PROTECT YOURSELF FROM COVID-19

ACTIVE CASES TOTAL CASES MONDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2020 SAVE THE 36,677 ARE SRI LANKAN MOHOTTALA’S OCEANS THIS DEATHS RECOVERED TAMIL CRICKETERS VISION 8,944 DISCRIMINATED AGAINST? FOR BOI CHRISTMAS THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP 176 27,552 »SEE PAGE 7 »SEE PAGE 3 UNTIL 8.00 P.M. ON 21 DECEMBER 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU »SEE PAGE 5 Lesson from Sri Lanka Indian Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Bipin Rawat has said that Nepal is free to act Home quarantine independently in international affairs but must be vigilant and learn from Sri Lanka and other nations that have also signed agreements with other countries in the region, NDTV reported. Contd. on page 2 MUSLIM COVID BURIALS for migrant workers? Govt. urged to z Covid committee to decide today z 48,000 await repatriation take just decision BY PAMODI WARAVITA Secretary to the State Ministry Suntharam returning from any country will be allowed to The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) last Arumainayaham told The Morning yesterday be home-quarantined for 14 days. However, week said the Government should come to The National Operation Centre for Prevention of Covid-19 Outbreak (20) that the meeting will focus on moving the question of whether home quarantine a reasonable and just decision without any (NOCPCO) and the State Ministry for Foreign Employment Promotion and away from the current institution-based would be allowed in any district in Sri Lanka further delay over the issue of the disposal Market Diversification will be meeting today (21) to decide on allowing quarantine system to an individual, home- has still not been discussed, Arumainayaham of Muslim Covid-19 victims’ bodies. home quarantine for 48,000 migrant workers who are waiting to return to based one. further stated. Contd. on page 2 the island. According to the new plan, migrant workers Contd. on page 2

LOCKDOWN DURING FESTIVE PERIOD NEW COVID-19 DETECTIONS No decision, TOTAL CASES DO US PROUD testing to 33,260*Stats updated as at 8.00 p.m. on 20 December COVID-19 5 more Covid deaths continue A total of five Covid-19-related BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA holidays as a precaution deaths was reported yesterday (20), to prevent the spread of the Department of Government The Government has Covid-19, according to Information announced. not yet taken a decision National Operation Centre as to whether it should go for Prevention of Covid-19 Recoveries in Sri Lanka for a lockdown to restrict Outbreak (NOCPCO) Head movements during the Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva. pass 28,000 upcoming Christmas Contd. on page 2 The Ministry of Health said that another 715 patients who were previously tested positive for COVID-19 Covid-19 have recovered and been discharged from hospitals. This More areas brings the total number of Covid-19 Isolation recoveries in the country to 28,276. isolated in lifted in US approves Moderna Gampaha as second vaccine several Three areas in Peliyagoda and Kiribathgoda will be under Moderna has been approved as the isolation from 5 a.m. today (21), country’s second Covid-19 vaccine areas by the US Government, clearing Several areas in the Gampaha stated National Operations the way for millions of doses to be Under the patronage of Defence Secretary Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne, 187 cadets groomed at the Sri Lanka Military and Colombo Districts had their Centre for Prevention of Covid- released, BBC reported last week. Academy passed out with flying colours in a spectacular passing-out parade isolation status lifted at 5 a.m. 19 Outbreak (NOCPCO) Head PHOTO LALITH PERERA today (21), as directed by Army Army Commander Shavendra Dangerous Commander Shavendra Silva. Silva. PCR testing for foreigners COVID-19 VACCINE Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 in nearby hotels Drugs Ordinance State Minister of Primary In SL by mid February: Healthcare, Epidemics, and Covid to be amended Disease Control Dr. Sudarshini State Minister SL to open mission Fernandopulle has instructed health BY SARAH HANNAN officials to explore the possibility Discussions are underway to of Pharmaceutical Production, of conducting PCR tests at nearby A committee comprising religious leaders, bring down a vaccine to prevent Supply and Regulation Prof. in Romania tourist hotels to avoid unnecessary legal experts, members of the security Covid-19 by mid-February next Channa Jayasumana. Sri Lanka plans to open an diversify foreign employment delays in PCR tests at the airport. forces, and those who conduct rehabilitation year, according to State Minister Contd. on page 2 embassy in Romania next year, opportunities, the Foreign programmes for drug addicts, is to be through which both countries Ministry said. appointed to recommend areas of improvement have pledged to increase and Contd. on page 2 Schools in Galle div. and amendment to the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, it is learnt. LANDSLIDE WARNING closed till next year Contd. on page 2 We don’t need a All schools in the Galle Education Division will further remain closed NORTHEAST MONSOON until the new term in 2021, Secretary secular state: PM Issued for three to the Ministry of Education in Southern Province Ranjith Yapa said. Prime Minister Mahinda The Premier expressed these views Establishing Rajapaksa last week said what while speaking at the State Christmas districts Sri Lankans need is not a secular Festival held at the Church of Our The National Building several areas in the Kandy, Elders at Modara care over the island state but a society that lives by Lady of Fatima in Kurunegala. Research Organisation (NBRO) Matale and Nuwara Eliya home infected Northeast monsoon conditions have been religious values. Contd. on page 2 yesterday (20) issued a Level Districts. A total of 45 people in an elders’ established over the island, the Department 1 landslide early warning for Contd. on page 2 home in Modara have been infected of Meteorology announced. Showers or with Covid-19, Modara Medical thundershowers will occur at times in the REOPENING AIRPORTS Officer of Health Dr. Sasanka Northern, Eastern, North Central, and Uva Ranasinghe stated. Provinces and in the Matale, Nuwaraeliya, and Hambantota Districts. No final decision Travel restricted in 3 Contd. on page 2 on tourist arrivals villages in Beruwala DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR TRAFFIC A final decision on the date soon, according to Secretary to Travel restrictions have been imposed on three grama niladhari Mass transfers and number of tourists that the State Ministry of Primary divisions in Maggona, Beruwala. would be brought down to the Healthcare, Epidemics, and country as a pilot project to see Covid Disease Control Dr. Amal to avoid ‘name the viability of reopening the Harsha. Treatment at country for tourism is to be made Contd. on page 2 and shame’ Ayurveda hospitals BY HIRANYADA DEWASIRI State Minister of Indigenous Medicine Promotion, Rural and The planned transfer of hundreds of Russian tourists Ayurvedic Hospitals Development, employees at the Department of Motor and Community Health Sisira Traffic (DMT) is intended to ensure the first to arrive in SL Jayakody stated the treatment of corrupt employees among them will not be Following the reopening of to enter Sri Lanka as the first set Covid-19 patients in Ayurvedic identified at their new offices, The Morning Sri Lanka’s airports, a group of of travellers visiting the country. hospitals will commence soon. learnt. Russian tourists has been allowed Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 SEE FULL STORIES ON PAGE 2 2 the morning NEWS Monday , December 21, 2020 Contd. from page 1

Treatment Centre (28). been imposed on the Maggona East, and assured that measures would be Meanwhile, isolation will continue Home A total of 36,667 cases of coronavirus Maggona West, and Akkaramalai Govt. urged... taken to vaccinate all Sri Lankans in Duwe Watta in the Welikadamulla patients has been reported in Sri Lanka Grama Niladhari Divisions. In a statement, TNA Spokesman M.A. once the WHO approves a Covid-19 GN Division in Wattala; Rohana quarantine... so far, while 8,229 of them are currently Dr. Seneviratne said that 361 cases Sumanthiran said the Parliamentary vaccine. Vihara Mawatha in the Pattiya-North Speaking to The Morning earlier in under medical care. have been reported from the Beruwala Group of the party took a unanimous – Maheesha Mudugamuwa GN Division, Meegahawatta and the day, Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Meanwhile, Sri Lanka also witnessed MOH Division so far, while 107 decision in this regard. Peliyagoda GN Divisions in Peliyagoda; Bureau (SLBFE) Deputy General 171 fatalities from the virus. patients have been reported from the He said it was compulsory to arrive Wedikanda in the Hunupitiya-North Manager R.K.K.M.P. Randeniya said Maggona area. at a final decision with regard to the SL to open... GN Division in Kiribathgoda; Warana that since repatriated workers are disposal of bodies of Muslims who die Foreign Secretary Admiral Prof. Temple Road, Kaththota Road, and required to obtain a negative Covid- US approves... of Covid-I9 without delay. Jayanath Colombage and State Bhidra Mawatha entrance at Thihariya 19 PCR test before flying back to Sri The US Food and Drug Treatment at... “It appears that in the view of medical Secretary for Foreign Affairs of North and Thihariya East GN Divisions Lanka, a home-based quarantine system Administration (FDA) authorised He stated this at the 18th annual experts, the burial of bodies would not Romania Cornel Feruţă held virtual in Nittambuwa; and the MC housing could be carried out successfully. the US-made jab about a week after general meeting of the Government result in any harm to others. It would bilateral foreign office consultations scheme of the Thalduwa GN Division According to Randeniya, the current approving a Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine Ayurvedic Medical Officers’ also appear that in many countries the on 16 December. in Negombo. institution-based quarantine system has which is now being distributed. Association. world over, bodies are being buried on Prof. Colombage announced the The isolation of Nidahas Mawatha made it difficult for most workers to The US has agreed to purchase 200 A report containing public views the basis that no harm would accrue to opening of the Sri Lanka Embassy in the Hiripitiya-South GN Division return since they either have to wait for million doses of Moderna, and six on Ayurvedic treatment for Covid-19 any others. in Romania next year and reaffirmed in Veyangoda and Kumarimulle GN space at a government-run quarantine million may be ready to ship now. patients was also handed over to the “In these circumstances, we state Sri Lanka’s commitment to further Division in Pugoda will also continue. shelter or privately pay for a hotel, “To go from having a sequence of a State Minister at the event. that it is obligatory on the part of the consolidate the excellent bilateral In Colombo, the isolation of Mutwal, he said. virus in January to having two vaccines Government to discuss this issue with engagement spanning 63 years since Kotahena, Grandpass, Aduruppu Street, However, since it is expensive to be available in December is a remarkable the Muslim leaders and come to a 1957. Dam Street, Keselwatta, Maligawatta, quarantined at hotels, along with the achievement,” said Meharry Medical Issued for... reasonable and just decision without Focusing on co-operation in the Dematagoda, Maradana police areas, additional cost of repatriation flights, College CEO Dr. James Hildreth. Accordingly, people living in the any further delay,” he said. labour sector, State Secretary Feruţă Wekanda and Hunupitiya GN Divisions Randeniya stated that a decision to An FDA advisory panel last Thursday Doluwa and Ududumbara Divisional He said the denial of the right of stated that despite the pandemic, in Slave Island, Wanathamulla GN allow home quarantine would come (17) voted 20-0 with one abstention that Secretariat Divisions and surrounding the Muslim people to dispose of their Romania has continued to issue work Division in Borella, Laksanda Sevana as a welcome move for many workers. the benefits of the Moderna vaccine areas in Kandy, Elahera in Matale, and dead bodies in keeping with the tenets permits to skilled and semi-skilled housing scheme in Wellampitiya, When contacted, Community outweighed the risks for those aged 18 Walapane in Nuwara Eliya are advised of their religion is a violation of their workers from Sri Lanka. South of Ferguson Road, 60-Watte Development Services Executive and over, and authorisation followed to be cautious. fundamental right and therefore should He stated that this week alone, at Cinnamon Garden, Demalawatte Director Andrew Samuel, who has on Friday. “Since the rainfall within the last 24 not continue. 1,500 new work permits were issued. in Mirihana, and Mayura Place and been working on migrant issues for Regulators reported earlier this week hours has exceeded 75mm, be watchful There are currently over 8,000 Sri Naseerwatte in the Wellawatte Police the past 12 years, agreed that allowing that the Moderna vaccine was safe and for the possibility of landslides, slope Lankan workers in Romania employed area is to continue. home quarantine would decrease the 94% effective. failures, rock falls, cutting failures, No final... predominantly in the apparel, cost of repatriation for most workers. and ground subsidence, if the rain He told The Morning that discussions hospitality, and construction sectors, However, he cautioned of the need continues,” it said. were still ongoing to fix a date to bring with more skilled job opportunities Mass... for proper guidelines regarding the two Schools in... NBRO instructed people living down tourists and the number of tourists opening up in other fields such as IT. “If we only transferred these corrupt weeks at home, as many workers would He pointed out that 23 schools in landslide susceptible areas to be that would be brought down under the Feruţă further stated that the employees, they would face issues be returning to their families after a belonging to the Galle Education extra vigilant, and to be ready to move pilot project. economic stimulus offered by the working at their new offices. Some couple of years, and this would be an Division have been closed in this quickly to safe places if the heavy rain “We are focusing on bringing down Romanian Government to workers in of the DMT staff undergo customary emotional period for them. manner and it is planned to commence continues. an amount that can be handled by the Romania had also been extended to annual transfers. So now the employees academic activities in those schools “Follow the instructions of the NBRO health authorities without giving them cover foreign workers. accused of corruption will be transferred from next year. and the Disaster Management Centre,” an additional burden,” he said. Both sides agreed to revitalise alongside them,” stated State Minister No decision... The decision has been taken by it stated. The reopening of the tourism sector and expand the bilateral trade and of Vehicle Regulation, Bus Transport “As of now, there’s no such plan to go the Southern Provincial Covid-19 is dependent on the success of the pilot investment portfolio to fully avail of Services and Carriages and Automotive for a lockdown,” he told The Morning. Management Committee. project to be launched, the Secretary the EU GSP+ facility and access the Industries Dilum Amunugama to The Lt. Gen. Silva stressed that necessary “The Southern Provincial Covid-19 We don’t... said, adding that a decision has been wider markets in Central Europe and Morning yesterday (20). advice has already been communicated Management Committee had decided “Our responsibility and the duty is made to conduct the pilot project. Asia. He added that these corrupt to the public as well as hotel owners. to close schools from Monday (21 to foster religious values and develop However, no decision on the dates of employees were identified through the However, the Government couldn’t December) until Wednesday (23 religious places of worship. What we bringing down the tourists is fixed yet. deployment of intelligence officers, who force anyone to undergo a test or declare December). However, schools will need is not a secular state. A memorable Meanwhile, the Ministry of Tourism, Establishing... have been monitoring the Department that a testing is a must, he said. be held only until Wednesday as the response was given to those who said at a meeting held last week regarding Showers or thundershowers for a year. As learnt by The Morning, a number year-end holiday begins on Wednesday. no to religions in the past. What we reopening the airport, reached a decision will occur at several places in the “The identified employees were of hotels in and outside Colombo have Accordingly, schools in the Galle need is a society that lives by religious to allow only 500 tourists to arrive in Sri Sabaragamuwa Province and in the advised against these practices, and already been reserved while some hotels Education Division will be reopened values. We can establish such a society Lanka daily, according to the Ministry. Kalutara, Galle, Matara, and Kandy were made aware of the monitoring; are fully booked, especially for 24, 25, with the commencement of the new only by safeguarding religious values. Accordingly, all arriving tourists will Districts after 2 p.m. yet some of them continued with their and 26 December. school term in 2021,” Yapa said. As a Government, we will not hesitate be subjected to PCR tests and referred Fairly heavy falls above 75 mm corrupt practices,” added the State When asked how it could affect the He said they have been informed by to take action needed in this regard.” for quarantine at the respective hotels. can be expected at some places in the Minister. He made these comments measures taken by the Government to the health authorities that the Covid- He said the Catholic community There are 58 hotels registered for Eastern Province and in the Matale, in response to allegations made by control the spread of the virus, the Army 19 situation in the Galle Education continued to preserve the message of this purpose and the operations at Nuwaraeliya, and Polonnaruwa ‘Workers Struggle Centre’ Organising Commander said: “As of now, we’re Division has been brought somewhat love during the most difficult of times. these hotels are conducted under the Districts. Secretary Duminda Nagamuwa, who not planning to put travel restrictions under control. “In the aftermath of the Easter Covid-19 containment regulations, the Fairly strong gusty winds up to 50 claimed that the DMT Commissioner, or to restrict movements. What we are However, school textbooks for the Sunday attacks, the Catholic community Ministry said. kmph can be expected in the eastern under a directive of the President, is doing is conducting a random rapid year 2021 have not been provided to practised patience without aggravating It is also reported that a Russian tour slopes of central hills; Northern, North transferring 600 of its employees to pave antigen test which is very effective at schoolchildren in this division yet, the situation. I’m also glad the way the group has been granted permission to Central, and North Western Provinces; the way for the DMT’s privatisation. the moment. We have advised that it’s he added. members of the Catholic community visit Sri Lanka and will be the first batch and the Hambantota District. “We suspect that these transfers are better to go for testing to make sure that The relevant schools have been follow health guidelines to prevent of tourists to enter the country after The general public is kindly requested an attempt to paint a certain picture to they are not positive for the virus and instructed to launch a programme in the spread of Covid-19. They are an reopening the airport on 26 December. to take adequate precautions to the public. If the Government wants to if not there is a risk.” this regard with the participation of intelligent community,” he said. – Maheesha Mudugamuwa minimise damages caused by temporary sincerely tackle corruption, there are Commenting on the random testing, parents instead of students. localised strong winds and lightning many other organisations they should he said that they will be continuing Dangerous Lesson from... during thundershowers. look at. The Government knows that testing till the end of the year. PCR testing... Showers or thundershowers will the transferred workers will resort to As of now, tests are being conducted Drugs... Calling the India-Nepal ties as “tall as occur at several places in the sea areas protesting, after which it will show at four locations, which are the main She said PCR tests at hotels would the Himalayas and as deep as the Indian around the island. Heavy showers the protests to the general public and roads leaving from Colombo. not affect Covid-19 control apparatus Cabinet approval was granted to the Ocean,” Gen. Rawat on Thursday can be expected at some places in the say, ‘look, we are trying to weed out “Currently, tests are being conducted currently in place at the airport relevant paper presented by Minister (17) said India’s goodwill towards sea area extending from Mullativu corruption, but they are protesting. at four locations and it will be increased and would not create unnecessary of Justice Ali Sabry PC, following a its neighbour comes with “no strings to Hambantota via Trincomalee and Therefore the only way to reform the if an increase of vehicular movements congestion. discussion that took place in November attached”. However, without naming Pottuvil. Winds will be north-easterly DMT is through privatisation’,” said are being noticed in some other roads However, she said the mechanism with officials representing the National China, Gen. Rawat warned Kathmandu in direction over the sea areas around Nagamuwa, speaking to The Morning other than the main roads,” he added. should be implemented without making Dangerous Drugs Control Board to be cautious when signing agreements the island, and the speed will be 30-40 yesterday (20). an impact on the current Covid-19 (NDDCB), Police, Attorney General’s with “other countries” in the region. kmph. Wind speed can increase up He added that the manner in which preventive measures in the country. Department, Government Analyst’s “…The canvas and spread of to 50-60 kmph at times over the sea the Government was pursuing reforms Elders at... Moreover, the State Minister Department, and the Ministry of Health. co-operation, friendship, and people areas extending from Colombo to Galle is “barbaric”, and that Government He said that the positive cases were instructed the health authorities to Speaking to The Morning, NDDCB to people contact between India and via Kankesanturai, Trincomalee, and employees cannot be punished in this identified via 98 PCR tests conducted formulate a systematic mechanism Chairman Dr. Laknath Welagedara said: Nepal are deep and extensive. But in Batticaloa. The sea areas extending from manner. recently. to revive the tourism industry in “During a recent discussion with the the present age, Nepal is also opening Colombo to Galle via Kankesanturai Responding to an assertion by One person in the elders’ home had the country, adding that a tourism- minister and other officials, there was to other nations including China based and Trincomalee will be rough at times. Nagamuwa that 400 of the transferred died recently and it was confirmed that friendly health mechanism should be a strong focus on the latest form of on its independent foreign policy,” Other sea areas around the island will employees are internal recruits that he had been infected with Covid-19, implemented similar to those in other non-traditional drugs that are becoming said Gen. Rawat at the second annual be moderate. cannot be transferred, State Minister Dr. Ranasinghe added. countries. more prevalent in society and how dialogue with the Nepal Institute Amunugama countered that these to deal with the problems associated for International Co-operation and employees can be transferred internally. with them, and the need to regulate Engagement (NIICE) during the virtual Russian... “So we will transfer them to the Recoveries in... Travel certain drugs.” meeting. Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka Ministry of Transport. Not all of The majority of recoveries were restricted... The need to rehabilitate addicts Moreover, Gen. Rawat said it is (CAASL) Chairman Upul Dharmadasa them, but those who are reported as reported from the Kandakadu through the NDDCB and the Ministry necessary to strengthen the existing stated that permission for this was corrupt officials that don’t fall under Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre Beruwala Medical Officer of Health of Youth Affairs to reduce congestion relationship further for the peace and granted at the request of the Russian the category of those who face annual (134), Galella Treatment Centre (100), (MOH) Dr. Waruna Seneviratne in prisons, due to the increase in the prosperity for both countries who are Federation. transfers,” he stated. He added that it Kopai Treatment Centre (76), Punani stated that this step was taken after number of drug addicts in prisons, was already “inseparable in every way”. Accordingly, nearly 200 tourists are is “easy to be corrupt” when one is in Treatment Centre (69), Kattankudy over 50 cases of Covid-19 infection also discussed. scheduled to arrive at the Bandaranaike the DMT. “Even high-ranking officials Hospital (33), Hambantota District were reported from the area last The NDDCB also informed the and Mattala international airports on will be transferred. We are holding the General Hospital (30), Panideniya Saturday (19). officials of the difficulties in storing In SL by... 26 December. new officials personally responsible for Treatment Centre (28), and Bingiriya Accordingly, travel restrictions have certain substances for a longer period of He has stated that vaccines from firms Dharmadasa told the media that the officials under them.” time with the limited resources available such as Moderna and Pfizer, as well as airport authorities and travel agents President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the institute and the Government vaccines from China and Russia, are have already been informed of the made a sudden supervisory visit to Analyst’s Department. being considered, and State-level talks necessary procedures to be followed the Department of Motor Traffic in Cartoon of the day Experts from the legal field had are underway with both the Chinese regarding tourists visiting the island. Werahera on 26 December 2019, and also pointed out that the provisions and Russian Governments. When tourists arrive in the country, stressed on the need for the service to listed in the outdated Ordinance were Nevertheless, the State Minister of they will first be subjected to a PCR test. be made more efficient. inadequate for present requirements, Primary Health Services, Pandemics Reportedly, steps have already especially because some of the drugs and Covid Prevention Dr. Sudharshani been taken to provide them with the currently in circulation are not covered Fernandopulle noted that none of the necessary accommodation and transport Isolation... by this law. vaccines have received any health facilities. Meanwhile, Sri Lankans In Colombo, the isolation status was Also highlighted was the need approvals, even though the UK has who are currently stranded in foreign lifted for the Salamulla Grama Niladhari to reconsider the provisions in the commenced trials on elderly population. countries will be able to return to the (GN) Division in Wellampitiya, and Ordinance that stipulate equal “It is too early to decide on the island without requiring permission of Kokila Road in Wellawatte. punishments for drug addicts, persons efficacy of the vaccine. We are the Foreign Ministry from 26 December In Gampaha, the Naiduwa area in who are inadvertently involved in such preparing for the future, and we have onwards, the CAASL Chairman added. the Kerawalapitiya GN Division of activities, and persons involved in a system already in place for any sort Wattala, the Gangabada GN Division large-scale drug trafficking. of vaccination programme,” the State in Peliyagoda, and the Wilegoda-North The committee is due to present Minister said. More areas... GN Division in Kiribathgoda were their recommendations to the Meanwhile, Secretary to the State Accordingly, Nelligahawatta and brought out of isolation. Minister of Justice, after which the Ministry of Primary Health Services, Pooranakotu Watte in the Peliyagoda- recommendations and amendments Pandemics and Covid Prevention Dr. Gangabada Grama Niladhari (GN) are to be discussed with the relevant Amal Harsha stressed that the country Division, and Sri Jayanthi Mawatha 5 more... stakeholders, before it is presented for is focusing on the free quota to be of the Wilegoda-North GN Division, Accordingly, this brings the Covid-19 Cabinet approval. given by the WHO as an initial step, will be isolated. death toll in Sri Lanka to 176. 3 the morning Monday, December 21, 2020

ComBank announces new Chairman and Deputy Chairman z Justice K. Sripavan and Prof. A.K.W. BY DAYAN SURENDRANATHAN FROM DG TO CHAIR Jayawardane to head the Board Newlybusiness appointed Board of Investment (BOI) Chairman Sanjaya Mohottala, in his first public address since taking over the reins from Susantha Mohottala’s Rathnayake, outlined his vision for the BOI, which centred on developing a conducive environment for investment, aiding the vision for BOI private sector, enabling “In the post-Covid world, expected that the Hambantota market access, and there are many opportunities industrial zone, Colombo Commercial Bank Chairman Justice K. Sripavan and Deputy enhancing the ease of available for Sri Lanka, Port City, and the hotel and Chairman Prof. A.K.W. Jayawardane doing business. especially for companies mixed development sector that are looking to make will attract significant inflows Commercial Bank of a Diploma in Industrial “There are certain key their supply chains more in the coming years. Most Ceylon PLC (ComBank) Law from the University elements that need to flexible. Take the example of Sri Lanka’s FDIs were announced the appointment of Colombo in 1992, and come together. The first is of why we’re building received by projects in port of former Chief Justice Master of Laws from the developing an interesting pharmaceuticals: It’s because infrastructure, property Kanagasabapathy Sripavan University of London in pipeline of investments. The countries realise that India development and hotels, and as Chairman and senior 1994. second is getting the right and China account for 70% the telecommunication sector, academic Prof. A.K.W. Prof. Jayawardane is people and empowering them of active pharmaceutical he said. Jayawardane as Deputy currently a Commission to do what needs to be done,” ingredient (API) production, However, Mohottala Chairman with effect from Member of the University he detailed. and it’s too concentrated. noted that attracting 21 and 29 December, Grants Commission (UGC) “Following this, we In case another pandemic FDI into export-oriented respectively. and a senior professor require policy continuity and or similar situation occurs, manufacturing and the Justice Sripavan and Prof. in civil engineering. He transparency that enables we need a more diverse service sector is required, for Jayawardane will succeed served as Vice Chancellor us to get things done in a BOI Chairman Sanjaya Mohottala set of locations from which the country’s energy Dharma Dheerasinghe of the University of quick manner. Finally, the continuity when it comes Lanka have been volatile which to produce from. infrastructure will need to and Preethi Jayawardena Moratuwa for six years, country’s investment capacity to tax regimes for the next due to investor sensitivity Our geographical location, be developed to power these who are retiring from the Dean of the Faculty of needs to increase, not just five years, something to domestic economic and soft assets, and structural sectors. positions of Chairman and Engineering for six years, on an incremental level, but we never had in the past. political developments. The advantages make us more “This is where investment Deputy Chairman of the and Endowed Professor in on a transformative level. Simplifying the tax structure, Institute of Policy Studies attractive than a lot of in power and energy will bank, respectively, after Entrepreneurship for one It’s not just about removing VAT registration, and (IPS) writes that FDI inflows regional peers in this regard. come into play, because completing their tenures. year. bottlenecks – it’s about having a unique ID for all increased in the aftermath So companies like HCL Tech our current levels of Justice Sripavan was Prof. Jayawardane served implementing the right taxes are part of this. This, of the war, peaked in 2014, have approached us.” infrastructure are just not appointed Chief Justice as the President of the policies.” together with the Cabinet and saw a dip in 2015/16. Mohottala stated that there yet. There are plans for in January 2015 and held Institution of Engineers, Sri Mohottala, who was Subcommittee on Investment, FDI inflows peaked again Colombo Port City is an another $ 2-3 billion worth of office until March 2017. Lanka. He is also a Director previously BOI’s Director which is directly under the in 2017/18, but declined investment opportunity investment in this sector, with During this period, he of Sierra Cables PLC and General, made these purview of the President, drastically to $ 1,204 million worth at least $ 15-20 billion plans to add 1.5-2 gigawatts functioned as Chairman a member of the Board of remarks at a webinar titled signals that the country is in 2019. in investment, with the of electricity to the grid in of the Judicial Services Management of several “Investment Climate and serious about improving the However, Mohottala urbanisation of the greater the next five to 10 years, Commission of Sri Lanka, other institutions. He is Strategies to attract FDI in Sri ease of doing business and is remains optimistic for Sri Colombo area showing with 70% of power coming the Incorporated Council also a Corporate Member, a Lanka” on 17 December. ready for investment.” Lanka’s prospects in the post- potential for another $ 10-15 from renewable sources,” he of Legal Education, the Sri Fellow and an International “There will be policy In general, inflows to Sri pandemic world. billion in investment. It is explained. Lanka Judges’ Institute, and Professional Engineer of the Superior Court Complex the Institution of Engineers, Board of Management. Sri Lanka (IESL), CEng, Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC Justice Sripavan FIE(SL), IntPE(SL); Fellow (DIMO) was awarded the “Mercedes- functioned as the Head of of the National Academy Benz Service Excellence Award Mercedes-Benz AG recognises the Court of Appeal Unit of Sciences of Sri Lanka, 2019” in the region South East Asia II in the Attorney General’s FNAS(SL); Founder by Mercedes-Benz AG for attaining Department and handled the Member of the Society of the best Customer Satisfaction Index DIMO for service excellence work both in the Court of Structural Engineers Sri (CSI) and Net Promoter Score (NPS) The introduction of the service Appeal and in the Supreme Lanka, MSSE(SL); Fellow at the recently held South East Asia II bookings and online payments Court, including bills of the Institute of Project Service Excellence Regional Virtual for Mercedes-Benz customers and fundamental rights Managers, Sri Lanka, FIPM Award Ceremony. via the DeX automotive app and applications. Prior to the (SL); a Life Member of This year’s Mercedes-Benz South dedicated service advisor concept elevation to the Court of Sri Lanka Association for East Asia II Service Excellence are our latest initiatives to enhance Appeal bench, he functioned Advancement of Science; Awards also recognised the Best customer experience for our valued as a Legal Consultant for and a Graduate Member of Service Advisors of Mercedes-Benz customers.” the National Savings Bank the Sri Lanka Institute of AG Authorised Service Centres, with As the only authorised Mercedes- (NSB) for two years. He Directors GSLID. an objective to develop competencies Benz AG service centre in Sri was appointed as a Judge of He obtained a BSc among service advisers. Three Lanka, DIMO has invested in their the Court of Appeal in May Eng Degree in Civil DIMO’s Mercedes-Benz service team longstanding employees of Mercedes-Benz facility known 2002, and was elevated to Engineering with first- DIMO’s Mercedes-Benz service AG-Certified General Distributor” services and customer engagement. as DIMO 800, the Mercedes- the post of President of the class honours from the facility – Hirun Koralalage, workshop for body and paint repairs These customer surveys have been Benz Centre of Excellence. It is Court of Appeal in March University of Moratuwa, a Shelton Wijerathne, and Sahinda in Southeast Asia. DIMO is the first specifically created to focus on equipped with Mercedes-Benz 2007. In March 2008, he Master of Science Degree Wasalathanthrige – were recognised general distributor in Southeast Asia different aspects of the customer’s AG-recommended special tools and was elevated to the Supreme in Construction from the as “Top Service Advisers of the Year” to receive this certification. experience. equipment, software updates, repair Court Bench. Loughborough University in the region at the virtual award Mercedes-Benz AG carries out DIMO Chairman/Managing guidelines and processes, Mercedes- He was enrolled as an of Technology UK, and ceremony. annual customer surveys in respective Director Ranjith Pandithage stated: Benz service 24-hour islandwide Attorney-at-Law of the a PhD in Construction DIMO’s Mercedes-Benz service countries, targeting its distributors “These accomplishments manifest roadside assistance, computerised Supreme Court of Sri Management from the same facility was also recently recognised and dealerships to push harder at our capabilities of bringing best- vehicle maintenance records, and Lanka in 1977. He obtained University. as the “Only Mercedes-Benz enhancing their quality of after-care engineered marquees to Sri Lanka. many other services. SLRA to host Asia Pacific Retail Convention and Exhibition 2024 The Sri Lanka Retailers’ and local insights towards of exhibition, a country report, and participants from more Association (SLRA) won growth. the presentation of FAPRA than 10 countries and regions. against the Singapore Retail APRCE, held every two Awards, networking and gala The SLRA subsequently Association in its bid to years, is a major project of dinners, study and shopping organised its first event with host the Asia Pacific Retail FAPRA. The event has become tours, social programmes and a FAPRA, hosting the FAPRA Convention and Exhibition Asia’s biggest and longest business matching programme. Executive Directors’ Virtual (APRCE) 2024, during the running retail convention and The SLRA was recognised Meeting 2020 on 14 July recent Asia Pacific Retail exhibition since it was first as the 20th member of FAPRA 2020. The meeting was joined Association (APRA) virtual held in 1983 in Tokyo, Japan. in 2019. SLRA President by representatives from 20 meeting for heads and APRCE’s objectives are to Sidath Kodikara and Vice countries in the region. The directors. discover new approaches to President Murali Prakash meeting focused mainly on Accordingly, SLRA the latest issues facing the attended the 19th APRCE, held the emerging trends of retail Assistant Secretary General region’s retailers and highlight from 5-7 September 2019 at both locally and globally, and Dinesh Perera was nominated innovative solutions that can Chongqing Yuelai International to find answers to post-Covid as Chairman of the organising help retailers differentiate Convention Centre, issues in the industry and share The APRA virtual meeting committee of APRCE 2024. themselves from competitors, Chongqing, China. The theme innovative best practices of The objective of organising while delivering greater value of the 19th APRCE was “New retail. The next APRCE will be Growth Rate (CAGR) since contribution to the nation’s than 300,000 retail outlets. APRCE 2024 in Sri Lanka is to consumers in the Asia Retail, New Consumption, held in Indonesia in 2022. 2013, and is scaled at $ 31 economy, recording an In the first quarter of 2019, to boost and rebuild confidence Pacific region. New Dynamics – Co-operation Sri Lanka’s retail industry billion, accounting for one- employment of 1.17 million the wholesale and retail trade among Sri Lankan retailers, as The APRCE consists of two and Sharing”, and was visited recorded an encouraging third of GDP. The industry staff (14% of the country’s indicated a 4.4% growth, it aims to provide international days of conference, two days by more than 4,000 delegates 6.6% Compound Annual continues its emerging labour market), with more according to SLRA. 4 the morning NEWS Monday, December 21, 2020 Thai investors keen to commence Rs. 35.3 b lost sugar plantation to illicit tobacco last year in Vavuniya Cigarettes smuggled into the out that significant increases in the FMCs dipped to 2.6 billion in 2019, illegal cigarettes take place at formal country resulted in the Sri taxes levied on factory-manufactured from 4.4 billion sticks in 2008, with outlets, including grocery stores and Lankan Government recording cigarettes (FMCs) in the past four three-quarters of this fall happening mini-marts. Only 45% of purchases a revenue loss of Rs. 35.3 years (2015-2019) has resulted in since 2015. The declining legitimate are made through informal channels billion in 2019, according to a dramatic shift in the Sri Lankan market had a detrimental effect on such as home-based selling. a recent study conducted tobacco market. the commercial viability of the legal Additionally, as the report by British American Tobacco “These tax increases, passed on industry, which the report estimates suggests, lost government revenue PLC and compiled by Oxford to consumers in the form of higher to be supporting around 46,780 jobs is not the only societal cost from prices, have pushed consumers to in Sri Lanka (2019), according to the a movement away from FMCs Economics (OE). look for cheaper alternatives. Both study. to beedi and the illicit tobacco Meanwhile, the legal industry is beedi and smuggled cigarettes are “Some 23,450 of these jobs were sector. The sale of both products is estimated to have contributed over potential cheaper alternatives for on tobacco farms, and a further subject to no regulation. The cheap Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Thai Ambassador to Sri Lanka Rs. 33 billion to Sri Lanka’s GDP in the price-pressured FMC consumer 17,590 were in the distribution and price of smuggled cigarettes, and Chulamanee Chartsuwan 2019, which is less than the amount in Sri Lanka. With an average price retail of cigarettes. In addition to lower enforcement of constraints A group of Thailand stated that she is hopeful that of revenue lost to illicit tobacco. This of Rs. 45 for smuggled cigarettes in these retail jobs sustained by the on retailing, mean that smuggled investors have expressed keen the BIMSTEC Summit will be estimated avoidance represents up to 2019, smokers could purchase nearly sale of FMCs, the legal industry also cigarettes serve as an entry point to interest in commencing an held soon in Colombo. 33% of the amount the Government three smuggled cigarettes for the provides wider support to its retailers smoking for people below the legal investment project regarding Chartsuwan further noted actually collected from tobacco. cost of two legal FMC products,” the that makes it easier for these retailers age. a sugar plantation operating in how during the visit of Legal tobacco has raised nearly Rs. report added. to operate and employ an estimated Smuggling of cigarettes generates Vavuniya. Thailand Prime Minister 12.8 billion in corporate and other As a result, between 2015 and 41,600 people,” the report stated. significant profits for criminals. This was revealed by Thai General Prayut Chan-o-cha in taxes for the Government. This tax 2019, the consumption of illicit Furthermore, the report noted Evidence suggests that in addition Ambassador to Sri Lanka July 2018 the Memorandum contribution was in addition to the products – typically smuggled from that despite the illegal passage of to funding further smuggling, Chulamanee Chartsuwan, of Understanding (MoU) on Rs. 108.2 billion in excise and sales Dubai, China, Vietnam, and Turkey smuggled cigarettes into the country, these profits are being used to fund when she paid Foriegn Strategic Economic Partnership taxes the Government collected on – reached an estimated 740 million these products are relatively easy different criminal activities, such Minister Dinesh Gunawardena (SEP) was signed. This the sale of cigarettes in 2019. sticks in 2019, up from 460 million to access for consumers. As per as terrorism and drug trafficking, a courtesy call last Thursday underlines a development The report titled “Economics of just two years earlier. the report, the latest industry data increasing the societal cost of the (17). The two officials partnership in 10 sectors, Illicit Tobacco in Sri Lanka” pointed Meanwhile, the volume of legal indicates that 55% of purchases of illicit sector. discussed ways of working namely infrastructure, agro closely in regional and industry, fisheries, gems and international fora, with a jewellery, tourism, SMEs, view to facilitating enhanced financial co-operation, business cooperation. packaging industries, and IT, as Romania issues work permits for Sri The Thai Ambassador well as other sectors of mutual reiterated that both countries economic interest. have taken a common position Minister Gunawardena Lankans despite Covid-19 in the Bay of Bengal Initiative assured the Ambassador that for Multi-Sectoral Technical Sri Lanka will fully utilise Romania has issued about and Economic Co-operation this Strategic Economic 1,500 new work permits to (BIMSTEC), on which Partnership to widen business skilled and semi-skilled Sri Thailand is looking forward to links between Sri Lanka and Lankans in the past week working with Sri Lanka, and Thailand. alone despite the pandemic, according to Romanian State Secretary of Foreign Affairs Cornel Feruţă. Feruţă made this Singer announces statement during the third virtual session of the Sri seasonal offers Lanka-Romania bilateral consultations, held between Singer Sri Lanka PLC for Samsung mobile phones, him and Sri Lankan Foreign unveiled a range of seasonal as well as free three-year Secretary Admiral Prof. offers for both walk-in warranties for Dell i3 laptops. Jayanath Colombage on 16 customers and online buyers, Singer is home to products December. which includes discounts of from a range of top of Senior officials Foreign Secretary Admiral Prof. Jayanath Colombage and ministry officials at a virtual meeting with Romanian State Secretary of Foreign up to 25% plus warranties for the line brands including representing the Ministry Affairs Cornel Feruţă up to three years on selected Sony, Samsung, Panasonic, of Buddhasana, Religious, offered by the Romanian beginning for Sri Lanka. products. Kenwood, Huawei, Dell, and Cultural Affairs; Government to workers Both sides agreed to Singer also offers gift Beko, Sisil and Asus. Department of Labour; Sri in Romania had also been revitalise and expand vouchers in different Commenting on Singer’s Lanka Foreign Employment extended to cover foreign the bilateral trade and denominations. Customers seasonal offers already Bureau; Department of workers. investment portfolio to fully can avail trade-in discounts underway, Singer Marketing Commerce; the Foreign A new roadmap for avail the European Union on TVs, washing machines, Director Shanil Perera said: Ministry; as well as enhanced co-operation in (EU) Generalised Scheme and air-conditioners, plus “This year, our website is Romanian Ambassador to prioritised sectors between of Preference Plus (GSP+) interest-free payment ready to facilitate e-commerce Sri Lanka Victor Chiujdea Sri Lanka and Romania facility, and access the wider schemes and discounts on hot buyers, and we are prepared also participated in this was identified during the markets in Central Europe water showers and prestige for a big spike in online orders discussion. discussion, where it was also and Asia, respectively. cookware, as well as free in comparison to previous Feruţă added that there announced that Sri Lanka Technical assistance in giveaways. years. We invite everyone to are currently over 8,000 Sri would open an Embassy in locomotive rehabilitation For selected furniture, check out the biggest seasonal Lankan workers in Romania Romania next year. and production, capacity discounts of up to 20%, up to deals from Singer at our employed predominantly Prof. Colombage also building to address skill 60-month installment plans for islandwide showrooms, and in the apparel, hospitality, provided an overview gaps in the oil and gas credit cards, and easy payment through our website.” and construction sectors, of the economic and sector, and agri-processing schemes for up to 18 months With over 430 retail outlets, with more skilled job development priorities were identified for further are on offer. For refrigerators, Singer owns a portfolio of over opportunities opening of the new Government, co-operation. The talks also customers receive both trade- 600 electronic items and 1,200 up in other fields such as and highlighted the reviewed shared interests in in discounts and interest- home appliances, and boasts IT. He further stated that envisioned people-centric the regional and multilateral free payment plans, while more than 50 internationally the economic stimulus and knowledge-driven new areas. Romanian State Secretary of Foreign Affairs Cornel Feruţă discounted rates are offered renowned brands.

Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Ambassador Nestlé partners with local of Indonesia in Sri Lanka Indonesia and SL discuss I. Gusti Ngurah Ardiyasa, during a recent meeting in unis for innovation challenge Colombo, discussed enhancing enhancing bilateral trade Nestlé has partnered trade ties in a mutually with four universities beneficial manner. Ardiyasa – the University of was paying a courtesy call on Kelaniya, University of Gunawardena last Thursday Sri Jayewardenepura, (17). University of Colombo, and The Ambassador University of Moratuwa acknowledged the bonds of – to launch an innovation friendship and co-operation challenge for students. between the two countries Close to 200 university at bilateral, regional, and students will submit their multilateral platforms, and ideas for nutritious products expressed hope that current that use local ingredients, ties would further expand and initiatives that can and deepen into sectors of enhance the company’s contemporary importance. Ambassador of Indonesia in Sri Lanka I. Gusti Ngurah Ardiyasa and Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena environmental sustainability. He underscored the need fisheries governance. nationals in the recent past, dominant export item from Nestlé Managing Director for enhanced co-operation in Gunawardena appreciated during the height of the Sri Lanka to Indonesia, which Fabrice Cavallin stated: the areas of illicit trafficking, the assistance rendered by outbreak of the Covid-19 accounted for 19.56% of total “Innovation has always been co-operation against Indonesia during the difficult pandemic. exports to Indonesia in 2019. at the heart of our company. trafficking in narcotic drugs times faced by Sri Lanka in In 2019, the value of Sri Indonesia was the ninth- At a time when we’re not just good for them, but also to support innovative and psychotropic substances, the past. Lanka’s exports to Indonesia ranked import partner of Sri seeing significant shifts in good for the planet. We can’t thinking among youth. All marine and fisheries Ambassador Ardiyasa increased by 9.54% year-on- Lanka with a share of 2.2% in consumer behaviour, we wait to see what our young participants will receive co-operation, and on voluntary expressed his gratitude year. The value of imports, 2019. Cement was the major want to leverage and support Sri Lankan talent brings.” guidance on their innovation international co-operation to towards the Sri Lankan which accounts for $ 427.55 import item from Indonesia to local innovation and use it Through this challenge, project, and knowledge on prevent illegal, unregulated Government for the assistance million in 2018, increased Sri Lanka, which accounted to shape our offerings to our the company aims to refresh how to conceptualise an and unreported (IUU) fishing rendered towards the marginally to $ 428.27 million for 11.05% of total imports consumers. We want to offer its innovation process idea. which promotes sustainable repatriation of Indonesian in 2019. Apparel was the from Indonesia in 2019. consumers products that are and local insight, and 5 the morning Monday, December 21, 2020 brunch PEACE ON EARTH AND GOODWILL ONLINE TOWARDS HACKATHON MEN COMES TO Vraie Balthazaar on celebrating this AN END season with kindness Final round held after BY NAVEED ROZAIS Lanka is already a culture of alms and charitable giving, and this kind of gift This Christmas is complex. While plays into that spirit with a symbolic grueling elimination round some of us have made it through gesture.” the rollercoaster ride that has One family Balthazaar knows is BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE organising hampers for families and been 2020 relatively unharmed, using the money they would normally Sharp 0.1, the and are looking forward to use to buy gifts for each to buy things Inter-University Online celebrating this Christmas, there for other families who can’t celebrate. Hackathon courtesy of the is a student-based society pandemic has been are many of us who are still very “If we can have a year of Department of Computer whose main objectives somewhat of a mix bag of much struggling. understanding how bad this year has Science at the University of include promoting computer experiences; considering The Morning Brunch spoke with been for other people, it’s a good way Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ), science as a subject, there not being any physical researcher and activist Vraie Balthazaar to teach people about giving, being held its final round on 18 improving the knowledge lectures to attend to, they on ways people can use this Christmas selfless, being kind, and putting others December 2020. of information technology have had an abundance of season to support a cause or person in above themselves. This is a good The elimination round among students, as well time to take part in online need in small but powerful ways. time to reflect on this sort of thing. of Sharp 0.1, which was as encouraging students classes, broaden their “2020 has obviously been a very Generally, things of this nature are a the preliminary round, was to participate in IT events knowledge, and utilise their difficult and unexpected year. We were side project people do, but this year, this successfully concluded with and competitions while time quite well courtesy thrown into the deep end, and different is something they can do in a slightly 500-plus participants on 11 facilitating them to gain of the plethora of online people have faced different challenges; more intense way. Let this year be about December, after which a list knowledge and experience courses that have been we’ve been forced into situations we this – shopping for people who are less of 30 contestants out of the from the industry. made available. However, haven’t been in before in our own fortunate and being thankful that we are unprecedented number of Apart from this, Dilmi pointing out that there is homes and spaces, losing things like our able to do so.” participants was finalised. shared that the society also a flip side where there Balthazar also spoke about conducts events, workshops, is a great deal of uncertainty jobs and worrying about our children, Vraie Cally Balthazaar With the elimination our elderly, and our security,” Balthazar supporting causes and organisations, round coming to an end this seminars, lectures, and field in not being able to go for shared. afford to celebrate like we did last explaining that not many people fully past weekend, we spoke tours related to computer lectures and not knowing “It’s been an extremely challenging year; we had about 70 people on our understand just how many people in to one of the organisers science, and also maintains how the timeline of their year for everybody across the board, list. This year we simply can’t afford Colombo are still in lockdown and and USJ Association of a newsletter, website, and education at the university and we’re still trying to understand that, and all things considered, we have no mobility. “This season, if we Computer Science Assistant notice boards to encourage would pan out, she shared what that means. For some people, shouldn’t really try to celebrate like can find a way to connect and support Secretary Dilmi Wijerathne student ideas and creativity. that this side of it has it meant taking time off to reassess that either,” Balthazar shared, adding daily wage earners and low-income who shared with us the She said Hackathon, certainly been difficult. themselves, and for others, it meant that this, however, doesn’t mean we communities around the island, even in nature of the event and which is nothing new Speaking about the losing everything they ever had.” cannot acknowledge the people around some small way, either through people how they hope to move amongst those in the event, Dilmi said they While the pandemic has been a us and celebrate with your family. He and organisations, that would be very forward now that they have computer science sphere, were most grateful for their global experience and something of a said that while we’re celebrating, if impactful.” seen the interest expressed holds its specialty in the fact sponsors and partners who unifier, Balthazar noted that it wasn’t an we can remember that there are others Such support doesn’t have to be by students to take part in that it is the first one to be made it possible to hold this equaliser. People from specific business struggling and help them, it is going to simply through money, Balthazar such events even if it is conducted entirely online event: Platinum sponsor sectors, low-income communities, and be what changes who we are. stressed, noting that organisations are online. The event rewards for their society. The event Silverline Innovative daily wage earners have been impacted But how can we celebrate always happy to work with anyone cash prizes of Rs.10, 000, has been conceptualised on Technologies, official more than others in the face of the consciously while making a difference willing to lend a hand and help them Rs. 7000, and Rs. 5000 for the grounds of providing main event partner Pearson pandemic. And going into the festive to those who are struggling? Balthazaar whether through time, expertise, or the winner, first runner- not only for those in their Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd., official season, Balthazar shared that it was explained that it’s not as difficult as simply supporting whenever possible. up, and second runner-up, own department, but all associate event partner important to remember those who are it sounds, and there are lots of small “Organisations are run by very respectively. university students around SurfEdge (Pvt.) Ltd., and struggling. things we can do that can make a passionate people who don’t have a lot The Department the island who are currently official media partner “Personally, even though I don’t difference, individually, as a family, or of resources. People, animals, and the of Computer Science at a crossroads. She said Hackathons.lk. celebrate Christmas, my family does as a collective. environment are all interconnected,” at USJ is a large and they hope to provide Dilmi said that they are and the season is a tradition I hold “I know it’s late, and most people Balthazaar explained, adding: “If this growing department exposure and an opportunity more than glad to announce onto and cherish. I always enjoy have already decided and sorted out can be how we look at 2021, to set with undergraduate and to keep students’ skills that the competition has being able to share presents and meet what gifts to give their loved ones. But aside a portion of time to learn about postgraduate programmes, sharp during these pandemic ended in a very competitive people. This year, putting up a tree you can give people presents like a card something that is higher than ourselves, and the Society of Computer times where it can often be way and has been is symbolically the only way we’re saying you’ve donated a certain amount we can then give back in a different, Science is the official difficult to stay focused – encouraging to know the celebrating. Financially, too, we can’t to a specific charity in their names. Sri more meaningful way.” governing body of all hence, the title “sharp”. event has the potential to student-related activities. It Dilmi said the grow into an annual event.

the event or by simply commenting on and sharing posts pertaining to OPPO presents ‘O Fans Night’ the event on social media with the hashtag #OFansFestival2020. In addition, two lucky winners selected from fans who uploaded a singing featuring Umaria and Anushka video on social media with the hashtag #OFansFestival2020 will OPPO announced holding the tomorrow, 22 December will be by catering to their appetite. get the opportunity to perform with event “O Fans Night”, an evening of an interactive event participated The two artists were selected Umaria and Anushka on stage at O fun, games, and entertainment to lift by singing sensation Umaria specifically because they have a Fans Night. the spirits of all Sri Lankans as part of Sinhawamsa and celebrity YouTuber wide appeal among social media- The event will be streamed on “Oh Fans Fest”, the brand’s seasonal of Wasthi fame Anushka Udana. savvy millennials who make up the the brand’s official Facebook page promotion spanning the month of The event aligns with the majority of OPPO’s clientele. and YouTube channel, so fans can December. brand’s vision to stay relevant Participants can win exciting participate and interact from any part Oh Fans Night scheduled for by actively engaging customers prizes by answering questions at of the country or world. 6 the morning CAUSE Monday, December 21, 2020 Save the oceans this Christmas The Pearl Protectors on their virtual upcycled Christmas tree BY VENESSA ANTHONY have at home and also something anyone, regardless of age, could It’s that time of the year participate in, right from the where Christmas trees line comforts of their house. every house, but it’s also a “This is a good exercise for time of the year where a lot of people under lockdown because kids wastage happens. Christmas stuck at home can engage in some decorations aren’t the most productive activities, while also sustainable and eco-friendly helping save the planet. This is a fun activity for those stuck in quarantine items available out there. as well; all they have to do is collect More often than not, they all the plastic they are being given Yoga get damaged and need to over the course of time and turn it be discarded almost each into something beautiful.” with a smile year. The Pearl Protectors got Katuwawala walked us through clever with their Christmas how one can participate in the Laughing yoga with Kapila Rasnayaka initiative; they chose to take creation of this virtual Christmas one for Mother Earth and tree, explaining: “Use plastic waste BY VENESSA ANTHONY media to make people laugh.” launch a virtual upcycled items like plastic bags, PET bottles, Laughing yoga can be Christmas tree. plastic straws, plastic cutlery, plastic Kapila Rasnayaka is a performed by anyone. People Pearl Protectors is adamant that the high hopes and lots of ideas on how packaging, etc. and convert that into gender consultant, Founder of all ages as well as fitness Upcycling is a great way to world reduce and resume plastic, but to celebrate World Oceans Day next a Christmas decoration. Be creative of Voices of Humans for a and cognitive levels can contribute to the environment and there will always be a large number year, so keep an eye out on their in crafting/creating the upcycled genderless society, and a participate. Best of all, one live a greener life. Upcycling, of plastic consumed, so why not Facebook page to see how you can decorations. Once complete, take community social worker doesn’t have to be happy, also known as “creative reuse”, make something new out of it? help save the oceans too. a picture of the item and submit with expertise in art-based have a sense of humour, or be is the process of transforming Speaking about the novel venture “At least eight million tonnes the image to thepearlprotectors@ advocacy and working with in a good mood to take part by-products, waste materials, Katuwawala, he talked about how of plastic end up in our oceans gmail.com with the title ‘Upcycled marginalised groups. He and gain benefits. The whole useless, or unwanted products into the idea behind the virtual upcycled every year and make up 80% of all Decoration’. The deadline for your has been engaged in social point is for the body to learn new materials or products perceived Christmas tree came to be. “We’re marine debris from surface waters submissions is 22 December 2020.” activism with a number how to laugh without needing to be of greater quality, such as trying to promote upcycling. We did to deep-sea sediments. We can Once all submissions are of local and international humour. artistic value or environmental a similar project last Vesak as well. make a difference in protecting received, they are all put together organisations including Rasnayaka connotated the value. For the last two years, we have been our oceans by reducing this plastic to form a virtual Christmas tree. the United Nations (UN). various elements involved in The Morning Brunch spoke to making a PET bottle Christmas tree; waste,” Katuwawala said, adding All participants will be recognised Rasnayaka is a design thinker, this field of yoga, explaining: The Pearl Protectors Co-ordinator we collected plastic bottles from that our marine animals are dying along with the Christmas tree, environmentalist, artist, “One session is about one- Muditha Katuwawala about why beaches after beach clean-ups and horrific deaths due to this issue, and and special recognition will be theatre director, motivational and-a-half hours long. I upcycling is a better option than we made a 10-foot Christmas tree a lot of them are slowly but surely given to participants who submit speaker, and now a laughing began experimenting with recycling, who said: “In Sri Lanka, in Wellawatta. Unfortunately, we becoming endangered or extinct. the most creative upcycled plastic yoga conductor. smiling and laughing – for recycling is not a good alternative will not be able to do it this year It is our duty as citizens of the decorations.” In Conversation with The example, how we can laugh because the percentage of recycling due to the pandemic, so we came up Earth to protect our home. The Pearl This year, let’s try to celebrate the Morning Brunch, he talked while we make coffee, how that is actually happening here is with this concept instead. We want Protectors’ Christmas initiative season as sustainably as possible. about how he discovered we can laugh while making very low. The global recycling to celebrate the festive season in a is a fun, innovative way to start. laughing yoga. “I practised a call, and how we can laugh percentage is only at a mere 18%. creative and unique way.” He spoke of the convenience of yoga for my health and or smile when we sleep and So, the concept of recycling is not He went on to add that by 2020, upcycling products into Christmas @pearlprotectors wellbeing back when I was in wake up. We can also laugh quite sustainable because you can’t they’d launched over 50 ventures in decoration as it is super cost- India, and that’s when I found through our body language.” keep on recycling the same item.” the name of protecting the world we effective since you’d be making the @pearlprotectors out about laughing yoga. He talked about some of He added that this was why The live in. He reported that they have decor out of whatever items you Laughing yoga is a very the feedback he received beautiful thing. We laugh from his previously and we smile. It’s a very conducted sessions. He said human experience; it doesn’t he had even done sessions involve your skin colour, with foreign volunteers. race, gender, class, or caste. “They shared their experience Everybody is one. We can all with me, They didn’t realise smile.” they could change their entire Equal Partners: Engaging men You may be wondering thought process and strength. what exactly laughing It’s a very powerful thing,” yoga is. Laughing yoga is a he said, adding that If you modern exercise involving practise hard enough, you and boys for gender equality prolonged voluntary will gain the ability to laugh Sri Lanka ranks 90 out of 189 in the Gender laughter. This type of yoga through a storm; it will help Inequality Index (2019). The Gender Social is based on the belief that you get through the bad days Norms Index (2020), produced by the United voluntary laughter provides and make the good ones Nations Development Programme (UNDP), similar physiological and more special. “It’s a very has found pervasive bias – by both men and psychological benefits as miraculous journey, but it’s women – against women worldwide. According spontaneous laughter. It not magic. Quite the contrary to the analysis, 30% of women and men is usually conducted in actually – it’s a very practical interviewed across 75 countries agree that it is groups, with eye contact and skill.” justifiable for a man to beat his partner. much playfulness between Unfortunately, with the A study titled “Broadening Gender: Why participants, as it’s quite a lax pandemic still rearing its Masculinities Matter” (2013) highlighted form of yoga. head in our country, spirits that 20% of men in Sri Lanka indicated that “It gives positive energy and morale have been quite they had committed some form of intimate Additional Secretary to the State Ministry of Women and Child Development Nilmini Herath, National Committee and vibrations. Everyone tries low lately. Rasnayaka talked partner violence in their lifetime and 66% felt on Women Executive Director Manel Jayamanne, UNDP Resident Representative in Sri Lanka Robert Juhkam, State to make others happy, but I about how laughing yoga that this was due to a sense of “entitlement”. Minister Piyal Nishantha De Silva, National Committee on Women Chairperson Shiranthi Beatrice, Secretary to think I was born with that. could be the cure for that, Similarly, the recently published Women’s the State Ministry of Women and Child Development Kumari Jayasekera, and Men Engage Alliance National Co- Sarcasm is my thing, so I saying: “Laughing yoga Wellbeing Survey (2019) found that 35.3% ordinator Samitha Sugathimala thought maybe I could use it is really important at this of women in Sri Lanka agreed that men can as a tool to make other people point in time. Most people have a good reason to hit their wives. The happy.” are working from home or ongoing pandemic itself has disproportionately Explaining why he began studying from home, and affected women with an increase in unpaid promoting this practice in Sri they’re stressed.” domestic work and care burdens, economic Lanka, he said laughing yoga When asked if the session disempowerment, and an exponential increase is all about equality, which is he conducted live on in sexual and gender-based violence. why he thought our country Facebook on 17 December Working towards the ambitions of the could use it. as part of the communiTEA 2030 Agenda, UNDP in Sri Lanka together “I do sessions for project was going to with the State Ministry of Women and Child companies and individuals be a series or a one-off Development, Preschools and Primary as well as children and programme, he responded Education, School Infrastructure, and young people. During art saying: “I plan on starting Education Services as well as the Men Engage State Minister Piyal Nishantha Men Engage Alliance National UNDP Resident Representative in workshops, I use relaxation as online Zoom laughing yoga Alliance launched a trilingual media campaign De Silva Co-ordinator Samitha Sugathimala Sri Lanka Robert Juhkam a tool for self-management. sessions for anyone who titled “Equal Partners” in an effort to engage The campaign consists of a series of These days for many wishes to learn. Everybody men and boys to advance gender equality in Sri videos and talk shows that will be aired on companies, they have the can enjoy it, with their Lanka. national media to promote gender equality same pattern of work – nine- families, loved ones, and Making the keynote address at the launch, in the country. Introducing the campaign, to-five jobs – and most of friends. You can perform it State Minister Piyal Nishantha De Silva stated: Men Engage Alliance National Co-ordinator their interaction throughout anywhere that is comfortable “Women and men should have equal access Samitha Sugathimala added: “Engaging the day is with their for you, be it the bed or to resources and opportunities in all spheres men and boys is critical to advancing gender computer,” he said, going the couch; they can enjoy of life, including at home where decision- equality in Sri Lanka. Through the ‘Equal on to invite any company or laughing yoga together.” making and domestic chores need to be equally Partners’ campaign, we are addressing unequal organisation to contact him if Now that you’ve learned shared. Closing the gender gap is everyone’s power relations between men and women, and they are open for a session. about laughing yoga, why responsibility – from individuals and families ‘Equal Partners’ is a trilingual media campaign aimed transforming traditional notions of masculinity Speaking on the topic don’t you try it for yourself? to structures and institutions. We all have a at engaging men and boys to advance gender equality and gender norms to ensure that all people are why he chose to engage in role to play to achieve gender equality in Sri in Sri Lanka equal and free from discrimination in order to laughing yoga, Rasnayaka @Dreamerkapila Lanka.” pushing back progress made on gender equality build a world where gender justice and human said: “I love it. It’s my hobby, Highlighting the important role of gender around the world. To build forward better towards rights are promoted and protected.” not a money-oriented thing. equality in creating a sustainable world, UNDP integrative SDG (sustainable development goal) The “Equal Partners” campaign serves as a I love making people happy, @kapilarasnayaka Resident Representative in Sri Lanka Robert achievements broadly, discriminatory attitudes reminder that gender equality is a fundamental and that’s why I use social Juhkam stated: “Gender inequality is a major and practices that hold women back must be human right and should be made an urgent barrier to human development, and Covid-19 is confronted and eliminated.” priority this decade of action. the morning 7 Monday, December 21, 2020 SPORTS

BY THEVIYANTHAN KRISHNAMOHAN on their dreams, just to have a few The best bowler Sri Lanka letters appended beside their names. A popular theory put forward ever produced, Muttiah by some Tamils in Sri Lanka Muralitharan, is a Tamil. Caste and school-based is that the Sri Lankan cricket discrimination in Jaffna team does not represent the Jaffna has a strong caste-based Tamil-speaking population society, hence being discriminated of the island. This is a against for belonging to a lower delicate matter that needs caste is nothing new there. Perhaps it to be looked at objectively is for that very reason Muralitharan rather than subjectively, was called a “non-Tamil” by a Jaffna Tamil belonging to a superior caste. since manifolds of political Children from the dispelled castes agendas have been executed do not get much opportunities, in the past over this topic by as opposed to the chances “more both the Tamil diaspora and privileged” children receive. politicians in Tamil Nadu, Another stark discrimination India. prevailing in Jaffna is somewhat similar to the school-based Cricket in Sri Lanka galvanises discrimination that was once the nation together. It distracts prevalent in Colombo. Elite children from homework, men schoolchildren from Jaffna Hindu from jobs, lovers from romance, College, St. Patrick’s, and St. John’s drunkards from alcohol, and a are given prominence over other country impacted by ethnic crisis schools. A friend who played for from ethnic distinction. Jaffna Combined XI in the Murali With blue and yellow face paint Harmony Cup in 2013 was deprived on, no one at a cricket ground will of the chance of batting up the ask you what language you speak or order because he belonged to a less which religion you follow. prominent school. Talent from small When the (World Cup-winning) schools often go unnoticed. T20I squad returned to Sri Lanka victorious (in 2014), the team was Corruption within the received by a large crowd that sporting system encompassed ethnic diversity. In Complaints are replete about the the packed crowd was me, a Tamil, ARE SRI LANKAN free cricket equipment from the standing in between a Sinhalese south failing to reach the hands and a Muslim. We spoke different of the needy. What happens en languages and followed different route is a mystery. The fact that religions, but our goal was one and sport is not taken seriously allows the same: Get a glimpse of the hard- TAMIL CRICKETERS the mysterious disappearance to earned silverware and the men who perpetuate in the north and east. A fought ruthlessly to bring it home, prominent Tamil boys’ school in and if things go well, to get a chance Colombo has two cricket nets that to shake hands with the men who are used as storage for broken desks helped our flag soar high. and an indoor stadium that is used as Many Tamil songs were sung that DISCRIMINATED a go down. Tamil society here tends night by Sinhalese singers without not to give priority to sports, and any discrimination, and the crowd sporting activities are still considered too didn’t hold back from dancing indulging. to the tunes. What a microcosm of Sri Lanka it was. That once again The belief there won’t ever reiterated the fact that cricket can AGAINST? be a national call up help Sri Lanka find solidarity amidst Sri Lanka Captain Angelo between the residents of the North Many cricket aficionados in plurality. Mathews’ father is a Tamil. and East and the Tamils residing the Tamil-speaking regions have Cricket brought a ceasefire Russell Arnold, one of Sri Lanka’s in the rest of Sri Lanka needs constantly been discouraged from between the LTTE (Liberation best finishers and a popular TV to be made. Tamils in Colombo turning to cricket as a career, Tigers of Tamil Eelam) and the Sri commentator, hails from the Tamil have a greater chance of playing alleging that Tamils will never be Lanka Army in 2007, during the ethnicity. A Tamil cricketer by the cricket professionally than those in given a chance to represent the course of that year’s World Cup. name Pradeep Jayaprakashdaran previously war-torn regions. national team. It must be pointed “In 2007, the LTTE declared a took the wicket of Virender Sehwag Even the Tamils who played out that the Sri Lankan netball team ceasefire with the Government of Sri in the only match he played for Sri for Sri Lanka in the past have is led by a Tamil and Sri Lanka’s Lanka for the duration of the World Lanka. been from the elite schools from third highest international goal Cup,” said Shehan Karunathilaka. History has the names of 15 Colombo. Cricket in Sri Lanka scorer in football is a Tamil. In the “Rumours have circulated in Tamil players who have represented has not really expanded out of past, the LTTE had been a constant Colombo society that the LTTE also the country at the highest level. Colombo, with most clubs having limiting factor in preventing celebrated Sri Lanka’s victory at the Apart from Muralitharan, their headquarters within the Tamils from taking up sports. World Cup in 1996,” said Michael Sathasivam, Mathews, and Arnold, Greater Colombo area, so the lack Local cricket stars of Jaffna like Roberts. there is Raveendran Rathnayake, of Tamil cricketers can be consigned Kandeepan never became stars due Despite the universal truth that Sabapathypillai Illangaratnam, to the poor cricket infrastructure in to the LTTE. There is obviously sport is a panacea that heals all evils, Ravindra Pushpakumara, Vinothen areas with large Tamil populations. corruption within the hierarchy of cricketers from Sri Lanka have John, Sridharan Jeganathan, Roy Tamils in Colombo are also cricket administration in Sri Lanka been targeted by Tamil diaspora Dias, Joe Saverimuthupillai, known to refrain from seeking Cricket, but to say there exists groups and Tamil Nadu politicians Gajanand Pathmanathan, and Neil careers in cricket. The first-class discrimination based on ethnicity is to unleash their wrath on the and Dennis Chanmugam. system has almost no Tamil players preposterous. Government of Sri Lanka. Sports If the theory of ethnic profiling in their first XIs, which tells us there We Tamils are responsible for should never become a substance within Sri Lanka cricket is true, then aren’t many Tamils playing at the our own plight within the sports for politics; yet, there are those who none of the above players would domestic level. In order to raise the arena of Sri Lanka. Of course, the believe that a banning on Sri Lankan have represented Sri Lanka. question on discrimination, we need diaspora and naysayers will come cricketers from playing will yield One must also consider that to know for certain if Tamil players up with excuses to advocate their results like it did in South Africa to Muralitharan received steadfast are even attempting to enrol in club aversion to Sri Lanka. end apartheid. support from the Sri Lankan cricket cricket. There is a tendency among Some malevolently claim that board and the entire nation when There is obviously no Tamils outside of Sri Lanka to treat minorities in Sri Lanka are deprived he was humiliated in Australia. institutionalised ethnic the Sri Lankan cricket team as a of the chance of representing their The island nation went on to discrimination at school level. The “Sinhala-Buddhist team”, even country of birth at international consider the treatment meted out to last Big Match encounter between though the team has been made level. These arguments, despite Muralitharan as a national insult, Royal College and S. Thomas’ had of a diverse group of players over being apocrypha, are fortified by the and Australia’s downfall on the a Tamil captaining S. Thomas’ and the years. Protests by diaspora fact that few Tamils have played for cricket field is still often celebrated another Tamil playing for Royal. groups are not consistent and are Sri Lanka in the recent past. Is that in Sri Lanka for that reason alone. The problems faced by players only staged when there is a tour a credible reason to not to support His ethnicity was immaterial – from the North and East should by Sri Lanka to their respective their nation? Is discrimination the everyone loved Muralitharan. not be looked upon as an ethnic countries. Calls have been made to sole reason for the sparse Tamil problem, but as a regional problem, ban the cricket team – a team that representation? So is there no for all cricketers out of Colombo are transcends all evils and unites – for discrimination? faced with the same plight. political feuds. Sri Lankan Tamils Tamils who played for To deny discrimination But apart from the aforementioned must back this team for it represents Sri Lanka completely would be incorrect. reason, I would like to shed light on all Sri Lankans, including Tamils. The best bowler Sri Lanka There has been discrimination and various other reasons within Tamil Everyone has the right to support ever produced is a Tamil. Sri there is discrimination, but of a society (that includes Tamils from any team they chose, but rejecting Lanka’s best batsman is also a different kind. Colombo as well as the North and the Sri Lankan cricket team due to Tamil (Mahadevan Sathasivam, Cricketers from certain schools East) that help contribute to the myths and half-truths is a disservice a Ceylonese batsman who was were once given precedence over lack of Tamil players in Sri Lankan to the country you call home. regarded as better than Don talents from the other schools. cricket. “I did not feel the difference Bradman by prominent cricketers). The Thomians and the Royalists between the two communities – Even though the former, Muttiah often scowled at Anandians and Attitude of Tamils towards Tamils and Sinhalese,” Muralitharan extracurricular activities Muralitharan, has been a totem of Nalandians within the realms of Sri Lanka’s best batsman, was once quoted as saying. “There unity, the latter is all but forgotten. cricket. Kumar Sangakkara, in Mahadevan Sathasivam, The 30-year war has left Tamil were no obstacles and barriers is also a Tamil parents with the belief that education for me during my long tenure as is the only salvation for their a Tamil cricketer representing Jaffna Stallions and Tamils in SL cricket children. Some hold the view that the Sri Lankan team. I was never his MCC (Marylebone Cricket Colombo and the Western Province Tamils will not be given equal discriminated against by anyone.” Club) lecture, said when Arjuna are more likely to be considered footing, and they feel the only way There is no discrimination in Sri In the wake of the special standards of Sri Lanka. Notably, Ranatunga was a 15-year-old school for selection than youngsters from of rising to higher levels of Sri Lanka cricket. Sri Lankan cricket impetus created in Jaffna – or in there were at least four “original” kid practising in the nets at the club, other areas, which can be attributed Lankan society is by empowering fans, irrespective of their ethnicity, general in the entire North and Jaffna boys who represented the a senior stalwart of the club inquired to the poor domestic structure and themselves in the field of academia. are eagerly waiting for the pacemen East of the island – for the game of Jaffna Stallions franchise this time, about him. “When told he was from below-par cricket facilities beyond This in turn results in a minuscule from Jaffna to bleed blue in order cricket after Jaffna Stallions won the inaugural year of the LPL. the unfashionable Ananda College, Colombo’s borders. number of Tamils in the skills-based to alleviate our bowling woes the Lanka Premier League (LPL) Furthermore, the franchise was he dismissed his obvious talents sectors. It does not only explain the overseas. They have been waiting title last week (16 Dec.), beating owned by a party which has had its immediately, saying: ‘We don’t Why aren’t there many dearth of Tamils in cricket, but it eagerly ever since Pushpakumara Galle Gladiators in the finals, roots in that region too. want any Sarong Johnnie’s in this Tamil cricketers? can explain the scarcity of Tamils announced that a northern player a discussion has been erupted This informative article may club’.” The answer to this question is in other industries such as fashion, would represent Sri Lanka in the over how and why the once- give our readers an insight into the Even though there is parity in the not straightforward. There are modelling, music, acting, film, near future. war-torn region can contribute to realms of ethnicity in Sri Lanka’s selection process nowadays, there is numerous reasons for the decline of dancing, etc. (This article was published on the betterment of ailing cricket cricket. still a dearth of talent coming from cricket among Tamils. War was one Tamil students are thrust into the website www.thearmchaircritic. outside of Colombo. Players from big reason. A rational distinction books and often forced to give up org on 4 January 2015) Biting the dust at Kiws win, their reign's peak cancellation for SL India would have woken up for Sri Lanka, now in South Africa, will reality from a sweet, sweet dream now have to face South Africa sans after being bowled out for their any customary warm-up games. lowest-ever Test Total (36) on The reason is Covid-19 fears and Saturday (19), to lose their first the quarantine situation prevailing Test against Australia by eight there. Their only practice game, a wickets in Adelaide. Nobody three-dayer, before the start of the entering double-figures in that two-match Test series on Saturday innings is hard to explain. Now (26) was called off yesterday (20) in with their gutsy skipper Virat Kohli Benoni. Meanwhile, New Zealand back home on paternity leave, can romped to a 2-0 series lead against Ajinka Rahane fill his big shoes Pakistan in their T20I series in as the replacement captain? Any Hamilton yesterday. Kiwis chased emperor can bite the dust, even at 163 successfully in 19.2 overs to the peak of their reign. record a nine-wicket win.

Monday, December 21, 2020

The Central Crusaders, led by Buwanekasports Goonathilake, yesterday INAUGURAL ‘LI NING-LANKA SHUTTLE CHALLENGE’ (20) emerged champions in the inaugural ‘Li Ning-Lanka Shuttle Challenge’, overcoming the Sachin Dias-led Southern Stars 4-2 at Sri Lanka Badminton (SLB) headquarters in Colombo. Central Crusaders win The championship, which was the country’s first high-profile franchise-based badminton tournament organised by SLB, featured six franchises of 12 players. RESULTS SL’s first shuttle league Girls’ Singles – Panchali Adhikara (Southern) - not held, as the tie had been Eagles led by Dilmi Dias, and Northern (Southern) beat Varangana Jayawardena, decided at 4-2 then Knights, captained by Niluka Karunaratne – 21/10, 21/9. were eliminated in the earlier stage. Boys’ singles – Sethum Perera (Central) Road to finals beat Kaviru Sanjitha, 19/21, 14/21. Leaders Southern Stars had topped the Women’s Singles – Hasini Ambalagodage table to book a direct ticket to the semi- (Southern) beat Isuri De Alwis, 21/15, finals after an unbeaten run. They overcame Special Awards 21/11. the Western Warriors, led by Kavidi Most Valuable Players Men’s Singles – Dumindu Abeywickrama Sirimanage, with a margin of 4-2. yy Junior – (Central) beat Sachin Dias, 21/11, 17/21, The Central Crusaders, on the other 2/21. hand, had to take on fourth-placed Island Girls: Ranithma Liyanage Mixed Doubles – Buwaneka Chief guest of the final, National Olympic Committee (NOC) President Suresh Subramaniam (standing Titans, captained by Olympian Dinuka Boys: Setham Perera Goonathilake and Hasara Wijeratne fifth from left) with Sri Lanka Badminton (SLB) President Rohan De Silva, Vice Presidents Palitha Karunaratne, before facing the Western Hettiarachchi and Roshan Fernando, and Flex Sports (Pvt.) Ltd. Chairman, Sanjeewa Akuretiya, with yy Senior – (Central) beat Roshan Padma Kumara and the Li Ning-Lanka Shuttle Challenge title winners, Central Crusaders, yesterday (20). Warriors. They beat the Island Titans 4-2, Nilasi Balasooriya, 12/21, 14/21. and eliminated Western Warriors with a Women: Hasini Ambalagodage Men’s Doubles – Buwaneka Goonathilake Chamath Dias & Sachin Dias, 21/9, 21/19. & Hasini Ambalagodage (Central) vs. similar score-line. Men: Buwaneka Goonathilake & Lahiru Weerasinghe (Central) beat Women’s Doubles - Buthmi Galagamage Hasara Wijeratne & Suhasni Vidanage The rest of the competing teams – Eastern

COMPILED BY REVATHA S. SILVA AND Cricket Club and Kandy Youth Cricket RAVI VARMA IN JAFFNA Club since 2017 Other notable players: As our northern brothers are now ecstatically celebrating the Jaffna Stallions’ The “Jaffna Boys” S.S. Shanmugarajah, aka “Typhoon” victory in the inaugural Lanka Premier Shanmugarajah, was a prominent cricketer League (LPL), we bring you today, for your z A summary of those who excelled in cricket from Jaffna at St. John’s College, Jaffna during the late information, details of the leading cricketers 1950s. produced by Jaffna in post-Independence Sri yy On 19 October 2020, he was contracted Dr. Nagalingam Ethirveerasingam, the Lanka. as a standby player for Jaffna Stallions in legendary high-jumper who represented Sri the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2020 Lanka (then Ceylon) at the Helsinki (1952) 1. Kantharatnam Shanthikumar along with his schoolmate Theventhiran and Melbourne (1956) Olympic Games, was yy Born on 5 December 1954 in Jaffna Dinoshan and Jaffna Central’s also a prominent cricketer at Central College, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth Jaffna. He participated in three Asian Games; yy A right-arm opening bowler and a dashing 8. Sebamalaipillai Jeni Flemi 1954 Manila, 1958 Tokyo, and 1962 Jakarta, right-handed batsman 1 2 3 4 5 6 winning Gold Medal in 1958 (jumping 2.03 yy Played for Tamil Union Cricket and yy Born on 9 June 1998 in Jaffna metres, a Games Record) which was Sri Athletic Club in Colombo yy Lanka’s first Gold in any major international Right-handed top-order batsman from St. competition. At the 1962 Jakarta Games, he yy He was picked for the Sri Lanka National John’s College, Jaffna won Silver. Squad for the inaugural 1979 International yy He was part of Sri Lanka U-19 Later in life, whilst working as a university Cricket Council (ICC) Trophy (conducted Development Squad, along with lecturer in Sierra Leone, he captained the for ICC associate member countries) in schoolmate Kanagarathnam Kapilraj, university cricket team and, in 1973, “Ethir” England against South Africa U-19 is reported to have vice-captained the Sierra Leone national cricket team in a game against yy He later captained the Bahrain national 7 8 9 10 11 yy Played for Moors Sports Club in the Sri team Gambia. Lanka Cricket (SLC) U-23 Tournament During mid 1970s, Canagaiah yy Has featured in the Canadian national yy His father Mahalingam had played junior under Nipun Dananjaya in 2018 and 2019 9. Theesan Vithushan Sooriyakumar, Muttiah Theivendra, squad too cricket in Colombo in the mid 1950s respectively Kanagadurai, and Gowripalan were also yy He was born on 2 May 2001 well-known cricketers produced by St. John’s 2. Sabapathipille Ilangaratnam yy Kandeepan studied at St. John’s College, yy On 19 October 2020, he was contracted yy A left-arm leg-spinner (chinaman) College, Jaffna. yy Sabapathipille Ilangaratnam, aka Saba, Jaffna as a standby player for Jaffna Stallions From Jaffna Central College, R. franchise in the inaugural Lanka bowler and a right-handed batsman Sabapathi, or Ilange, was born in Jaffna on yy As a batsman, he was in his prime form in Naguleswaran earned a name as a cricketer in Premier League (LPL) 2020, along with y 18 December 1947 the mid-1990s y Vithushan played U-19 Division-III the mid-1970s. schoolmate Theventhiran Dinoshan and representing Jaffna Central College Another prominent Jaffna Central player of yy He passed away on 16 July 2007 in y y He was one of the most notable cricketers Kanagarathnam Kapilraj y the same period was Donald Ganeshakumar. Colombo, aged 59 to emerge from the peninsula in the y Played in U-19 Super Provincial yy Played in three LPL matches against Thileepan Rasalingam, a right-handed entire decade of 1990, as the region was Tournaments during 2018/19 yy He began playing cricket at Hindu Colombo Kings, Dambulla Vikings, and dashing batsman and right-arm off-spinner, engulfed by the civil war y College, Jaffna Kandy Tuskers y Played for Moors Sports Club in the was born in Jaffna in 1977. He later played yy The escalating war between the U-23 Major Youth Tournament this for Switzerland’s Cossonay Cricket Club yy He later moved to Moratuwa to play yy Viyaskanth thus became the first Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) season (2020/21) with distinction, being awarded as its best Division-I cricket for Moratuwa Sports Jaffna-born cricketer to play in a match and the military at the time hindered bowler of the 2017 season. He made his Club internationally televised live from Sri 10. Sebastianpillai Vijayaraj Kandeepan’s cricket prospects debut for Switzerland at the Central European yy ‘Saba’ then moved to Bloomfield during Lanka yy Wields a slinging, low-arm fast-bowling T20 Cup, held in Warsaw, Poland in 2017. the mid-1970s, where he played under 4. Selvarasa Mathusan yy He took one wicket in his debut LPL action, resembling that of Lasith Malinga Rasalingam also played for Streatham & Bandula Warnapura yy Born on 21 February 2000 game against Colombo Kings on 4 yy He is nicknamed ‘Kilinochchi Express’ Marlborough CC in Dulwich, London. yy ‘Saba’ also played for Bank of Ceylon, December 2020 at Hambantota. The Ratnam Edward Edin from Central yy Right-handed bat and right-arm medium yy He is said to have been spotted first by a where he was employed as a manager wicket was that of former Sri Lanka College, Jaffna played for Tamil Union. fast bowler Captain Angelo Mathews Sirasa TV documentary team in August He also featured in the Malaysian Premier y y Ilangaratnam played one match for Sri yy Played for Central College, Jaffna 2017 in Palai in the Kilinochchi District League in 2016 as an all-rounder. He was Lanka. That was against England (then 6. Theventhiran Dinoshan yy Vijayaraj joined the Jaffna Stallions for born in 1992. He was a right-handed bat and named MCC) under Tony Greig in an yy Played in the Sri Lanka U-19 Super yy An 18-year-old all-rounder who is the Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2020 as right-arm off-break bowler. unofficial one-dayer held at SSC on 20 Provincial Tournament in 2018 currently a member of the Sri Lanka a net bowler A well-known cricketer to emerge from St. February 1977. Sri Lanka played under yy Called up for Sri Lanka Youth Squad in Youth Development Squad Patrick’s College, Jaffna is Rishanth Tudor. Anura Tennekoon. He opened bowling for 2018; that time, Sri Lanka placed runners- 11. Thyagarajah Bhanugopan He was a wicket-keeper batsman who later Sri Lanka with Tony Opatha. His figures yy Student of St John’s College, Jaffna played for Tamil Union. up in the Youth Asia Cup yy Born on 24 January 1998 were 4-0-17-0. MCC won the that 40-over yy Note: yy On 19 October 2020, he was contracted as match by 23 runs Mathushan later made his First class debut a standby player for Jaffna Stallions in the yy A left-handed batsman and a right-arm The names listed above are what we have for Tamil Union in Colombo yy After Sabapathipille’s passing away Lanka Premier League (LPL) 2020, along leg-spin bowler found through recent research. There may be many others we have missed – we request our in 2007, Warnapura said: “Ilange was 5. Vijayakanth Viyaskanth with his schoolmate Kanagarathnam yy Plays mainly as a spin bowler perhaps the most loved fast-bowler ever to Kapilraj and Jaffna Central’s Vijayakanth readers to inform us if you have any further grace the cricket field. Even the opposition yy He was born on 5 December 2001 in Viyaskanth yy Started his cricket at Hindu College, names and/or details on prominent Jaffna loved him. He didn’t even like to bowl Jaffna Jaffna cricketers. We may be contacted via +94 77 7. Kanagarathnam Kapilraj 387 0889 bouncers at the opposition batsmen. yy The 19-year-old is still a schoolboy and yy He later moved to Trinity College, Whenever I asked him to do so, he would has one more season left to play for his yy An old boy of St. John’s College, Jaffna Kandy, where he won school colours in ask me whether he could dismiss the school, Central College - Jaffna yy He was part of the Sri Lanka U-19 2017 No ‘Square Cuts’ by Sudat batsman by bowling either a Yorker or Pasqual today any other delivery.” yy A leg-break bowler and right-handed Development Squad with schoolmate yy Played for Kandy District and Central batsman Sebamalaipillai Jeni Flemi, against South Province cricket teams since 2016 Our Monday sports column, 3. Mahalingam Kandeepan y Africa U-19 ‘Square Cuts by Sudat Pasqual’, is not y Called up for Sri Lanka Youth pool in yy Was part of the Sri Lanka U-19 pool for published this week due to unavoidable yy yy Represented Tamil Union U-23 in 2019 Born in 1974 in Jaffna to a cricket- 2018 but didn’t enter the final squad tours of South Africa and England in circumstances. It will be published as loving father named S.K. Mahalingam, yy Later played for Sri Lanka U-19 against yy This year (2020) Kapilraj featured in the 2016 usual from next week onwards. We regret Kandeepan was an extremely popular India and Australia in two Youth Tests, Police U-23 squad the inconvenience caused to our readers. cricketer emerging from Jaffna yy Played inter-club cricket for Kandy the morning Monday, December 21, 2020 9 education

to do an internship once they are done with the second year, in order to get them used to the industry. “We encourage our students to go and work in the industry for at least one semester, so that they go and get exposed to APIIT prepares their the industry. So when our students get used to the various attributes of the industry, they have a better chance of being hired and sometimes our students have jobs waiting for them once they graduate from the companies they interned for.” He stated that the institute also caters studentstwo branches with the main onefor being When theit comes to their business worldThroughout a student’s life at APIIT, By Uwin Lugoda to the parents’ expectations of a higher based in Colombo and the other in Kandy, programs, Kaluarachchi stated that they would be assigned a mentor, where educational institute, such as the academics Asia Pacific Institute Of which currently only has business and they are offering the local students the they will be free to clear up any queries and what kind of values are instilled in their Information Technology (APIIT), computing streams. same program as the one they offer in they may have. Kaluarachchi stated children. This is why APIIT has partnered has now celebrated 20 years as However, according to the Staffordshire University in the UK; from that this will also create a good level of with one of UK’s top universities and has an integral part of Sri Lanka’s Head of APITT’s Business school, the modules to the way they teach the interaction between the students and the put time into creating additional values for higher education sector. Having S C Kaluarachchi, the institute goes program. He stated that apart from these faculty. their students. beyond traditional learning by creating academic skills, APIIT also plays an active APIIT’s business school, recently Moreover, the professor stated that established a partnership with independent learners, who are given the role in nurturing the soft skills of these signed an agreement with the Deakin Staffordshire University in the UK, the institute also nurtures the students’ necessary guidelines and support to create students, allowing them to move into the University of Australia, where students entrepreneurial skills, and encourages which is among UK’s top hundred students who fill the requirements of the industry with confidence. can complete their first year in Sri Lanka, universities, and Asia Pacific them to find out of the box solutions to market. He explained that their curriculum “We start exposing them to the and the next two years in Australia. help the pain-points of the current industry. University of Technology and is updated every five years to ready their industry from the first year itself, via The students can major in seven areas He further explained that the school Innovation in Malaysia; the institute students for the needs of the respective various channels. These include work including management, management of computing identifies and supports conducts both undergraduate and markets. experience modules, industry visits, guest information systems, finance, economics, entrepreneurial minded students who are masters degree programs in the “We not only look at the current speakers from the industry and even our marketing, human resource and highly motivated and may want to convert fields of Business Management, market when it comes to these streams. In assignments are based on the current accounting. their final year projects into commercial Computing/IT and Law. order to prepare our students, we actually problems in the industry.” The Head of APIIT’s school ventures. go as far as to predict the future of the When it comes to technical skills, for computing, Professor Priyantha “We also identified emerging Throughout the years APIIT has market; so that the graduates are ready to he stated that the business program Kumarawadu, stated that the institute has trained over 3500 graduates in these technologies when it comes to our field, and face whatever comes their way.” includes modules like big data and fostered a close bond with each respective we have added those into the curriculum so streams, and each year take in 450 He stated that the institute has a information systems in organisation, so industry, and this has led to the student’s students, with over a 1,000 currently in that students are ready. The best example for 95% guarantee of having their students that the students are exposed to the latest of the institute being highlighted for their this is the inclusion of a new undergraduate enrolment. The institute has also been employed in the first three months since technology. He explained that their goal positive reputation. He stated that when dubbed the largest provider of foreign degree program in cyber security to prepare their graduation due to their market is to send out a fully-fledged graduate into it comes to the school of computing, our students for success in the fast-growing degree programmes (transnational readiness. the marketplace. students are provided with an opportunity education – TNE) in Sri Lanka, and has field of information security. Government borrows $ 400 m 200th Gavel UoC meeting goes virtual from ADB to support edu sector By Ramalka Kasige The Government’s line with the Government’s 5 December 2020 was an Policy Framework “Vistas plan to address the Covid-19 important milestone for the of Prosperity and Splendor” disruptions. Gavel Club of University of envisages harnessing the The Ministry of Colombo (UoC) as it was the power of the country’s youth Education will be the 200th gavel meeting. By all who account for almost executing agency for the means, it was a day to celebrate one-fourth of the total above programme, whereas with glee. Drawing themselves population, and engaging the State Ministry of out of online lectures, them as proactive partners Education Reforms, Open assignments, in-classes and in the country’s sustainable Universities, and Distance office work, UoC gaveliers met development process. Education Promotion; State virtually for another gathering of Photo © Gavelier Ganeshiny Sridharan Accordingly, the Ministry of Women and Child their family away from family. that Gavelier Susara kept his Government of Sri Lanka Development, Preschool and It was a splendid moment for all very first step in his competent entered into a budgetary Primary Education, School UoC gaveliers as seven batches communicator journey on this support loan worth $ Infrastructure, and School of gaveliers across the world special meeting. 400 million with Asian Services; and nine provincial were connected virtually after a Letting everyone enter Development Bank (ADB) education departments (PEA) long time. into the most amazing, mind- under the results based will be the implementing Set up in November 2014, blowing session of the day, lending (RBL) financial Treasury Secretary S.R. Attygalle and ADB Sri Lanka Resident Mission Country Director Chen Chen agencies to the programme. the Gavel Club of UoC is Table Topics Master Gavelier modality to finance the In this connection, an affiliate of Toastmasters support the Government’s science, technology, education system as a basic Uditha Weerasinghe (President Secondary Education Sector Treasury Secretary S.R. International. The club was General Education Sector mathematics, and commerce foundation for human 2019/2020) introduced the table Improvement Programme. Attygalle, on behalf of inaugurated under the leadership Development Plan 2020- (STMC) programmes; (ii) resource development for a topics, adding exuberance to the The above loan, which was the Government of Sri of Charter President Mohamed 2025 in strengthening the strengthening provincial and knowledge-based modern session. borrowed at an annual interest Lanka, and ADB Sri Lanka Shaik, under the guidance country’s secondary education school capacity to implement global economy in line with Gavelier Charuni rate of LIBOR + 0.5%, has a Resident Mission Country of former Senior Treasurer system. The programme will education reforms; and the national policy framework. Pathmeswaran (Vice President – repayment period of 26 years Director Chen Chen, on Dr. Asoka Ramanayake. It institutionalise systems for (iii) strengthening sector The programme also focuses Education: Charter Board) took including a five-year grace behalf of ADB, signed the is the only club that focuses enhancing secondary students’ management capacity. on the new strategies such the audience on a quick ride period. loan agreement to obtain $ on enhancing leadership and learning outcomes through: The outcome of the as online learning and on her gavel journey, sharing The proposed 400 million on 1 December communication skills in the (i) Enhancing the quality programme will be the teaching, blended learning, on her diverse experiences Secondary Education Sector 2020 at the Ministry of English language for the and relevance of secondary transformation of the distance mode education in gained as a UoC gavelier. It Improvement Programme will Finance. undergraduates in the entire was enlightening to hear how university. the club has supported her to The club is open to all become the great personality faculties and fluency in English she is today. Words of gratitude is not required to join the club. were shared by members of the IIHS hosts BioInquirer Conference 2020 Weekly gavel educational Gavel UoC Alumni, Gavelier meetings create a supportive, Shaik and Gavelier Fadil, two positive environment to z Enables continuous professional development by eliminating barriers through technology leading personalities behind develop speaking, listening, Gavel UoC. Sri Lanka’s pioneer healthcare the breakout of the pandemic. in the field of healthcare. The and leadership skills of their “It gives me immense training provider, the International Commenting on this year’s approach will also create a passion members. pleasure to be the President Institute of Health Sciences (IIHS) conference, IIHS CEO/Co-Founder for collaborative learning, increased The proceedings of the of the Gavel Club for this hosted the 18th BioInquirer annual Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe said: “We productivity and efficiency, and 200th meeting was unfolded huge milestone that we are research forum in November 2020 are excited to be hosting the 18th actively engaged students, teachers, with the usual warm welcome passing today. I would like under the theme of “Transform and BioInquirer research forum for and healthcare workers. by a humble young gentleman, to express my gratitude to all Collaborate”. the year 2020 under the theme of The IIHS Bioinquirer supports Gavelier Dasitha De Costa past presidents and gaveliers The BioInquirer research forum ‘Transform and Collaborate’. The and conducts knowledge sharing (President 2020/21) who handed who have given a lot to take is a global incubator that supports speaker lineup is very impressive through research, conferences, over the controls of the meeting the gavel club up to this level knowledge-hungry healthcare and and we have experienced strong workshops, and community to the Toastmaster of the Day, and give them a pledge on education professionals to publish support from our foreign university engagement projects. This is an Gavelier Shankamal Harinda behalf of the current executive and gather research knowledge partners to make this valuable event impressive way of disseminating (Vice President – Membership committee that we will in the healthcare sector in Sri a success. At IIHS, we clearly knowledge in key areas and 2016/17). He took the audience continue what they did and Lanka. At the research forum, the understand the need to embrace subjects. IIHS conducts over 30 on a dramatic voyage with his take the club to even higher participating professionals were transformation as that will help to free workshops annually to support words. standards,” shared Gavelier encouraged to present their work propel the healthcare training and the nursing professionals, nursing The meeting sailed Dasitha on a final note. at a competitive level, with each education sectors whilst reducing students, teachers, and other sectors. smoothly with the usual There is a saying that goes, conference aiming to transform costs and other concerns that can The community research projects round-robin session, prepared “let the good times be never attendees from task-oriented impact negatively. will help solve crucial problems in speeches, and table topics ending”. But it was time to individuals to critical thinkers. This is an important event society whilst creating much-needed followed by insightful drop the anchor to yet another This year, the BioInquirer in the IIHS calendar, allowing to awareness among the concerned evaluations by the General momentous evening of Gavel research conference focused on improve the skills of students and parties. Evaluator, Gavelier Ramalka UoC. encouraging researchers to consider staff as a part of the international Furthermore, IIHS positions (Editor 2017/2018) along with Cheers to many more multidisciplinary approaches in university learning centre. This itself as an international her TAG team, encouraging productive gavel years and healthcare training and education will improve the leadership and collaborator with well-renowned the speakers with a dash of IIHS CEO/Co-Founder beyond. UoC gaveliers have as an area for a wider scope of teamwork of the students adding universities such as the University enthusiasm. Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe made it this far. They can make research. This has been initiated immense confidence in them where of Aberdeen and Coventry The round-robin session it through whatever comes next. since the multidisciplinary allowed the use of the latest they can face the global challenges University from the UK, Deakin was interesting, amusing, and Gavel UoC will always find its approaches in healthcare and educational technologies and when they become Internationally University and James Cook engaging as Round Robin ways to keep the gavel family education are considered to be methods to provide an opportunity recognised healthcare and education University from Australia, Helsinki Master Gavelier Vimukthini together and share the warmth significant components, and thus for continuous professional professionals in the future. Metropolia University of Applied Jayalath (President 2017/2018) through all hurdles, as Gavelier would provide a wider arena for development whilst eliminating Embracing transformation in Sciences from Finland, and Open invited speakers to share their Fadil (Vice President – Public interested parties. accessibility barriers. No doubt this healthcare training and education University Malaysia. This will gavel experiences, specifically Relations: Charter Board) This year’s conference was proved to be an invaluable asset will allow achieving greater heights support the concept of a global the instances which made them always says, “gavel never powered by the IIHS Scientific given the change of tides that the and will improve multidisciplinary incubator where IIHS has created a come out of their comfort stops”. Long live Gavel UoC. Student Committee which world has been experiencing with care which is an integrated approach platform for professionals. zones. Also, it was noteworthy