„„ www.themorning.lk „„ Late City VOL 01 | NO 14 | Rs. 30.00 { THURSDAY } THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021 BACHELET WENT ‘TAKE BEYOND HER MANDATE BABY WITH REPORT STEPS’

FRUIT AND VEGETABLE BRAVERY, TIMIDITY, EXPORTERS EYE CHINESE TECHNOLOGY, AND… MARKET EXPANSION THE HELMET »SEE PAGE 12 »SEE PAGE 7 »SEE PAGE 14 »SEE PAGE 4 No charges against Covid burials to be allowed: PM Ranil in Easter report z Nothing communicated z Pakistan PM and officially: Task Force US Envoy welcome z Charges recommended against Sirisena, and Health Ministry MR’s statement

BY HIRANYADA DEWASIRI Defence Secy. Hemasiri, and IGP Pujith Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Parliamentarian S.M. Despite Prime Minister Mahinda Marikkar as to whether the burial of the bodies BY OUR POLITICAL EDITOR Rajapaksa’s surprise statement in Parliament of Covid-19 victims will be allowed in light Despite reports to the contrary, the final report of the Presidential Commission of yesterday (10) that the burial of the bodies of the statement made by State Minister of Inquiry (PCoI) appointed to investigate the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks has not of Covid-19 victims will be allowed, which Primary Healthcare, Epidemics, and Covid recommended that criminal charges be brought against former Prime Minister Ranil was welcomed internationally, the Covid-19 Disease Control Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle Wickremesinghe, The Morning reliably learnt. Task Force and the health authorities are yet that the coronavirus cannot be transmitted Testifying before the PCoI in October after the constitutional crisis and the change to receive official communications on the through water, the Premier said that burials 2020, Wickremesinghe said former President of Government that took place suddenly on 26 pronouncement, The Morning learnt. will be allowed. did not invite him to the October 2018. Responding to a question raised by Samagi Contd. on page 2 National Security Council (NSC) meetings Contd. on page 2 FOREST OFFICER WHO SAVED RARE TREE WP schools opening put UPCOMING UNHRC SESSION No decision off on DGHS advice SL considering z Will open on 15 z 15 Feb preschool homegrown resolution on disciplinary March after O/L ends opening unaffected BY PAMODI WARAVITA by itself, The Morning learnt. action yet BY HIRANYADA DEWASIRI and Gampaha Districts on 15 is considering several A topmost official at the Foreign BY PAMODI WARAVITA The Ministry of Education February. alternative options to a consensual Ministry told The Morning that the has decided to move the date of “Dr. Gunawardena resolution with the Core Group for Ministry is looking at the option of The Ministry of Wildlife and Forest reopening schools in the Western recommended reopening schools Sri Lanka at the upcoming United taking the initiative to submit its Conservation has yet to reach a decision on Province from the previously in the Western Province after Nations Human Rights Council own resolution at the upcoming whether to take disciplinary action against scheduled and announced date the GCE O/L exam ends. All (UNHRC) session, including session in Geneva, Switzerland. Gampaha Division Forest Officer Devani of 15 February, to 15 March, based government schools, international submitting a homegrown resolution Contd. on page 2 Jayathilaka who prevented a critically on recommendations made by schools, and government-approved endangered plant species from being destroyed the Director General of Health private schools in the Western for the purpose of the construction of an Services (DGHS). Province will, therefore, begin expressway, The Morning learnt. Minister of Education Prof. on 15 March.” Speaking to The Morning yesterday G.L. Peiris told the media The Minister added that this (10), Secretary to the Ministry Bandula yesterday (10) that following does not affect the schools that Harischandra said that the ministry has not the recommendation made by have already reopened and that yet reached a decision on the course of action DGHS Dr. Asela Gunawardena all other schools will open for against Jayathilaka, who prevented the to reopen schools in the Western students from Grade One on 15 destruction of the critically endangered Province after the conclusion of March. legume – Crudia zeylanica – the GCE Ordinary Level (O/L) The GCE O/L exam is to begin which is near the Daraluwa examination, the Ministry has on 1 March and go on till 11 Railway Station in Gampaha. decided to reverse the earlier plan March. Contd. on page 2 Gampaha Division Forest Officer Devani Jayathilaka to reopen schools in the Contd. on page 2 SL mulls trade Civil society to agreements with No political prisoners raise concerns Ethiopia, S. Africa under any law: PM at UNHRC BY HIRANYADA DEWASIRI z Ganesan and rights group call for general amnesty z Present HR situ under critique Sri Lanka is contemplating entering into BY HIRANYADA DEWASIRI AND The Premier said this in BY PAMODI WARAVITA trade agreements with African nations such as RUWAN LAKNATH JAYAKODY response to a question raised by A collective of civil society organisations will Ethiopia and South Africa, and other smaller Prime Minister Mahinda Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi be writing to the United Nations Human Rights countries that are experiencing rapid growth in Rajapaksa said in (ITAK) Parliamentarian Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, Switzerland their export development, The Morning learnt. Parliament yesterday (10) Shanakiyan Rajaputhiran regarding alleged human rights violations that Speaking to The Morning yesterday (10), that there are no prisoners Rasamanickam who are currently taking place in the country, The Minister of Trade Dr. Bandula Gunawardana or detainees currently held inquired about the total Morning learnt. said that countries that were neglected before in prisons for political number of political “We will be writing to the council with our have since developed. reasons under the prisoners held criticisms of the current situation in the country,” “In addition to considering trade agreements Penal Code or in prison in Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA) Executive with conventionally large countries, we will any other Sri Lanka. Director Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu told The also look for win-win situations in places law. Contd. on page 2 Morning yesterday (10). outside of them.” Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 COVID-19 CASES Decision on Ranjan only ACTIVE CASES TOTAL CASES after CoA order: Speaker 71,211 z SJB at loggerheads with Government over relevant law DEATHS RECOVERED Speaker of Parliament Mahinda Yapa sittings would be made once an order is has concluded hearings into the case Abeywardena, speaking yesterday (10) issued by the Court of Appeal (CoA) in filed by Ramanayake seeking to retain 5,788 370 65,053 in Parliament, said that a decision on this regard. his parliamentary seat. SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU whether to bring imprisoned Samagi He said that the Court of Appeal had “I will make a decision once the court THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 7.45 P.M. ON 10 FEBRUARY 2021 Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Parliamentarian instructed that the status quo over the order is given,” he said. to attend Parliament issue be maintained until such time it Contd. on page 2 42 „„ www.themorning.lk { NEWS } Thursday, February 11, 2021 WHO says it backs COPA recommends new Oxford vaccine 'even if variants present’ system for LG financial The World Health Organisation Group of Experts on Immunisation, (WHO) recommends using the known as SAGE, has been vaccine developed by the University scrutinising evidence from vaccine of Oxford and AstraZeneca even in trials. countries tackling new variants of Its interim recommendations say the coronavirus. the vaccine is 63% effective overall. administration Some new forms of the virus However, early data from trials The Committee on Public Accounts (COPA) on 9 February directed the Ministry of Provincial Hotel was located, without obtaining proper approval. appear to make vaccines less in South Africa showed the vaccine Councils and Local Government Affairs to formulate a generally accepted system for The Mayor informed the Committee that the relevant effective.The WHO also said the was offering “minimal protection” administrative matters, including recruitment, allowances, and the use of vehicles in local approvals had been obtained for the expenditure. As vaccine can be used in people aged against mild and moderate disease government authorities. the Archaeology Department has taken legal action over 65, which some countries have in young people.WHO Director The Committee informed the Secretary to the MC to purchase 221,173 polysack bags of four types against this incident, it was decided at the Committee advised against. of Immunisation Dr. Katherine Ministry N.H.M. Chithrananda, that the relevant from a fake institution at a cost of Rs. 6,520,089, to discuss further matters after the completion of this Spacing out the two doses, as is O’Brien, said the South African general procedure should be prepared and submitted against procurement guidelines. The Committee also legal process. happening in the UK, makes the study was “inconclusive” and it to the COPA within three months. questioned that even though the cheque should have The Committee also noted that although four audit vaccine more effective, it advised. was “plausible” the vaccine would The Committee, chaired by Prof. , been written in the name of the institution, it had and management committees were to be held annually, The Oxford vaccine is seen as still prevent severe disease. examined the Auditor General's reports and the been in the name of an individual. The Committee not a single committee meeting was held in 2020. One the “vaccine for the world” as it is A variant in the country has performance of the Kurunegala Municipal Council also recommended that an inquiry be conducted at the audit and management committee meeting was held cheap, can be mass produced, and acquired mutations that seem to help (MC). Ministry level in this regard, and a report submitted in 2018, while two audit and management committee is stored in a standard fridge. it evade immunity from vaccines Ministers and MPs who participated in this to the Committee expeditiously. The Committee also meetings were held in 2019. The Committee directed However, it has attracted and from previous infections. Committee pointed out that the administration of directed the Ministry to obtain a representation from that such meetings be held expeditiously, and to controversy about its effectiveness However, Oxford scientists still certain local authorities are irregular, and that a new the National Audit Office for this committee of inquiry. streamline the proceedings of the MC. against new variants, whether it expect their vaccine to prevent programme should be implemented to streamline The Committee questioned the Kurunegala Mayor The Committee also noted the failure to prepare an should be used in the elderly, and people from becoming seriously ill this process. regarding the fact that Rs. 7,800,000 had already action plan and a procurement plan for the Kurunegala how far apart the doses should be with Covid-19 and needing hospital The Committee drew special attention to the been spent from the MC fund for the case regarding MC, and directed the Municipal Commissioner to given, due to a lack of data. treatment. procurement process conducted by the Kurunegala the demolition of the building where the Buwaneka take immediate action in this regard. The WHO’s Strategic Advisory (BBC)

Contd. from page 1

Minister , and Foreign to please the South. society activists, certain political parties, and well. However, Balasuriya added that the No charges... Minister and address “To this Government, politician Duminda trade unions on the grounds that it would option is still on the table. However, well-placed sources told The the Parliament. Khan will be the first head Silva, who was sentenced to death for murder saturate Sri Lanka’s information technology The upcoming 46th Regular Session of the Morning that criminal charges have been of government to visit Sri Lanka since the along with those who committed acts of (IT) field with cheaper Indian labour, is UNHRC would be held from 22 February recommended to be brought against former pandemic struck early last year. bribery, corruption, fraud, and theft, constitutes another trade agreement that was put on to 23 March, where Sri Lanka’s issues of President Maithripala Sirisena, then Defence Earlier, US Ambassador Alaina B. Teplitz a political prisoner; but the fact is that being hold in 2018. accountability with regard to the final stages Secretary Hemasiri Fernando, and then Police too tweeted positively about the Prime a politician does not make one a political of the war in 2009 would be discussed. The Chief Pujith Jayasundara. Minister’s statement. prisoner in the same way that those detained Core Group for Sri Lanka is expected to submit Ironically, the PCoI was appointed by former “Welcome media reporting on the under the PTA, for acts of commission and No decision... a resolution while UN High Commissioner President Sirisena on 22 September 2019 Prime Minister’s announcement to end the omission in the context of a war fought not The plant was about to be destroyed for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet raised to investigate the series of attacks and to mandatory cremation of Covid-19 victims. for personal gain but for political reasons and to make way for the construction of the serious concerns regarding Sri Lanka’s human recommend necessary actions. Implementation of a revised practice that is in aspirations of a people’s/community’s right to Kadawatha-Meerigama Expressway. rights situation in her report earlier this year. The PCoI handed over its final report to line with international public health norms and self-determination, political autonomy, and the Jayathilaka, who was involved in this President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on 1 February respects religious rites is a positive action,” devolution of power (as recognised by the 13th incident on 7 February, speaking to the media, after hearings and other procedures of the PCoI she had written. Amendment to the Constitution) are deemed claimed that the entire ecosystem near the Civil society... officially came to a conclusion on 27 January The Prime Minister’s statement comes in so,” Committee Chairman Attorney-at-Law Crudia zeylanica tree had been destroyed The UNHRC would meet in Geneva for 2021. The first interim report was handed Parliament following the long-standing appeal Senaka Perera said, speaking to The Morning. and therefore, expressed her concerns about its 46th Session from 22 February to 23 over on 20 December 2019 while the second made by the Muslim community against the The Committee further informed that whether the necessary technology is available March where Sri Lanka’s impunity with interim report was handed over to President mandatory cremation of the bodies of Muslim following requests made to them by Tamil in Sri Lanka to relocate the tree. regard to alleged human rights violations Gotabaya Rajapaksa on 2 March 2020. Covid-19 victims, which goes against the political prisoners who have also complained She further claimed that to her knowledge, it would be discussed and debated upon. High The PCoI had recorded evidence from a community’s religious beliefs. of being deceived by Tamil political was agreed that the expressway’s route would Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle total of 440 individuals during its term. A gazette was issued in April 2020, stating representatives over this issue, they would be changed to protect the aforementioned Bachelet’s report on Sri Lanka is due to be The commission is chaired by Court of that all bodies of victims who died as a result of embark on a campaign to see them freed, tree and ecosystem. presented on the second day of the session. Appeal Judge Janak de Silva and other Covid-19 would be cremated. This regulation and that they were presently organising such. Further, Additional Conservator General of The report was already shared with the members include Court of Appeal Judge was introduced despite the World Health “What this statement by Prime Minister Forests Thilak Premaratne said that according Government of Sri Lanka, to which they Nishshanka Bandula Karunarathna, High Organisation (WHO) issuing guidelines on Rajapaksa proves is that this Government to his knowledge, Jayathilaka may have replied pointing out the factual inaccuracies Court Judges (Retd.) Nihal Sunil Rajapaksa the disposal of the bodies of Covid-19 victims, does not understand the issue at hand and that violated institutional guidelines by speaking and misconceptions of it. The report detailed and A.L. Bandula Kumara Atapattu, and stating that they can be buried or cremated. it is not genuinely interested in resolving it. to the media. However, he speculated that both past and present human rights violations, former Ministry of Justice Secretary W.M.M.R. The demand to stop the mandatory cremation This is an insult to the minority community in she had not done anything wrong by trying including recent minority-related concerns Adikari. of the bodies of Covid-19 victims was a question, whose rights are being continuously to save the tree. around the forced cremation of Covid-19 slogan of the five-day Pottuvil to Polikandy oppressed. We cannot accept this. We are of When contacted regarding the matter, victims. march organised by Tamil politicians and civil the view that a policy decision should be Jayathilaka refused to comment and said It was reported that the Core Group on Sri Covid burials... societies to bring international attention to taken to give the 100-odd Tamil political that she had been informed not to speak to Lanka, led by the UK, has confirmed that “To answer the MP’s question, burial will the issues faced by minorities in Sri Lanka. prisoners a general amnesty in a manner akin the media. they would be submitting a resolution on the be allowed.” to the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) Meanwhile, Department of National country. However, the question remains as When The Morning contacted the Prime insurrectionists of 1971 and 1987-1989, Botanic Gardens National Herbarium Deputy to whether the Government would agree to Minister’s Media Secretary Rohan Weliwita for No political... including its leaders, some of whom were Director Dr. Subhani Ranasinghe told The a consensual resolution. confirmation, he said that the Prime Minister “Out of those who have been detained or also taken under the PTA, were released,” Morning that the Department has identified had said what he said in response to the imprisoned in Sri Lankan prisons under the Perera opined. the Crudia zeylanica tree in approximately question posed by MP Marikkar regarding Penal Code or any other law, none have been five other locations as well, after its initial WP schools... the burial of the bodies of Covid-19 victims. detained or imprisoned for political reasons.” rediscovery in 2019. “Crudia zeylanica is Schools that have currently reopened to “The PM said what he said in Parliament. Joining to answer the question with the SL mulls... endemic to Sri Lanka but was not recorded continue academic activities of Grade 11 He was responding to a question,” he said. Prime Minister’s permission, Minister of “The African market is developing fast. in the country for over 50 years since 1911. students will also conclude classes two weeks However, the National Operations Centre Justice M.U.M. Ali Sabry said that 12,848 Countries that were neglected before, like Thus, it was categorised as extinct in the before the beginning of the O/L examination, for the Prevention of Covid-19 Outbreak prisoners have been rehabilitated after the South Africa and Ethiopia, have developed International Union for the Conservation the Minister further said. (NOCPCO) and the Ministry of Health told end of the war with the Liberation Tigers of their exports, and we are considering of Nature (IUCN) Red List in 2012. But, in However, The Morning learnt that there was The Morning that no such directive to allow Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 2009 and that 600 of agreements with smaller countries that will 2019, it was rediscovered when work on the no reversal of the decision made by the State the burial of bodies of Covid-19 victims had them were child soldiers. be beneficial for us to have agreements with.” highway began and samples were brought to Ministry of Women and Child Development, been communicated to them as of last evening. He said that there is currently a limited On Monday (8), the Cabinet of Ministers us,” said Ranasinghe. Preschools and Primary Education, School NOCPCO Head Gen. Shavendra Silva told number of detainees held due to ongoing approved a resolution by the Minister of According to Dr. Ranasinghe, the department Infrastructure, and Education Services to The Morning that the Task Force has received legal procedures and that the process is time- Trade to review bilateral and multilateral had then engaged in “ex-situ conservation (off- open preschools excluding those in high-risk no communication regarding such a change consuming due to the complex nature of the trade agreements under discussion. site conservation)” to ensure that the species areas in the Western Province on 15 February. in policy and that at the moment, there is no cases. The Minister said that he is attempting Dr. Gunawardana said that a committee would not become extinct, by germinating it. change in the policy to cremate the bodies of to expedite these cases with the help of the is to be appointed to study agreements with Dr. Ranasinghe further said that this Covid-19 victims. Attorney General (AG). India, China, and Pakistan. particular species prefers very specific habitats Decision on... “Nothing has been communicated to the Responding to the statement of the Prime “Under the Pakistan trade agreement, betel where seasonal water fluctuations occur. Task Force officially. I haven’t seen the Prime Minister, (SJB) leaves can be exported duty-free. Yet, there In a statement to the press released yesterday The Speaker said this in response to several Minister’s statement and was not present in parliamentarian and Tamil Progressive is a huge Cess tax imposed in Pakistan. So (10), the Central Environmental Authority questions raised by MPs over bringing in Parliament. There is no change in the policy Alliance (TPA) Leader said the benefits offered through the agreement (CEA) noted that the environmental approval Ramanayake to Parliament. at the moment.” that regardless of the terminology used to cannot be reaped. No one has paid attention for the construction of the part of the highway Ramanayake was recently sentenced to Deputy Director General of Health Services refer to political prisoners, those who are held to this in a long time. It has not reaped from Dambulla to Kadawatha had been granted four years of rigorous imprisonment upon Dr. Hemantha Herath also told us that the under the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary benefits for export development in Sri Lanka by them to the Road Development Authority conviction by the Supreme Court (SC) on Ministry of Health is yet to receive any such Provisions) Act No. 48 of 1979 (PTA), as that it was supposed to. The problems and (RDA) in 2016. contempt of court charges. communication on changes to be made to the amended, whether they are being held without challenges encountered in the agreements This approval had occurred following However, Opposition and SJB Leader existing decision to only allow the cremation trial, or due to prolonged inquiries or those that have been in operation so far will be an evaluation of the environmental impact said that Ramanayake of bodies of Covid-19 victims. who have been serving long sentences, should carefully studied by a committee of subject assessment (EIA) that the RDA had submitted should be allowed to visit Parliament in “To my knowledge, the Ministry has not be released. experts”, the Minister said. to the CEA. It also said that the RDA had the same way Government MP Premalal been informed of a decision to change the “The Government denying the existence of He added that members of the private informed the CEA that the Crudia zeylanica Jayasekara was given permission to attend existing way of disposing the bodies of Covid- political prisoners is the traditional position of sector would be appointed to the committee species was identified from other locations. Parliament. 19 victims.” the Sri Lankan State and the Prime Minister’s reviewing the Sri Lanka-Singapore Free “The Speaker said that an answer will be Dr. Herath said that the committee appointed statement is not surprising to me. Even Trade Agreement (FTA). given in three weeks over the matter, and that by the Ministry of Health to review the method during our United National Front (UNF)-led By 2019, Ethiopia has recorded a GDP SL considering... period has lapsed now. Ramanayake should of the disposal of the bodies of Covid-19 Government, then Minister of Justice Thalatha growth rate of 8.4% with a GDP of $ The Core Group for Sri Lanka – including definitely be brought to Parliament,” he said. victims headed by Dr. , Atukorale expressed similar sentiments in 95,912,590,630 while South Africa has the UK, Canada, Germany, Montenegro, and Meanwhile, Government MP meets at regular intervals and that decisions Parliament. Whether they accept them as recorded a GDP growth rate of 0.2% with North Macedonia – has confirmed that it will said that the matters concerning Jayasekara will be made by the committee as per the political prisoners or not, these prisoners who a GDP of $ 351,431,649,240. Ethiopia is be submitting a resolution on Sri Lanka. and Ramanayake cannot be treated equally. developments in scientific evidence. are being held without trial and long-pending deemed as a country with one of the fastest Although the Government of Sri Lanka “The order in Jayasekara’s case was given Meanwhile, following the Prime Minister’s inquiries or under long sentences should be GDP growth rates in the world. The European was initially considering consenting to by the High Court and this allowed him to statement in Parliament, Pakistan Prime released. There are a little less than 100 Union, China, the US, Japan, and India are this resolution and is at present engaged in make an appeal against the order. Minister Imran Khan tweeted that he welcomes detained under the PTA.” South Africa’s main trade partners. discussions with the Core Group in this regard, However, Ramanayake was sentenced by Prime Minister Rajapaksa’s assurance. In connection with the issue of political Sri Lanka has currently entered into FTAs it was reported that the Foreign Ministry the SC and therefore, an appeal cannot be “We welcome Sri Lankan PM Mahinda prisoners, the Committee for Protecting with India, Pakistan, and Singapore, and is seeking further time to make a decision made against the SC’s decision. That is why Rajapaksa’s assurance given in Sri Lankan the Rights of Prisoners noted that the was also to enter into an agreement with concerning the matter. his punishment is still in force,” he said. Parliament today (10) allowing Muslims to Government was engaged in a political project China, which was discontinued following When inquired about this issue, State “The Opposition has gone to the court bury those who died from Covid-19.” of redefining the term “political prisoner” failed negotiations between 2014 and 2015. Minister of Regional Co-operation Tharaka seeking to find whether it is possible to The Pakistani Prime Minister is scheduled from its internationally accepted connotation The controversial Economic and Balasuriya told The Morning that a consensual appeal against the SC decision. But as far to arrive in Sri Lanka on 22 February on a and also using an issue affecting a minority Technology Co-operation Agreement (ECTA) resolution with the Core Group would be as we know, a SC order on a contempt of two-day official visit. He will hold talks community primarily based in the North and between Sri Lanka and India, which faced unlikely, as the Government has to be court case is final. You cannot disregard that with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime East to engage in majoritarian political heroics opposition from the side of Sri Lankan civil answerable to the people of Sri Lanka as decision,” MP Perera said. 43 Thursday, February 11, 2021 { NEWS } „„ www.themorning.lk 12 new HC judges Several shops in Gampaha appointed by Prez

Letters of appointment have R.L. Godawala, V. Ramakamalan, shut after Covid-19 spike been handed over to 12 new U.R.V.B. Ranathunga, D.G. High Court (HC) judges by Premarathne, M. Wijeweera, and President Gotabaya Rajapaksa M. Trotsky as well as former z Highest daily patient count z Death toll increases to z Over 174,000 vaccinated; at the Presidential Secretariat Additional District Judges M.N. for year reported on 9 Feb. 370; 912 recoveries Keheliya requests jab for journos yesterday (10). Lakmali, W.D. Wimalasiri, and Accordingly, former District I.P.D. Liyanage were appointed BY MIHI PERERA number of recoveries increased to 65,053. Judges N.K.D.K.I. Nanayakkara, as HC judges. Gampaha Mayor Eranga On the vaccination front, 174,193 Senanayake has decided to close personnel have been vaccinated against several shops in Gampaha after Covid-19 as of 9 February, Chief a considerable number of shop Epidemiologist Dr. Sudath Samaraweera MC suspended owners have been identified as said. He added that 6,431 persons were Covid-19 patients in the past few vaccinated on 9 February. and placed under days. On a related note, Cabinet Spokesman Over the past four days, more than and Mass Media Minister Keheliya 280 rapid antigen tests have been Rambukwella has requested the Covid- special commissioner performed, of which 58 have been 19 Task Force to provide the Covid- z identified as infected, the Mayor added 19 vaccine to journalists as well. The Governor cites Councillors-Mayor friction yesterday (10). ministry on 9 February said that the BY MIHI PERERA He further noted: “Currently, there request was made when the Covid-19 Governor are 233 Covid-19-infected persons in Task Force meeting was held under A.J.M. Muzammil suspended the town limits. Several vegetable stalls on 9 February. The number was 976. by the Director General of Health the patronage of President Gotabaya the operations of the Badulla in Gampaha have been closed. It was A total of 252 patients were reported Services, the Government Information Rajapaksa, where Rambukwella had Municipal Council (MC) and decided not to close down the entire from the District while 227 were Department noted. The five deaths highlighted that journalists have been at has since placed it under a special town but to close the fruit stalls and reported from Gampaha and 150 from were that of a 45-year-old female from the forefront of the pandemic since the commissioner. various shops where the employees tested Kandy. In Colombo, the highest number Kapuliyadda, an 81-year-old male beginning, as they have been reporting He said the decision was taken positive.” of patients was reported from Borella from Moratuwa, a 56-year-old male all Covid-19-related incidents. as the MC has become inactive, Uva Province Governor Further, it was decided to conduct with 39, followed by Wellampitiya from Ketawala, a 73-year-old male According to the Ministry, about as the majority of councillors are A.J.M. Muzammil polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests with 20, and Mattakkuliya with 19. In from Kurunegala, and a 74-year-old 6,000 journalists including 1,150 not supporting the Mayor. on 1,000 businessmen at five locations Gampaha, 28 each were reported from female from Anuradhapura. provincial journalists have been The Governor has issued a appointed retired Judge H.M.R. covering the town. Sapugaskanda and . In terms of recoveries, 912 Covid-19 registered with them. gazette notification suspending Anura Kumara to conduct an Meanwhile, the highest number of At the same time, the Covid-19 death patients recovered and were discharged The Minister has said that the the operations of the Council and inquiry in this regard. Covid-19 patients identified in a single toll increased to 370 on 9 February, from hospitals on 9 February, the Health vaccination of journalists would day in Sri Lanka for this year was reported as five more deaths were confirmed Ministry said. Accordingly, the total commence soon. VIOLATION OF HEALTH GUIDELINES Police file action against Ibbanwala vehicle park 1,300 institutions construction commences The Police has filed cases against 1,300 government and The construction work commenced yesterday (10) in Colombo and major private companies that did not on the third vehicle park of at the Ibbanwala Junction in cities around the country follow the health guidelines issued a series of 12 vehicle parks, Union Place. to alleviate traffic in connection with Covid-19. which are being constructed The facility at the congestion. Police Media Spokesman Deputy on the instructions of Ibbanwala Junction is to Out of the 12 proposed Inspector General of Police Prime Minister Mahinda accommodate 310 vehicles vehicle parks, construction (DIG) Ajith Rohana said that Rajapaksa, who is also at a time. work has commenced on 12,012 such institutions have the Minister of Urban These new vehicle two, in Colombo Fort and been inspected since 10 January. Development and Housing, parks will be constructed Narahenpita. A total of 1,389 public and private institutions that did not follow healthcare procedures were found, of which 1,300 Prez., PM to handle household have been prosecuted. Minister C.B. Rathnayake It is stated that out of the debt problem: Shehan 407 institutions inspected on Police Media Spokesman DIG receives Covid-19 vaccine Monday (8), 38 institutions Ajith Rohana President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Wildlife and Forest Conservation and that he was in good health had acted contrary to the Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa have paid special Minister C.B. Rathnayake has sans any complications. healthcare procedures laid down. social distance. Accordingly, 3,056 attention to the household debt crisis, State received the Covid-19 vaccine It was said that Minister Meanwhile, 15 persons were persons have been arrested since 30 Minister of Samurdhi, Home Economy, today, his Media Secretary said. Rathnayake is the first Member arrested on Monday for not wearing October 2020 for the violation of Microfinance, and Self-Employment Shehan He said the Minister received of Parliament to receive the facemasks and not maintaining these regulations, said DIG Rohana. Semasinghe said. the vaccine at the Army Hospital Covid-19 vaccine. The State Minister explained that 93% of debtors in the country are women. Russia-SL military discuss He said that there was no law to regulate Customs levies defaulter- credit institutions, and that with the collapse improvements to training of the Sri Lankan economy in 2016, people cum-forger nabbed resorted to such institutions under various Home Economy, Microfinance, and Self- exchange programmes names. Employment Shehan Semasinghe The Negombo Crime The SriLankan Airlines Russian and Sri Lankan military He explained that many such institutions Investigation Bureau has arrested Cargo has said that the leaders discussed the possibility of have been identified and that their target is already been covered. a 42-year-old man in Wattala for released goods were imported further improving training modules the poor people in the villages. Moreover, he noted that all state and not paying Customs charges and from India and that they were for Sri Lankan military personnel in He further stated that notifications are being Samurdhi banks have been instructed to save forging documents, said Police re-exported by the suspect and Russia, the Army said on 9 February. made in this regard jointly with the Central the people from this crisis and that the Net Spokesman Deputy Inspector accomplices, following which Embassy of the Russian Bank of Sri Lanka through the Samurdhi Finance Act has been submitted to the Attorney General of Police (DIG) Ajith a complaint was filed on 19 Federation in Sri Lanka Military, banks. He said the Anuradhapura District has General’s Department for amendment. Rohana yesterday (10). January. Air, and Naval Attaché Col. Denis Embassy of the Russian Federation I. Shkoda paid a courtesy call on in Sri Lanka Military, Air, and MAHARA PRISON INCIDENT Naval Attaché Col. Denis I. Shkoda the Army Commander and Chief paid a courtesy call on the Army High Posts Committee of Defence Staff Gen. Shavendra Commander and Chief of Defence Silva on 8 February. Staff Gen. Shavendra Silva approves four ministry The discussions have focused 18 suspects given on logistics and different exchange training modules for Sri Lankan programmes that prevail between tri forces servicemen have been secretaries, two envoys both military organisations. highlighted, in addition to what two-month sentence Secretary General of Parliament Labour, R.M.I. Ratnayake as The possibilities for further has already been granted by the Dhammika Dasanayake stated that the Secretary to the Ministry of improvement with new facets of Russian Federation Army. A total of 18 suspects involved in the Mahara secretaries to four ministries and Fisheries, Anuradha Wijekoon Prison incident late last year were sentenced to ambassadors for two countries as the Secretary to the Ministry two months imprisonment after pleading guilty, have been approved by the of Youth and Sports, and Maj. Karunka re-exporter- said Prisons Commissioner and Spokesman Committee on High Posts. Gen. Sanjeewa Munasinghe as Chandana Ekanayake. The said approvals were given the Secretary to the Ministry of The suspects were produced before a Board after calling the nominees before Health. cum-forger arrested of Judges appointed by the Prisons Department the Committee chaired by Speaker Meanwhile, the Government’s A 39-year-old suspect has “The suspect and his yesterday (9), in accordance with Sections 271 of Parliament Mahinda Yapa proposal to appoint J.M.J.P. been arrested by the Criminal accomplices had forwarded to 276 of the Prisons Ordinance for offences Abeywardena on Tuesday (9) Bandara as the new Sri Lankan Investigations Department forged documents to committed by inmates in a prison. A total of for the purpose of examining their Ambassador to the Federal for re-exporting 23 containers governmental authorities without 11 inmates were killed while several other qualifications. Republic of Nigeria, and Shrimal of karunka (areca nut) worth paying the relevant government inmates and prison officials were injured Accordingly, Mapa Pathirana Wickremasinghe to Seychelles, Rs. 300 million, after the stock taxes and Customs duties,” he during the unrest that broke out at the Prison has been appointed as the was also approved by the was imported from Indonesia, added. on 29 and 30 November 2020. Secretary to the Ministry of Committee. said Police Spokesman Deputy The suspect was scheduled to Inspector General of Police Ajith be produced before the Colombo Rohana yesterday (10). Magistrate’s Court yesterday. LGBTQI-friendly career website launched Two killed in road accidents EQUAL GROUND, a non- such, one of the biggest challenges friendly workplaces can help Certification from EQUAL GROUND. Two persons were killed in 56-year-old resident of Nugape, Governmental organisation working LGBTIQ+ individuals face is in finding businesses avoid costs associated with This forum gives corporate allies the road accidents in the Seeduwa Pamunugama. The driver of the on behalf of the lesbian, gay, and retaining employment. Research high labour turnover. opportunity to advertise their vacancies and Kosgama areas. lorry was arrested by the Police. bisexual, transgender, intersex and shows that they face higher levels “Moreover, in today’s highly to a targeted audience, and allows A lorry travelling towards Meanwhile, another person queer/questioning plus (LGBTIQ+) of harassment and discrimination at globalised economic environment, LGBTIQ+ community members to Colombo collided with a was killed in a head-on collision community, has launched “Dedunu workplaces, and are more likely to be abiding by non-discriminatory advertise their employability skills to motorcycle travelling in the same between a three-wheeler and a Sawiya”, a website offering a safe fired and/or denied promotions. This standards is important to becoming LGBTIQ+ friendly businesses. It also direction near the Temple Road bowser in the Salawa area on the virtual space for both job seekers and severely compromises their economic competitive in international markets.” includes skills development modules along the Negombo-Colombo Avissawella-Colombo Road. A employers to connect. security, leaving them vulnerable,” The website presents a forum for potential job seekers and diversity Road. The motorcyclist, who was passenger in the three-wheeler died “Owing to Sri Lanka’s legal EQUAL GROUND said in a press where LGBTIQ+ employees can and inclusion training for the corporate seriously injured, died on admission in the accident. Two persons who landscape and social stigmas, release announcing the launch. find job opportunities with corporate sector. to the Negombo Hospital. The were injured are being treated at the LGBTIQ+ community faces It added that promoting diversity partners who are allies who have The Dedunu Sawiya website can be deceased was identified as a the Avissawella Hospital. discrimination on a daily basis. As and inclusion and having LGBTIQ+ obtained the Diversity and Inclusion accessed via www.dedunusawiya.com. 4 „„ www.themorning.lk { INTERVIEW/INSIGHT } Thursday, February 11, 2021 ‘Bachelet went beyond her mandate with report’ Only two and a half out of 14 pages

talk about the war: Even in a consensual resolution, you have to have some sort of an The 46th Regular Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council certain things such as the resolution end to it. I am not saying we will will always look after your interests (UNHRC) is scheduled to be held from 22 February to 23 March 2021, itself. These are the political and certainly go for it but nonetheless – be it in life or geopolitics. A true where alleged human rights violations in Sri Lanka’s final stages of the economic nooses they have put on Sri we are looking for closure friend would not look after their own Civil War in 2009 would be discussed. The “Core Group of Countries for Sri Lanka. It is a delicate matter which self-interests. India being a true friend Lanka”, which includes Canada, Germany, North Macedonia, Montenegro, requires delicate negotiations. of Sri Lanka and being a regional and the UK, is set to submit a resolution on Sri Lanka at the session. The a gender balance and a more balanced superpower, would not only look after resolution will be based on UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Do you have faith that this composition to reflect the ethnic their interests but also support what’s Michelle Bachelet’s recent report on Sri Lanka, which raised serious UNHRC session would provide diversity of the country. We have best for Sri Lanka. concerns regarding alleged human rights violations. answers to the issues of human taken their positive comments into What we have seen during the rights in Sri Lanka? consideration. last Yahapalanaya administration is The question remains as to whether Do you think the large five-day We are interested in improving our But I think fundamentally, the that they got into these international the Government of Sri Lanka would protest which took place from human rights not because the UN tells position we want to emphasise is that agreements not necessarily based consent to the resolution that is due to Pottuvil to Polikandy last week us to do so but because as an elected the report of the High Commissioner on the merits of those agreements. be submitted by the Core Group. State would impact the Government Government, we want to do it for the goes over and beyond the mandate Most of the agreements that they Minister of Regional Co-operation negatively at the session in Geneva? people. As the Americans have stated which has been given to her. We are signed were, and I am probably Tharaka Balasuriya is a key player in On the contrary, I think it goes to repeatedly, sometimes the Human supposed to be talking about what correct in saying this, a part of a these negotiations. The Morning spoke show, in this time of the pandemic, Rights Council is not won with the happened during the last days of the gratification process in bringing to Balasuriya regarding the upcoming that there is freedom of expression and merits of the debate. Sometimes war. But if you look at it, there are them into power. That is why most session and the repercussions of the the freedom to protest in Sri Lanka. other geopolitical factors are more 14 pages, and only two and a half of of these agreements are problematic. East Container Terminal (ECT) deal. Although the contents of the protest important. Some countries evaluate those talk about what happened during It also puts a political and economic Following are excerpts from the can be misleading, the fact that a their security positions while others the war. Some of the other things are noose on future governments. It is interview: protest in any form is allowed goes to consider their economic priorities. We more current affairs, including certain very difficult to get that noose off show that it is positive for democracy. also see powerful countries exerting things which have led us to question your neck. Not just the East Terminal, Will the Government consent to the undue pressure. We have to wonder whether she has the mandate to do so. but also 30/1, and the Singapore resolution that is due to be submitted But there were court bans attempting how much is human rights and how For example, she talks about the Free Trade Agreement, the latter of by the “Core Group of Countries to stop the protest, including many much is geopolitics. 20th Amendment. But during the which was signed secretly when the for Sri Lanka” at the upcoming allegations of police violence. Is that elections, we clearly said that the vast majority of professionals were UNHRC session in Geneva? an indicator of democracy? Has the Government been in 19th Amendment would be abolished, against it. The former President We are in discussions with the Core The court bans came into play given dialogue with other countries the 20th introduced, and that position claims that he did not even know Group, but I doubt very much that the circumstances of Covid. People regarding the High Commissioner’s was endorsed by the voters with a about the 30/1 resolution. The we will be going for a consensual shouldn't break the pandemic-related reports and her allegations? two-thirds majority. Whether the Yahapalana Government, in order to resolution, because the political climate regulations in order to protest. But if We expressed our concerns UNHRC or another country is happy satisfy certain countries which were which was created by the previous a country shows that the freedom of regarding the High Commissioner’s or not is irrelevant, because that is an instrumental in bringing them into Government is very unfavourable. A expression and the freedom to protest report, and then we gave our internal matter. We have emphasised power, got into certain agreements lot of people mistrust any agreement are available, that is an indicator of comments where we pinpointed that this is the reason why this report which are not in the best interests of that we get into with international democracy. certain errors in the report. They goes over and beyond the mandate Sri Lanka. parties because of the legacy that the accepted about 30 of the flaws that has been given to her. Yahapalanaya Government left behind. – factual errors and errors of What is India expecting from law – which were there initially. Is the delegation for the upcoming Sri Lanka now?

What is stopping the Government We have given our response to session confirmed? The Ambassador came and met the from agreeing to a consensual We are interested in improving the Commissioner’s report to our It will be held virtually. Even if Foreign Minister. We need investors resolution? our human rights not friendly nations as well, through our we go there, we can't meet people. to start the West Terminal and the Due to the previous Government’s because the UN tells us to do Ambassador in Geneva. There are 106 The only way we can meet people is miscommunication was an unfortunate actions, it is difficult to go with the so but because as an elected other ambassadors in Geneva and we one on one. We might send a team incident. The parties who negotiated concept of a consensual resolution. Government, we want to do it for have given our response to each one to meet the representatives of other had done so with the Indian company. Nonetheless, we are in constant dialogue the people presenting our case. countries for one-on-one meetings The company was more than happy with the Core Group, on the advice of She has mentioned that other for any requirements for us to tell our to take the West Terminal, but the the President. We don't want to stop that When would the final decision on countries can take any unilateral position. But the session itself will be Indian company and the Sri Lankan dialogue and we want to press our case whether or not the Government decisions on the actions they want held virtually. company had not kept the Indian and on how best to take this forward. would agree to a consensual to take with regard to Sri Lanka. Japanese Governments informed. We Going for a consensual resolution resolution be reached? In certain ways, actions like travel How is our relationship with India are negotiating and we are hopeful is a difficult political sell, given We had a meeting today (10) as well bans are already in operation. We are affected following the fallout from that India would look at the West the prior incidents that the previous with the President. These are delicate talking with those relevant countries to the ECT issue? Terminal, not as a loss, but as a better Government generated. We have matters and our strategy would be make further progress. I would say that India and Sri option which they gained. We need emphasised the progress we have evident in due course and we will That is also why the President has Lanka have a friendship which goes an investor for the West Terminal. made in terms of the economic disperse information accordingly. We already appointed the Commission of back thousands of years and this is With ships getting bigger and bigger, development in the North and East. I want to work with the international Inquiry to look into past commissions just a bump in the road. I accept that naturally Colombo would be a feel that the people living there also community and we are part of it. But and what they have found about this was probably not the best way transshipment hub. understand that haggling over the we are also answerable to the people alleged human rights violations in we could have handled this and we past is not fruitful for their future of Sri Lanka and we have to take that Sri Lanka. Once the Commission of have conveyed that to our Indian If not India, then which generations. to the forefront. One example is that Inquiry was appointed, they were not counterparts also. It was a unilateral stakeholders are the Government However, we are looking for the previous Government, the major happy with the composition of the decision and it would have been looking at for the development of closure. Even in a consensual players who were behind 30/1, were commission either. better if we could have explained the West Terminal? resolution, you have to have some sort all rejected in the last election, except our position to Japan and India We have not come to that stage yet. of an end to it. I am not saying we will for Sumanthiran and some other Tamil Which aspects of the commission beforehand. Both countries have been I do not want to speculate on who it certainly go for it but nonetheless we parties. The Parliament, the Cabinet, were they not happy with? great friends to us but I think we also would be because we haven’t reached are looking for closure. nor the President were kept aware of They felt that there could have been need to understand that a true friend that question yet. Both obesity and undernutrition rising in the North z Children between 6 and 16 years affected z Stunting, wasting, being overweight, and obesity prevalent BY RUWAN LAKNATH JAYAKODY with childhood malnutrition. November 2015 to August 2016. The mean z-scores for height and weight impaired cognitive development, lowered An increasing trend of all forms of The nutritional problems, it was found, Body mass index (BMI) was calculated are closer to zero, hence the distribution educational performance, and reduced malnutrition is seen among schoolchildren in vary significantly according to the using weight and height while the BMI is more homogenous. The differences in job opportunities later in life. Stunting the Northern Province with stunting or linear geographical location, maternal education, for age z-score was used to determine the mean values between boys and girls can be accompanied by later excessive growth failure, wasting, being overweight, and and household income. the nutritional status. Maternal education were, however, not significant and further, weight gain thus increasing the risk of obesity prevalent among six to 16-year-olds in This was noted in a research article titled (low when reported as no education, significant differences were not seen developing obesity and non-communicable the region, which is still recovering from the Nutritional status of school children living primary-incomplete and primary-complete, when the anthropometric parameters were diseases as adults. Furthermore, stunting 27-year-long civil war, a study conducted on in the Northern part of Sri Lanka authored while good was considered as secondary- segregated according to educational zones. has contributed to the increase in the schoolchildren in the Province found. by M.G. Sathiadas, A. Antonyraja, A. incomplete, secondary-complete, and The mean z-scores for the height were prevalence of being overweight. Stunting The low prevalence of stunting and Viswalingam, K. Thangaraja, and V.P. higher degree), household income (monthly below the median except for eight-year-old has been shown to have a high morbidity the high prevalence of wasting and the Wickramasinghe, and published recently in average income considered low if less girls and boys. The mean z-scores for the and mortality, especially with infectious presence of overweight/obesity in this the BMC Paediatrics. than Rs. 15,000 and adequate if over Rs. weight and BMI of all ages in both gender diseases like pneumonia and diarrhoea. population suggest public health concerns A community-based cross-sectional study 15,000), family size (over five considered groups were below the median. They also demonstrated high incidence and the existence of the double burden of was carried out using a multistage stratified as large), and residential area (rural and The prevalence of stunting was in 10.9% of tuberculosis, hepatitis, and cellulitis, malnutrition (the rate of being overweight proportionate cluster among a recruited urban) were used as indicators of the of the boys and 11.8% of the girls. The indicating association with generalised and obesity, particularly in the urban setting, sample of 1,012 six to 16-year-old healthy socioeconomic status. study population has a low prevalence immune suppression. According to national and the high prevalence of undernutrition, children (girls and 496 boys) attending The mean heights of girls between the (11.3%) of stunting. The low prevalence surveys and the United Nations International with both these problems co-existing), the grades one to 10 classes (with a minimum ages of nine to 13 years were higher than of stunting may be influenced by the Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF)/ research further noted, adding that many of 10 students) in secondary schools that of same-age boys, which could be demography where the District is urban, World Health Organisation (WHO)/World households, particularly in middle-income in five educational zones in the North, due to the pubertal growth spurt occurring and the economic status and educational Bank Group Joint Child Malnutrition report, countries, have both underweight and obese namely Jaffna (10 schools in the District), in girls earlier. Similarly, nine to 13-year- level of the population is higher. Stunting it is estimated that 17.3% of children would individuals, exemplifying the co-existence Valikamam, Vadamaradchi, Thenmaradchi, old girls were slightly heavier than the in early childhood has shown to increase be stunted in Sri Lanka. of the paradoxical situation of adult obesity and the islands. The study period was boys, but this reversed after 14 years. the risk of dying from childhood illnesses, Contd. on page 5 45 Thursday, February 11, 2021 { SPOTLIGHT } „„ www.themorning.lk with general society, they have had that affect them. “This exclusion, to adhere to the general laws that are  SL yet to implement coupled with development that has applicable to others (people who do been alienating in nature, has left not belong to the Vedda community). international the community struggling to cope He added that, owing to the recommendations with changes, and has left the Veddas The cultural newer restrictions that have been economically deprived as well as imposed by the Government, the to ensure Vedda socially and politically isolated,” it Vedda community has been rendered noted. unable to find suitable jobs within community’s wellbeing Elaborating on the lack of school their environments, engage in chena education for the children of the cultivations, and hunt and enter  Freedom given to Vedda community, it said that around holocaust forest areas freely. He added that 20% of the children do not attend this situation in turn had caused continue traditional school, and that their tradition of the younger generations of their children getting married before the community to assimilate into the practices within limits: age of 18 (60% of girls and 15% of so-called developed, modern society. Authorities boys), had hindered access to primary Authorities’ response and further education. of the Veddas It pointed out that the continued Setting Cain against Abel: The plight of Sri Lanka’s indigenous people In a bid to look into the legal aspect  Younger generations failure to change this situation BY SUMUDU CHAMARA of the rights of the Vedda community through a comprehensive engagement as far as Sri Lanka’s wildlife and assimilating into larger with the Vedda community is No country should ever forget forest resources are concerned, The society on the rise: indicative of the larger failure on the the roots, cultures, and traditional Morning spoke to the Department of part of the State to ensure inclusion practices that once were a part of Wildlife Conservation (DWC). Vedda community and protection of the community’s its identity. They may no longer Wildlife Conservation Officer broader interests. be applicable, acceptable, or of Indika Laksiri said that the Vedda Peoples in Sri Lanka, pointed out When it comes to providing interest within the parameters of community has been granted that indigenous people are widely education to indigenous children, today’s society, practices, or the law; permission to carry out their different from mere ethnic or religious Canada takes a special place due to however, at one point in history, traditional hunting activities, subject minorities, and have a separate set the manner in which it attempted they were crucial factors that helped to several restrictions. of inalienable rights. It added: “Due to systematically separate them shape the very foundation on which Speaking of the limits pertaining to to immigration and colonisation, from their culture. The Canadian a country’s uniqueness was built, the hunting activities, he added that the Vedda community has lost their Government introduced a boarding thereby adding unmatchable value to even though the use of bows, arrows, distinctive character, because when school system known as the that nation. and hand axes is allowed, the use they translocate from their native “Canadian Indian residential school Sri Lanka has a long history of firearms for hunting activities is place to other government-allocated system”, with the aim of separating of issues pertaining to minority strictly prohibited. He also said that areas, they gradually adopt the other indigenous children from their communities, especially the Tamil and the permitted hunting activities are communities’ cultures and practices cultures while assimilating them into Muslim communities. However, the limited to a certain area, mostly in (in dress, language and lifestyle). mainstream society and culture. Vedda community, as the foremost and around the habitats of the Vedda Today, only a few remaining Subsequently, in 2008, then- indigenous community that has community. Wanniya-laeto still manage to Canadian Prime Minister Stephen also been identified as a minority Also, according to Laksiri, hunting preserve their cultural identity and Harper publicly issued an apology community due to the size of its activities can only be conducted by traditional lifestyle despite relentless to the former First Nations students population, is nearing its extinction the members of the Vedda community pressure from the surrounding of this school system, calling it a sad due to many – yet unavoidable – who have been issued an identity card dominant communities.” chapter in their history. Chief of the Vedda community, Uru Warige reasons. Wannila Aththo by the DWC, and that not everyone Sri Lanka voted in favour of the Among the recommendations Their plight came to light again, PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWADANA in the Vedda community is allowed to United Nations (UN) Declaration included in the factsheet were: after the Vedda community, with engage in such. on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples amending the Fauna and Flora the support of the Centre for He also added that this permission adopted in 2007. Protection Ordinance, the Forest Environmental Justice (CEJ), sought area, which is said to be a traditional does not allow the Vedda community According to the factsheet of Ordinance, and the National Heritage the assistance of the Court over habitat of the Vedda community. to carry out hunting activities the third cycle of the Universal and Wilderness Areas Act to recognise deforestation taking place in their CEJ Chairman Ravindranath Dabare regularly, and that it was only granted Periodic Review (UPR) in 2017 – the cultural rights of Sri Lanka’s traditional habitats. told The Morning that the Mahaweli taking their traditions into account. Sri Lanka, over two UPR cycles, indigenous peoples, and to ensure Today’s Spotlight aims at Authority, the Central Enrichment Also, hunting for business purposes Sri Lanka had failed to mention due recognition and protection of, discussing the present situation of Authority (CEA), the Minister of will not be allowed, he noted. the indigenous communities in any and access to, the traditional forest the Vedda community, and what Environment, and the Minister of “However, despite having in place recommendations. habitats of the Vedda community; international recommendations Sri Wildlife and Forest Conservation, somewhat relaxed laws for the Vedda It further said that despite Sri Lanka drafting and passing a specific Lanka is yet to implement to ensure have been named as respondents in community, in the event someone having voted for the aforementioned legislation recognising the cultural their wellbeing. the petition. acts outside the parameters of the UN declaration, there is no special practices and rights of indigenous Gunabandiyale Aththo added that stipulated legal framework, the legislation or mechanism to protect peoples in Sri Lanka; signing and Voice of the Vedda the Vedda community has lost most regular law will be enforced against the rights of the Vedda community. It ratifying the International Labour community of its traditional lands due to many them,” he added. added: “Wildlife Conservation laws Organisation (ILO) Convention For more information about the reasons, including some of these lands and regulations (Fauna and Flora 169 on indigenous peoples and to issues faced by the Vedda community, being identified as Forest Reserves, Laws, regulations, Protection Ordinance, the Forest formulate, in consultation with the The Morning spoke to a spokesman where hunting and entering without and international Ordinance, and the National Heritage Vedda community, a time-bound plan for the community, Gunabandiyale permission amounts to breaking the recommendations and Wilderness Areas Act) have of action to ensure adherence to the Aththo. He said that the Vedda current laws. In 2016, when the previous United deprived them of hunting grounds Convention and the realisation of the community is facing a multitude He also told us that even though National Front-led Government’s and criminalised their livelihoods. rights in the UN Declaration of the of issues, mainly due to the laws discussions are being held regularly plans to form a new Constitution Large development projects have Rights of Indigenous Peoples; taking imposed in recent times. with the authorities with regard to were in progress, the Vedda led to their forced resettlement, concrete legal and administrative He added that among the challenges their perpetuating issues, thus far, the community based in the Eastern a majority of whom are socially measures to ensure recognition of faced by the Vedda community authorities have not come up with Province put forward a request that isolated, and economically and the distinct identity of the Vedda currently, the right to traditional lands, any concrete solution to be of help their traditional rights be protected politically marginalised. Development community in law and policy, and the freedom to carry out hunting to them. He added that even though through a new Constitution. They projects and urbanisation undermine including their separate enumeration activities being curtailed by newer a major event called the “Adiwasi told the relevant committee that their culture, for example patriarchal in the census; and establishing laws were pressing issues. He further Dinaya” (The Day of the Indigenous was collecting the opinions of rules of inheritance are displacing an independent authority in full added that the freedom to freely range Community) and other awareness the public for the formation of matrilineal ones.” consultation with, and participation in forests, especially to collect bee’s raising activities are being held the Constitution that their right to The factsheet also identified a of, the Vedda community, to guide honey and traditional medicine, have regularly, a lot of their issues remain live in jungle villages and forests number of challenges faced by the and co-ordinate law and policy, with also been blocked under the existing unaddressed. should be protected. One of their Vedda community. It said that the a view to safeguarding the interests of laws. Adding that currently almost all representatives pointed out that a existing laws have prevented hunting the Vedda community. He added that after 1983, of their hunting activities have been proper plan was needed to ensure and cultivation in forests, which the It is tragic that the Vedda various regulations that restricted prohibited, Gunabandiyale Aththo their survival in their traditional Vedda community had been engaged community – believed to be the their freedom concerning the stressed that the freedom to continue habitats while protecting wildlife in for generations, resulting in the earliest or the very first inhabitants of aforementioned activities as well their traditional practices was one resources, in addition to protecting criminalisation of their livelihood Sri Lanka – has come to the attention as their traditional lands, started of the most important requests they their right to engage in hunting and without any consideration toward of today’s society more due to the affecting their lives. He also noted have. agricultural activities. their cultural circumstances. issues they are faced with, than their that before that year, they had the Speaking of the present situation of In addition, they pointed out that It added that, due to resettlement importance as a community. freedom they needed. the Vedda community and how they since many members of the Eastern projects, the Vedda community The matter of their traditions It is important to note that it was in assimilate into today’s general society, Province-based Vedda community has had to assimilate into outside and practices conflicting with 1983 that a large number of families he added that the younger and modern speak the , despite Sinhalese and Tamil communities. contemporary traditions, is not at all belonging to the Vedda community generations of their community tend having their own language, a This situation had, according to a new issue, and it has been discussed were compelled to abandon their to assimilate into general society and new Constitution should give due the said factsheet, compelled the many a time. However, what did traditional habitats to be relocated to seek job opportunities, as they have recognition to their community as Vedda community to give up their not happen is the authorities taking lands offered by the Government. lost their rightful freedom in their a minority indigenous community. unique traditional lifestyle, and that measures to address these issues in The Chief of the Vedda community, original habitats. Another demand was that the consequently, their language and a manner beneficial to all parties Uruwarige Wannila Aththo, and the “If the younger generations of the Government take steps to see to matrilineal inheritance tradition was involved. CEJ, earlier this week, filed a petition Vedda community had more freedom it that their educational and job diminishing. The Vedda community is now before the Court of Appeal against and rights, they would not want opportunities are protected. Another issue mentioned in the seeking the assistance of the law – alleged deforestation by the Mahaweli or have to assimilate into general A publication issued by the UPR factsheet was that the Vedda and perhaps this can be the start of Authority at the Rambakan Oya society,” Gunabandiyale Aththo Law and Society Trust in 2015, community had been denied a hearing a new movement for their freedoms Reservoir near the Pollebedda village stressed, adding that when mixing titled The Rights of Indigenous in development policies and plans and rights. Contd. from page 4

was significantly higher when compared to of stunting, wasting, being overweight, and to demonstrate that family size contributed on treating and managing problems related to Both obesity... the girls (4.1%). The data also demonstrated a obesity. to wasting, overweight, and obesity, but not malnutrition, whereas preventing malnutrition significant difference between girls and boys Family size had a significant impact on to stunting. delivers $ 16 in returns on investment for Wasting was seen in 30.6% of the boys and when considering obesity. The difference even wasting, being overweight, and obesity. The children in this region are vulnerable every dollar spent. 29.1% of the girls. The study population has years apart may be explained by the economic The residential area had a significant to inadequate prenatal, infant, and childhood Different stakeholders, the researchers note, a very high prevalence of 29.8%. This may status of the populations. Older boys (over 10 impact on stunting, but not in wasting, being nutrition. They are also exposed to high can now make decisions on the interventions be due to food insecurity and the lack of years) were significantly affected than younger overweight, and obesity. fat, salt and sugar, and energy-dense food, to be made, especially with regard to the knowledge on healthy eating habits. There are ones. Childhood obesity is also increasing in Out of the eight key nutrition indicators which is easily available for those who are problem of obesity so that its metabolic factors such as traditional food habits, poor Sri Lanka and the World Bank report in 2016 to track the progress of malnutrition, three economically stable. This problem co-exists derangements can be dealt with early in life. infant feeding practices, inadequate clean water estimates that 2% of children under the age are in children, namely childhood stunting, with the lower level of physical activity, Since maternal education and and sanitation, and farming a limited variety of five years are affected. Obesity is caused wasting, and obesity. The WHO Sustainable leading to an increase in obesity, while socioeconomic status have been proven of crops which are contributory towards such. by an imbalance between energy intake and Development Goal targets for 2025 are to undernutrition remains unsolved. to be contributing factors for childhood Poor living standards in certain areas and risk expenditure. reduce stunting in childhood by 40%, have Nutritional status is an important indicator nutritional problems, the authors pointed of infections can also contribute to wasting. The prevalence of the types of malnutrition no increase in obesity, to reduce childhood for measuring the quality of life in children. out that the ability to acquire the needed The 2015 Annual Health Bulletin of in the different educational zones suggested wasting to less than 5%, and to maintain such. School age is identified as a dynamic age for knowledge to practice feeding among the Sri Lanka reported that among primary that the Thenmaradchi zone had a significantly The study was able to demonstrate that the physical growth and mental development. main carers is important to prevent such, schoolchildren, the prevalence of wasting higher prevalence of stunting while obesity and maternal educational level and family income Malnutrition manifests in many ways, whilst also noting that the time and effort was 20.3% and stunting 8.7%. being overweight were more prevalent in the have a significant association with stunting, ultimately affecting growth and development. spent on childhood feeding practices has In the population, the prevalence of being Jaffna zone. The islands and the Thenmaradchi wasting, being overweight, and obesity. A low A country that faces a serious public health contributed to the nutritional status of children. overweight was 11% and obesity was 6.3%. zones had very minimal prevalence of obesity level of education was associated with poor challenge from malnutrition would experience Community-based interventions were therefore Being overweight was predominantly seen and being overweight. nutritional status. The employment status of adverse economic outcomes. It has been recommended by the researchers to prevent in nine to 14-year-old girls. Obesity was Maternal education and family income mothers also contributed to the nutritional shown that 11% of the Gross Domestic and arrest the increasing trend of all forms predominantly seen in boys (8.7%) and it had a significant impact on the prevalence status of the children. The study was able Product (GDP) every year in Asia is spent of malnutrition. 6 „„ www.themorning.lk { EDITORIAL/VIEWS } Thursday, February 11, 2021

Vidyalaya, Lilian Bandaranaike, Helen BY MEGARA TEGAL D’Alwis, Shirani Gamage, Eva de The mirage Mel, Winifred de Silva, Adeline de Saram, Maud Perera, Avril de Mel, and Ransiri Goonaratna, aside from prominent Youth League members, of burial while under threat by the colonial Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday The anti-imperialist rulers. (10) made his most startling statement of this “Doreen’s residence (the Ananda year. Balika Vidyalaya Principal’s house) In response to a question raised by an became the nerve centre for the Suriya-Mal campaign, with the Opposition MP, the Premier said that permission movement by women school’s teachers and senior students would be granted to bury those who died of making paper suriya flowers and Covid-19. the tills for collecting money. An This much-awaited, much-demanded intense campaign was launched, answer from the Government comes after which included publicity for the in Sri Lanka movement in schools, factories, and a statement made by the Minister tasked with controlling the Covid-19 situation, Dr. Last week, Sri Lanka celebrated its 73rd year of independence from offices. Youth League members wrote colonial rule, in all the grandeur that could be displayed in the backdrop articles in journals and to the press Sudarshini Fernandopulle, that Covid-19 does of a global pandemic. Focus, as it has been for years now, was on the war to explain the political importance of not transmit through water, which debunked that ended in 2009. The defence forces were the stars of the show. Little the campaign,” Kumari Jayawardena what the authorities used as a justification was said about actually gaining independence in 1948, and the anti- highlighted in the book Socialist to prohibit the burial of deceased Covid-19- imperialist struggle countries like Sri Lanka continue to experience. Women of Sri Lanka. infected persons. Suriya-Mal activist Elileen The greatest objection to the cremation of Perhaps, celebrating Independence Wirasekera and Helen D’Alwis wrote deceased Covid-19-infected persons came from Day by memorialising those who a pamphlet with the message: “Wear fought for independence and the suriya flower on 11 November Sri Lanka’s Muslim community, whose religious against imperialism would be at and demonstrate your self-respect and beliefs dictate that the dead should be buried. least somewhat more effective in independence. Register your refusal The expression of opposition that started as mere developing a sense of unity among to encourage participation in the requests morphed into a public outcry, both in the various communities, rather than Imperialist War. Every suriya mala is Sri Lanka and in foreign countries. Sri Lanka’s focusing so heavily on the end of a Minister in the State Council of a blow against imperialism, fascism, progressive civil societies and the public, as war that was divisive, and during Ceylon. Wickremasinghe invited and the war. Wear the suriya mala for well as the Christian community, also came which many communities suffered. Doreen to Sri Lanka in 1930, and she freedom and peace.” forward to oppose the Government’s stance, It could bring together the various was made the Principal of the Sujatha The Suriya-Mal Movement communities, religious and ethnic, to Vidyalaya, a girls’ school in Matara. extended support by means of relief which many felt was illogical. fight the real enemy in the war that Appalled by the British-styled work during the malaria epidemic Even though the protests held in front of the continues today – the war against education at the school, Doreen set that was spreading rapidly at the time Borella Cemetery, where white ribbons were imperialism. to work in altering the curriculum in the poverty-stricken rural areas of tied on its gates to express opposition, attracted It is with this in mind that I write to include Sri Lankan history, the country. During their interactions, international attention, at that point in time, this article: To remember the real among other changes, and thereby the activists learnt more of caste the Government was too blind to perceive the independence and anti-imperialist empowered the students and teachers oppression and discrimination, and seriousness of the issue. struggle in Sri Lanka, and within this with the tools to think critically of they took up the caste issue as an anti- scope, to highlight those who are often the colonial and imperial politics that feudal campaign. The question many had was why the left out or given very little recognition, governed their lives, a feature that was As the Suriya-Mal Movement Government, which adopted Covid-19- but were instrumental to the success adapted in two other schools in which grew in popularity and garnered related guidelines issued by the World Health of these movements. Several of these she was subsequently appointed as support from the locals, the British Organisation (WHO), would refuse to allow the side-lined heroes are women, the principal. authorities were outraged and anxious. burial of deceased Covid-19-infected patients, likes of Doreen Wickremasinghe, In 1932, while Doreen was the The pro-British press in the island which the WHO has said can be performed Selina Perera, Maimoon, and Caroline Principal of Ananda Balika Vidyalaya, 73rd Independence Day celebrations published scathing articles against safely without the risk of further transmission Anthonypillai. the Suriya-Mal Movement was the movement and its organisers. conceived. It was an anti-imperialist distance itself from women fighting Finally, the colonial authorities passed of the virus. Also, the Government acted deaf At the height of the movement that was vitally important merely for equal rights within a the “Street Collection Regulation when the public asked as to why burial is not anti-colonial struggle to the independence movement. In capitalist framework”. Ordinance”, which effectively scuttled a viable option if it is not proven to be harmful Doreen Wickremasinghe (1907- 1947, women party members of the the movement. to the environment, which at the same time Women in the Suriya-Mal 2000) was one of the most prominent Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP), Imperialism today enables the Government to show its friendliness feminist activists since the nascent the Communist Party (CP), and Movement towards the country’s Muslim community. stages of the independence struggle, non-party-aligned leftist women The Suriya-Mal Movement (the A few other notable pre- However, the Government’s stance – that and a Member of Parliament in post- collectively formed the Eksath Kantha namesake of this column) was the independence feminist activists in Sri cremating is the only safe way to dispose of the independence Sri Lanka. She was Peramuna (EKP). brainchild of Aelian Perera, a member Lanka include Florence Senanayake not Sri Lankan by birth, but she lived At the helm of the EKP were of the Ex-Servicemen Association, (the only woman MP in the first bodies of those who died of Covid-19 – is no most of her life in Sri Lanka, zealously Doreen, Vivienne Goonewardena, and it was carried out in opposition to Parliament of Ceylon), Kusumasiri more, now that the Prime Minister has openly fighting against British imperialism, Edith Gyomroi Lodewyk, Vimala the jingoistic Poppy Day collection Gunawardena, and Ponsinahamy. made a statement in support of burials. and for the rights of the working Wijewardena, Parameswari Kandhiah, organised in commemoration of the There have of course been countless The Prime Minister’s statement may make class. Born in the UK to a very active M.V.P. Peiris, Vaikuntavasam, Shirani end of World War I. Large sums of other women, who participated in the the common man feel that the countless socialist family, Doreen was immersed (Gamage) Jayawardena, Jeanne Pinto, money collected with the sale of anti-imperialist movement at the time, protests, requests, and debates by various in socialist ideologies from a very and Irangani Helen Gunasekera, the poppy flowers in Sri Lanka were and their collective work, whether it parties, in particular the Muslim community, young age. latter who was the daughter of Dr. shipped back to the UK for the was in the Suriya-Mal Movement, It is noteworthy to add that the Mary Rutnam, the pioneer fighter British ex-servicemen, while the local organising, protesting, and writing, that demanded that the burial of deceased early 1900s was also a period of great for women’s rights in Sri Lanka as veterans (several local men were contributed to Sri Lanka gaining Covid-19-infected persons be permitted, have significance for women’s rights across described by feminist writer and recruited to the “Ceylon Defence independence in 1948. finally borne fruit. But wait – one of the fortes the western world. It was during academic Kumari Jayawardena. Force” and shipped off to England to They were from various of Sri Lankan politicians is making promises, this time that the suffragettes were The EKP took on several issues join the British Army, where many of backgrounds – some foreign and and then delivering surprises. formed, and revolutionary militant faced by working women, such as these recruits were killed in action) some working class, and from the Muslim families in the UK had recently feminists such as Clara Zetkin, Rosa their living conditions in slums, their who also fought in World War I were many religious and ethnic groups in filed a complaint at the United Nations (UN) Luxemburg, and Alexandra Kollontai, health, maternal and infant mortality, woefully neglected. Sri Lanka. The courage and spirit of among many others, broke barriers the condition of women’s wards in Local suriya (portia) flowers were these women must be celebrated, for over their loved ones who died of Covid-19 for women in accessing their rights at hospitals, and housing for the poor. sold as a counter campaign, but Perera unlike their male peers, these women being cremated in Sri Lanka. Earlier, UN home and on the factory floor. Doreen, Their findings were published in their and the Ex-Servicemen Association not only fought against the colonists rights experts had called for the cessation of and other firebrand Sri Lankan paper Kantha Handa, and local daily promptly abandoned the campaign but also against the social norms this practice, claiming that it ran the risk of feminist activists at the time, espoused newspapers. “The EKP”, as noted when they grasped the larger, anti- prevalent at the time. Participating in increasing prejudice, intolerance, and violence, the passion and vigour of these radical in the book Socialist Women in Sri imperialist implications of it. political work was twice as difficult and that it amounts to a human rights violation. feminists. Lanka, “also campaigned for the right The anti-imperialists, however, for women. The fact that all this happened ahead of Soon after completing her of women to join all branches of the were not about to let the campaign For example, Vivienne the upcoming United Nations Human Rights bachelor’s degree at the University public service. Apart from practical perish. Doreen Wickremasinghe took Goonewardena’s father was of London, she met Dr. S.A. work, the debate was also conducted the reins and amplified it, turning unflaggingly against his daughter Council (UNHRC) session, at which Sri Lanka Wickremasinghe – a doctor on a more theoretical level. The EKP it into a movement. This feat could entering university, as it would delay will most likely have to respond to allegations of completing his medical training in took pains to assert its socialism, to not have been achieved without the her marriage. She resorted to furtively human rights violations, is not only noteworthy, the UK at the time and a Sri Lankan distinguish its policies from those dedication and tireless work carried preparing for a scholarship exam. She but also requires the genuine attention of the socialist, later the first socialist existing women’s organisations and out by the teachers of Ananda Balika performed phenomenally at the exam, authorities. and was awarded the English honours The Prime Minister’s abrupt but supportive course at the university. But her statement, in fact, came as a surprise to Sri university education was cut short as CARTOON OF THE DAY pressure from her father intensified. Lankans. Why did the Government – which Later, she defied her father once maintained from the beginning that the burial again, and pursued a general course in of bodies could contaminate water – change arts, graduating from the University of its mind? Was it a result of the protests, or London. If it were not for Vivienne’s was it a genuine acknowledgment of expert determination and rebellion against opinion? Or is there a motive that is still too the patriarchy in her home, her early to understand? invaluable contributions as an activist and parliamentarian may not have The aforesaid international-level opposition been made. against Sri Lanka’s practice of cremating The revolutionary work of the deceased Covid-19-infected persons is indicative women and men from the early 1930s of the fact that this issue has reached a level to 1948, must be commemorated where it would be impossible to restore to serve as a reminder that the war Sri Lanka’s damaged name without taking against imperialism continues today. concrete steps. For now, all we have is the While Sri Lanka gained independence Prime Minister’s word, and several subsequent from colonial rule, the fight against imperialism continues. steps need to be taken for his words to become Imperialism today is in the form a reality. Sri Lankans may buy mere promises, of powerful, wealthy states, pursuing but would the international community do overseas territorial acquisitions, the same? exploiting labour and natural resources, and ruling over countries through capitalism. These are the No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. modern-day anti-imperialist battles Fax - 011 2 673 441 that we must unite and collectively General - 011 5 200 900 fight against and we – women Sales & Marketing - 076 1 367 612 and men – can draw inspiration Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367 620 and courage from these radical E-mail - [email protected] feminists who left an indelible mark Special Investigations Department - 077 7 714 078 in our history in their fight against Website - www.themorning.lk imperialism during colonisation. (The writer is a researcher in women’s rights and minority rights) 47 Thursday, February 11, 2021 „„ www.themorning.lk

Fruitbusiness and vegetable Milk import expenditure dropped in 2020 exporters eye Chinese BY NIYUSHI DANANJANI to 96 million kg in 2020. powder production in our Responding to a The quantity of milk powder country,” he added. question raised by MP imports in 2018 was 98 Rajapaksa further noted during million kg, marking a drop that liquid milk and milk a parliamentary session of 5 million kg between 2018 powder are imported mainly market expansion yesterday (10), Premier and 2019, and a further 2 from New Zealand and Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is million kg drop between Australia, as well as from BY KAREN HAPUARACHCHI also the Minister of Finance, 2019 and 2020. various other countries such stated that milk imports “40% of liquid milk is as Denmark, the Netherlands, The Sri Lanka Fruit and Vegetable Producers, Processors, reduced last year compared produced locally, annually, and India. and Exporters Association (SLFVPPEA) is looking at to the previous year. and the remaining quantity As the current milk expanding its footprint in the Chinese market by evaluating According to the statistics of milk powder is imported. production is sufficient its export strategy, The Morning Business learns. submitted by premier There are over 300,000 only to cater to 35% of “We have now evaluated our the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Rajapaksa, the amount spent registered dairy farmers, local demand, there is a export strategy and we have and the Maldives. on milk powder imported in Melko, Nestlé, and Cargills, plan underway to increase mainly been planning on focusing “We are closely looking at 2019 was $ 0.7 million (Rs. which collect milk. Also production by another 35% on three main products: Banana, China because we have filed 128 million), while in 2020, there are other small and this year. Accordingly, the pineapple, and mango. We are the agreement with the Chinese smallholder farmers and Additionally, Hashim the amount spent on milk medium milk processors plan is to import and increase working on a five-year plan and Wholesalers’ Association. We are agribusinesses in project areas. also announced the possible powder imports was $ 0.6 from which we collect large the number of milch cows looking at expanding Chinese looking at directing our exports In addition to the main products, diversification of the export portfolio million (Rs. 117 million). quantities of liquid milk. in Sri Lanka, and also to markets,” SLFVPPEA Chairman to Europe as well. Our biggest the Association said it has a with the addition of blueberries in The quantity of milk Mainly, Melko (Pvt.) Ltd., increase the average milk Zuraish Hashim stated. export consumers include Gulf, particular interest in avocado and the near future. He said that as powder imported in 2019 Pelwatte Dairy and Nestlé production of a cow by Hashim also revealed that China Dubai, Katar, the Maldives at the passionfruit, and expressed their imports have been reduced, the was 93 million kg, compared Lanka are engaged in milk increasing their feed. is a country the board has planned moment,” he further added. potential in the export markets. Government is heading towards to focus on, mainly due to the In addition to this, Hashim Initiated by the Commercial import substitution, where local agreement of the Wholesalers stated that the Association is Division of the Embassy production will replace importation. Association between Sri Lanka working alongside the World of Sri Lanka in Beijing, As a result, local production will and the China National Agriculture Bank and the Ministry of China, and supported by the be influenced to increase to cater Property buyers Wholesale Market Association Agriculture on projects such Department of Commerce of to the export markets. (CAWA). as the Agriculture Sector Sri Lanka, SLFVPPEA signed a Hashim expressed this Furthermore, he stated that Modernisation Project (ASMP). Memorandum of Understanding as another way to decrease the Association is focusing The ASMP aims to support and (MoU) with CAWA in November imports, while catering to the flock back to market: on European markets as well, increase agriculture productivity, 2018 to increase exports to China demand locally as consumers, the while also further developing improve market access, and and expand rapidly in the coming Government, and the economy other existing markets such as enhance value addition of years. would benefit from. LankaPropertyWeb Committees to be appointed Sri Lankan property portal LankaPropertyWeb (LPW) released a report recently, to review trade agreements noting that there has been BY ZAHIDA RIZVI Two, that it would open the an increase in real estate The Government is floodgates for the importation activity by property buyers expected to appoint separate of clinical and nuclear waste, and sellers. committees to review Sri making Sri Lanka a dumping The company stated that Lanka’s pending Free Trade ground for Singapore. a comparison between Agreements (FTAs) and the Meanwhile, China is the number of visits to its already-signed Singapore- the world’s second-largest website during the month Sri Lanka FTA (SLSFTA). economy, and an FTA with it of January showed a year- Sri Lanka has a number of Minister of Trade has been coveted by Sri Lanka on-year increase of 23% in pending FTAs, including Dr. Bandula Gunawardana for many years. Negotiations 2021, while leads generated credited to price fluctuations In the 2020 sales property the China-Sri Lanka FTA, emphasised that the trade on this FTA finally commenced to advertisers on the site and the shift to work from searches, Colombo ranked SLT Group Chairman Rohan Fernando Singapore-Sri Lanka FTA, agreement with Pakistan has in 2016, but came to a virtual increased by 20%. home (WFH) policies. number one again, maintaining Sri Lanka-Thai FTA, and the not reaped benefits for export standstill by 2018. This was LPW also saw acceleration Menavid Realtors Director its 2019 position for the Economic and Technology development in Sri Lanka as due to Sri Lanka’s insistence in visitors by 22% and leads Naveed Zaveer said: “There same criteria. Kandy and SLT Group Co-operation Agreement it was supposed to, due to the on reviewing the agreement by 20% when comparing has been an improvement Negombo were placed second (ETCA) with India. lack of attention paid to the every 10 years, to which China December 2020 and January in the property market and third, respectively, in Speaking to The Morning agreement from Sri Lanka. was strongly opposed due to 2021. January 2021 saw the since December 2020, with the sales property search, operating Business, Trade Minister Dr. “The Pakistan trade agreement its willingness to have longer- highest number of visitors to inquiries being made. The while the ranking in land Bandula Gunawardana told allowed betel leaves to be term stability, according to the site since the start of the opening of the Sri Lankan searches revealed that Kandy, that a separate committee exported duty free, although Sri Lanka’s then Chief Trade pandemic. airport on 21 January 2021 Kurunegala, and Nuwara Eliya profit grew by has been appointed along a huge cess tax was imposed Negotiator K.J. Weerasinghe, The LPW data revealed to tourists is also a positive were placed first, second, and with members of the private in Pakistan, which acted as reported by Reuters in May that only 8% of its 63,250 step towards revitalising the third, respectively. sector to review the SLSFTA. as a barrier to reap the 2018. advertisers had reduced economy. We stay positive Overall, since January 27% in 4Q20 “The other trade agreements benefits offered through the Meanwhile, in August last advertised prices during and hopeful that this will 2021, the number of Sri Lanka Telecom PLC (SLT) Group stated with India, China, and Pakistan agreement,” he added. year, following the general 2020. create a positive mindset in properties advertised on the it concluded financial year (FY) 2020 with will be reviewed by a separate Despite strong opposition election, the Government held 88% of property the minds of the investors, site increasing by 54% in a 25% year-on-year (YoY) growth in profit expert committee to analyse from professional associations discussions on the ETCA for advertisers did not change motivating them to invest January 2021 compared to after tax to Rs. 7.9 billion. the problems and challenges and other bodies, Sri Lanka the first time in nearly a year, their initial advertised price, further in the property January 2020. This is a 21% Group revenue climbed to Rs. 91.1 encountered,” he added. entered into the SLSFTA in possibly signalling a resumption while 4% of the advertisers market.” growth from December last billion for the year with a 6% YoY growth, According to official data, January 2018, following 18 of bilateral negotiations on the increased their initial tagged A study on people’s year to this January, bearing underpinned by higher broadband revenue. Sri Lanka had exported goods months of negotiations. The controversial agreement with price by 12%. search trends revealed that evidence to the rising trend of SLT Group increased its Earnings Before worth Rs. 7.46 billion to opposition was mainly on India. The discussions took Meanwhile, high last year Colombo ranked advertising property online. Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation Pakistan under a free trade two grounds. One, that the place amongst officials of the reductions in commercial as the number one city in There was also a rise (EBITDA) by 16% YoY to Rs. 34.7 billion in deal and goods worth Rs. agreement endangered Sri Ministry of Foreign Affairs, property were seen by rental property searches. This recorded in land searches FY 2020, leading to a higher EBITDA margin 93.7 billion under several Lankan jobs by allowing the according to Ministry of Foreign advertisers who reduced their was followed by Kandy and amounting to 55.8% of 38% compared to 35% in the previous year. trade agreements. However, entrance of Singaporean skilled Affairs Secretary Admiral Prof. property prices by 13% in Dehiwala that ranked second in January 2021, when Group revenue for Q4 2020 rose by 4% the Minister of Trade labour and professionals. Jayanath Colombage. the last year. This is mainly and third, respectively. compared to January 2020. QoQ to Rs. 24.0 billion, recording the highest quarterly revenue achieved for FY 2020. The operating profit for the quarter increased by 27% compared to the same Consultative Committee on Tourism meets quarter of the previous year, reaching Rs. issuing a license or certificate after The Annual Report of the Tourism 1.9 billion, a decline of 33% compared to z Plans to vaccinate 57% of z Proposes to review tourism reviewing the publications on the Development Authority for the 3Q 2020. The Group profit after tax for the SL population by March licenses after reading reviews sites regarding hotels and lodges year 2018, the Annual Report of quarter reported at Rs. 1.1 billion, a drop with its practical status. the Tourism Development Fund of 48% QoQ. Measures have been put into MP Waruna Liyanage addressed stated that tourists often obtain MPs such as Chandima for the year 2018, and the Annual Mobitel (Pvt.) Ltd., the mobile arm of the effect in order to vaccinate 57% of the issue related to the Dahaiyagala information about the country Weerakkody, , Report of the Sri Lanka Convention SLT Group, reported revenue for FY 2020 the total population by March, stated Elephant Pass in Udawalawe located through various websites regarding and Bureau for 2018 were presented at of Rs. 43.2 billion, up by 8% compared the Minister of Tourism Prasanna between the Udawalawe National hotels and lodging in particular, expressed their views on tourism the meeting. Minister Ranatunga to FY 2019. Mobitel was able to record Ranatunga, at the Consultative Park and the proposed Bogahapitiya associated with various tourist development in the district. also stated that the need to obtain significant growth in all key profitability Committee on Tourism which met Forest Reserve, identified as a place destinations. Minister Ranatunga instructed approval will be carried out in this indicators. The company recorded Rs. 3.1 yesterday (10). of importance, as it is a decisive However, the MP stated that the officials of the Tourism regard. billion improvement in EBITDA, an increase Ranatunga stated that strategic route for elephants. The MP pointed information provided on these sites Development Authority to call The Consultative Committee of of 23% YoY. Mobitel recorded its highest planning will be carried out in order out that as a result, elephants in are not updated, and below the upon a separate meeting to discuss Tourism was chaired by Minister of ever profit after tax of Rs. 4.9 billion in FY to prevent the Covid-19 virus from the said forest reserve are under level of satisfaction. The MP was the development of tourism in the Tourism , State 2020, an increase by 54% YoY. entering society through tourists threat due to the illicit clearing of of the view that although quality Southern Province including Galle Minister D. V. Chanaka, Members of The Group paid a total of Rs. 17.1 billion who visit the country, whilst these areas. information and photographs for the purpose of the above. Parliament Geetha Kumarasinghe, as direct and indirect taxes in FY 2020. ensuring the prevention of the virus In consideration of the above, of hotels and lodges have been When inquired by the Minister Manusha Nanayakkara, Udayana SLT Group Chairman Rohan Fernando from transmitting to tourists from Minister Ranatunga emphasised published on websites, in practice of Tourism regarding the progress Kirindigoda, , Dr. announced: “Our financial results for 2020 the community. that elephants are a resource for the this is not the case, and as a result related to the development Upul Galappaththi, M. Udayakumar, have yet again demonstrated SLT Group’s Accordingly, the Minister stated country’s tourism industry and that the reputation of the country is of tourism in the Batticaloa , Gunathilake resilience and success in providing essential that health regulations should the forests and the wildlife which being tarnished. district, State Secretary Madhava Rajapaksa, Weerasumana telecommunication services to the country and always be followed and steps should are major tourist attractions, should Agreeing with the aforesaid, MPs Devasurendra said that the Weerasinghe, Sampath Athukorala, community, notwithstanding unprecedented be taken to vaccinate the people of be protected. Geetha Kumarasinghe and Diana development process has already and Sivagnanam Sritharan and challenges arising from the Covid-19 the country as a practical measure MP Udayana Kirindigoda, Gamage stated that the tourism been implemented in consultation government officials also marked pandemic.” against the aforesaid concern. commenting at the committee, sector can be developed further by with the relevant parties. their presence. 48 business „„ www.themorning.lk { TECH/CORPORATE } Thursday, February 11, 2021 Hayleys Advantis completes Advantis SLASSCOM forum to position Ideastorm SL as vibrant tech ecosystem With the objective of positioning Sri Lanka as a vibrant tech Emerging Tech, Biotechnology, have put in place many plans to ecosystem in Asia, the tech forum of Sri Lanka Association for Gaming, and FinTech, to name host multiple events including tech Software Services Companies (SLASSCOM) is focusing its efforts some. talks, webinars, and meetups, as well towards developing the technology knowledge base of the All the forum’s accelerators as engaging with global and local country. and COEs follow a particular audiences through tech summits, Sadna Dissanayake and Lakshika Porage receiving the gold award from Hayleys PLC “Enabling Sri Lankans to take Sri Lanka to be recognised as a test governance structure that is and recruiting international resource Chairman and Chief Executive Mohan Pandithage our country to the world stage as bed for innovation and IP creation, very well defined in order to personnel to embrace learning an incubator for smart working attracting global organisations to maintain efficiency, continuity, opportunities. Hayleys Advantis Ltd., the transportation professionals is a passion that has use Sri Lanka to set up innovation and synergistic benefits. They “In our journey of positioning Sri and logistics arm of the Hayleys Group, has been continuously driving the labs, and enabling MNCs and local consist of a two-tiered structure Lanka as a tech ecosystem, we will successfully completed its first-ever group-wide tech forum,” said SLASSCOM companies to set up operations in including the Advisory Board made be establishing several MOUs with ideation programme – “Advantis Ideastorm” – Chairman Channa Manoharan, citing the island. up of eminent local and foreign local and international bodies,” said to boost innovative thinking across all levels that the forum’s objectives align The strategies include the SLASSCOM Board SLASSCOM resource persons and the Executive Perera, highlighting that the forum is Director – Tech Chairman Channa of staff from entry level to senior leadership. to SLASSCOM’s Vision 2022 of formation of Centres of Excellence Forum Nuwan Manoharan Committee comprising selected looking at leveraging international The ideation platform was created mainly to achieving $ 5 billion in revenue, (COEs) and accelerators, building Perera forum contributors, industry networks and ecosystems to amplify encourage employees to brainstorm and come up 200,000 jobs, and 1,000 startups, future skills and a strong technical representatives and academics. Sri Lanka’s capabilities through with new ideas to enrich existing businesses and thus making it a unified and well community, and positioning Sri established COEs, namely Regarding its strategy to build them, and will be signing MOUs introduce new business verticals adjacent to the directed commitment. Lanka via engagement through SLASSCOM Product and Platform skills and a tech community, the with research laboratories in Europe core businesses. Revenue generation and service The tech forum has formulated a differentiated events. Council, SLASSCOM AI COE and tech forum is working in tandem and other parts of the world in the optimisation in terms of cost, quality, or time three-pronged strategy in its plan to “When it comes to setting up SLASSCOM Cybersecurity COE. with universities to bridge the gap near future. were the two categories under which employees position Sri Lanka as a country that COEs and accelerators, we have “All these centres of excellence are between industry and academia in The next exciting event in the were required to develop their submissions. offers not just low cost labour, as was advisory boards with professionals functioning actively – we are very order to develop the next generation tech forum’s agenda is the AI Asia These initiatives are expected to help Hayleys the case previously, but sustainable from around the globe,” explained encouraged by the contribution we of industry ready professionals. Summit, scheduled to be held on Advantis to elevate their competitiveness in value additions in technology to the SLASSCOM Board Director – Tech get from locals, expats and foreign The tech forum is also actively 25-27 February, one of many industry the marketplace and improve their overall world’s economies and organisations. Forum Nuwan Perera. experts,” he outlined. Future COEs engaged in building a strong tech networking and knowledge creation productivity. The forum is focused on empowering The forum already has several lined up for the forum include community in Sri Lanka, and activities planned for the year. “We are very pleased with the outcome of ‘Advantis Ideastorm’ and are highly impressed with the standard of ideas presented. This INSEE Cement hosts programme not only underpins our drive 99x listed among Best in creating a culture which fosters friendly competition, but it also encourages our staff to Seniority Awards 2020 think out of the box and pitch new business ideas, Felicitating employees who They have led the progress of giving them the opportunity and freedom to be Workplaces for Women have contributed to and served the entire cement industry in Sri creative and innovative,” said Hayleys Advantis the company for more than 20 Lanka for five decades. The long Ltd. Managing Director Ruwan Waidyaratne. Technology company 99x years, INSEE Cement, a cement years of service appreciation Launched as a group-wide online live event, was recognised for its best manufacturer, held its annual award or the Seniority Awards Advantis Ideastorm was successfully concluded practices in diversity and Seniority Awards recently. is unique in many ways and with over 160 ideas being submitted amongst equality in the workplace, The aim of the awards was undoubtedly a recognition that over 230 participants. The preliminary rounds as it was listed a “Best to celebrate and acknowledge our employees hold with a great were judged by a 10-member panel comprising Workplace to Work for employees for their long sense of pride. I am delighted strategic business unit and support service unit Women in Sri Lanka” for years of dedicated service to to recognise their commitment heads, with the top 25 ideas being shortlisted. a second consecutive year. the company. As a symbol of and loyalty and congratulate The next round was evaluated by the members of “It is a testament to our appreciation for their dedicated their long tenure at INSEE the Group Management Committee of Hayleys efforts to be recognised work and long-standing Cement. I trust it has been Advantis, rounding off the top 15 ideas. by Great Place To Work® commitment, INSEE Cement enriching and rewarding. This During the final round, the 15 teams presented once again. However, it’s presented gold sovereigns to dedication showcases the level their ideas to the panel of judges comprising six important that we all, not 61 of its employees. Among the of trust and commitment on the members of the Hayleys Advantis Board: Ruwan just as a company but as an recipients were 46 employees part of both the organisation and Waidyaratne, Upul Peiris, Asanka Ratnayake, industry and country, work who had completed 20 years of the employees.” Sarath Ganegoda, Sriyamal Gamage, and Shano together continuously to service and 15 employees who Addressing the gathering, 99x COO Shehani Seneviratne (centre) and 99x Chief People Officer Damitha Jayasinghe Sabar, while Dr. Nirmal De Silva, serving as a bring about much-needed (right) receiving the Best Workplace for Women award from Great Place to Work® Sri Lanka completed more than 25 years Organisation and Human consultant for Advantis Ideastorm, acted as an change across sectors, and CEO Kshanika Ratnayaka of dedicated service. Resources Director Chandana external judge for the final round. promote a truly inclusive In keeping with the health Wijayanama said: “Our people Winners of the gold award were Sadna workforce,” observed 99x experiences, achieving my engineered, innovative 99x employs over 350 and safety guidelines due to are the strength and pride of Dissanayake and Lakshika Porage of Corporate Chief Operating Officer MBA, and empowering me digital products for the technology and product the pandemic, INSEE Cement INSEE. Their discipline and Business Excellence, whilst Dilini Dissanayake Shehani Seneviratne. to handle technical teams,” Scandinavian market. ​Its specialists, who are high organised two separate events adherence to safety regulations and Aruni Perera of Corporate Business “Over the years, I’ve commented 99x Senior expertise has been proven achievers, creative thinkers, where the families of the award made it possible for us to hold Development secured silver. Maazud Marzook, grown in my career as a Quality Assurance Lead through a portfolio of and team players. ​The winners were able to join the this valuable event despite Lilip Sanjeewa, Asanka Bodhirathna, Roshan senior QA (quality assurance) Mihiri Lekamge, describing over 150 impactful global company is one of Asia’s ceremony virtually and witness the challenging times. We Medonza, and Andrew Tan of Advantis Ships Lead and 99x gave me the her experience at 99x. digital products developed “Best Workplaces” for 2020 this meaningful event. Twenty- are grateful for their valuable were awarded the bronze award. In addition to opportunity to bloom by Headquartered in Sri since 2004, together with and has been named a “Best four employees from Puttalam contribution as well as the the main awards, six other teams were presented expanding my knowledge Lanka, 99x is a technology leading Independent Workplace” in Sri Lanka Cement Works, 31 employees immense support given to them with merit awards. through training, offshore company co-creating well- Software Vendors (ISVs). for eight consecutive years.​ from Ruhunu Cement Works by the people who are with us (RCW), and six employees virtually – the families of our from the Colombo office were employees.” felicitated and received their Among the recipients of the ComBank joins Mother Sri Lanka tokens of appreciation. award were employees from Commenting on the occasion, across functional teams such Commercial Bank of Ceylon to develop the feeling of responsibility INSEE Cement Chief Executive as the production, pack house, (ComBank) has announced a partnership among our citizens to appreciate the Officer (CEO) Gustavo Navarro marketing, procurement and with Mother Sri Lanka (MSL), a non-profit resources given to us. Therefore, we said: “Our employees are highly logistics, maintenance, and organisation, to fund “Project RUN”, started this “attitude change” endeavour competent and well experienced. quality assurance departments. which is a programme that promotes the among children in grades 6-12 under concept of being a responsible citizen Mother Sri Lanka Project RUN.” among schoolchildren. MSL is a non-profit organisation The bank’s funding will go towards which brings together the collaborative a competition launched islandwide to Commercial Bank Chairman Justice K. Sripavan (fourth from right) and Mother Sri Lanka efforts of the public, private, and non- encourage students to design projects that Chairperson Dr. Janaki Kuruppu exchange the agreement in the presence of (from left:) profit sectors focusing primarily on help uplift life and enrich communities Mother Sri Lanka Executive Committee member Devaka Wickramasuriya, Director the educational, socio-economic, and Riaz Saban, Executive Committee member Air Chief Marshal Gagan Bulathsinghala, across the country. The scope includes and Director Thushantha Karunanayake; Commercial Bank Managing Director S. cultural development of Sri Lankans. The selecting the best projects of three all- Renganathan, Deputy General Manager – Marketing Hasrath Munasinghe, and Project organisation is governed by a team of island winners and nine provincial Co-ordinator – CSR Trust Mahesh Rathnayake professionals who have been contributing winners. They will be announced at an their time voluntarily in the eight years awards ceremony to be held in April programme, also known as RUN Stage IV. Mother Sri Lanka Chairperson Dr. since its inception. MSL projects are 2022. Around 75,000 students from 1,500 Commenting on Commercial Bank’s Janaki Kuruppu said: “As citizens of this implemented through a network of 1,600 schools are expected to participate in latest commitment to the community, the country, we must acknowledge that we school clubs and over 500 preschools Project RUN, which is an acronym of bank’s Managing Director S. Renganathan have a long way to go in developing the with a membership of approximately three components: responsible citizenship, said: “Commercial Bank is no stranger to concept of responsible citizenship. How 75,000 covering all 25 districts of the unity, and national pride. empowering schoolchildren through its many times have we noticed someone country. The objectives of MSL Project Launched to promote responsible CSR initiatives that promote IT literacy abusing the free health system or the RUN are to develop responsible citizens citizenship and citizen engagement, MSL and mastery of the STEM subjects on free education system in our country, who understand and respect other ethnic Project RUN has already implemented a national scale. With this partnership, or in much simpler terms, noticed with and religious groups and are proud to be 1,400 projects and is a tried and tested we are privileged to support an effort to sadness how someone is misusing a public Sri Lankans. Moreover, it helps develop programme which has been sustained for mould young minds to be more socially toilet, a government office, or a public entrepreneurship, leadership, project over eight years with the approval of the conscious so that they grow up to be transport facility with callous disregard management skills, and personality traits Ministry of Education. Commercial Bank’s well-rounded citizens that contribute to to the facility or public funds? We at such as self-confidence, independence, The INSEE Sri Lanka management felicitating the Puttalam Cement Works, CSR (corporate social responsibility) Trust the community both through their skills MSL feel that as the country is gaining and creative and strategic thinking of Ruhunu Cement Works, and Colombo teams in appreciation of their dedication and commitment to the company is supporting the 2021-22 edition of the and a sense of national responsibility.” material development, there is a dire need the youths. MAS recognised for contributions towards reducing plastic waste MAS Holdings was recognised for was equivalent to a little under 18 commented. “We appreciate this partnering with the Sri Lanka Navy This yarn was used to produce the Sri its efforts towards a national initiative million PET bottles, which would recognition for our contribution towards to establish over five plastic waste Lanka Cricket Jersey for the ICC 2019 to reduce plastic waste at the recently otherwise have ended up in landfills the effective end-of-life management of collection centres across the country World Cup. Eco Spindles, a wholly concluded Inaugural Annual Awards or polluted water bodies in the country. PET by re-imagining our manufacturing for recycling. To expand its efforts in owned subsidiary of BPPL Holdings Ceremony organised by Eco-Spindles Collectively, MAS has utilised yarn process, while meeting our stringent addressing the marine plastic issue, PLC, states that 1kg of PET polyester (Pvt.) Ltd. recently. sourced from over 21 million PET quality and performance benchmarks.” MAS piloted a floating trash trap in yarn is equivalent to recycling 60 PET The award recognises MAS bottles throughout the past year. MAS has been actively involved in 2020 named the “Ocean Strainer” in bottles. KREEDA’s innovative incorporation “The Eco Spindles Award recognises clearing plastic waste from Sri Lanka’s the Dehiwala canal, trapping plastic “KREEDA’s efforts reflect our of fabric produced by yarn sourced MAS KREEDA’s commitment to make coastline since 2015 in partnership with waste and preventing it from reaching continuous inspiration by our from recycled PET bottles by a local our supply chains more sustainable the Marine Environment Protection the ocean through the canal mouth. stakeholders’ long-term commitment recycled-yarn vendor, to manufacture and circular, reducing plastic waste Authority (MEPA), Sri Lanka Navy, To find a solution to add value to the towards environmental sustainability MAS KREEDA CEO Sarinda Unamboowe and KREEDA’s trademark high-end as we move together in partnership and Eco-Spindles, with many MAS PET waste collected from the coast and making a lasting, positive impact Deputy General Manager – Compliance and sportswear. Eco-Spindles noted that ‘Towards a Better Planet’,” CEO of employees volunteering for coastal of Sri Lanka, MAS partnered with on our planet. This will continue to be Environmental Sustainability Eranga Dilhan with the award in 2020, KREEDA’s consumption of MAS KREEDA and Member of the cleanups carried out across the island. Eco-Spindles to develop a recycled a key focus in our manufacturing and such traceable, waste-to-value fabric Apparel Board Sarinda Unamboowe Other such initiatives included polyester yarn. sourcing journey,” Unamboowe added. business 49 Thursday, February 11, 2021 { CORPORATE } „„ www.themorning.lk EXPORT BRAND OF THE YEAR - BRONZE AWARD Uber releases Anverally and Sons recognised by SLIM Anverally and Sons (Pvt) Ltd., one of Sri Lanka’s oldest exporters of tea, received annual analysis the bronze award for the Export Brand of the Year at the 2020 Brand Excellence Uber recently released its annual analysis — “A Look Back at enables customers to transport Awards presented by the Sri Lanka Institute 2020: Year in Review'” — a glimpse into how Sri Lankans ate packages from the safety of of Marketing (SLIM). during the lockdown and then slowly began safely moving their homes; and Car and Tuk The award was conferred on the company’s again as cities started opening up. The report, backed by rentals, which allow riders to export brand Al-Otuor – a distinctive Earl insights and data, highlights Uber’s support for communities by book multi-hour, multi-stop Grey-flavoured tea ranked No. 1 in several shifting focus to “Move What Matters” — which found ways to options to travel in the “new Middle Eastern markets including Iraq and use the Uber app and network. Uber moved frontline warriors normal”. Libya, and believed to be popular for its strong to work, Uber Eats moved food to those who needed it, and the yy 3,000 safety screens: Uber fragrance, as borne out by its name, which platform empowered drivers and partners to earn. pioneered the safety screen, translates to fragrance. The company said the a ceiling-to-floor transparent flavour of the tea is customised exclusively By the numbers closure of all restaurants plastic screen between the for the brand, making it a unique product. and shopping centres during This is the ninth occasion that Anverally yy 10 million: Provided 10 passenger and the driver, and Anverally and Sons Marketing Manager Danel the lockdown, Uber Eats and Sons was honoured at the SLIM Brand Goonawardena receives the SLIM award million rides and deliveries partnered with supermarkets facilitated installation in over of food globally to healthcare 3,000 cars and tuks, setting a Excellence awards. and small independent Commenting on this achievement, workers, seniors, and others new standard for safety in the businesses to meet the Chairman Mohamed Anverally said: “We in need, free of charge across “new normal”. “both leg pieces” decreased growing grocery needs of are honoured to be a consistent winner at the world. In Sri Lanka, Uber significantly. Sri Lankans. Uber launched yy Zero: In the new normal, these awards. The concluded year was one offered free Uber Medic grocery delivery in Sri Lanka, Uber wants to partner with yy A new way to explore: While of many challenges especially for exporters, rides worth Rs. 8.5 million to and now works with more cities to “Build back better” physically travelling the world with disruptions of production, logistics transport frontline healthcare than 400 grocery partners in and have pledged to become a was more difficult this year, issues, and lockdowns in many overseas workers to and from their the country. fully zero-emission platform our eaters found ways to markets. Our ability to retain our market homes and healthcare by 2040. travel across cuisines. Indian, leadership in key markets speaks to the facilities. Additionally, the yy Rs. 24 million in tips: Despite all of the adversity, American, and Chinese were consistency in the quality of our products as company distributed dry A few food trends the top three choices for Sri well as the consumer loyalty we have built rations worth Rs. 8.5 million Sri Lankans demonstrated gratitude, and using the new yy Day and date: The most Lankans. for the brands.” to vulnerable communities In 2019, Anverally Teas was awarded a “tipping” feature in the Uber popular day of the week yy The favourite: There was Anverally and Sons Assistant Manager – island wide in partnership Presidential Export Award in the tea sector, a Eats app, contributed Rs. 24 for food delivery in 2020 a huge variety of meal Tea Tharindu Lorenso Hewage, flanked by with the government. National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) award million in tips to delivery was Thursday, and the most selections ordered by Sri Marketing Manager Danel Goonawardena in the Extra Large category, and a special and Business Development Manager Thiska yy $ 50 million: Allocated $ 50 partners, the entirety of which popular time of day to place Lankans through the year, but award for the highest export turnover at the Goonatilleka at the awards ceremony million to purchase health went to them. an order was noon. “yellow rice with chicken” and safety supplies for drivers NCE awards. These accolades recognised a yy Quarantine cravings: trumped the others to emerge across the world. In Sri yy Three new services: As year of significant growth, expansion, value facilities. The company has also set up its During quarantine, eaters as the most ordered dish in the Lanka, Uber distributed PPE cities opened up and people addition, and new market development by own fully equipped microbiological lab to wanted their food prepared country through 2020. including masks, sanitisers, resumed travel, Uber wanted Anverally Teas, which diversified its branded do all in-house testing and quality control. exactly to their liking, with and disinfectants, to driver and to safely cater to the evolving yy Mind your manners: products portfolio, upgraded its warehousing In addition, it has invested in an in-house requests for “extra sauce” delivery partners, amounting needs of our communities. Sri Lankans maintained facilities, and expanded its market share to iced tea and beverage plant which uses The ridesharing company increasing the most. They, to a total of Rs. 17.4 million. their etiquette through the South America, the US, and the Far East. cutting-edge automated machinery for iced launched three new services, however, did get a little challenging year, with Anverally and Sons operates from state-of- tea processing and packaging, maintaining yy 400 grocery partners: including Uber Connect, a less picky when it came to “please” figuring in nearly the-art facilities including modern warehouses, the hygiene quality of RTD bottles to Following the temporary package delivery service that portions, as the demand for half of the order requests. the latest tea packaging machines, and storage international standards. CTC certified as top employer Ceylon Tobacco Company environment. These certified Our reputation as a demands that our people PLC (CTC) has been top employers positively leading employer in Sri are ambitious, courageous, certified as a top employer impact the lives of over 6.9 Lanka helps us stand out in and resilient; that they are for 2021, in recognition million employees globally. an increasingly competitive encouraged to be bold, fast, of its excellence in people CTC CEO and Managing employment market. It is empowered, diverse, and practices. CTC is the only Director Nedal Salem, no secret that our people responsible as they continue Sri Lankan corporate to speaking on the certification remain key to our success to drive and own results. The CBL team at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards 2020 be awarded the certificate remarked: “We are extremely and we continue to invest in We provide a conducive in 2021, by the Top honoured and proud to them as it is an investment environment that allows Employers Institute, which receive this recognition as in the future of the company employees to perform at Munchee recognised at SLIM is the global authority on it reaffirms our commitment and Sri Lankan talent in their best.” recognising excellence in to provide the best working general,” he further noted. CTC is a member of people practices. The Top environment to our CTC Human Resources British American Tobacco Employer certification employees with continued Director Aruni Abeysekera (BAT) and continues strong Brand Excellence 2020 programme enables improvement in HR policies, said: “The accelerated pace on its purpose to build “A Munchee, the flagship brand of Biscuits Ltd. General Manager centric approach has been a key factor organisations to assess and employee benefits, and career of transformation as an Better Tomorrow”, thanks Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL) was Marketing Janmesh Paul Anthony in the Munchee brand’s growing improve their workplace development opportunities. industry and an organisation to its people. awarded the “Brand of the Year” title noted: “This is a testament to the trust demand in Sri Lanka and in over 60 at the SLIM Brand Excellence Awards that our consumers have in us and countries across the world. 2020. the commitment and passion of the CBL Group brands Munchee, “Brand of the Year” was among CBL family to achieve our purpose Ritzbury, and Samaposha won a total of Mount House wins bronze award 5 awards claimed by Munchee in a of creating enriching moments of 11 awards at the SLIM Brand Excellence Mount House Holdings exceeding 100 employees, and a sweep which included “Local Brand happiness across Sri Lanka. Each one of Awards 2020 held at the BMICH. Over Enterprises (Pvt.) Ltd., won the fleet of modern machinery and of the year” — gold, “Export Brand of us at CBL is truly invested in delivering 100 brands were evaluated under 14 bronze award in the large category, sophisticated equipment used in the Year” — gold, “Best New Entrant the best quality products and purpose- categories to recognise high performing service sector at the “Sabaragamuwa the construction and mining sector. Brand of the Year” — gold for Munchee driven growth for Sri Lanka through brands. Each entry was subjected to a Province Best Entrepreneur of the Managing Director of Mount Choc Shock and “Product Brand of the every biscuit we make, so we are truly stringent evaluation process where all Year - 2020” awards ceremony House Holdings T.M. Pamal Year” — silver. grateful to our consumers who make aspects of the brand were thoroughly organised by the Sabaragamuwa Ruwansiri is a diploma holder This was the eighth consecutive time the extraordinary Munchee journey a evaluated. The brands that emerged as Chamber of Commerce and in engineering science. Mount that Munchee has won the “Brand of possibility.” top scorers of the six main categories Industries, along with the National House Holdings undertakes all the Year” award, and is the only brand “Munchee continuously evolves its and the special categories were further Enterprise Development Authority. sorts of construction projects in to win this award for four consecutive product offering through innovative subjected to evaluation by an esteemed Having started with a single worker addition to renting out machinery years in the 19-year history of SLIM recipes and technology to meet panel of judges who declared gold, in 2005, Mount House Holdings and operates a 24/7 breakdown Mount House Holdings Managing Director Brand Excellence Awards. consumer needs and wants,” added silver and bronze winners, and the has come a long way to own a fully service to transport any type of T.M. Pamal Ruwansiri receiving the award Commenting on the win, Ceylon Anthony, noting that this consumer- esteemed “Brand of the Year”. computerised office, a work force vehicle to a service centre. St. Benedict’s OBU launches ‘NAMADIMU’ MillenniumIT ESP and STEMUp St. Benedict’s College Colombo within a short period of three 13 Old Boys’ Union launched months, in spite of the current a project to honour their past difficult times due to the Covid- partnership reviews year end teachers, titled “NAMADIMU.” 19 Pandemic, thanks to the This project was launched to donations received from the MillenniumIT ESP – an IT solutions The sudden emergence and unexpected provided internship opportunities to honour and show gratitude to Benedictine Fraternity domiciled provider – partnered with STEMUp, rise of the pandemic did not deter the students following STEMUp programmes. the teachers who have dedicated here and abroad showing their a not-for-profit organisation, last year journey nor restrict progress. Over 15 MillenniumIT ESP is one of Sri Lanka’s more than half of their life love towards their Alma Mater. as an industry advisor. The objective online sessions were conducted as a part leading information system solution span to groom their students. The agreement for the Life of this partnership was to inspire of a webinar series for the “Machine providers delivering IT solutions across The project “NAMADIMU” Insurance cover was signed with and engage local students to become Learning for Kids” programme. These various industries including banking includes a life insurance cover, Softlogic Insurance. interested and opt to pursue degrees sessions were held during the weekends and finance, telecommunications, a monthly monetary donation, On behalf of the Old Boy’s and careers in the science, technology, and were hosted in collaboration with apparel and manufacturing, healthcare, an annual medical checkup, Union, this project was jointly engineering, and mathematics (STEM) MillenniumIT ESP, through live-streaming construction, transportation, agriculture, and a counseling clinic amongst co-ordinated by Dharshaka fields in order to support STEMUp’s via the STEMUp social media accounts government, the public sector, and many more special benefits for Fernando and Marlon Perera newest mission of democratising the A public in-person activity being on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Plans leading conglomerates. The company is 55 retired teachers who have under the guidance of the General knowledge and technology access of conducted at the Infotel Exhibition 2019 are now underway to host more than 10 a subsidiary of Ambeon Holdings PLC, a nurtured their students in both the Secretary Priyal Perera. In order Artificial Intelligence (AI) to every online sessions in the coming months. medium-sized conglomerate reputed for its primary and secondary divisions to maintain transparency, audited student in the island. of tomorrow and thus be future-ready,” Backed by decades of experience and market dominance in the areas of financial of the college since 1960. accounts will be made available The companies state the partnership commented MillenniumIT ESP Director/ expertise in technology, innovation, services, manufacturing, real estate, This project was accelerated to all donors. has created a great impact in the country Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shevan adaptation, and transformation, technology, and strategic investments. and has led to the integration that was Goonetilleke. MillenniumIT ESP has identified that STEMUp is a volunteer base operation envisaged by MillenniumIT ESP. Supported by the partnership, various Sri Lanka still struggles to be on par with consisting of several programmes such as “Our partnership with STEMUp was activities were initiated around the island. global technology adaptation trends. This Micro:bit SLUG, CoderDojo Sri Lanka, primarily one of the ways by which we Student-focused training sessions were is mainly due to the inadequate number Raspberry Jam, and STEM Ambassadors, could contribute towards the development conducted across different schools of IT professionals in the country and with each programme having its own of Sri Lanka and the country’s future including Ananda College Colombo, sharing of their technical knowhow with sub-projects. The foundation runs several generations. We are passionately driven Gateway College Colombo, St. Paul’s mass audiences. Going one step further, educational initiatives to get local students towards enabling them to be ready for Girls’ School Milagiriya, and Vidyaloka in addition to sharing expert knowledge interested in STEM during early stages in the revolving and evolving dynamics Central College, Balangoda. around the country, MillenniumIT ESP their education journey. 104 business „„ www.themorning.lk { MARKET } Thursday, February 11, 2021 Unit trust prices­ at 9 Feb. 2021 CSE Price List 10 Feb. 2021 Fund name Unit selling price...... Unit buying price V.W.A. V.W.A. CHANGE V.W.A. V.W.A. CHANGE ASTRUE Active Income Fund 100.7180...... 100.7180 SE­CUR­I­TY VOLUME PREVIOUS OPEN HIGH LOW TODAY’S (RS.) SE­CUR­I­TY VOLUME PREVIOUS OPEN HIGH LOW TODAY’S (RS.) Astrue Alpha Fund 16.6924...... 15.6875 A.SPEN.HOT.HOLD...... 11,725...... 33.3...... 32.7...... 32.7...... 31.5...... 32...... -1.3 SEYLAN DEVTS...... 33,120...... 15.8...... 15.5...... 16.3...... 15.5...... 15.8...... 0 Assetline Income Fund 16.8243...... 16.8243 Assetline Income Plus Growth Fund 17.8527...... 17.3579 ABANS...... 5,074...... 189.5...... 180.75...... 191.5...... 168...... 174...... -15.5 SIERRA CABL...... 323,729...... 7...... 7...... 7.4...... 6.7...... 6.8...... -0.2 Senfin Growth Fund 9.9300...... 9.5900 ACCESS ENG SL...... 1,535,716...... 25.6...... 25.9...... 27...... 25...... 25.3...... -0.3 SIGIRIYA VILLAGE...... 14,248...... 39.9...... 38...... 38...... 36...... 36.3...... -3.6 Senfin Money Market Fund 15.0733...... 15.0733 ACL...... 184,539...... 93.4...... 94...... 94...... 88.4...... 89.2...... -4.2 SINGER FINANCE...... 96,276...... 15.2...... 15.2...... 15.2...... 14.8...... 14.9...... -0.3 Senfin Shariah Balanced Fund 12.4300...... 12.1200 ACL PLASTICS...... 8,520...... 300...... 295...... 295...... 275...... 279.75...... -20.25 SLT...... 15,309...... 36.9...... 36.9...... 38.5...... 35.5...... 36.1...... -0.8 Senfin Shariah Income Fund 12.4263...... 12.4263 ACME...... 107,668...... 5.8...... 5.8...... 5.9...... 5.8...... 5.9...... 0.1 SUNSHINE HOLDING...... 6,629,650...... 88...... 89.3...... 89.3...... 80...... 80...... -8 CAL Balanced Fund 12.0725...... 12.0725 CAL Corporate Debt & Gilt Trading Fund 21.3566 ...... 21.3566 AGALAWATTE...... 6,448...... 29...... 28...... 29.2...... 27.6...... 27.9...... -1.1 SWISSTEK...... 109,482...... 125.5...... 128.75...... 135...... 122...... 123.25...... -2.25 CAL Corporate Treasury Fund 18.2963...... 18.2963 AHOT PROPERTIES...... 12,975...... 39...... 39.1...... 39.1...... 38.1...... 38.1...... -0.9 TALAWAKELLE...... 62,494...... 95.2...... 98...... 98...... 90.2...... 91.7...... -3.5 CAL Gilt Fund 7.1730...... 7.1730 AITKEN SPENCE...... 903,694...... 64.8...... 64.7...... 66.5...... 63...... 64.2...... -0.6 TEA SMALLHOLDER...... 300...... 41...... 41.1...... 41.1...... 41...... 41...... 0 CAL Gilt Money Market Fund 4.3481...... 4.3481 ALLIANCE...... 60,238...... 51.2...... 50.6...... 55...... 50.6...... 54.8...... 3.6 TEEJAY LANKA...... 353,580...... 40.5...... 40.5...... 40.5...... 39.1...... 40...... -0.5 CAL Gilt Trading Fund 50.2494...... 50.2494 AMANA BANK...... 595,508...... 3.6...... 3.6...... 3.6...... 3.4...... 3.4...... -0.2 THREE ACRE FARMS...... 30,397...... 255.75...... 255...... 255...... 238.5...... 241.5...... -14.25 CAL High Yield Fund 24.4793...... 24.4793 CAL Income Fund 20.6555...... 20.6555 AMAYA LEISURE...... 1,702...... 40...... 43.5...... 43.5...... 39.9...... 39.9...... -0.1 TOKYO CEMENT...... 783,130...... 74.4...... 77...... 78...... 72.6...... 73.4...... -1 CAL Investment Grade Fund 19.9007...... 19.9007 ASIA ASSET...... 47,561...... 7.2...... 7.2...... 7.2...... 6.9...... 7...... -0.2 TOKYO CEMENT [TKYO.X0000]...... 2,132,429...... 68.9...... 70...... 71...... 67...... 67.8...... -1.1 CAL Medium Risk Debt Fund 15.7090...... 15.7090 ASIRI...... 89,171...... 29...... 29...... 29...... 28.5...... 28.5...... -0.5 UNION BANK...... 671,239...... 12.5...... 12.5...... 12.6...... 11.7...... 12...... -0.5 CAL Quant Equity Fund 21.2039 ...... 21.6087 ASIRI SURG...... 30,721...... 14...... 14...... 14.7...... 13.9...... 14...... 0 UNION CHEMICALS...... 100...... 850.25...... 789...... 789...... 786.5...... 788...... -62.25 Ceybank Century Growth 81.0600...... 77.4900 AUTODROME...... 3,960...... 79...... 80...... 82.7...... 80...... 80...... 1 UNISYST...... 4,168...... 16.8...... 16.9...... 16.9...... 16.4...... 16.4...... -0.4 Ceybank Gilt Edge Fund (A Series) 14.4894...... 14.4894 BAIRAHA FARMS...... 13,567...... 145.5...... 145...... 145...... 138.25...... 140...... -5.5 Ceybank Gilt Edged Fund (B Series) 11.0150...... 11.0150 UNITED MOTORS...... 50,471...... 75...... 75...... 77...... 74.6...... 76.9...... 1.9 Ceybank High Yield Fund 13.8227 ...... 13.8227 BALANGODA...... 28,354...... 15...... 14.5...... 14.8...... 13.8...... 14...... -1 VALLIBEL...... 832,334...... 8...... 8.1...... 8.1...... 7.9...... 8...... 0 Ceybank Surakum Fund 12.3803...... 12.3803 BUKIT DARAH...... 1,373...... 326.75...... 338.5...... 338.5...... 313...... 314.5...... -12.25 VALLIBEL FINANCE...... 85,548...... 118.5...... 120...... 125...... 112.25...... 114.75...... -3.75 Ceybank Unit Trust 27.4100 ...... 25.7300 C M HOLDINGS...... 95...... 99.8...... 95...... 95...... 95...... 99.8...... 0 VIDULLANKA...... 514,488...... 5.5...... 5.6...... 5.6...... 5.3...... 5.4...... -0.1 Ceylon Dollar Bond Fund (in $) 0.6977...... 0.6942 C T HOLDINGS...... 25,111...... 171...... 171...... 179...... 171...... 174.25...... 3.25 WATAWALA...... 20,735...... 59.3...... 59.1...... 59.1...... 57...... 58.1...... -1.2 Ceylon Financial Sector Fund 7.6300...... 7.3100 CARGILLS...... 22,780...... 232.25...... 235...... 236...... 232...... 235...... 2.75 Ceylon Income Fund 22.2301...... 22.2301 YORK ARCADE...... 534...... 172.5...... 172...... 172...... 160...... 160.75...... -11.75 CEYLON Index Fund 56.7600 ...... 54.5400 CARGO BOAT...... 300...... 73.9...... 74...... 74...... 69.3...... 69.7...... -4.2 SECOND BOARD Ceylon IPO Fund 5.6100...... 5.5000 CARSONS...... 2,277...... 308.25...... 300...... 301...... 282...... 298.25...... -10 AMBEON CAPITAL...... 391,054...... 6.3...... 6.2...... 6.2...... 5.5...... 5.5...... -0.8 Ceylon Money Market Fund 17.3385 ...... 17.3385 CDB...... 17,083...... 120.5...... 120.25...... 120.25...... 118.75...... 119...... -1.5 ARPICO...... 15...... 196...... 182.5...... 182.5...... 167.25...... 196...... 0 Ceylon Tourism Fund 3.7800...... 3.6400 CDB [CDB.X0000]...... 5,395...... 83.9...... 81...... 81...... 80...... 80...... -3.9 ASIA CAPITAL...... 50,660...... 6.2...... 6.6...... 6.6...... 5.7...... 6...... -0.2 Ceylon Treasury Income Fund 6.1600...... 6.1600 CENTRAL FINANCE...... 188,240...... 114...... 112.5...... 114...... 106.5...... 108...... -6 Comtrust ADL Mudarabah Fund 11.6920 ...... 11.6920 BROWNS BEACH...... 8,570...... 12.3...... 12...... 13.5...... 12...... 12...... -0.3 Comtrust Equity Fund 20.4800...... 19.5400 CENTRAL IND...... 161,960...... 129.25...... 130...... 130...... 123...... 125...... -4.25 COMM LEASE & FIN...... 283,479...... 6.5...... 6.8...... 7...... 6.1...... 6.5...... 0 Comtrust Gilt Edged Fund 10.4506 ...... 10.4506 CEYLINCO INS...... 13...... 2061.75...... 2,120.00...... 2,138.00...... 2,100.00...... 2,061.75...... 0 DIALOG FINANCE...... 250...... 52.3...... 53...... 53...... 53...... 53...... 0.7 Comtrust Money Market Fund 11.8794...... 11.8794 CEYLINCO INS. [CINS.X0000]...... 544...... 1184...... 1,175.75...... 1,175.75...... 1,145.25...... 1,150.00...... -34 DISTILLERIES...... 498,446...... 20.4...... 21...... 21.4...... 19.9...... 20...... -0.4 First Capital Equity Fund (FCEF) 1,432.1000...... 1,360.5000 CEYLON GUARDIAN...... 107,177...... 132.25...... 130.25...... 132.25...... 128.25...... 130...... -2.25 FIRST CAPITAL...... 107,451...... 57.9...... 59.00...... 59.00...... 56.00...... 56.90...... -1 First Capital Fixed income Fund 1,856.7400...... 1,856.6900 CEYLON INV...... 69,183...... 74.7...... 74.7...... 76.9...... 70...... 70.5...... -4.2 First Capital Gilt Edged Fund 1,495.4000...... 1,495.4000 KELSEY...... 202...... 35.2...... 35.00...... 35.00...... 35.00...... 35.00...... -0.2 First Capital Money Market Fund 1,912.9800...... 1,912.9800 CEYLON TOBACCO...... 462...... 1105...... 1,129.75...... 1,129.75...... 1,090.00...... 1,100.25...... -4.75 LOLC DEV FINANCE...... 398...... 87.1...... 92...... 92...... 79...... 80.7...... -6.4 First Capital Wealth Fund 1,132.7400 ...... 1,132.7100 CHEMANEX...... 49,313...... 88.9...... 87.1...... 90...... 82.2...... 84.6...... -4.3 LOLC FINANCE...... 5,577,731...... 6.2...... 6.3...... 7.4...... 6.2...... 6.8...... 0.6 Guardian Acuity Equity Fund 19.3978 ...... 19.0206 CHEVRON...... 175,540...... 107...... 106.25...... 108.25...... 103.25...... 105...... -2 MADULSIMA...... 9,236...... 9.2...... 9.7...... 9.9...... 8.5...... 8.8...... -0.4 Guardian Acuity Money Market Fund 20.3213...... 20.3213 CIC...... 458,940...... 61.9...... 63...... 63...... 59.1...... 59.9...... -2 ODEL PLC...... 37,720...... 18.2...... 18.9...... 19.1...... 18.2...... 18.2...... 0 NAMAL Bank Fund 9.5515...... 9.1881 CIC [CIC.X0000]...... 992,449...... 49...... 49...... 49.3...... 45.9...... 46.6...... -2.4 NAMAL Growth Fund 147.4083...... 137.5861 PDL...... 2,836...... 122.75...... 121.25...... 121.25...... 119...... 120.5...... -2.25 CITRUS LEISURE...... 70,777...... 9.6...... 9.8...... 9.8...... 8.9...... 9.2...... -0.4 NAMAL High Yield Fund 24.7910...... 24.7910 SELINSING...... 4...... 817.25...... 800...... 800...... 800...... 817.25...... 0 NAMAL Income Fund 14.2527...... 14.2527 COLD STORES...... 8,843...... 689...... 689...... 690...... 670...... 674.75...... -14.25 SERENDIB LAND...... 5...... 2773.75...... 2,700.00...... 2,700.00...... 2,611.00...... 2,773.75...... 0 National Equity Fund 35.9936...... 33.6679 COLOMBO CITY...... 136...... 993.75...... 963...... 987.75...... 903...... 922.25...... -71.5 SHALIMAR...... 1...... 1203.2...... 1,300.00...... 1,300.00...... 1,300.00...... 1,203.20...... 0 NDB Wealth Gilt Edged Fund 18.7292...... 18.7292 COLOMBO LAND...... 10,224...... 27...... 27.3...... 27.3...... 25...... 25.2...... -1.8 SINGER SRI LANKA...... 58,793...... 60.1...... 61.8...... 61.8...... 55.5...... 56.7...... -3.4 NDB Wealth Growth & Income Fund 47.3000 ...... 45.7600 COMMERCIAL BANK...... 521,895...... 87.8...... 88.3...... 88.3...... 86.5...... 87.5...... -0.3 NDB Wealth Growth Fund 10.9400...... 10.4800 DIRI SAVI BOARD COMMERCIAL BANK [COMB.X0000]...... 26,685...... 80.1...... 80.2...... 80.5...... 77.9...... 78.7...... -1.4 NDB Wealth Income Fund 16.0539...... 16.0539 AGSTAR PLC...... 153,631...... 7.2...... 7.2...... 7.4...... 6.8...... 6.9...... -0.3 NDB Wealth Income Plus Fund 17.1179 ...... 17.1179 CONVENIENCE FOOD...... 519...... 1467.5...... 1,451.00...... 1,500.00...... 1,362.00...... 1,398.25...... -69.25 ALUMEX PLC...... 1,336,958...... 23.3...... 23.6...... 23.9...... 22.2...... 22.8...... -0.5 NDB Wealth Islamic Money Plus Fund 16.3373 ...... 16.3373 DANKOTUWA PORCEL...... 493,322...... 14.4...... 14.8...... 14.8...... 12.8...... 13.3...... -1.1 AMANA TAKAFUL...... 6,085...... 8.6...... 8.5...... 8.5...... 8...... 8.1...... -0.5 NDB Wealth Money Fund 20.6677 ...... 20.6677 DFCC BANK PLC...... 97,543...... 64.4...... 65.7...... 66.2...... 63.5...... 64...... -0.4 AMBEON HOLDINGS...... 147,203...... 22.4...... 21.5...... 23.1...... 20...... 20.4...... -2 NDB Wealth Money Plus Fund 23.6075 ...... 23.6075 DIALOG...... 1,413,241...... 12.1...... 12.1...... 12.4...... 12.1...... 12.2...... 0.1 AMF CO LTD...... 10...... 300.25...... 310.00...... 310.00...... 310.00...... 300.25...... 0 Premier Money Market Fund 18.6915 ...... 18.6915 DIMO...... 5,698...... 580...... 579...... 600...... 565...... 568...... -12 Unit holders can contact relevant Fund Managers to obtain Unit Prices for redemptions within ARPICO INSURANCE...... 422...... 24.2...... 24...... 24...... 23.5...... 23.5...... -0.7 short duration from the date of investment where exit fee is applicable...... DIPPED PRODUCTS...... 839,924...... 718.5...... 700...... 710...... 645...... 665...... -53.5 ASIA SIYAKA...... 373,803...... 2.9...... 2.9...... 2.9...... 2.7...... 2.7...... -0.2 DOCKYARD...... 11,625...... 79...... 83...... 83...... 75...... 77.2...... -1.8 BANSEI RESORTS...... 20,610...... 8.3...... 8.4...... 8.4...... 8.2...... 8.2...... -0.1 DOLPHIN HOTELS...... 6,125...... 26...... 26...... 26...... 25...... 25...... -1 BERUWALA RESORTS...... 315,346...... 0.9...... 0.90...... 0.90...... 0.80...... 0.80...... -0.1 DURDANS...... 2,302...... 105...... 101.5...... 102...... 101.5...... 102...... -3 Ex­change Rates 10 Feb. 2021 BOGALA GRAPHITE...... 500...... 23.6...... 23...... 23.1...... 23...... 23...... -0.6 DURDANS [CHL.X0000]...... 240...... 100...... 95.2...... 95.2...... 95...... 95.1...... -4.9 (1) The average rates of the following (2) The approximate exchange rates BOGAWANTALAWA...... 84,999...... 12.7...... 13.8...... 13.8...... 13.3...... 13.4...... 0.7 E B CREASY...... 111,138...... 58.3...... 58.8...... 59.5...... 49.8...... 50.4...... -7.9 currencies quoted by commercial of GULF currencies based on previous BPPL HOLDINGS...... 208,166...... 14.9...... 14.9...... 15...... 14...... 14.1...... -0.8 banks in Colombo for Telegraphic Trans- day’s market weighted average rate for EAST WEST...... 83,403...... 11.8...... 12.2...... 12.2...... 11.5...... 11.5...... -0.3 fers (TT) at 9.30 a.m. are as follows. the US$ are as follows. BROWNS...... 142,265...... 186.5...... 190...... 209...... 170.25...... 178.5...... -8 EASTERN MERCHANT...... 5,232...... 6.3...... 6.4...... 6.5...... 6.1...... 6.1...... -0.2 CURRENCY BUYING RATE...... SELLING RATE COUNTRY CURRENCY...... INDICATIVE RATE BROWNS INVSTMNTS...... 44,398,381...... 6...... 6...... 6.1...... 5.3...... 5.5...... -0.5 EXPOLANKA...... 6,750,149...... 51.7...... 51.7...... 52.5...... 48.6...... 49.2...... -2.5 Australian Dollar 148.3396...... 153.6353 Bahrain Bahrain Dinar...... 515.4085 C T LAND...... 501...... 27...... 29.9...... 29.9...... 26.2...... 26.8...... -0.2 FORT LAND...... 116,915...... 15.1...... 15.1...... 16...... 14.3...... 14.5...... -0.6 Canadian Dollar 150.8242...... 156.2516 Kuwait Kuwait Dinar...... 641.7074 C.W.MACKIE...... 6,135...... 48...... 48.8...... 48.8...... 46.5...... 47.1...... -0.9 Chinese Yuan (Renminbi) 29.7080...... 30.8918 Oman Oman Rial...... 504.7118 GRAIN ELEVATORS...... 406,573...... 160.25...... 160...... 161.75...... 150...... 151.75...... -8.5 CEYLON BEVERAGE...... 37...... 779.75...... 746...... 746...... 745...... 779.75...... 0 Euro 232.6843...... 240.0570 Qatar Qatar Riyal...... 53.3669 HAYCARB...... 417,593...... 1499...... 1,300.00...... 1,300.00...... 1,001.75...... 1,109.25...... -389.75 Japanese Yen 1.8332...... 1.8949 Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabian Riyal...... 51.8005 CEYLON TEA BRKRS...... 45,575...... 3.6...... 3.5...... 3.8...... 3.4...... 3.7...... 0.1 HAYLEYS...... 350,977...... 746.5...... 740...... 740...... 650.25...... 680.5...... -66 Singapore Dollar 144.7765...... 149.3816 UAE UAE Dirham...... 52.8998 CFI...... 320...... 96.3...... 92.1...... 92.1...... 91.3...... 92...... -4.3 Sterling Pound 265.4449...... 273.5626 HAYLEYS FABRIC...... 720,980...... 35.4...... 35...... 35...... 32.5...... 32.8...... -2.6 CIT...... 1...... 182.25...... 182.5...... 182.5...... 182.5...... 182.25...... 0 Swiss Franc 214.2752...... 222.2407 HAYLEYS FIBRE...... 20,319...... 205...... 197...... 198...... 180...... 183.75...... -21.25 US Dollar 192.2300...... 197.4500 CITRUS HIKKADUWA...... 59,888...... 5.4...... 5.3...... 5.7...... 5...... 5.2...... -0.2 HDFC...... 43,427...... 41.6...... 41.1...... 42...... 40.1...... 40.5...... -1.1 CITRUS WASKADUWA...... 582,225...... 3.7...... 3.6...... 3.8...... 3.4...... 3.5...... -0.2 HEMAS HOLDINGS...... 1,067,695...... 90...... 90.10...... 91.50...... 88.00...... 89.00...... -1 COM.CREDIT...... 45,270...... 24.2...... 24.1...... 24.1...... 22.9...... 23.7...... -0.5 HNB...... 177,476...... 142.25...... 140...... 143...... 139...... 139.25...... -3 COMMERCIAL DEV...... 5,936...... 120.25...... 125...... 134.75...... 116...... 116.25...... -4 HNB ASSURANCE...... 93,166...... 61.4...... 61.00...... 61.60...... 60.00...... 60.20...... -1.2 Market Indicators 10 Feb. 2021 DILMAH CEYLON...... 7...... 675...... 652...... 676...... 652...... 675...... 0 HNB [HNB.X0000]...... 266,485...... 111.75...... 110...... 111.75...... 108.75...... 109.5...... -2.25 E - CHANNELLING...... 132,074...... 6.6...... 6.7...... 6.7...... 6...... 6...... -0.6 Price indices Today...... Previous day HORANA...... 40,234...... 22.8...... 23...... 23.5...... 23...... 23...... 0.2 EDEN HOTEL LANKA...... 124,590...... 11.7...... 11.9...... 12...... 10.8...... 10.9...... -0.8 CSE ALL SHARE PRICE INDEX 7,732.43 ...... 7,963.77 HOTEL SIGIRIYA...... 60...... 65.6...... 66.8...... 66.8...... 62.1...... 65.6...... 0 ELPITIYA...... 17,755...... 49.9...... 50.7...... 50.7...... 47...... 47.2...... -2.7 HOTELS CORP...... 69,318...... 11.5...... 12...... 12...... 11.5...... 11.6...... 0.1 S&P SL20 3,087.70 ...... 3,169.92 FORTRESS RESORTS...... 13,568...... 11.1...... 11.5...... 11.5...... 11.1...... 11.1...... 0 HUNTERS...... 42...... 750.5...... 741...... 741...... 701...... 750.5...... 0 TRI ON ALL SHARE (ASTRI) 10,364.05 ...... 10,674.12 GALADARI...... 77,068...... 9...... 8.5...... 8.9...... 8.3...... 8.5...... -0.5 INDUSTRIAL ASPH...... 44,544,630...... 0.5...... 0.5...... 0.6...... 0.4...... 0.5...... 0 GUARDIAN CAPITAL...... 5,810...... 32.6...... 31...... 32.9...... 30.1...... 30.7...... -1.9 TRI ON S&P SL20 5,073.34 ...... 5,208.42 JANASHAKTHI INS...... 59,610...... 29.5...... 29.6...... 29.9...... 28.7...... 28.9...... -0.6 HARISCHANDRA...... 4...... 3504.75...... 3,350.00...... 3,350.00...... 3,320.00...... 3,504.75...... 0 VALUE OF TURNOVER(Rs.) 5,122,230,800.00 ...... 4,946,079,200.00 JKH...... 2,275,220...... 154...... 154...... 157...... 153.25...... 154.75...... 0.75 HATTON...... 14,869...... 10...... 9.9...... 9.9...... 8...... 9...... -1 DOMESTIC PURCHASES 4,729,275,400.00 ...... 4,296,860,700.00 KANDY HOTELS...... 1,700...... 4.9...... 5.2...... 5.2...... 4.9...... 4.9...... 0 HNB FINANCE...... 21,457...... 9.4...... 9.5...... 9.5...... 9.2...... 9.2...... -0.2 DOMESTIC SALES 4,394,142,200.00 ...... 4,286,214,660.00 KEGALLE...... 23,800...... 123.75...... 126...... 128.75...... 110...... 113.75...... -10 HNB FINANCE [HNBF-X-0000]...... 46,631...... 7.2...... 7.2...... 7.7...... 6.8...... 6.9...... -0.3 KELANI CABLES...... 4,289...... 145.25...... 140...... 143...... 140...... 142.75...... -2.5 FOREIGN PURCHASES 392,955,168.00 ...... 649,218,690.00 JETWING SYMPHONY...... 2,000...... 9.2...... 9.2...... 9.2...... 9.2...... 9.2...... 0 KELANI TYRES...... 156,260...... 88.1...... 89...... 89...... 83...... 85.2...... -2.9 FOREIGN SALES 728,088,510.00 ...... 659,864,900.00 JOHN KEELLS...... 684...... 80...... 80...... 80...... 78...... 79.5...... -0.5 KELANI VALLEY...... 31,070...... 92...... 95...... 95...... 88...... 88.8...... -3.2 KAHAWATTE...... 10...... 31.1...... 31.8...... 31.8...... 31.8...... 31.1...... 0 VOLUME OF TURNOVER(NO.) 171,077,072.00 ...... 128,822,280.00 KINGSBURY...... 56,124...... 12.7...... 13...... 13...... 12...... 12.1...... -0.6 KEELLS FOOD...... 19,665...... 156...... 156.5...... 158...... 153...... 154.75...... -1.25 DOMESTIC 164,011,920.00 ...... 120,588,544.00 KOTAGALA...... 38,684...... 6.7...... 6.6...... 6.9...... 6.3...... 6.4...... -0.3 FOREIGN 7,065,164.00 ...... 8,233,730.00 L O L C HOLDINGS...... 756,690...... 422.75...... 425...... 437.75...... 402...... 407.75...... -15 KEELLS HOTELS...... 207,090...... 11.1...... 11.1...... 11.3...... 11...... 11.1...... 0 LANKA CERAMIC...... 1,716...... 165...... 157.75...... 162...... 140.25...... 145.75...... -19.25 TRADES(NO.) 35,578 ...... 32,994 LANKA ALUMINIUM...... 689,869...... 27.55...... 27...... 27...... 22...... 22.5...... -5.05 LANKEM CEYLON...... 807...... 32...... 30.1...... 30.5...... 30...... 30.3...... -1.7 DOMESTIC 34,776 ...... 32,463 LANKA HOSPITALS...... 22,201...... 49.5...... 49.7...... 49.7...... 45...... 46.8...... -2.7 LANKA IOC...... 200,286...... 22.9...... 23.3...... 23.3...... 22...... 22...... -0.9 LAUGFS POWER...... 29,198...... 10.2...... 10...... 10.2...... 9.8...... 9.9...... -0.3 FOREIGN 802 ...... 531 LANKA REALTY...... 9,013...... 35...... 34.2...... 35...... 34.2...... 34.3...... -0.7 LAUGFS POWER [LPL-X-0000]...... 25,395...... 7.3...... 7.5...... 7.5...... 6.9...... 6.9...... -0.4 CORPORATE DEBT 0 ...... 120430256 LANKA TILES...... 79,419...... 224.25...... 225...... 225...... 194...... 200.25...... -24 LIGHTHOUSE HOTEL...... 80...... 33.9...... 36...... 36...... 33.7...... 33.9...... 0 GOVERNMENT DEBT 0 ...... 0 LANKA WALLTILE...... 126,450...... 229.75...... 230...... 230...... 195...... 202.5...... -27.25 LOTUS HYDRO...... 20,100...... 10...... 10...... 10...... 9.9...... 10...... 0 LISTED COMPANIES (NO.) 283 ...... 283 LAUGFS GAS...... 5,986...... 26.9...... 25...... 26...... 24.4...... 25...... -1.9 MAHAWELI COCONUT...... 529...... 28...... 28.9...... 28.9...... 28...... 28...... 0 MAHAWELI REACH...... 200...... 14.1...... 14.6...... 14.8...... 14.6...... 14.7...... 0.6 TRADED COMPANIES (NO.) 266 ...... 266 LAUGFS GAS [LGL.X0000]...... 24,490...... 20...... 20...... 20...... 18.9...... 19.2...... -0.8 MARAWILA RESORTS...... 44,670...... 2.1...... 2...... 2.1...... 1.9...... 2...... -0.1 MARKET PRICE EARNINGS RATIO(PER) 13.6 ...... 14.1 LAXAPANA...... 113,185...... 14.2...... 14.2...... 14.5...... 13.9...... 14.1...... -0.1 LB FINANCE...... 95,685...... 225...... 225...... 225...... 205...... 209.75...... -15.25 MASKELIYA...... 13,720...... 12.7...... 12.7...... 12.7...... 12...... 12...... -0.7 MARKET PRICE TO BOOK VALUE (PBV) 1.3 ...... 1.3 LEE HEDGES...... 476...... 74...... 72...... 76...... 72...... 72.5...... -1.5 MILLENNIUM HOUSE...... 63,184...... 6.4...... 6.3...... 6.8...... 6.2...... 6.3...... -0.1 MARKET DIVIDEND YIELD (DY) 2.3 ...... 2.2 LION BREWERY...... 92...... 580.5...... 580.5...... 583...... 580...... 580.5...... 0 NUWARA ELIYA...... 32...... 1171.5...... 1,194.50...... 1,200.00...... 1,194.50...... 1,171.50...... 0 MARKET CAPITALIZATION (Rs.) 3,380,299,134,280.00 ...... 3,481,431,301,033.00 LMF...... 84,090...... 165.75...... 165...... 171...... 150.25...... 157...... -8.75 ORIENT FINANCE...... 178,772...... 16.3...... 16.5...... 16.5...... 14.5...... 15.1...... -1.2 LVL ENERGY...... 590,928...... 10...... 10...... 10...... 9.8...... 9.9...... -0.1 PALM GARDEN HOTL...... 2,500...... 27...... 26.1...... 26.1...... 26...... 26.1...... -0.9 MALWATTE [MAL.X0000]...... 53,173...... 8.9...... 9...... 9...... 8.3...... 8.6...... -0.3 PEGASUS HOTELS...... 8,528...... 33...... 32.7...... 32.7...... 32.5...... 32.5...... -0.5 1. Overnight Money Market Transactions MELSTACORP...... 557,804...... 57.6...... 58...... 58...... 51.1...... 52.2...... -5.4 PEOPLE’S MERCH...... 2,000...... 8.8...... 8.1...... 8.9...... 8.1...... 8.7...... -0.1 Call Money Market...... Repo Market MERC. SHIPPING...... 297...... 86.1...... 83.2...... 84...... 83...... 83.2...... -2.9 PRIME FINANCE...... 35,800...... 13.5...... 13.7...... 13.7...... 13...... 13.1...... -0.4 Weighted Average Rate (%) 4.55 4.55 MERCHANT BANK...... 167,136...... 7.2...... 7.2...... 7.3...... 6.7...... 6.7...... -0.5 RAIGAM SALTERNS...... 72,711...... 5.8...... 5.9...... 6...... 5...... 5.3...... -0.5 Minimum Rate (%) 4.55 4.55 MULLERS...... 228,585...... 1.2...... 1.2...... 1.2...... 1.1...... 1.1...... -0.1 RENUKA CAPITAL...... 287,956...... 8.8...... 8.7...... 8.8...... 7.8...... 8...... -0.8 Maximum Rate (%) 4.55 4.60 NAMUNUKULA...... 26,990...... 182.5...... 185...... 186...... 175...... 178.25...... -4.25 RENUKA HOTELS...... 28,112...... 75...... 78...... 78...... 76.9...... 78...... 3 Total Gross amount (Rs. million) 13,250 6,846 NAT. DEV. BANK...... 66,124...... 91.6...... 90...... 91...... 85...... 86.4...... -5.2 RICH PIERIS EXP...... 14,671...... 408...... 405...... 414...... 380...... 382...... -26 Total Net amount (Rs. million) 11,250 6,846 NATIONS TRUST...... 32,764...... 60.7...... 60.2...... 60.5...... 59.5...... 59.7...... -1 ROYAL PALMS...... 858...... 16.8...... 16.5...... 16.5...... 16...... 16.2...... -0.6 2. Use of the CBSL Standing Facility NAWALOKA...... 176,626...... 5.4...... 5.5...... 5.7...... 5...... 5.1...... -0.3 SATHOSA MOTORS...... 108...... 236.5...... 230.5...... 230.5...... 230.5...... 230.5...... -6 Standing Deposit Facility (Rs. million) 129,660 NESTLE...... 266...... 1189.5...... 1,175.25...... 1,175.25...... 1,155.00...... 1,170.00...... -19.5 SERENDIB ENG.GRP...... 10,515...... 6.5...... 6.3...... 6.7...... 6.3...... 6.7...... 0.2 Standing Lending Facility (Rs. million) - OVERSEAS REALTY...... 1,064,904...... 15.9...... 15.8...... 16.2...... 15.4...... 15.7...... -0.2 SERENDIB HOTELS...... 13,849...... 15.6...... 15.6...... 15.9...... 15...... 15.7...... 0.1 3. CBSL Treasury Bill/Bonds Holdings PAN ASIA...... 443,513...... 17.5...... 17.6...... 18.2...... 16.9...... 17.1...... -0.4 SERENDIB HOTELS [SHOT.X0000]...... 58...... 9.3...... 9.3...... 9.3...... 9.3...... 9.3...... 0 SINGER IND...... 5,251...... 92.5...... 108...... 109.5...... 91.5...... 93...... 0.5 Face Value (Rs. million) ...... 744,707.88 PANASIAN POWER...... 2,424,083...... 3.7...... 3.7...... 3.7...... 3.5...... 3.5...... -0.2 Book Value (Rs. million)...... 730,971.69 PEOPLE’S INS...... 37,710...... 32.7...... 33.3...... 33.5...... 32...... 32.2...... -0.5 SINGHE HOSPITALS...... 465,331...... 2.7...... 2.8...... 2.8...... 2.5...... 2.5...... -0.2 PEOPLES LEASING...... 469,451...... 13...... 13...... 13.3...... 12.7...... 12.7...... -0.3 SINHAPUTHRA FIN [SFL.P0000]...... 36,223...... 4.8...... 4.8...... 4.8...... 4.2...... 4.2...... -0.6 TOP 10 GAINERS PIRAMAL GLASS...... 2,402,863...... 9.6...... 9.6...... 9.6...... 9.2...... 9.4...... -0.2 SOFTLOGIC...... 137,520...... 13.2...... 13.2...... 13.5...... 12.8...... 13...... -0.2 PRINTCARE PLC...... 280...... 33.5...... 32.6...... 33.6...... 32.6...... 32.7...... -0.8 WATCH LIST Company VWA VWA Change Change R I L PROPERTY...... 469,975...... 7.1...... 7.2...... 7.4...... 6.7...... 6.8...... -0.3 ANILANA HOTELS...... 265,392...... 1.2...... 1.2...... 1.3...... 1.2...... 1.2...... 0 Prev. Close Days Close (Rs.) % REGNIS...... 7,554...... 118.75...... 120...... 122.5...... 110...... 114.25...... -4.5 BIMPUTH FINANCE...... 1,100...... 8.5...... 8.5...... 8.5...... 8.3...... 8.3...... -0.2 STANDARD CAPITAL 71.6 ...... 87.9...... 16.3...... 22.77 LOLC FINANCE 6.20 ...... 6.80...... 0.60...... 9.68 RENUKA AGRI...... 1,577,462...... 4.4...... 4.4...... 4.4...... 3.9...... 4...... -0.4 BLUE DIAMONDS...... 277,512...... 0.6...... 0.60...... 0.70...... 0.60...... 0.60...... 0 ALLIANCE 51.20 ...... 54.80...... 3.60...... 7.03 RENUKA CITY HOT...... 1,503...... 236.5...... 234...... 234...... 225.5...... 227...... -9.5 BLUE DIAMONDS [BLUE.X0000]...... 451,201...... 0.3...... 0.4...... 0.4...... 0.3...... 0.3...... 0 BOGAWANTALAWA 12.7 ...... 13.4...... 0.7...... 5.51 SINHAPUTHRA FIN 7.8 ...... 8.2...... 0.4...... 5.13 RENUKA FOODS...... 27,574...... 16...... 16.3...... 16.3...... 15...... 15.9...... -0.1 CEYLON PRINTERS...... 920...... 62.7...... 60.00...... 66.90...... 60.00...... 60.00...... -2.7 MAHAWELI REACH 14.1 ...... 14.7...... 0.6...... 4.26 RENUKA FOODS [COCO.X0000]...... 5,927...... 13.6...... 13.4...... 13.4...... 13...... 13...... -0.6 HUNAS FALLS...... 10...... 152...... 152...... 152...... 152...... 152...... 0 RENUKA HOTELS 75 ...... 78...... 3...... 4 SEYLAN BANK 48 ...... 49.5...... 1.5...... 3.13 RENUKA HOLDINGS...... 159,143...... 17.3...... 17...... 17...... 16.1...... 16.1...... -1.2 HVA FOODS...... 143,833...... 6...... 5.8...... 5.8...... 5.1...... 5.2...... -0.8 SERENDIB ENG.GRP 6.5 ...... 6.7...... 0.2...... 3.08 RENUKA HOLDINGS [RHL.X0000]...... 40,060...... 13.4...... 13.2...... 13.2...... 12.9...... 12.9...... -0.5 LANKEM DEV...... 274,152...... 3.9...... 3.8...... 3.9...... 3.5...... 3.6...... -0.3 CEYLON TEA BRKRS 3.6 ...... 3.7...... 0.1...... 2.78 RESUS ENERGY...... 16,159...... 25.2...... 26...... 26.5...... 25...... 25.7...... 0.5 MACKWOODS ENERGY...... 145,223...... 3...... 3...... 3...... 2.6...... 2.8...... -0.2 TOP 10 LOSERS RICHARD PIERIS...... 990,929...... 14.9...... 15...... 15...... 14.5...... 14.6...... -0.3 MULTI FINANCE...... 21,204...... 8...... 7.9...... 7.9...... 7.3...... 7.5...... -0.5 Company VWA VWA Change Change ROYAL CERAMIC...... 560,294...... 311.75...... 310...... 318...... 290...... 294.25...... -17.5 NATION LANKA...... 253,034...... 0.8...... 0.8...... 0.9...... 0.8...... 0.8...... 0 HAYCARB 1,499.00...... 1,109.25...... -389.75...... -26 S M B LEASING...... 2,745,722...... 0.6...... 0.6...... 0.7...... 0.5...... 0.5...... -0.1 OFFICE EQUIPMENT...... 54...... 75.6...... 83.8...... 83.8...... 71.1...... 75.6...... 0 S M B LEASING 0.40...... 0.30...... -0.1...... -25 UDAPUSSELLAWA 26.6...... 21...... -5.6...... -21.05 S M B LEASING [SEMB.X0000]...... 4,327,516...... 0.4...... 0.4...... 0.4...... 0.3...... 0.3...... -0.1 PARAGON...... 621...... 60.1...... 66.9...... 75...... 57...... 58.6...... -1.5 LANKA ALUMINIUM 27.55...... 22.5...... -5.05...... -18.33 SAMPATH...... 836,304...... 167.5...... 167.5...... 169...... 163...... 163.75...... -3.75 RADIANT GEMS...... 1,050...... 29...... 29...... 29...... 26.5...... 27.1...... -1.9 S M B LEASING 0.6...... 0.5...... -0.1...... -16.67 E B CREASY 58.3...... 50.4...... -7.9...... -13.55 SAMSON INTERNAT...... 221...... 149.5...... 145.25...... 145.25...... 142.25...... 142.5...... -7 SINHAPUTHRA FIN...... 141,751...... 7.8...... 8.2...... 8.4...... 7.7...... 8.2...... 0.4 HVA FOODS 6...... 5.2...... -0.8...... -13.33 SANASA DEV. BANK...... 168,940...... 60.4...... 60.4...... 63...... 60...... 60.2...... -0.2 STANDARD CAPITAL...... 267...... 71.6...... 72.1...... 88...... 72.1...... 87.9...... 16.3 AMBEON CAPITAL 6.3...... 5.5...... -0.8...... -12.7 SINHAPUTHRA FIN 4.8...... 4.2...... -0.6...... -12.5 SEYLAN BANK...... 73,720...... 54.7...... 55...... 55...... 52...... 52.8...... -1.9 TESS AGRO...... 2,250,727...... 0.6...... 0.6...... 0.7...... 0.5...... 0.6...... 0 LANKA WALLTILE 229.75...... 202.5...... -27.25...... -11.86 SEYLAN BANK [SEYB.X0000]...... 3,237,837...... 48...... 48...... 50...... 46.2...... 49.5...... 1.5 TESS AGRO [TESS.X0000]...... 137,598...... 0.5...... 0.5...... 0.5...... 0.5...... 0.5...... 0 114 Thursday, February 11, 2021 „„ www.themorning.lk

‘The Wonderful Wizard THOUGHT FOR THE DAY of Oz’ to get another adaptation? It seems a new adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s children’s novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is in the works. New Line Cinema is set to make “DON’T LET a new adaptation of the children’s classic YESTERDAY with Nicole Kassell, the visual architect of TAKE UP TOO “Watchmen”, set to direct. Baum’s 1900 novel MUCH has inspired many adaptations over the years. OF TODAY.” Kassell’s version will not be a musical. New Line was quoted saying it will be a “fresh take” and – WILL ROGERS “reimagining” of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. brunch WHEN MODERN PROBLEMS REQUIRE MODERN SOLUTIONS Cyber Warders and UNDP Sri Lanka launch Cyber Care app to combat cyber violence BY NAVEED ROZAIS

9 February marked “Safer Internet Day”, but there is much to be done for the internet to truly be considered a safe space, especially for women and children. Research conducted by global child welfare organisation Save The Children showed that 45 million online photos and videos of children being sexually abused have been reported to 164 US tech companies. And this is the number we know of. The internet is no safer for adults either. Online harassment, and violence against women and girls is becoming more and more pervasive, and the impacts of this violence on victims cannot be understated. Merely because violence is not physical doesn’t mean Talking that it is less powerful. If at all, online on a rough idea on what he wanted violence, which includes leaking to base his art style, over the years compromising images and video, it twisted and evolved into what we blackmailing, creating fake accounts, see now. hacking, and impersonation, has the He explained that his recent power to do much more long-term works are confronted by a troubled harm than physical violence. and educate not just women and girls, time period: “The past year came So how can we make the internet but anyone who wants to learn about Pictures with its share of demanding a safer place? It’s a herculean effort, cyber violence and harassment, what experiences.” He views these and a war that very much needs to constitutes cyber violence, what laws pictures as his imaginary dreams be fought on multiple fronts through are in place, and tips on how to be safer Sanjeewa Kumara’s and dreamscapes. Through these awareness, education, and correcting online. This aspect of the Cyber Care paintings, he wishes to share the societal behaviour. app aims to give people some kind of view of the world through his eyes, Safer Internet Day 2021 focused legal and procedural knowledge. not through the eyes of a painter on the theme “Together for a better Appealing to children as well as but through the painting itself: internet”, calling on stakeholders to adults, the Cyber Care app features latest exhibition join together and make the internet a “The unconscious is a never-ending games to attract children into the app safer and better place. Creating a safer BY VENESSA ANTHONY source of imagery that is waiting to and give them the chance to learn reveal itself in my paintings. This online world means making innovative about cyber violence in a relaxed, time where things are still jumbled use of our resources. Modern problems non-structured setting, and get them Born in 1971 in Colombo, Sanjeewa Kumara is a well-known require modern solutions. artist who began his artistic training at the University of together and have no specific comfortable with the app so that if Kelaniya in 1999, after completing his Master of Fine Arts at intentions, providing material that The cyber care app: they ever are in the position of being the Dutch Art Institute in the Netherlands in 2003. He is also the painter is allowed to configure victims of cyber violence, they know at will.” A potential modern solution? where to turn for support. a visiting lecturer at both the University of Kelaniya and Describing the message behind Marking Safer Internet Day 2021, Another prevention-better-than- the University of Visual and Performing Arts in Sri Lanka. his latest exhibition he stated: Cyber Warders – a group of young, cure feature presented by the app is the In his many years in the industry, he has had work displayed “Artists and musicians, or anyone passionate individuals committed to parental caring feature. Parents have internationally, from Austria and Germany, to New York in the creative field don’t deal well acting against cyber violence – together busy lives and, even when not bound and London. with isolation, especially since with the United Nations Development by changing technology and trends, As his latest venture, he is to fear of the unknown that we have no work can be done during a Programme Sri Lanka (UNDP Sri are not always able to look after their showcase at the Paradise Road The all become much too familiar with. lockdown, there is no such thing as Lanka), launched the cyber care children online, often not being aware Gallery Café from 11 February to With one look at the artist's work, ‘work from home’ for us.” app, a mobile application that fights what their children get up to on their 4 March. His newest exhibition, one is immediately able to see that Kumara told us that he spent cyberviolence and empowers victims phones (a device they have unrestricted Talking Pictures, grapples with the the artist surrenders himself to most of the lockdowns focusing on of cyber violence on multiple fronts. access to). Through the Parental effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. the physical moment of painting, his paintings, and it was hardly ever Developed as part of the UNDP Care feature, parents can track their It tells the story of its immediate eschewing formulation, planning, that he wasn't surrounded by his Sri Lanka’s HackaDev Thematic children’s location and non-intrusively impact on our everyday lives, its and pre-sketching to mimic the work. After pouring all his blood, Challenge 2019, the theme of which monitor how much time their children revelations about inequalities that upheaval and loss of orientation sweat and tears into his work, he was Preventing Cyber Violence and spend on social media. had escaped notice or been hidden all of our communities are facing managed to encapture the feeling of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, away from the public eye, and the today. His alien dreamscapes isolation in his 25 paintings, which the Cyber Warders and their idea of Making an impact are the product, not of his hand will be displayed at the exhibition. the Cyber Care app was supported Speaking on the journey of the or mind, but of his unconscious He noted that most of the time, and incubated by the HackaDev team Cyber Care app, UNDP Sri Lanka state of being that even the most his paintings are not contemporary with the support of the Inclusive Deputy Resident Representative Faiza To me, this means mediocre mind could comprehend nor are they minimalistic: “They Governance and Gender team at UNDP Effendi shared that the HackaDev bringing order, not and appreciate. have a spiritual aspect to them, with Sri Lanka. Thematic Challenge process, which to a mental space, In 2020, the political and social a few grey shades here and there The Cyber Care app offers a small gave rise to the Cyber Care app, but to the space of landscape changed swiftly and in order to achieve a rustic look variety of powerful services. One especially speaks to the present the unconscious. decisively throughout the country to them.” He added that he draws feature of the app is that it provides pandemic where a large number of our As a painter, I try and across the world, resulting in a inspirations from art history and emergency assistance, with a directory youth are engaged in the cyberspace to systematise the sweeping struggle to adapt and an whenever possible, inculcates a of important contact details like polices and exposed to cyberbullying. Effendi irrational, and to unresolved craving for any sense dialogue into his work, so they can stations, hospitals, and emergency also recognised the role that youth do that in painting of normalcy. Sudden isolation, and be considered timeless and classical. services, and the contact details of play within Sri Lanka in promoting after painting. This the systemic inequalities thrown He added that when he paints, organisations that support victims of and fostering connections that enable process is not easily into harsh relief by the Covid-19 he does not think, instead he cyber violence in crisis like Women In Sri Lanka to keep making strides reconciled with pandemic, Sri Lanka has undergone surrenders himself completely Need (WIN), the Grassrooted Trust, forward. communication novel restructuring, and the to his feelings and to what the Save The Children Sri Lanka, the UNDP Sri Lanka Gender Specialist Artist Sanjeewa uncertain path towards an endpoint canvas demands of him. “To me, National Child Protection Authority Bimali Amarasekera explained that Kumara has been steeped in uncertainty. In this means bringing order, not to a (NCPA) and so on, providing a adolescents of both genders and this difficult pause, many of us have mental space, but to the space of the resource of people that victims can call unmarried women are the biggest turned toward cultural experiences unconscious. As a painter, I try to upon in dark times. victims of cyber violence and that the to find shared comfort, community, systematise the irrational, and to do Not meant to simply be used in Cyber Care app is a platform that will and growth. Symbols, traditions, that in painting after painting. This a crisis, another feature of the app give young people the chance to come art and music are reconsidered and process is not easily reconciled with is a resource library of information forward and talk about the violence reinvigorated by the context of our communication.” related to cyber violence to inform they are facing and get help. troubled times. Kumara envisions This exhibition will be a walk to bring about peace and a sense of down memory lane for Kumara, calm during these troubled times as his first ever painting exhibition with his paintings. held in 1999 was also featured at Speaking to Kumara, he gave The Gallery Café. That was where us insight into his painting styles, it all started for him. “From then on, saying: “In the beginning of my I began hosting exhibitions every career I dabbled in both eastern two years or so at the café, and the art and western art,” adding that tradition still continues,” he said, he used a combination of both adding that he hopes he will be able to create his very own art style to present his work there for many unique to him. He further stated years to come. that mastering this art style was Sanjeewa Kumara’s not easy and took many years to achieve. He only perfected his style ‘Talking Pictures’ exhibition in 2005, after years of wandering DATE: 11 February-4 March the art world deciding where to lay LOCATION: Paradise Road The Gallery Café his mark. Even after he had decided 124 brunch „„ www.themorning.lk { STYLE } Thursday, February 11, 2021 BY VENESSA ANTHONY Forging the way to remarkable milestones, House of Indi, a leading fashion destination in Sri Lanka, and its Founder and Creative Director Indeevari “Indi” Yapa Abeywardena, has been duly recognised at two of the most prestigious awards ceremonies. Indi is now the proud holder of two awards that have set her aside from the industry, bringing glory to her brand. She was awarded with the silver award under the “Service Sector – SME (small and medium enterprises)” category at the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) Restart Resilience Awards 2020, along with being acclaimed “Outstanding Women Entrepreneur – Small” at the “Top 50 Professional and Career Women Awards – Sri Lanka and Maldives 2020” held recently. The SLIM Restart Resilience Awards 2020, organised by urged me to pursue fashion designing SLIM, the was rolled out to provide necessary as a career.” As a child, she was also national body impetus for the businesses and to incredibly passionate about dancing; for marketing revitalise the country’s economy to one could find her at any given in Sri Lanka, recognise and reward the outstanding time locked away in a dance studio efforts of House of Indi for their practicing her moves. This, along with commendable marketing innovations, her many other passions, came together adaptability, and perseverance in to form an impressive portfolio, which overcoming the challenges as a result enabled her to obtain a scholarship to of the pandemic. Indi was bestowed Middlesex University, London – and the “Top 50 Professional and Career the rest is history. Women Awards – Sri Lanka and As a woman, Indi aims to aid her work. “I get many messages every Maldives 2020”, as recognition for the all women in and out of the industry. day from these designers, and all the outstanding achievements of a salient She explained that her brand employs students that I used to lecture at the ‘Take woman who inspired those around many women, who are the main University of Moratuwa and have left. her and contributed to the country’s breadwinners of their family, and I think they also feel very confident. economy, while initiating positive who would otherwise be struggling They ask me for advice. change within her community. to make ends meet. “I believe very Speaking of how things were Additionally, House of Indi was strongly in women empowerment. I when she started out, she said: “It bestowed a commendation at the have employed women from different was very difficult at the beginning. I Restart Resilience Awards 2020 for walks of life. I also work a lot with did not put in a lot of capital to start baby the formidable resilience shown by local artisans that do work in crafts like with, because it actually started off as the company in staying strong and beeralu.” a hobby. unscathed amidst the challenges posed “When it comes to the fashion by the Covid-19 pandemic. Awards and acclamations industry, everyone is under the Commenting on her awards this impression that it's all glamor and The story behind House of Indi year, Indi said: “My husband is the lights, but that is far from the truth.” Established in 2010 with the whole driving force behind me. He kept She emphasised that it's a lot of hard steps’ introduction of the Indi brand, House pushing me to not give up, and even work; the industry's very cultural, and of Indi has evolved to be a signature these awards, I think, I owe to him. survival is the key. “My advice would fashion destination in Sri Lanka. Its Plus, my father and my family have be to stay focused and passionate Founder and Creative Director is a been really supportive.” She added about what you want, and take baby qualified fashion designer, and her that leading a business to success is steps; start very small, but steady, Indi Yapa talks extensive experience and expertise in a tough challenge, and as such, they without giving up. Once you pass a the fashion industry have ensured that always aspire dedication, expertise, and certain point, it will automatically fall about her House of Indi continues to expand and sheer hard work in every aspect of their into place.” She explained that she serve a wider customer base. journey. “It is a great honour to receive has failed many times in her life, but most recent Indi commented that she started off these prestigious awards and I am the key is to stay resilient and work as a fashion designer after she studied extremely proud of my achievement as towards your goal. recognitions the field in London. “I worked with a woman entrepreneur. Indi just completed 10 years MAS as I started out my career, then “These awards are a testament to of her fashion career. “I want to and more slowly launched the designer label House of Indi’s incredible growth and celebrate it properly. We had planned ‘INDI’ here. Then everything sailed resilience in adapting to the challenges. to do it a little earlier but couldn't smoothly from there.” She added that Our passionate and ever-dedicated because of the pandemic.” She also over time, she ventured into bridal team is behind the success story of Indi. revealed that she will not be taking wear, and now has a bridal label by We were able to excel in this field by part in Colombo Fashion Week the name of Indi Yapa Abeywardena delivering world-class solutions and (CFW) this year, as she wants to focus Bridals, also known as IBride. ideas to our loyal customers with strong on honouring her 10-year-long career. Later, she launched her collection focus on utilising design ideas to blend “We don't have confirmed plans, but on a platform called Warehouse, and domestic and international fashion. tentative plans are in place for now; also has a retail business currently This is an acknowledgment to all the we are looking into hosting a solo located at Independence Arcade. talented and committed people – both fashion show that will happen in the I grew up watching and Giving us a bit of insight into that, she the wonderful creative teams at House next couple of months.” She added that admiring my mother’s added: “It’s a retail store featuring Sri of Indi and the many dedicated and they will be celebrating her bridal and work, and that’s where Lankan and local brands, for young and discerning clients and partners – whom designer collections, and everything upcoming labels also, created mainly in I have been fortunate enough to work else she has created over the years. my passion for creativity order to give back to the industry and with over the past few years,” Indi stems from. I’ve always help these young designers prosper.” further shared. had creative thoughts and She also added that the awards that’s what urged me to Bridging connections are a great encouragement for her pursue fashion designing Indi looks at designing as a way to staff, especially all the females who brunch stay connected to her late mother, who are working with her. “I wish I could as a career she explained was a “crazy talented” make mini awards out of the women House of Indi Founder and seamstress in her time: “I grew up entrepreneur award that I got to give Creative Director Indeevari watching and admiring my mother’s them as well, because I think it's a Yapa Abeywardena work, and that's where my passion great boost for them.” for creativity stems from. I’ve always Many young and upcoming had creative thoughts and that's what designers look up to her, and respect

Kelsey Homes hosts groundbreaking ceremony of Central Park Ja-Ela Kelsey Homes real estate developer family and friends. Children can have fun at hosted the groundbreaking ceremony of CENTRAL PARK JA-ELA BY the kids’ indoor play area, the kiddies’ pool, its latest project Central Park Ja-Ela on 6 KELSEY HOMES and the outdoor play zone. February 2021, following the resounding yy Gated development consisting Ja-Ela is also in close proximity to success of its first and second phases. of 350+ housing units with 40+ leading schools, hospitals, banks and Central Park Ja-Ela is a gated amenities supermarkets, with access to the Colombo- development consisting of 350+ housing Katunayake Expressway (E03), 20 minutes to units with 40+ amenities. Housing yy Over 50% sold in a short span of Katunayake and 30 minutes to the upcoming units are designed by architect Murad time (over 190 units sold from 356 Port City via the Port Access Elevated Ismail of MICD Associates while Deepal units) Highway in 2022. Further, Central Park Ja- Wickramasinghe Associates (Pvt.) Ltd. are yy Ja-Ela is “Central to Everything” The distinguished participants of the groundbreaking ceremony of Central Park Ja-Ela including Janashakthi Ela is located only 500m from the Colombo- the structural engineers for the project. The Group Chairman Chandana de Silva, Janashakthi Group Managing Director and Group CEO Ramesh Schaffter, Negombo main road. property is spread across 15 acres of land yy Live modernity in nature Kelsey Developments PLC Chairman Eardley Perera, Kelsey Developments PLC Director Dinesh Schaffter, “Kelsey Homes is all about creating Kelsey Developments PLC CEO Lalinda Kalubowila, and First Capital Holdings PLC CEO Dilshan Wirasekera in Ja-Ela and is located in one of the most yy Rs. 19.9 million upwards for a extraordinary living communities in Sri central locations in the country. three-bedroomed house raising the bar in creating high quality, medical centre, daycare centre, laundry Lanka, and Central Park Ja-Ela is an The first and second phases of the project beautifully-designed homes and apartments. service, driver’s and maid’s quarters, extension of this vision. Offering modernity witnessed success, selling over 50% of its showed the confidence in the company and We’re confident that the demand for Central auto-charging station and washing bay. and centrality amidst nature, we are very housing and apartment units within a short its position in the Sri Lankan real estate Park Ja-Ela will be unprecedented; and For the health-conscious individual, it pleased with the astounding success which span of time. All 70 apartments in the first market. we’re excited to enrich more lives by offers an outdoor gymnasium, swimming the project has achieved so early on,” phase were sold out within 30 days from Commenting on the progress of the redefining luxury.” pool, indoor gymnasium, jogging track, expressed Kelsey Developments PLC the launch date even amidst the Covid-19 project and its success, Kelsey Developments Central Park Ja-Ela offers an array basketball court, yoga centre and a Chairman Eardley Perera. pandemic. The second phase was launched of services and conveniences required wellness centre. Additionally, the roof PLC CEO Lalinda Kalubowila stated: “The www.kelsey.lk/central-park/ in September 2020, and to date the project success of the first and second phases clearly for a comfortable, hassle-free life within terrace party area, outdoor BBQ area, has sold over 190 units from a total of 356 demonstrated the magnitude of trust and the premises. These include 24-hour open function hall facing the pool, open units. The significant demand from customers security, a mini market, café, bookshop, pavilion facing the pool, covered function confidence that clients have in Kelsey Homes 0770773773 despite the challenging economic climate and we’re even more determined to continue ATM facility, bill paying facility, salon, hall, and the clubhouse are ideal to entertain brunch 134 Thursday, February 11, 2021 { LIFESTYLE } „„ www.themorning.lk

ASK ZEESHAN

The fifth episode of Mastering taking chances and not making excuses, the decisions he made. He also pointed content creation industry in Sri Lanka Mediocrity premiered on 12 especially when one knows that they out the role job satisfaction plays in needs to grow and so do the individuals October 2020. This episode have the potential to make it in life. In everyone’s lives and said that if we in it. It is vital that businesses do their was quite distinct from the simple terms, if there’s a will, there’s a aren’t happy, then we should be able to due diligence before signing a contract others as we conversed with way. take the risk and quit. At the end of the with such agencies due to the increased Steve Jobs once said: “I’m here to day, we need to understand ourselves number of scams that we witness on a our host, Zeeshan on different make a dent in the universe”, and that is and our goals in order to be content with daily basis. subjects such as his career, the motto of Zeeshan’s life. When asked what we do. To put it mildly, this episode aspirations, and his take on their inner talents unless someone about his long-term plans, he revealed A marketing agency commonly taught us that there is nothing wrong the content creative industry puts faith in them, while relating it to that he has always been the one to look known as a “social media agency” is in dreaming big and working towards of Sri Lanka. his own story of how he got into the at the bigger picture and was never cut one of the startups that require the least it. At the end of the day, it’s all about filmmaking sector. As he mentioned out for the traditional nine-to-five work of resources. Zeeshan mentioned how being content with what you do. Zeeshan, being the enthusiastic in Episode 1 of Mastering Mediocrity, individual he is, came across the content system. Despite being criticised for many of these startups are short-lived Episode transcribed by Amani moving to Sri Lanka expanded his “shooting too high”, he was adamant in since there are no proper guidelines or Najumudeen. creation industry at a very young age. mind and has eventually brought him He mentioned how one does not realise working towards his dreams and when regulations as to how these agencies to where he is now. He believes in he looks back, wants to be proud of need to operate. He believes that the https://youtu.be/Wx7B5E0pLto It’s time to understand, accept, and True love act: Covid-19 is truly a family affair at The The Covid-19 pandemic change in learning environment least an hour or two before bed Kingsbury has undoubtedly shifted human and limited social interactions and no caffeinated drinks in the civilisation on an absolute posed an unusual situation for evenings.” granular level, upending millions children’s developing brains. “Also, be mindful that In honour of St. Valentine and the of lives all over our tiny planet. Although online schooling children are extremely celebration of true love, The Kingsbury The once fast pace of life has and e-learning operations were impressionable beings, and Colombo has an exciting lineup of events, slowed down to such a degree immediately deployed to make parents must make a conscious carefully curated to make this Valentine’s that it has enabled us to re- up for the closure of academic effort to model positive Day meaningful and memorable. evaluate our goals, dreams, institutions, it doesn’t seem to be a behaviour they want their Indulge, celebrate, and enjoy the day choices and relationships. complete solution. children to adopt. Without of love on 14 February with “A High Tea Being forced into a “Children draw certain adequate social stimulation from To Love”, “A Classic Valentine’s Day prolonged state of social isolation unique and irreplaceable peers or teachers, parents are Romance”, “Cocktails & Kisses”, and “All with only one’s family while advantages from attending a all that is left for inspiration. You Need Is Love”. a global pandemic rages on school setting such as imitating Be vigilant for behavioural and A High Tea To Love is Churros just outside your front door is and learning acceptable social emotional changes in children, patisserie’s nod to the season of love, with a truly unique – and hopefully, behaviour, leadership skills, which could escalate to more a scrumptious spread of savoury and sweet once-in-a-lifetime experience! teamwork, and peer-to-peer serious mental health issues, and delights from special cakes to macarons and The uncertainty about the interaction. This is true of young please don’t hesitate to reach out everything in between from 3 p.m. to 5.30 pandemic’s duration, limitations children as well as adolescents for help as needed.” she noted. p.m. in healthcare resources, lack of who are transitioning into adults. Cocktails & Kisses will take place at social stimulation, and financial Moreover, without proper Inspiring a culture of ‘Honda Honey Beach Club, where you can groove to Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist the tunes of Warehouse Project from 5 p.m. losses have led to great emotional and Faculty of Medicine Senior Lecturer in Psychiatry Dr. Dulangi Dahanayake parental controls, there is an Leda’ within our families distress and psychological increased likelihood that children onwards. Bring your special someone, your A Sri Lankan brand that tribe, or just yourself! manifestations in both the bygone era of hopscotch and connectedness with another may get addicted to their screens is driving public dialogue on young and the old. This has rather than benefiting from You could also head over to King’s “sellang gewal” (play house). human being is vital to the survival family wellbeing is Softlogic Steakbar and enjoy A Classic Valentine’s been particularly challenging However, this is not a blanket and satisfactory development of a them,” she added. Life, with its award-winning for families where parents have Day Romance with premium meats, truth within families all across child not only in the psychological “Leda Leda” campaign. The handcrafted cocktails, and full-bodied wines had to manage children’s care our little island. domain, but also in the physical Accepting, adapting to, and campaign points out that and education while juggling the from 6.30 p.m. onwards. Lady Ridgeway Hospital and cognitive domains. Neglect, surviving challenging times developing a “Honda Leda” All You Need Is Love at Sky Lounge, new demands of working from for Children Consultant Child emotional abuse and other To better cope with (good sicknesses) culture home and concerns for elderly as you take your love to new heights from 7 and Adolescent Psychiatrist and traumatic experiences in early life, these difficult situations, Dr. within family units can go p.m. onwards. Savour a romantic meal and relatives. But what impact had University of Colombo Faculty including exposure to domestic Dahanayake said that being a long way in ensuring the this significant break in normal the blissful feeling of being on top of the of Medicine Senior Lecturer violence as well as inadequate available for one’s children’s mental and physical wellbeing world. routine had on children and in Psychiatry Dr. Dulangi social stimulation, impacts emotional needs and validating of all members, particularly adolescents? For those seeking to enjoy the day in the Dahanayake stated that a family adversely on their development. their feelings are positive first during the ongoing pandemic. comfort and safety of their homes with their Hopscotch and unit plays a critical role in the In the past, families were more steps towards better supporting Indulging in family activities loved ones, The Kingsbury’s Indulgence mental wellbeing and physical often than not extended; children their growth. “A critical element with children and fulfilling their platform has a wide range of delectable ‘sellang gewal’ development of children. had their grandparents or aunts of maintaining a healthy emotional requirements will Valentine’s-inspired goodies for you to order On a positive note, many “A child forms what we and uncles to turn to when their mental state in children is to be undoubtedly lend to grooming a to your heart’s delight – from cookies and children have greatly benefited call an ‘attachment relationship’ parents were not around. But now, emotionally available to them by strong, positive and emotionally cakes to wine, roses, and elegant gift boxes. from spending more time with with a parent or guardian in the mostly within Colombo and the paying attention to their problems balanced future generation. Valentine’s Day is not only about their parents and grandparents. family environment during the suburbs, children are confined and validating the emotions they It is ultimately up to us couples; it is also a day when love should They were given the opportunity formative years of his or her to nuclear families and hence express without brushing them to work as a community and be celebrated for the wondrous joy it brings. to learn new skills with their life, which ultimately serves may lack an adult figure who is aside. Establish daily routine country to secure and guide our Come, raise a toast to love at The Kingsbury. family by cooking new recipes as a template for all future emotionally available, especially and structure, prioritise time children to a better world, where Visit www.thekingsburyhotel.com or together, helping with household relationships. It is where they as parents struggle with their own for family activities, and set mental health is as important follow @thekingsbury for further details. chores, making arts and crafts, learn how to regulate their mental health difficulties and other down rules to support healthy as physical health and families The Kingsbury Colombo received the and some even turning back to emotions and develop a sense of demands in the context of the habits including good sleep and adopt this positive culture “Safe and Secure Tourism” Compliance creative entertainment beyond self as a separate and valued being. pandemic,” she explained. hygiene. This includes regular of “Honda Leda” to not just Certificate in 2020 from the Sri Lanka technology to the nostalgic, This necessity for psychological Furthermore, an abrupt bedtimes, no screen time at survive, but thrive. Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA). 144 sports „„ www.themorning.lk { SPORTS } Thursday, February 11, 2021

The tragic fatalities bide time till they recovered from their in 1874 and the helmet a hundred Despite the lack of proper trauma after each thump on the head. years later. protective gear in cricket in the It is said that Amarnath Sr. used to “King” Richards never really needed 1800s and a major part of the 20th wear sola topees, which were basically a helmet. With him at the crease, it Century, the game has seen very few pith helmets to keep off the heat in was the bowler who was always on fatal accidents. George Summers, a tropical conditions, while in the defensive. In one county game, first-class English cricketer, died in the 1940s. However, the first person England’s quickest bowler Greg 1870 after being struck on the head to really wear head protection in Tests, Thomas was bowling to him and by a ball. Fred Randon Sr., another in 1933, was Patsy Hendren. His making the ball whizz past the bat. first-class cricketer, died in 1883 wife, concerned about his safety, had After a few missed deliveries, Thomas following a head injury in 1881. Abdul designed for him a three-peaked hat walked up to Richards and said: “It Aziz (1959), a Pakistani batsman, with rubber padding. In 1977, Dennis is red, it’s round. Now hit it if you and Raman Lamba (1998), the India Amiss used a bikers’ helmet – visor can!” Richards smacked the next ball batsman, too, succumbed to head and all – to protect himself in World out of the ground. Walking towards injuries received during matches. In Series Cricket matches. the bowler with his usual swag, the 2013, Darryn Randall, a South African batsman said: “You know how it cricketer, received a smack on the head Now go and fetch it! looks. Now go fetch it.” and died. A joke making the rounds in cricket An author Austin Coutinho is a Jones, the unsophisticated fast circles is of the “box” being invented former fast bowler and coach bowler of the 1800s, is said to have once sent a ripper, splitting Dr. W.G. Grace’s beard into two. “Sorry Doc, she slipped,” the bowler is said to have told the legendary batsman. That must have hurt the good doctor’s ego. There have, however, been several grievous physical injuries that batsmen BRAVERY, TIMIDITY, TECHNOLOGY, AND… have sustained over the last 100-odd years. Bill Woodfull was hit over the heart and Bert Oldfield had a broken Mike Gatting’s nose skull after being hit by Larwood in the was smashed by a bodyline series. Rick McCosker’s jaw Marshall bouncer in Brian Close in the dressing room 1986! It is said that was busted in the 1977 Centenary Test in 1975 with black and blue marks pieces of bone were on his torso at MCG and Anil Kumble’s jaw was Gavaskar in his skull cap in found embedded in broken by a Merv Dillon bouncer in a the 1980s the ball’s leather 2002 Test at Antigua. Gatting’s nose smashed by Marshall The Who can forget Mike Gatting’s nose being smashed by a Marshall bouncer in 1986? It is said that pieces of bone were found embedded in the ball’s leather after that delivery. Sanjay Manjrekar was hit on the eye by a Patsy Hendren’s Winston Benjamin short ball in 1987, three-peaked hat his Nari Contractor is left with and then , trying wife gave with rubber a fractured skull off Charlie Dennis Amiss in his bikers’ helmet to find his bearings in international padding in 1933 Griffith in 1962 at World Series Cricket of 1977 cricket at 16, was hit by a Waqar Younis snorter that had him bleeding cricket on the pitch. Five years ago, Stuart Broad was hit on the nose by a Varun Aaron bouncer. Though the wound is no longer visible, the mental scars can still be seen when Broad bats. That picture of 45-year-old Brian Close in the dressing room, in 1975, with black and blue marks on his torso, still sends shivers down the spines of cricket fans. He had been recalled helmet by the England selectors to blunt the z The history behind the equipment pace and intimidation of Caribbean bowlers like Michael Holding, Andy The cricket ball weighs around 160 grams. When propelled at around 150 Roberts, and Wayne Daniel in that kilometres per hour, it can kill. Considering this, when you look back at the series. In his final Test, at Old Trafford, The Phil Hughes tragedy of 2014 19th and 20th Centuries, it is surprising that the game of cricket has seen very he was subjected to a brutal display few fatalities, apart from a small number of very grievous injuries. of intimidation and he bravely fought Here, we extract the informative on the neck by a bouncer in a Sheffield them off for 160 minutes, scoring 20 description on Austin Coutinho, Shield match on 25 November 2014. runs. published on 16 April 2020 on Firstpost Three days later, after being put into titled “A short history of helmets: For a an induced coma, he died. The injury Patsy Hendren, first to wear game that can seriously maim, cricket had apparently caused a vertebral head protection introduced protection for the head at a dissection just under his helmet. Now, Anshuman Gaekwad showed a belated stage”. after that accident, helmets have an similar sort of courage against the Following are Coutinho’s ideas on the additional guard at the rear. Experts West Indies pacemen at Sabina Park cricket helmet and its history: believe that the new guard only a year later. Hit repeatedly on his Last week, in a podcast, Sir Vivian provides psychological respite to the knuckles and batting with a broken rib, Duleep Mendis (above) and Sunil Wettimuny Richards told Shane Watson that he batsman. Gaekwad fought on bravely despite Bert Oldfield had a broken skull after being suffered a brutal blow off Jeff Thomson in never wore a helmet while facing the One batsman who hovered between being hit on the head. Of course, hit by Larwood in the bodyline series in pursuit of their run chase against Australia in 1932/33 the 1975 World Cup in England fiercest of fast bowlers because he was life and death, after being hit on the the man who took the maximum passionate about cricket. He also said head, was former India Skipper Nari number of hits on the head – and still that he was prepared to lay down his life Contractor. Ducking into a short ball kept coming back – was Mohinder while playing the game. from Charlie Griffith on India’s 1962 Amarnath. On his father, Lala Helmets, in fact, came into fashion tour of the Caribbean Isles, Contractor Amarnath’s advice, he even wore a in international cricket only in the had a fractured skull and is said to “sola topee” while batting, to avoid 1980s. Before that, batting icons like have recovered with help from Frank head injuries. Sir Donald Bradman, , Worrell and his teammates, expert There were no concussion , , doctors and, of course, by sheer grit. substitutes then; else brave hearts like Sir , and hundreds of Contractor, 86, is still with us and Close, Gaekwad, and Amarnath would other batsmen never wore protective healthy. have had the opportunity to sit out and Englishman George Summers died in 1870 after being struck on the head by a ball headgear. And trust me, these legends – and the ones before them – had to face some fearsome pace bowlers too. The likes of Fred Spofforth, Some interesting anecdotes Ernie Jones, Harold Larwood, Ray yy “The passion for the game I felt yy West Indies former Reiffel, Brendon Julian, and Glenn close infielders also started wearing Lindwall, Frank Tyson, Dennis Lillee, was such that I wouldn’t mind Richie Richardson’s trademark hat McGrath that time. The incident them to avoid injuries. Numerous Jeff Thomson, and the fearsome West dying playing something that I against the most fearsome of fast is often considered a symbolic freak incidents before and after Indies pace bowlers of the 1970s and love. (Facing the of bowlers in the 1980s was a typical representation of the beginning of 1978 definitely aided in the shift ’80s weren’t mere trundlers. 150 kmph without a helmet is a representation of the Caribbeans’ the decline of West Indian cricket. of thought. George Summers of Li’l Master’s skull cap fatal proposition.) If this is what bravado at their peak. They They lost that four-match series in Nottinghamshire died in 1970 after I chose and I go down here, what produced lethal pacies all the while Kingston 2-1 against the Aussies, being hit by a cricket ball while India’s legendary opener Sunil better way is there to go? In that and most of their batsmen faced the and West Indies cricket could never batting, Abdul Aziz of Pakistan Gavaskar, too, never wore a helmet sense, cricket was those days more fast bowlers of other teams without achieve those unimaginable heights was killed in 1958-59. Ian Folley throughout his international career a men’s sport. (After the advent of helmets, chest guards, arm guards, thereafter of Lancashire died in 1993 after that lasted 16 years (1971-87). Once the helmet, is it more a women’s etc. Despite that, they never lost a being hit by the cricket ball. Raman yy The first time a player wore a after being hit on the head by Malcolm sport?)” Who said so? Vivian Lamba was hit by the ball in his helmet on the cricket field, the Marshall, he resorted to using an Richards, who played 17 years of Schoolboy Arjuna head while fielding at short leg crowd booed him. It was an eggshell-shaped skull cap, but gave it international cricket (1974-91) for Ranatunga in his white position in 1998, which led to his Englishmen, Dennis Amiss, who up after a few innings. When he was the West Indies as a helmet in Sri Lanka’s death. Nari Contractor of India also inaugural Test decided to wear one to protect asked why he didn’t wear helmets, the top-order batsman had to retire after he suffered an against England himself against the lethal bowling Li’l Master had said, tongue-in-cheek: without ever injury at P. Sara in attack of West Indies and Australia. “There was nothing up there that was wearing a helmet 1982 Thus a customised fibre-glass yy Sri Lanka’s school cricketer Malik worth protecting!” in his career Mike Brearley, perhaps cricket’s motorcycle helmet made a debut Alles died of the most unfortunate during World Series Cricket (WSC) circumstances in Colombo after brainiest skipper who wasn’t a Test- Test series for in 1977. “I went to a motorcycle being hit on his head while fielding class batsman by any standards, also 15 years since helmet manufacturer, and he came close to the batsman in the 1980s wore a lighter version of the skull-cap 1980-95, probably a up with something lighter than to protect himself from the demon record in any sport yy In the early days of Sri Lanka’s the fibreglass motorcycle helmets bowlers of his time. , there had been only yy On 8 April around in those days and had a a couple of helmets that had been After Phil Hughes’ tragedy 1995, Skipper Richie visor that could withstand a shotgun available for the team. Duleep Richardson shocked the blast at 10 yards,” Amiss told The In cricket, helmets can most often Mendis and had their cricket world by suddenly Telegraph in 2005 prevent serious injury, but they helmets and the others had used emerging in a helmet, not in don’t provide foolproof protection. yy Post 1978, the helmet gained to share them. The young Arjuna his usual floppy hat, at St. Look what happened to popularity amongst the cricketing Ranatunga had a noteworthy white John’s, Antigua. The opposition Australia’s Philip Hughes: The fraternity. -keepers and one of his own talented left-handed batsman Australia featured the likes of Paul from New South Wales was hit sports 154 Thursday, February 11, 2021 { SPORTS } „„ www.themorning.lk Vibuda Wijebandara enters last four z Colombo Championship open singles semis today SLC summoned Vibuda Wijebandara reached Dilum (second seed). Men’s the men’s open singles semi-final singles semi-finals are scheduled yesterday (10) at the Colombo at 1 p.m. today. Championship Super “A” Grade Meanwhile, the women’s tennis, now being held at the singles semis, between Anika Sri Lanka Tennis Association Seneviratne and Oneli Perera before COPE today (SLTA) Playing Section clay as well as Savini Jayasuriya courts in Colombo. and Janali Manamperi are also z Auditor General’s report on SLC finances of 2017 and 2018 to be reviewed Sixteenth seed Wijebandara scheduled at 1 p.m. at the SLTA will now meet third-seed Thehan Playing Section at Green Path. Wijemanne in the semis. He beat top-seed Akila Vimukthi in his RESULTS pre-quarter-final match which Men’s open singles quarter- went to a three-set tussle. finals Vibuda Wijebandara beat All semi-finals at Wenuka Kithnula 6/2, 6/3 1 p.m. today Boys U-14 singles third The other semi-finals in round: men’s singles will be between Sandaru Guruge beat Binuka Luca Knese (seventh seed) and Silva 6/0, 6/1 Dumindu Lisal Goonetilleke beat Abdul Cader 6/1, 6/2 Dhanushka Dias beat Rehan Gunawardhana 6/0, 6/3 Aweesh Ganegoda beat Karthi Udayachandran 6/0, 4/6, 10/3 Thisanda Bellanaarachchi beat Lithum Jayabandu 6/4, 6/4 Kenuka Geeganage beat Dulaj Wickramanayake 6/3, 6/1

SLC officials and ministry secretaries before the COPE on 19 September 2019

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has been summoned before the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) today (11), its Chairman Prof. said in a media release yesterday (10). The Auditor General’s report on the financial years 2017 and 2018 of SLC and its performance are to be reviewed in today’s proceedings. The Committee is scheduled to meet in Parliament today at 2 p.m. Regarding the summoning, SLC President Shammi Silva told The Morning Sports yesterday that the COPE investigation was something which began mainly as a false campaign by some interested parties, also involving a section of the media, on past transactions of SLC. The conclusions given by the Auditor General, following his report’s third chapter on collection of income through sale of international SLC President says they TV broadcast rights, etc. are ready COPE proceedings allowed media We run as a corporate entity of a cricket university as an Advanced “We have done nothing wrong. We coverage that time. He further said: “If the sponsorship Technological Training Centre for have explained that when the COPE money that the Cricket Board receives training national and international committee summoned us during the SLC not funded by is used properly, that will be enough to cricket players and acquisition of a land previous Government. The new COPE Govt. Treasury develop not only cricket, but all other on the lease basis thereto; (ii) matters committee has summoned us. We are SLC’s activities were then under sports of the country. The financial related to selling of rights of SLC, ready to face it,” Silva added. scrutiny by forensic audits which transactions are made in dollars. such as international TV, broadcast, The previous COPE, under the had reportedly revealed a number of Comparatively, those amounts are radio internet, mobile (wireless), chairmanship of then MP Sunil financial irregularities and corruption. larger than what many other institutions and sponsorship; (iii) examination Handunnetti, summoned SLC on Handunnetti once told SLC officials get.” on recruitment of a national head a couple of occasions in 2019. during one of the 2019 COPE meetings: The SLC President too said yesterday coach for the Sri Lankan cricket team, Following directives by the COPE “If this is the manner in which you make that SLC cannot be considered a public reportedly Chandika Hathurusingha; then, SLC President Shammi Silva, excuses, we can imagine the way it institution. “We don’t use public funds. (iv) examination on sale of local radio Secretary Mohan de Silva, Vice would be when it comes to responding We are running as a corporate entity broadcasting right on international Presidents Ravin Wickramaratne to our queries in the probe.” and a member of the ICC (International cricket matches by SLC; and (v) and Kangadaran Mathivanan, CEO Handunnetti was then quoted as Cricket Council).” examination on affairs relating to Ashley de Silva, Assistant Treasurer saying that they were investigating establishment of a company by SLC, Lalith Rambukwella, and Head of SLC transactions not because it was Wickramaratne’s report named Cricket Aid (Guarantee) Ltd. Administration Aruna de Silva met funded by the Government Treasury, The Auditor General’s report on The above report was issued in with it. They were put under rigorous but because it is the authority of cricket SLC’s financial years 2017 and 2018 October 2019 under Auditor General Vibuda Wijebandara reached the men’s open singles semis yesterday (10) questioning on some occasions. The in the country. covered areas such as: (i) Establishment W.P.C. Wickramaratne. PHOTO ISHAN WANNIARACHCHI A LETTER On IPG, LPL, and the clarification of SLC ’s (SLC) clarification knowingly and willingly entered into a on 7 February 2020 regarding the commercial deal with SLC. contractual payment default of $ 1,920,000 Maybe the SLC is not aware of the by Innovative Production Group (IPG), principle of “Caveat Emptor”, which means in relation to the first edition of the Lanka the buyer is the party to be responsible in (LPL) rights fees smells a purchase. It is the cornerstone of all such of a bad media spin, smokescreen, and transactions. By the way, how do SLC know a cover-up for financial misconduct. It about the IPG losses? Have they audited can be rated as an unprofessional and IPG’s accounts? Only the company partners amateurish attempt to mislead the public would be aware of such intricate financial and the SLC stakeholders. details. The said purpose of entering into Questions have been raised about the this deal, wherein the SLC sold all the credibility of IPG. Why wasn’t an advance commercial rights and ensuing cost payment taken by SLC? Didn’t SLC obligations to a third party – in this case conduct due financial diligence on IPG? the third party being IPG – was to de-risk Why would a contract be awarded to a the SLC from any financial losses related company which doesn’t have the financial to holding the league. wherewithal to make a payment of only $ This “total sale of rights” model was 1.9250 million? Is there more than what undertaken allegedly for the purpose of meets the eye; we are left with no choice but avoiding losses accruing to SLC. All it to assume that. would have received would have been If the company can’t make contractual nothing but the right fees. The opposing payment for the first edition, how will business model would have been for it make payment for the second edition SLC to implement a similar commercial of LPL? That payment could be due in plan being followed by the Indian 2021. SLC had been warned about IPG’s Premier League (IPL), Pakistan Super reputation by all and sundry but they still League (PSL), Big Bash League (BBL), known to them, and now SLC finds itself be of SLC’s concern. SLC seemingly sympathies, allegiances, and loyalties chose to move ahead with the party. Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), apparently in an irregular situation. expressing its sympathy for the purported should only lie with SLC, not with a Upul Liyanage etc. However, it didn’t, for reasons best Whether IPG makes losses or not cannot losses suffered by IPG is misplaced. Their commercially driven private party that has Colombo 5 „„ www.themorning.lk Thursday, February 11, 2021 Tokyo 2020 Aus to warm depends on up for WC in science Bangladesh US President Joe Biden The Australia cricket has said a decision on team is now ready to make whether Tokyo 2020 should a belated trip to take place should be based Bangladesh later on science. Biden made this year. It will be their these comments to the first tour in the country Westwood One Sports radio since 2017. Yet, it will programme during the Super not be for Tests, as was Bowl on Sunday (7). The US originally scheduled, but President said he hoped the instead for T20Is, which are Games would be able to take intended as warm-ups for place for the athletes, but the T20 World Cup (WC) to reiterated the decision must be hosted by India in October be based on science. and November.

FOREIGN sportsSPORTS IN BRIEF We will win by over 100 votes: Shammi Silva zTop former cricketers will be part of my team, says Mathivanan

 Facebook horrified by online BY REVATHA S. SILVA abuse of footballers Facebook says it is “horrified” at the continued online abuse of Present Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) footballers and has announced what it says are “tougher measures” President Shammi Silva told The to tackle the issue. The social media platform is changing the rules Morning Sports yesterday (10) governing direct messaging on Instagram, a platform it also owns. It will disable the accounts of those found to have repeatedly sent that his team will win the next SLC abusive private messages on Instagram. UK Head of Content Policy election comfortably. Fadzai Madzingira said it was “saddening” to see continued abuse on “We will take more than 100 votes. the platforms. Our victory is already assured,” said Silva, adding his candidate for the post of Secretary will be the incumbent SLC Secretary Mohan de Silva, and his Vice Presidents will be Jayantha Dharmadasa and Ravin Wickramaratne. “We have worked for our member clubs and looked after them during the Covid-19 situation throughout the entire last year. Our opposition says that we are bribing the clubs. We don’t have to bribe the clubs. The majority of them are with  Kyrgios produces absolute thriller us,” added Silva. Novak Djokovic survived a scare and Nick Kyrgios saved match points Players should’ve been as day three at the Australian Open caught the attention of the crowds Current Sri Lanka Cricket President Shammi Silva Former Sri Lanka Cricket Vice President Kangadaran Mathivanan yesterday (10). Defending champion and world number-one Djokovic more responsible overcame Frances Tiafoe 6/3, 6/7 (3/7), 7/6 (7/2), 6-3. Australian SLC is to go for election on 20 May. Kyrgios then produced a thrilling five-set win over Ugo Humbert in front of a rowdy John Cain Arena. Kyrgios showed his usual mix of fiery Some sections of the local cricket should have been more responsible. We “The nominations are yet to be given. to appoint an interim committee. antics and exciting shots to beat the Frenchman 5/7, 6/4, 3/6, 7/6 fraternity argue that there won’t be an are one of the few boards who didn’t No party can give any figures so far as “There is no reason for that. Appointing (7/2), 6/4. He fell to his knees after winning the match before sitting election, and Youth and Sports Minister cut contract fees of any of our players the member clubs are yet to take their an interim (committee) is a ploy put in his chair and shaking his head in disbelief. Kyrgios has often said Namal Rajapaksa will soon intervene during the pandemic. They showed lack mandates,” Mathivanan, one of the former forward by our opposition parties to enter that the John Cain Arena, which is open to general ticket-holders, is his by appointing an Interim Committee of commitment in that series,” he further Vice Presidents of SLC, told us yesterday. power. Such a move will also be a blow favourite to play on because of the atmosphere. to run the affairs of national cricket in said. “Nishantha Ranatunga will be the on the democratic process,” Silva added. the wake of the poor performance of candidate for the post of Secretary from Responding to the views that he the Sri Lanka team, especially during Top cricketers in my team. There will be more well-known has parted his ways with former the past England Test series in Galle. Mathivanan’s team former national and first-class cricketers SLC President and his ally Thilanga “We have been doing reasonably well until Meanwhile, Kangadaran Mathivanan, who will be part of my team. We are Sumathipala, Silva negated the idea. the England series. In South Africa we lost who has also announced that he will confident that we can win,” he said. “We are not angry with each other. But clearly because of our injuries. That was be leading one team in the next being the Head of SLC, I have to work an unfortunate situation,” Silva explained. SLC election, said nobody can Not angry with Sumathipala myself for the betterment of the game “But there are no excuses for the loss predict any figure yet because the Silva negated the possibility of and take the responsibility by myself,” against England in Galle. The players clubs are yet to take their mandates. the Sports Minister intervening Silva explained. Root moves up  Man United in FA Cup quarter-finals Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he was pleased to third spot with his players’ mentality in their FA Cup fifth-round 1-0 win over West Ham United on Tuesday (9) after “feeling low” following the draw with Everton. Scott McTominay scored in extra time to send the Red Devils into the quarter-finals. An otherwise flat match did contain the first use of a concussion substitution – when was replaced at half- after Chennai time by Ryan Fredericks after a clash of heads with Anthony Martial. Solskjaer felt his players provided the perfect response to conceding a late equaliser in the 3-3 draw with the Toffees on Saturday (6). double ton z In a fabulous run in the sub-continent, scoring 684 runs in three Tests England Captain Joe Root’s while their players also made the match-winning 218 in the first way up in the bowling rankings Test against India has helped him presently led by Australia fast- advance two places to third position, bowler Pat Cummins. overtaking counterpart Formerly top- in the process, while debutant West ranked James Indies batsman Kyle Mayers and Anderson is Pakistan fast-bowler Hasan Ali up to third provide much delight to their fans from sixth, and in the updated International Cricket only four points Council (ICC) Men’s Test Player behind compatriot Stuart Rankings announced yesterday Broad, a fellow-member of (10). the 500-wicket club. Anderson Root, who helped his team to is at his highest ranking since a memorable 227-run victory the start of the ICC World Test in Chennai that kept England in Championship, while spinners contention for the ICC World Jack Leach and Dominic Bess Test Championship (WTC) final, are both at career-best rating ON THIS DAY – 11 FEBRUARY has reached 883 rating points, his points, moving up to 37th and highest since September 2017, after 41st positions, respectively. a fabulous run in the sub-continent For India, Rishabh Pant’s 1851 – The first-ever first-class cricket match is held has seen him accumulate 684 runs knock of 91 in the first innings in Australia – Tasmania vs. Victoria at Launceston in three Tests, two of which were has helped him become the first 1948 – Test cricket debut of first Black West Indies in Sri Lanka. full-time wicketkeeper from Captain Frank Worrell, vs. England at Port of Spain Ahead of Kohli for the first his country to reach 700 rating time since November 2017, Root points as he retained 13th position 1959 – Legendary Vinoo Mankad plays his final Test is now 36 points behind top-ranked among batsmen. Shubman Gill (vs. West Indies at Delhi) and trails Steve has progressed seven places to 1973 – Shane Gould swims first sub 17-minute 1,500- Smith by only eight points. With 40th position, while all-rounder metre female freestyle in 16 minutes 56.9 seconds also in the is in 81st place mix, competition for the top five after moving up two slots. Left-arm 1981 – Australia all out 83 versus India at Melbourne slots is intense with all of them spinner Shahbaz Nadeem too has Cricket Ground chasing 143 to win above 850 rating points. gained two places to reach 85th Opener Dom Sibley is another position among bowlers. Virat Kohli (left) congratulates Joe Root after England won their first Test in Chennai on Tuesday (9) PHOTO ©BCCI 1992 – Michael Johnson (pictured) runs indoor world England batsman to gain in the Mayers, whose scores of 40 record 400-metre (44.97 seconds) latest rankings update, his knocks and 210 helped script an entered the rankings in 70th on debut and the second-best ever 1903 after scoring 287 on debut 1937 – Birth of Bill Lawry, the dour Australian left- of 87 and 16 helping him gain 11 epic win in the first Test against position with 448 rating points, on debut after R.E. Foster, who for England against Australia in handed opener places and reach 35th position, Bangladesh in Chittagong, has the best by a West Indian batsman was on 449 rating points back in Sydney.

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