrong gun manufacturer? 109 Tea prep vessels 40 Where it’s risky to be out 88 __ fair 31 DEA agent 71 Like rough seas 110 Exams for sophs and jrs. 42 China’s Zhou __ 90 Specified 32 Editor’s “On second 73 Sty wallower 111 Hindu life lesson 43 Biker’s headgear, perhaps 91 Shows concern thought” decision 76 Chicago-based grocery 112 Influenced 44 Kind of vb. 93 Law office helpers 33 That, in Santiago franchise 45 “I Am __”: Jenner reality 94 “Big Blue” Down show 96 Language description 34 Builder with the wrong 77 Amend 1 Reunion arrivals surveyor? 78 Saturn, to Greeks 46 Dominate derived from sailors’ chatter 2 Louvre sculpture of the 47 Barbers trim them 98 Breakaway group 38 “The Age of Reason” writer 79 Serious searches wrong sister? 39 Gives sparingly 81 “Smell Ready” deodorant 49 Identify 99 John was one: Abbr. 3 Really tickle 50 Crooner Chris 100 Himalayan denizens 41 CPR pro brand 4 __ Nui: Easter Island 42 Hosp. triage specialists 82 Rent again 51 Certain club restriction 101 “Lovely” citation issuer of 5 Having four sharps 52 “Can __ help me?” song 43 Refuses to concede 83 In __: unborn 6 Ancestry.com datum: Abbr. 44 Small file folders, e.g. 84 Cheap knockout with the 54 Genoa gal pal 103 Actress Scala 7 Exasperating, like a car that 56 Intel product with the 104 Manhattan sch. 47 San Antonio-to-Dallas dir. wrong puppet? won’t start 48 Big Apple paper, for short 89 Corner key that may get wrong toon rodent? 106 Contribution from the kitty 8 ‘60s dance craze 57 Hangs on to 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 7 October 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 20 SEPTEMBER First prize (Rs. 5,000) Consolation prize winners T Muzamila, Katugastota 1. M. Prasanna, Valaichchenai Second prize (Rs. 3,000) 2. Jainulabdeen M.I., Kandy 3. Dharshi Gomez, Colombo 15 Kamala Dharmasena, 4. Sumana Amaradasa, Colombo 12 Hendala, Wattala 5. Nilmini Godwin, Anuradhapura

This week’s winners will be announced on 18 October

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) 8 the sunday morning brunch EVENTS/STYLE Sunday, October 4, 2020 Park Street Mews launches new menu BY NAVEED ROZAIS Looking forward and moving beyond the turmoil of the last few months, the ever- popular Park Street Mews Maple sugar pumpkin pie topped with Restaurant is launching whipped cream and roasted pecan a delightful new menu to Energise your skin with wow its customers. “We are mindful of ™ these challenging times we Sothys Detox Energie are presently going through, BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE skincare in general. but on a positive note, we are “Overall, Sri introducing a fresh, varied, and Sothys Detox Lankans show an interest exciting menu to suit everyone’s Prawn, avocado, ginger, sesame, and in maintaining their soy on rye sourdough sandwich Energie™ Intensive taste and offer a delightful appearance. Excluding a twist to the ordinary,” said the Treatment is a new treatment developed by few outliers, the majority Harpo’s Managing Director. appreciate the need to The new menu combines Sothys Paris in order to combat pollution which look good. They show an fresh ingredients with a wide interest in looking their variety of flavours, and mixes has become one of the most common factors that best,” she said, adding that traditional Park Street Mews likely with social media, Restaurant delicacies with negatively impacts our skin. Speaking to Sothys there is that understating of exciting new dishes. Roast chicken with hummus and preventative measures, as accompanied with fattoush salad, Managing Director Soraya The new menu by Chef opposed to treatments, once Kamal takes diners on a culinary served with pita bread De Zoysa, she shared that The Park Street Mews one of the primary reasons Sothys Managing Director a problem has arisen. She journey inspired by a mix of Restaurant launches its new beef burger; wok-fried chilli Soraya De Zoysa beef with yoghurt and coriander they’ve chosen to introduce said that it is much better Asian and western flavours with menu tomorrow (5). Please anti-acne, hydration, dark wrap; and a choice of vegetarian this treatment for their Sri to place importance in an emphasis on accompaniments, visit their website at www. Lankan herb sauce. circles, etc., this treatment options for non-meat eaters. Lankan patrons is due to taking care of oneself pre- dips, sauces, and the presentation parkstreetmewsrestaurant. The fresh pasta ranges from helps re-energise one’s The dessert range, curated the environmental factors emptively, as opposed to of food, providing an artistic, com or call them on 0112 a choice of homemade Italian skin, allowing the cells to by the invaluable pastry chef, that wreak havoc on one’s when a problem has arisen fresh look with a modern 300 133 for reservations. sauces and the butternut squash carry on their regularly offers decadent confections skin, being ever-present in and has worsened. western-Asian twist. ravioli requires special mention, programmed work in like peach and blueberry our tropical climate. De Zoysa also added The starters offer fresh fruity watermelon, avocado with as it is a unique dish to the Park repairing and revitalising Pavlova, rhubarb cheesecake, She shared that that nowadays, skincare fruits and vegetables; Asian tofu and basil salad. Street Mews Restaurant. your skin, which results in maple sugar pumpkin pie, and often the dirt or dust we and self-care are not at all specials with Vietnamese The main dishes are bold Going local, the Sri brighter and more energised red velvet cake, artistically encounter can enter through limited to women and that paper rolls with bean curd; and cross-cultural. For meat Lankan rice and curry with a skin. presented to make the the surface of the skin and according to observations, ever-popular chicken liver lovers, the western favourites choice of seafood, meat, and De Zoysa shared that experience that much more negatively impact our skin nearly 35% of their patrons pâté accompanied with citrus, feature beef tenderloin with fish with traditional vegetable Sothys offers a complete indulgent. cells, causing premature tend to be men and the berry chutney, and apple; and the classic Dijon mustard and accompaniments are served for solution in the form of As ever, the Park Street aging. Our skin serves as numbers are growing. prawns with marinated shaved cognac butter sauce, oven-roast lunch and dinner. “in-salon treatment” Mews Restaurant complements a natural barrier against She also spoke about coconut and quail egg with a pork medallion with honey The menu provides an array and home care, and the its diverse menu with a wide external factors, and while the effects of the pandemic tangy cocktail sauce. The salad mustard and poached apple, of light meals with a selection professional Sothys Detox selection of fresh fruit juice, fine it succeeds at keeping on their business mode, range includes low-carb and and grilled lamb chop. Seafood of sandwiches and wraps with Energie ™ Intensive wine, and premium liquor to most things out, it isn’t especially considering that healthy options with chickpea, dishes include new flavours smoked salmon, prawn, and Treatment will leave your give its customers a warm and completely impenetrable. their services are contact- bean curd, yoghurt, mint, and with grilled salmon with creamy avocado on rye sourdough skin instantly re-energised enjoyable dining experience. Pollution hurts our skin’s based services, and said that coriander salad; Camembert coconut and tamarind sauce sandwich; beef baguette with and radiant, thanks to its during the lockdown, their cheese with apple purée; and a barrier’s functioning by as well as seared tuna with Sri mushroom; sizzling smoky PHOTOS KRISHAN KARIYAWASAM breaking down collagen key ingredients; organic main purpose was to help and the lipids contained elderberry extract, their patrons practise taking within it, causing irritation, detoxifying peptides, and care of their skin at home. rashes and breakouts, organic Siberian ginseng. She said that even after the Body yogurts: A unique and sustainable uneven skin tone, What’s more is that every curfew was lifted, there pigmentation, dullness, as customer will be given free were many who were afraid well as the formation of home care at the end of to venture out and so they skincare formula by The Body Shop wrinkles. each treatment. established a home delivery Global beauty brand The absorb into one’s skin. Sothys launched the We also asked system to get the products to Body Shop has consistently The gel-cream formula has Sothys Detox Energie™ De Zoysa about her their customers. adapted its formulas and numerous features, being fast Intensive Treatment to observations on Sri As for the present products to suit the evolving absorbing, non-sticky, and non- fight toxin and free radical Lankans and skincare – situation, Sothys has needs of its customers over greasy. It aims to provide 48 build-up in the skin while whether Lankans do in fact taken all the necessary the years. Amongst these hours of lightweight moisture protecting the skin from care for their skin enough precautions, and she are body yogurts, a range of along with a healthy long-term external aggressions such – and she said that as of mentioned that their The Almond Milk Body Yogurt is late, things have certainly therapists are regularly products derived from a formula glow. User trials on 104 men recommended for sensitive skin as pollution, UV rays, and which has effectively aided in The Strawberry Body Yogurt, like and women yielded results stress. The treatment is improved; with social monitored and they’ve others in the range, offers 48 hours media allowing a wider even introduced treatments transforming body moisturising of moisture where more than 86% of users moisturising amidst the busiest unique in that while their habits around the world. agreed that the texture works of schedules. specific treatments are spread of knowledge of the that are zero-contact- A range of lightweight further enriched with their own on damp skin, doesn’t feel With a global reach that often focused on certain importance of skincare, she based, which has allowed moisturisers, body yogurts are community trade ingredients sticky, absorbs instantly, and comprises more than 3,000 elements like anti-aging, said that there is a growing them to get back into the enriched with community trade sourced from around the world; leaves skin feeling moisturised. stores in above 60 countries, interest in treatments and swing of things amidst the organic almond milk sourced moringa extract from Rwanda, This texture was derived with The Body Shop is constantly new normal. from Spain, an ingredient English rose essence from one goal in mind: To enable striving to push the boundaries Herefordshire, and organic proven to effectively condition customers to fit in body of skincare and working to The Sothys Detox Energie™ and nourish skin. In Sri Lanka, banana purée from Ecuador. enrich its products, the lives Thirty-five percent of home care range comprises the range is available in six of people, and our planet. Its a cream, serum, essence, sensorial flavours: Rose, women in the UK stated that range of body yogurts can be they don’t routinely use a body ampoules, and primer Banana, Strawberry, Almond purchased for home delivery and the Sothys Detox Milk, Moringa, and Ginger. moisturiser because it takes by contacting 0115 765 656 too long to apply (UK Body Energie™ Intensive Each has a unique fragrance (Colombo) and 0812 233 008 Treatment is available at and comprises extracts known Care segmentation, 2CV, June (Kandy) or in-store at The 2015). This prompted The the Sothys Esthéti Centres to boost hydration and various Body Shop flagship store on down Kynsey Road and other skincare benefits. The Body Shop to develop body Bagatale Road, Odel Alexandra yogurts with a unique texture in Negombo as well as Moringa, British Rose, and The Moringa Body Yogurt is popular Place, Kandy City Centre, and selected Sothys salons. Banana Body Yogurts are that takes a mere 15 seconds to for its fresh, floral fragrance Colombo City Centre. CEAT donates Rs. 10 m in equipment and PPE CEAT Kelani Holdings presented by Sri Lanka’s The items donated included a has made a series of donations leading tyre manufacturer to six transport ventilator, two infusion of equipment and consumables institutions, namely the National pumps, a continuous positive essential to the continuing battle Institute of Infectious Diseases airway pressure (CPAP) machine, against the spread of Covid-19 in (IDH), Ministry of Health, Sri two suction apparatus units, a Sri Lanka, supporting key state Jayewardenepura General Hospital bed pan washer, reusable and institutions to sustain their efforts and its Postgraduate Medical disposable personal protection even as the country manages its Training Centre, Lady Ridgeway equipment (PPE), reusable personal return to relative normalcy. Hospital for Children, Badulla protection overalls, face shields, Some of the donations made by CEAT to state institutions involved in the battle against Donations exceeding General Hospital, and Sri Lanka PCR test kits, RNA extraction kits, the spread of Covid-19 Rs. 10 million in value were Police. and viral transport media. Content to check out Rain | Read aloud videos with I attempted to kill 1. Sri Lanka’s most obscure and Room to Read myself, but… puzzling laws Pulse Kids together with Room to Log onto our 2. Marine recreational activities Read brings quality education with Sri Lanka offers YouTube channel for 3. Pork bistek fun and easy reads. Log onto our the full video YouTube channel for more! Send in your requests to +94707 078 573 and hear your favourite tunes instantly on www.islandpulse.lk! THIS WEEK ON Facebook: slpulse Instagram: @pulse_lk YouTube: Pulse.lk

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