APRIL 9, 2020 www.facebook.com/Dailymirroronline Follow us on @dailymirror_SL Follow us on@dailymirrorlk THURSDAY VOL: 21/251 RS. 30.00 LATE CITY EDITION TRACKING DOWN ASSOCIATES EARLY HELPED LIMIT COVID-19 SPREAD - MINISTRY BY JAMILA HUSAIN COVID-19 + zz Colombo has so far been Situation identified as the district with The Health Ministry, yesterday said that Sri Lankan authorities with the Report 189138 04 228 44 07 assistance of military intelligence were able to track down within hours, those | As at Apr. 08, 2020 the highest number of COVID-19 who had associated with COVID-19 patients, thus limiting the spread of the | 07:00 p.m. Total confirmed Active New Total number of Recovered Deaths cases cases cases individuals in hospitals and discharged patients with 44 cases virus and keeping Sri Lanka at stage 3 of the pandemic. SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 Medical Specialist warns SL BORN GERIATRICIAN 17,717 arrested and DIES OF COVID-19 IN UK Dr. Anton Sebastianpillai, a consultant geriatrician, 4,586 vehicles seized for who qualified as a doctor in Sri Lanka in 1967 and specialised in treating the elderly at the Kingston DANGER OF COVID-19 Hospital, London has died after being tested positive for COVID-19, on Saturday, BBC reported. violating curfew SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA While claiming that the Police would further tighten the law on those who violate Celebrate New Year the curfew regulations, DIG Ajith Rohana said yesterday all those who were in Police custody COULD INTENSIFY would be charged in a Magistrate court and ‘at home’ - Ministry as such they face the risk of getting a two year Buddha Sasana, Cultural and Religious Affairs prison term or a fine of Rs. 5,000 or Ministry yesterday requested people to observe both on conviction. ‘Sinhala New Year’ traditions and rituals only with SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 the family members as a precaution to contain IN NEXT TWOhe danger WEEKS of COVID-19 could intensify in the next two the spread of COVID-19. SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 zz If medical advice is properly weeks in the country, and therefore people are warned followed during this critical to be more cautious over the situation, Dr. Ananda period, the spred of coronavirus Wijewickrama of the National Institute of Infectious in the country could be decreased TDiseases (NIID) said. SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 DEC TO STREAMLINE ‘Medi Mate’ VEGETABLE DISTRIBUTION to treat COVID- Curfew to continue VIA DIVISIONAL SECRETARIATS 19 patients SEVENTH COVID-19 BY KANCHANA KUMARA ARIYADASA indefinitely in WP, Dambulla Economic Centre (DEC) Management The ceremony to hand over a remote- yesterday implemented the new scheme to controlled smart appliance in a bid to treat PATIENT DIES distribute vegetables all over the country. and test COVID-19 patients to the Neville Puttalam, Kandy and Jaffna BY KELUM BANDARA Fernando Teaching Hospital was presided BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA The seventh death related to COVID-19 was over by Director Naval Electrical & reported yesterday, the Health Ministry said. The Electronic Engineering ( Fleet & Weapon) As announced by the Presidential Media Division (PMD) on Tuesday, victim, 44, was a gem merchant from Mount Lavinia. and Director Naval Electrical & Electronic the curfew was lifted in 19 districts except in the districts of Colombo, He tested positive for the disease upon return to the Engineering (Admin & Utility) Commodore Gampaha, Kalutara, Puttalam, Kandy and Jaffna at 6.00 this morning country Germany. SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 (Electrical) Kamal Bombugalage. PIC COURTESY NAVY MEDIA and will be re-imposed at 4.00 pm. SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 SEE REST OF THE STORY ON A2 A2 THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020 www.facebook.com/Dailymirroronline Follow us on @dailymirror_SL Follow us on@dailymirrorlk

Tracking down associates early helped limit COVID-19 spread - Ministry SL BORN GERIATRICIAN Officials from the Health Ministry told quarantine, thus preventing a further spread. were not needed at the moment. the virus,” Ministry officials said. Daily Mirror that once a patient came Public Health Inspectors then visited “So far there has been no indication to Colombo has so far been identified as the forward with symptoms or if they were them daily to identify if they had begin rapid tests. Within hours after the district with the highest number of COVID- DIES OF COVID-19 IN UK identified by the authorities, their houses developed any symptoms, and would patient is detected we identify all the 19 patients with 44 cases followed by were immediately disinfected and sealed and ensure they remain in isolation for the low risk and high risk individuals and put Puttalam with detected 34 cases, Kalutara zz Dr. Sebastianpillai trained at the intelligence was able to identify all those specified time period. them Into quarantine. This has helped with 26 cases and Gampaha which has Peradeniya Medical School in Sri Lanka who the patient had come in contact with So far thousands have been put into self us limit the spread to a great extent. detected 16 cases. and qualified in 1967 for days. Within hours, the authorities were isolation after associating with patients and However we all have to continue to be Kandy and Jaffna have both identified able to contact them and put them into self this was the main reason that rapid tests vigilant and remain indoors as we fight 7 cases each. Dr. Sebastianpillai, who was in his “Dr. Anton Sebastianpillai died on 70s, died on Saturday, four days after Saturday after having been cared for in being admitted to Kingston Hospital. the hospital’s intensive care unit since The consultant geriatrician, who March 31, and we would like to extend qualified as a doctor in Sri Lanka in our sincere condolences to his family.” 1967, had a long association with the Dr. Sebastianpillai trained at 17,717 arrested and hospital in south-west London. Kingston the Peradeniya Medical School in Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said he Sri Lanka and qualified in 1967, DANGER OF COVID-19 had last worked on March 20. according to the institution. 4,586 vehicles seized for It was reported previously that Dr. In an obituary notice, he was referred Sebastianpillai had retired, but the BBC to as a “distinguished alumnus”. told this was not the case. In a tweet, acting Liberal Democrat violating curfew “It is with great sorrow I confirm leader Ed Davey said Dr. Sebastianpillai’s the death of a consultant geriatrician death was “very sad news” and he had zz The Police have arrested 1,815 people in the who was part of the team at Kingston been “privileged” to meet the “hugely COULD INTENSIFY Hospital,” a trust spokeswoman said. respected” consultant and author. 24 hours ended at 6:00 am yesterday (April 8) The Police have arrested 1,815 people in the 24 hours ended at 6:00 am yesterday (April 8), for violating the curfew. The police also Celebrate New Year ‘at home’ - Ministry seized 595 vehicles for traveling without a permit during the curfew. IN NEXT TWO WEEKS According to the Police Media Unit, 17,717 persons have been arrested zz Sri Lanka had been able to control the virus The Ministry requested people to follow the stay-at-home order as much as since the islandwide curfew initially imposed at 6.00 pm on March spread because of the precise decisions taken possible this year and refrain from conducting traditional New Year festivities. 20 until 6.00 am yesterday (April 8). The police have also The New Year will dawn at 8.26 pm on April 13. taken 4,586 vehicles into custody island wide during this by the Government period, the Police Media Unit (PMU) said. He said as far as the number of patients reported could be decreased,” he added. prevailing gravity of the could significantly increase Moreover, he said Sri Lanka COVID-19 situation in other during the period. had been able to control the countries, the situation in “If the medical advice is virus spread because of the DEC TO STREAMLINE VEGETABLE Sri Lanka could also be properly followed during this precise decisions taken by the more dangerous. critical period, the spred of Government, especially the DISTRIBUTION VIA DIVISIONAL SECRETARIATS Mangala urges for parliamentary Dr. Wijewickrama said the coronavirus in the country quarantine process. zzEconomic Centre Manager Christie resolution on borrowing limits Wijeratne pointed out that agricultural BY YOHAN PERERA 23, 2019 for the period from January produce of high quality would reach the Stating that there may also be 1, 2020 to April 30, 2020, is Rs.721 traders within 24 hours billion. Last year, the Treasury issued Curfew to continue indefinitely in delays in drawing down the US$ 128 Manager of the Economic Centre Manager Christie Wijeratne said million (Rs. 24.4 billion) soft-loan Rs.194 billion in Bills and Bonds between April 3, 2019 and April 30, Christie Wijeratne said vegetable vegetables could be distributed granted by the World Bank Group for stocks could be delivered to any effectively at reasonable prices fighting COVID-19, former Minister 2019. Therefore, it is almost certain WP, Puttalam, Kandy and Jaffna that a breach of the borrowing limit is Divisional Secretariat in the country under the new scheme without any of Finance Mangala Samaraweera zzPolice streamline issuing curfew passes within 24 hours. interference by the middlemen and yesterday said the government imminent” he said it his statement. “When the borrowing limit is Addressing a meeting of the racketeers. He requested the farmers should re-convene Parliament and zzInter district travel restriction to remain operations office of the scheme he and vendors not to fall prey to the bring in a resolution to increase reached, there will be no legal authority under which public debt can said the traders who needed stocks of racketeers and to cooperate with the borrowing limits. zz Tough action against misusing passes, IDs vegetables had only to place orders government’s new scheme. “For the period of January be issued. As a result, the government may face insurmountable challenges Curfew will remain in force in areas until further notice. the districts of Gampaha and with the Divisional Secretary in the President of Dambulla Joint Farmer 1, 2020 to April 2, 2020, the respective area. He pointed out that Foundation R.B.Herath and President Government has borrowed Rs. in raising the funds necessary for the Western Province and in the Meanwhile, the acting Kalutara in the Province. managing this crisis. Due to these districts of Kandy, Puttalam and IGP, C.D.Wickramaratne has In all other Provinces, the agricultural produce of high quality of the Trader Association Channa 650.15 billion through Sri Lanka would reach the traders within 24 hours. Erawwala addressed the meeting. Development Bonds, a dollar-loan legal complications, there may also be Jaffna indefinitely, the PMD said. introduced a new curfew Office of the SDIG in charge of from the China Development delays in drawing down the US$128 The government has declared permit system effective from the Province is authorized issue Bank and primary auctions of million (Rs. 24.4 billion) soft-loan the week started from Monday yesterday with the objective of curfew permits to organizations Treasury Bills and Treasury Bonds. granted by the World Bank for fighting (6) to Friday (10) as ‘work from preventing unwanted gathering with 50 or more employees Furthermore, Central Bank holdings COVID-19” he added. home’ week. in the wake of COVID-19 located in the respective of Government securities and other “Therefore, in light of these Travelling to and from all outbreak. Province. SPs offices in each data on Central Bank open-market- urgent and unforeseen requirements districts has been prohibited It has been observed that Police Division will issue curfew operations suggest significant arising from the pandemic, I urge the completely except for the excessive number of people passes to entities that have Seventh COVID-19 direct monetary financing of the government to immediately move purpose of providing vital gather at Police Stations to 10 or more, but less than 50 deficit. This will add to the sum a resolution in Parliament to raise services, the PMD said. Those who obtain curfew passes during employees in the respective of government borrowings” Mr. the borrowing limit. I am certain the exploit regulations implemented curfew hours. Such large police division. Each police Samaraweera said in a statement. entire Parliament will support such a with the primary objective gathering of people is a major station is tasked with issuing “The borrowing limit, approved by resolution that responsibly increases of ensuring the effective and hindrance to Coronavirus passes to organizations with patient dies a resolution of Parliament on October the borrowing limit” he added. productive operation of public mitigation activities, he said in less than 10 employees located services would be dealt with a communique. in the police area under its zz The gem merchant visited Germany strictly in compliance with In this context, under the purview. Police stations are and evaded quarantine process legislation, the Police said. instructions of President also permitted to issue passes The government has put in Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the acting to individuals on genuine after arrival 21 Indigenous medicine place a system for the continuous IGP had implemented a new humanitarian grounds. New patients | Sri Lanka supply of essential food and mechanism to issue curfew The Acting IGP informs + Confirmed 189 Deaths 7 to fight COVID-19 other products that allow the passes. Accordingly, issuing entities to decide in advance 14 cases 12 11 public to buy them when they are of curfew passes would be to which office they should 10 10 10 BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA deadly viral disease. 99 at home. Those engaged in paddy handled at four levels of Police forward their applications for 8 8 77 The indigenous 6 6 Chief of Defence Staff and Army farming and cultivating small- administration. curfew passes. Applications 5 5 55 medical practice 4 4 Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva who scale tea holdings and exporting They are; the Police to obtain curfew passes 3 22 2 2 spearheads the fight against COVID-19 was being used at crops in any district are permitted Headquarters, DIGs offices in should be submitted only on 11 present and discussions were focused on 00 endemic said a new wave of enthusiasm to carry out their activities. each province, SP’s offices in the reasonable grounds. 1811 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 how best to utilize indigenous medical Jan March April has been generated in the indigenous Since the primary aim of these respective police divisions and Employees of the Presidential Source: www.epid.gov.lk, DM GraphicDesk medicine sector and that could help to practices in a more streamlined manner. steps in this critical situation Police Stations. Secretariat, the Prime Minister’s contain the spread of the viral infection. The Army Chief noted that so far 3,386 is to ensure the well-being Curfew passes for entities Office, Ministries, Departments, He succumbed to the disease Already, 44 patients have Lt. Gen. Silva said a group of around persons had completed their quarantine of the citizens of this country, with 50 or more employees Corporations, Boards and while seeking treatment at the IDH recovered fully were discharged 50 indigenous medical practitioners, process and returned to their homes the government is asking the located in the district of Authorities, other organizations hospital in Angoda. from hospitals. According to the acupuncture therapists and homeopathy comprising three from the Kundasale public to adhere strictly to the Colombo, Western Province including banks and media A total of 189 corona patients were health authorities, the source of practitioners had met Health Minister quarantine centre, 11 from Boosa, 203 guidelines in a responsible will be issued by the Police entities can utilize their Official recorded yesterday with four new infection can be traced as far as all Pavithra Wanniarachchi at the National from Mullaithivu on Poya day. manner. The villages in the Headquarters. The Office of Identity Cards as a curfew pass. cases. Three of them have had close the reported cases are concerned. Operation Centre for the Prevention of Those who completed the 14-day districts of Colombo, Kandy and the SDIG in charge of the Nevertheless, legal actions will contact with a COVID-19 patient However, they are planning to COVID-19 on the directive of President quarantine procedure at the quarantine Kalutara that have been declared Western Province will be be taken against those who use reported from the Ratnapura district increase testing to know whether Gotabaya Rajapaksa in order to look centres were advised to further engage isolated areas will remain in the entrusted with issuing passes their Official IDs for travelling earlier. The other one had been there are more cases hitherto into possible measures that could be in self-quarantine at their homes for same category and no one will be to organizations with 50 or without official purpose during identified from a quarantine centre. unidentified. taken to prevent the spread of the further two weeks. permitted to enter or leave such more employees located in curfew hours. PCR tests to be carried out islandwide - DGHS BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA He also urged the public not to hide their fight against this pandemic. The ready access to In order to determine if there are symptoms and to seek medical help if patients that healthcare workers have without more COVID-19 patients in the country, Covid-19 symptoms appear. putting themselves at risk, thanks to the AGV the number of tests conducted would Meanwhile, Atlas Axillia PLC, a robot, is truly a massive advantage in the fight be increased islandwide, Director- subsidiary of the Hemas Group, has gifted against COVID-19,” he said. General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr. a fully homegrown Automated Guided The AGV can carry food and medicine to Anil Jasinghe said. Vehicle (AGV) robot to the Homagama patients and perform basic medical check-ups, He said this at the National Base Hospital, to assist medical personnel such as checking temperatures. It also enables Operation Centre for the Prevention of in the remote monitoring and care of doctors to monitor patients remotely, while having COVID-19 media briefing yesterday. patients affected by the Coronavirus. conversations with them through the cameras He said that currently the The company announced that the mounted on it. In addition to this, the AGV can charge Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests prototype - a first of its kind in Sri Lanka itself using a wireless charging port, further reducing are being carried out in many hospitals across the - is currently undergoing live tests at the its physical proximity to healthcare workers. The use island to identify COVID-19 infections, adding that Homagama Base Hospital, where the Atlas team of the AGV will automate patient monitoring, thereby the Rapid Tests will be validated and with the receipt behind the invention is working closely with hospital enabling healthcare workers to apply their expertise of the Rapid Test Kits these testing would be carried staff to understand and address any functional in managing the crisis more efficiently and to stay out in a broader manner. concerns. The company will subsequently make the safe while saving lives. Dr. Jasinghe also noted that two telephone technology of this prototype available for select Speaking on the initiative, Asitha Samaraweera, hotlines have been introduced, 1390 and 1399 so individuals or organizations that wish to produce CEO of Atlas Axillia said, “I am extremely proud of our that those suspected to have Coronavirus could call more units to fight the pandemic. team for creating a solution to address one of the these numbers and seek medical advice from their Dr. Indika Jagoda, the Regional Director of challenges our medical personnel are facing today homes without having to go to a hospital. He said Health Services, Colombo lauded the launch of in the country with respect to infectious diseases that it is the responsibility of the public to cooperate the prototype AGV. “It is truly remarkable that a Sri such as Coronavirus. We humbly share this invention with the efforts taken by the government to contain Lankan company has developed a home grown to further the national cause to effectively combat the spread of the Coronavirus and maintain distance. robotic medical assistant. The advancement COVID-19. We are gifting the prototype to the of technological development is vital in the Homagama Hospital. THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020 A3 NEWS High tide in seas off EXPORT OF TEA, RUBBER AND COCONUT Kalutara damages tourist hotels and houses CONTINUE UNINTERRUPTED BY SUNIL THANTHRIARACHCHI for the second time that a high from the deep sea and the waves Ceylon Tea Traders’ Association decides to hold regular tea Trembling waves that lashed tide in the sea off Kalutara was came trembling over the restored auctions via online process during curfew and on Poya days against the land in Kalutara North experienced this year. They said sand bar. due to a high tide on Tuesday the waves started lashing against DIG Kalutara Division Vijitha BY SANDUN A. JAYASEKERA The claim by the The government took the decision to continue the land all at once. They pointed Gunaratne who visited the area Chinese doctor who evening (07) had caused extensive t the last Colombo tea plantation crop exports uninterrupted, to ensure damage to 26 houses and several out that the Kalido beach that carried out an inspection and took raised the first alarm on that those engaged in these export industries had been damaged by floods was action to protect the houses from auction held on Tuesday the corona viral infection in tourist hotels. (07) there was a heavy over a long period of time weathering numerous Residents of the area said it was restored recently by pumping sand waves by laying sand bags. Wuhan and later died of COVID challenges are not faced with economic demand for ‘Ceylon Black 19 infection that drinking Tea’ and a good price of difficulties. Accordingly, all operations related to black tea could decrease these crops from the harvesting stage to transport, Aover Rs. 700 per kilogram, plantation the impact of the virus, may Industries and Agricultural Exports export and auction processes will continue have contributed to the high without any hindrance even during the curfew. Minister Ramesh Pathirana said. demand for our black tea 5000kg papaw rejected Minister Pathirana told Daily Further, sugarcane, cashew and other minor export Mirror yesterday that the government known as methylxanthines found in tea. I crop farmers have been exempted from any BY ANISHA MANAGE he sealed the lorry load of papaw but their curfew pass indicated restrictions and the Plantation Ministry Secretary and returned it to Norochcholai they were from Norochcholai. had not imposed any restriction for export crops of believe that this claim may have contributed to the Distributing A lorry load tea, rubber and coconut and added export of three high demand for our black tea and good price at the has issued necessary guidelines ensuring they of papaw transported from in the Puttalam District that was He pointed out that the have the freedom to engage in their cultivations, endangered with the spread individuals concerned had used traditional plantation crops and their allied products tea auctions,” Minister Pathirana said. Norochcholai to Tissamaharama continue to be exported uninterrupted. The rubber industry has also got a boost with the Minister said. was not permitted by the health of Corona virus. He said the the curfew pass to transport The Defense Ministry Secretary, Health Ministry transporters who parked the the stock of papaw without the He said that due to the freedom granted to enable the increased demand for surgical gloves and authorities and 13 individuals the smooth operations of the tea industry, the Ceylon rubber producing factories have been instructed to Secretary, Police, Export Development Board, from Tissamaharama area who lorry in a temple ground were recommendation of the MOH of Sri Lanka Ports Authority, Sri Lanka Customs, preparing to distribute it when the the area. Tea Traders’ Association for the first time in 137 years, continue their production. were unloading the stock were had taken a decision to hold the regular tea auctions Coconut and cinnamon also get a good price Commerce Department and several other ministries placed under quarantine. Chief Incumbent of the temple PHI Wijemuni further said that had requested the Finance Ministry Secretary to informed the health authorities. he reported the incident to the via an online process known as the ‘e-auction’ even but Minister Pathirana lamented that he had Tissamaharama Administrative during the curfew and on Poya days. . information that in some cases coconuts are sold provide the required infrastructure facilities to PHI Anura Siri Wijemuni said that The PHI said the transporters Norochcholai Police. ensure smooth operation of export crops. were from the Suriyawewa area “The claim by the Chinese doctor Li Wenliang, who at exorbitant prices. raised the first alarm on the possibility of an epidemic “The Coconut Cultivation Board sells a coconut Minister Pathirana also pointed out that while of corona viral infection in Wuhan, in Hubei Province at Rs. 50. It is wrong if anyone attempts to get those engaged in the plantation industry are in China in late last year – and died of COVID 19 an unfair profit by selling coconuts at high prices allowed to carry on their operations, they should National Civilian Bravery Awards – 2020 infection later - claimed that drinking black tea could using the current situation in the country for their adhere to the guidelines set by the Health Ministry, Medical personnel to be included decrease the impact of the virus by the substances advantage,” Minister Pathirana stressed. Defence Ministry and the Police. The Foundation for Civilian courageously volunteer to save to a person who voluntary exhibits Bravery (FCB) in recognition of the lives in peril during natural and extraordinary dedication and Southern Province immense bravery displayed by the man-made disasters. action to preserve and promote the medical personnel to save lives of The criteria for selection will natural environment, including bio- civilians infected with the COVID- centre on the risk to the rescuer, resources and bio-systems. 19 virus has taken action to include the threat to the victim, and the The Student Civilian Bravery Ayurvedic Hospitals and drug them for the National Civilian degree of the rescuer’s obligation Social Activity Awards, a Gold or Bravery Awards for 2020. to the Act. Silver Swan Award, is presented Founder and President FCB “The intention of the awards is to students who courageously manufacturers to remain open Kasun Chandraratne said that the to uphold peace and to promote perform to achieve the objectives deadline for registrations for the social cohesion and harmony,” Mr. of a social service organisation. BY D.G. SUGATHAPALA Ayurvedic hospitals in Galle, were open. The Commissioner annual award for civilian bravery Chandraratne said. Students should submit their The Ayurvedic Department Pitigala and Ambalangoda, in said the Ayurvedic Community 2020 has been extended to May 31 The nominations for the 2020 applications through the principal has taken steps to open all the Galle District, Aparekka, Health Officers in all divisions Ayurvedic Community to include the doctors, nurses and Awards are for actions that took of their schools. A panel of judges ayurvedic hospitals and also Welipitiya, Karaputugala, the would be on duty round the Health Officers in all paramedical staff who are at the place during the calendar year will process the applications the drug manufacturers in the hospitals in Waralla in the clock and that they would forefront in the battle to fight the 2019 but has been extended up to and will select the awardees Matara District, those in Beliatta, distribute Ayurvedic drugs to divisions would be on duty Southern Province. round the clock and drugs pandemic in the country. April 30, 2020. on the basis of interviews and Provincial Commissioner of Meegahajandura and Morayaya the doorstep, to boost immunity Those eligible for recognition This includes, the Civilian documentation in support of the Ayurveda C.L. Guruge said the in the Hambantota District and in individuals under self would be distributed to the are citizens of Sri Lanka who Bravery Bio-philic Award presented Award requirements. the drug factory in Beliatta quarantine in their homes. doorstep

Danger of lightning in Badulla District Take preventive measures during heavy rain - Disaster Management BY PRASAD RUKMAL District Assistant Director of Disaster from working in paddy fields, staying in The prevailing inclement weather Management, E.M.L.Udayakumara said open spaces, under trees, or riding on has resulted in possible danger the people should be cautious and take bicycles or motorcycles during thunder from lightning in the Badulla District preventive measures during heavy rain showers. He pointed out that the TV BANK FROM THE SAFETY particularly in the evening. or when the sky was cloudy. antenna should be disconnected. He requested the people to refrain OF YOUR HOME. COVID-19 relief measures Rape of underaged mentally Ensure families retarded girl Download the of missing PS member and NDB NEOS App today. included-OMP five suspects Download on the Available on the The Office on Missing Persons (OMP) yesterday App Store Google Play requested President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Presidential Task wanted by Police Force Chairman Basil Rajapaksa to ensure that the families of the missing and disappeared are included BY AJITHLAL SHANTHAUDAYA AND raped the girl from Kiriwewa in any proposed COVID-19 relief measures. JAYANTHA NANAYAKKARA area at intervals for more than In a letter to the President and Mr. Basil Rajapaksa, A member of the Thanamalwila three months and she was OMP Chairman Saliya Peiris PC said the prevailing Pradeshiya Sabha and five admitted to the Hambantota situation in the country has had dire consequences others have been wanted by the General Hospital for medical on these families, as they are no longer able to earn Sevanagala Police in connection examination and treatment. their wages and they have limited or no assets. with the rape of a 13-year-old Sevanagala Police mentally retarded girl. are conducting further In many cases, the most investigations on the vulnerable among families A senior police official said two of the suspects had been instructions of Embilipitiya of the missing and ASP Sarath Kumara, DIG disappeared are the elderly and are arrested but the PS member and others had fled from the Sandungahawatta and Senior female headed households, and DIG Lalith Pathinayaka survive on the daily wages of one area. He said the suspects had family member

“The OMP recommends that families of the missing and disappeared be included in any proposed PC interdicted for relief measures, including the provision of food and financial assistance in response to the current crisis. In particular, as a short-term measure the OMP curfew violation recommends that dry rations be provided to families BY JUDE SAMANTHA been arrested at Kochchikade in of the missing and disappeared through Grama A PC from the Puttalam Police Negombo by the Negombo Police. Niladharis. Grama Niladharis have already collected Investigations revealed that information regarding the missing and disappeared in and three others travelling by trishaw without a curfew pass, the suspect PC had used his their local area, and such lists could be used to avoid police identity card to travel from duplication in instances where such families are also were interdicted with immediate effect by Puttalam ASP. They had Puttalam while the others did not beneficiaries under other state assistance schemes for have curfew passes. vulnerable persons,” Mr. Peiris said. The letter further said, “In response to one of the interim relief measures recommended by the OMP, the Deferment credit facilities Government proposed to allocate Rs. 500 million in the 2019 Budget, to provide Rs. 6000 monthly relief to families of missing and disappeared persons, including members of the armed forces and police identified as Send request letter missing in action on the condition of them possessing a Certificate of Absence. before April 30: CBSL According to information received by the OMP, The Central Bank of Sri Lanka government due to coronavirus, interim relief payments valued at approximately (CBSL) said banks and financial to send the request letter (In Rs.11 million have been paid to 153 beneficiaries, institutions should be informed writing or through electronic up to 11 November 2019. The OMP observes that in before April 30 to obtain media such as Email or Fax) to many cases, the most vulnerable among families of deferment credit facilities. obtain the loan deferment by the missing and disappeared are the elderly and are Several banks have informed mentioning their loan details and www.ndbbank.com female headed households, and survive on the 011 244 8888 I I customers seeking credit the reasons for the inability to A+ (lka) Fitch Rating - National Development Bank PLC (PQ. 27) is a licensed commercial bank supervised by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. daily wages of one family member.” relief facilities provided by the repay the loan. A4 THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020 NEWS FEATURE GOVT.’S SPECIAL RELIEF SCHEMES MORE BENEFITTING THE NON-POOR Although we have alleviated poverty by providing assistance to the hand-to-mouth segment, this is not going to help revive the agricultural sector

By Kamanthi Wickramasinghe

World economies are already handicapped. The impact of COVID- 19 is greatly felt by the Sri Lankan economy as well. However, despite its massive debt burden, the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) recently announced multiple relief schemes for various beneficiaries. They include everybody from Samurdhi beneficiaries to those who have taken personal loans for various reasons, people involved in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and so forth. On the other hand the Government also launched its Saubhagya Home Gardening Programme to encourage people to grow from home. Opening debt moratoriums, giving away relief schemes at times of disaster have been a practice of successive regimes. But when it’s the people’s turn to cover the debts, flexibility is least thought of. Hence, the primary objectives of alleviating poverty in the short-run and transforming the nation into a self- sufficient one in the long-run are often not met, considering the practicality of these short-sighted approaches. THE ‘SAMURDHI’ PUZZLE Samurdhi was introduced in 1995 by the People’s Alliance Government as its main poverty alleviation programme. One of its components was the welfare grant that underwent several changes over the past two decades to People below the national poverty line are entitled to the Samurdhi beneficiary programme improve the quality of benefits and improve the structure of the programme. In 2012 the Samurdhi welfare programme Nearly 70-80% We have What should underwent certain reforms where changes were made to the people have over 1000 be done is categories of beneficiary, amount and nature of benefits. already received cooperative maximising In the same year, food and cash stamps were replaced by it and we hope to finish societies and over the the contribution of a cash transfer and the total value of food and cash stamps it off soon. There years that have taken the local agricultural was transferred directly to the beneficiary accounts at the are people who have leadership in their sector for the national Samurdhi banks. According to a study titled ‘Food-Based already registered own areas, mobilising food security. The Social Assistance Programmes in Sri Lanka – Evolution and to be entitled to this communities to get contribution of the Transition to Cash Transfers’ in the fiscal year 2012/2013 scheme and those in ready for the economic local food production 16.4 per cent of households were receiving Samurdhi cash the waiting list. Those recovery process. We should not be assessed transfers with some households having multiple beneficiaries. in the waiting list are requesting the merely on its cost This figure is about three times higher than the percentage were never recognised cooperative societies efficiency against households in the country. Another targeting error was that due to their political to be on alert to ensure imported food items 14.4 per cent Samurdhi recipient households accounting for backgrounds during that none of our about 88 per cent beneficiary households were non-poor while the previous regime members are falling only a small share of beneficiaries was from poor households behind as defined by the national poverty line. PROF. CHARITHA SAMADANIE PROF. BUDDHI The Official Poverty Line is defined as the real food and HERATH KIRIWANDENIYA MARAMBE non-food consumption expenditure per person per month. The figure as at January 2020 is Rs. 5021. Therefore Coordination for the Task Force. “According to the in their own areas, mobilising communities to get ready source of livelihood to a large population of Sri Lanka,” persons living in households whose real per capita monthly information we have, nearly 70-80% people have already for the economic recovery process. We are requesting the said Prof. Marambe. total consumption expenditure is below Rs. 5021 in the year received it and we hope to finish it off soon. There are people cooperative societies to be on alert to ensure that none “State assistance provided to improve agriculture should 2020 are considered poor. Therefore, researchers observed who have already registered to be entitled to this scheme of our members are falling behind,” said Kiriwandeniya. definitely be separated from the programmes introduced for that while 38 per cent of poor households received Samurdhi and those in the waiting list. Those in the waiting list were She further said that women-headed businesses, SMEs poverty alleviation. Although we have been successful to cash transfers, 60 per cent of poor households were excluded never recognised due to their political backgrounds during and the Agri sector have been the most affected due to the some extent in alleviating poverty by providing assistance from the programme. Such inclusion and exclusion errors the previous regime. But irrespective of their political COVID-19 outbreak. “The rural sector is not yet linked with to the hand-to-mouth segment of the society (those who were observed in all districts. The study further observes background we are going to cover the waiting list as technology such as WhatsApp therefore it’s a challenge do not have talent, skill or financial ability to invest in lack of clearly defined criteria for selecting beneficiaries and well. We will consider their economic backgrounds only. to coordinate programmes. We need to create a network any enterprise) ever since we secured independence, this the lack of a systematic entry and exit mechanism are key Other payments such as pensions too will be handed over with the neighbourhood and conduct training programmes. is not going to help reviving the agricultural sector as reasons for the persistence in targeting errors. As at present to people who are entitled to it in the coming few days.” After getting mobility we are targeting young mothers expected,” he added. there seems to be no entry / exit mechanism to identify the said Prof. Herath. and focusing on nutrition because we need to establish “What we have to do now is to prepare ourselves for the new poor or remove households that are no longer poor. A However during the past few weeks, many Samurdhi food security. Hence we need a Sri Lankan approach to next leap forward. Subsequent to forming an Overarching special audit report issued by the National Audit Office in beneficiaries claimed that they hadn’t receive their loans. development and we are focusing on women and farmers Agricultural Policy (OAP) covering all the aspects 2018 states that the register of Samurdhi beneficiaries have When asked about how beneficiaries are being selected in this process,” added Kiriwandeniya. related to agriculture, individual sectorial policies could been revised only in instances such as a demise of a member for this loan scheme, Prof. Herath said that it is the be prepared by the subject Ministry in line with the OAP. of a Samurdhi beneficiary family, a member leaving the responsibility of the Grama Niladhari in that respective ESTABLISHING FOOD This policy should not be created by persons who believe family after marriage, a new birth and change of division. division. “They will make a list of people whom they feel that national food security could be sustained by merely However it has been observed that when formulating poverty are the most eligible to receive the Samurdhi loan,” he said. SECURITY planting few crops in every homestead of the country, reduction policies it is important that they are conducive to A sum of Rs. 3500 is given to a family of four members According to the Climate and Food Security Monitoring but by experts and professionals with foresights in the communities or beneficiaries becoming self-sustaining in the or more, while a family with three family members gets Bulleting for Maha Season 2019-2020 prepared by the agricultural sector. This standpoint of mine should not long run and that government hand-outs can induce a culture Rs. 2500 while a family with less than three members United Nations World Food Programme the continuous be misread as a disdain for the home garden initiative, of dependency. A review of the Samurdhi beneficiary project is entitled to a Samurdhi loan of Rs. 1500. Prof. Herath spread of COVID-19 may create a high level of food as I frankly think it is a useful effort. However, it has its by the World Bank concluded that Samurdhi does not emerge however reiterated the fact that these beneficiaries will insecurity and indebtedness for the vulnerable groups in limitations and home gardens by themselves will contribute, as an efficient transfer programme : “It is modestly successful get Rs. 5000 in addition to what they are already being the country. However, many people seem to have started but not help the nation to sustain food security in the long in reaching the intended beneficiaries, but it transfers a large entitled to. small scale home gardening projects; some going to the run,” he added. portion of its resources to the non-poor,” it said. extent of planting and rearing edible gardens. In order to He further said that in the aftermath of the coronavirus, SRI LANKAN APPROACH lead by example as a self-sustaining nation, the government it is necessary to prioritise the high yield crop varieties as POLITICAL PREFERENCES recently launched the Saubhagya Home Garden Project well as animal species (livestock, poultry and fisheries) Amidst such discrepancies, the government decided NEEDED thereby planning to distribute seeds and plants island that would fulfill the essential food requirement of the to allocate Rs. 20 billion to make an advance payment The GoSL recognises Small and Medium Enterprises wide for a sum of Rs. 20. However, whether such projects country by infusing the most modern technologies to the benefiting 2 million Samurdhi beneficiary families at the (SMEs) as the backbone of its economy as it accounts would stabilise the country’s food security in the long run sector. “We need to plan for this from now onwards. We onset of the COVID-19 outbreak. The decision to grant for more than 80% of the total number of enterprises. remains a question. need to produce more with less input. We must make an interest-free advance of Rs. 10,000 was reached at a Circular No.4 of 2020 issued by the Central Bank of Sri “In the truest sense, food security is nothing but effective modern technologies affordable to the end-users; Presidential Task Force meeting on providing reliefs for Lanka requested financial institutions to implement a debt guaranteeing to all the people living in the country for example, by removing taxes imposed upon them at needy people. The programme will be conducted in two moratorium on capital and interest. One of its clauses availability of healthy and nutritious foods, freely and in least in the short-run. Further, it is important to revive phases where each family will receive Rs. 5000 at one time. includes offering a six-month debt moratorium for affected a sustainable manner,” opined Prof. Buddhi Marambe, the agriculture exports and reposition Sri Lanka in the Interest will not be charged on this amount and the first six industries in the SME sector. Sanasa Development Bank Senior Professor in Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture at newly emerging global market. If we work with a focused months would be a grace period. Following this the families is one of the local banks supporting the government in Peradeniya University. “No country could attain food objective and unwavering policies, Sri Lanka could achieve are given 18 months to repay the amount. However, many its economic recovery programme by giving relief to its security by solely relying on the local food production. the long anticipated progression in the agriculture sector recipients who gathered at the respective Grama Niladhari customers. “We also have a disaster management committee What should be done is maximising the contribution of as well as recapture the export markets we have lost to offices at the onset of this announcement claimed that they with the Sanasa Insurance Company where we have joined the local agricultural sector for the national food security. many other regional countries, in which we were dominant were not entitled to receive the advance since they were hands with cooperative societies to give relief packages to The contribution of the local food production should not be in the past,” said Prof. Marambe. not registered. In certain areas, Samurdhi recipients were people,” said Samadanie Kiriwandeniya, Chairman of assessed merely on its cost efficiency against imported food In conclusion he said that once the coronavirus crisis given a relief package worth Rs. 1300 which would be Sanasa Development Bank PLC. “These are people who items. Instead, it should have a focus on the possibilities ends one day, the agriculture of Sri Lanka could be revived deducted from Rs. 5000 that they receive. have been earning a daily income which has dried up due of further improving the agricultural sector of the country, only if we invest the necessary knowledge, acumen and “Nearly 1.8 million people are going to get the Samurdhi to the market closure. We have over 1000 cooperative while keeping an eye on future economic progression of wisdom on the sector. loan scheme,” said Prof. Charitha Herath, Head of Media societies and over the years that have taken leadership the nation. After all, the agriculture sector is the major PICS BY NIMALSIRI EDIRISINGHE Printed and published by Wijeya Newspapers Ltd. on Thursday April 09, 2020 at No. 8, Hunupitiya Cross Road, Colombo 02 An Advertisement Page 5 A6 THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020 “If you believe in a cause, be willing to stand up for that cause with a million people or by yourself.” EDITORIAL OTIS S. JOHNSON

OUR THOUGHT DMDM PollPoll Should Parliament be reconvened to assist the fight against COVID-19? THE VIRUS a) Yes b) No c) Don’t know THAT’S LAST POLL The mechanism to distribute essential items to people confined by curfew GOING VIRAL has been: he coronavirus or COVID-19 is showing no signs of relenting but is continuing Very to spew its venom locally and globally Not effective with countries such as the United effective 7% States, France, Spain and Italy among at all Tothers, doing their utmost to curb its spread and 70% its catastrophic fallout. Somewhat In Sri Lanka, the Health Ministry on Friday effective urged people to desist from stigmatising and marginalising those infected by COVID-19 because 23% this had resulted in infected patients or those who had come into contact with them being reluctant to See web poll at www. .lk seek medical help.

The Ministry underscored the importance of seeking treatment without delay or dilly dallying as it will save the lives of the patients and help prevent the spread of the viral infection. A case in point LETTERS TO THE EDITOR was that of a virus-infected 28-year-old pregnant woman, who had falsified her symptoms and Appoint an ex- admitted herself to the Nagoda Hospital in Kalutara where she gave birth to her baby. The negligence services officer on the part of this woman, a resident of Pannila in Beruwala, has led to the nursing staff who attended FOR MORE CARTOONS LOG ON www.dailymirror.lk/cartoon as head of CEA on her, having to be quarantined. The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) few days ago boasted that These are incidents that should not be allowed By the water quality in Kelani river has to happen because it makes the fight waged by the improved during the recent weeks. government, the healthcare services, the security Malinda According to the CEA, the decrease in forces and the police to eradicate the deadly virus Seneviratne the release of industrial waste into the that much more difficult. Kelani River has resulted in the increased quality of its waters. This was the best Meanwhile, the Director General of Health his government is crazy. Not news item everyone heard and saw. Services (DGHS), Dr. Anil Jasinghe said the just this government, but THE WHO, Now the question arises why CEA ministry has set up an emergency hotline No: 1390 all governments are crazy. could not maintain same quality/ through which people who think they are suffering All governments past and standards right throughout. It implies from the viral infection could obtain free medical present as well as those yet that by the CEAs own admission that advise on how best to handle their concerns instead Tto be formed are insane. Alright. Strong it was due to industrial waste sent into of rushing to a hospital in the first instance. He words. Frequently used words. Here’s the Kelani River by factories, that has said the hotline was set up in an effort to prevent the question: are the finger-pointers sane? been going on un-abated, in spite of the the coronavirus from infecting doctors, nurses and Harsha Wickramasinghe, engineer and ‘CIVIL SOCIETY’ tough regulations of the CEA, which others who may unknowingly come into contact a perceptive if infrequent commentator were never implemented. There may with those showing any symptoms. on things related to policy and politics, AND THE PARAMETERS OF SANITY be underground pipe lines to divert at least in social media, had an polluted water to the river. This proves He said the doctors responding to the calls interesting take. Here’s the translation: the lethargic attitude and work of CEA. received on the hotline will check the symptoms According to some on Facebook the country CEA has failed in performance of its and where necessary assist in admitting the patient should have been shut down the moment duties. There is nothing which cannot to a hospital via the Suwasariya ambulance service. the first person infected with Corvid-19 was be controlled. Even the deadly Corona found. Are face masks necessary or not? virus is in the process of being well Sounding a note of caution, the Health Ministry Is it wise to lift curfew off and on? We’ve controlled due to the strict enforcement of and the Government Information Department seen a lot of debates such as these, but we The National Centre on COVID-19 has been in the frontline, taking decisions on behalf of the country new laws by the orders of the President requested all media institutions to report only must keep in mind that this is the very first – ex-military man. bulletins issued by authorised State sources and time that all of us are facing a pandemic. state-determined or faith-determined? They This is why we need an exemplary refrain from circulating questionable news items It is also a first-time experience for doctors are on balance favouring the state because ex-military man at the helm of the CEA so as to avoid causing any confusion, fear or panic when it comes to responding and treating the they probably know that going the other who will work without fear or favours, and to refrain from mentioning the ethnicity or the disease. Many errors and highly successful It is also a first-time way is opening a Pandora’s Box or a can of to enforce CEA rules/regulations and to religion of the virus-infected patients, those who die treatments are invariably tied to these very experience for doctors when worms given their long history of demanding keep Kelani river free of pollution. We from the disease or those quarantined. experiences. For example, the World Health it comes to responding and an ‘absolutely secular state’ (without Article saw recently how ex-military officer, Organisation (WHO) first declared that treating the disease. 9 but WITH Articles 10 and 14 and of course (consumer affairs) brought the black- Dr. Jasinghe also issued a set of guidelines to be the virus cannot be transmitted with the Muslim Marriage and Divorce Act marketers down to their knees, to serve followed by media personnel and media institutions through air. However, with Many errors and intact!). This is why they’ve brought in the the public fairly. when reporting the developing situation with more knowledge/experience highly successful WHO guidelines. SUMITH DE SILVA reference to the pandemic. they quickly corrected treatments are Harsha’s comment needs to be themselves. invariably tied to revisited. The WHO got it wrong about To sum up the chaos that has eclipsed the world We must understand that these very experiences transmission. They said it couldn’t be we use this excerpt from an article,titled ‘The the avenue of successfully transmitted through the air. The WHO Pandemic is a Portal’, written by India’s award- responding to the pandemic Easter Sunday attacks.’ So, ‘Easter found this was wrong. The WHO changed winning journalist Arundhati Roy to the Financial is neither a straight line nor an Sunday’ happened. No one ‘did’ it. its position. The WHO also said that Times: expressway. Other countries But, dear, oh dear, ‘in the aftermath’ face masks weren’t necessary. The WHO It’s time to identify have shown us that it is an there were victims WITH an later realised that face masks could help “Who can use the term “gone viral” now arduous road with deadly identity. Yes, Muslims. And contain the spread of the disease. The and support local without shuddering a little? Who can look at twists and turns. As the yes, they were subjected WHO changed its stance. anything anymore — a door handle, a cardboard public, the way we can to violence. Absolutely We are all on trial-and-error. Countries entrepreneurs carton, a bag of vegetables -- without imagining it ensure that the journey is wrong and despicable. have to find their own ways of dealing Super powers such as USA are swarming with those un-seeable, undead, un-living undertaken with care is to However, slicing narrative with the situation that unfolds very fast running out of basic Personal Protective blobs dotted with suction pads waiting to fasten support the driver who uses to whitewash some and vilify and in quite unexpected ways. Guidelines Equipment (PPEs) such as surgical masks themselves on to our lungs? brakes and steering wheel in accordance with others never helps. But then that’s bread are useful, but one would expect at least a that are required for healthcare staff. As the nature of the road and not by complaining and butter for our rent-a-signature worthies. few of the petitioners to know the meaning a result, footage of several healthcare “Who can think of kissing a stranger, jumping that the signal was wrong, that brakes were In this petition, they do mention of the word. It’s not a law. It’s not some kind workers who have quit their jobs went on to a bus or sending their child to school without applied without warning etc.’ ‘Easter Sunday’ along with ‘Muslim’. of multilateral covenant. viral on social media during the past few feeling real fear? Who can think of ordinary Now there’s been a hue and cry about However, it’s an ‘ISIS inspired group This is a global issue but it is resolved at days. But the situation in Sri Lanka is pleasure and not assess its risk? Who among us is disposal of cadavers over the past week. of Muslims’. It’s almost as though no all levels, ‘The Nation’ included. That’s ‘Sri commendable. While the supply is still at not a quack epidemiologist, virologist, statistician Not surprisingly a bunch of people who Muslim in Sri Lanka could ever on his Lanka’ and the Government of Sri Lanka, a challenging stage, several homegrown and prophet? Which scientist or doctor is not have appropriated the term ‘civil society’ or her own harbour fundamentalist/ whether one likes it or not. The petitioners ventures have begun to supply everything secretly praying for a miracle? Which priest is not have done the usual. They’ve petitioned terrorist intents. And get this, they talk would do well to check out how countries from surgical masks to PPEs, isolation — secretly, at least — submitting to science? one and all. ‘Follow WHO guidelines!’ of negative stereotypes of Muslims that with an overwhelming majority of Muslims pods, ICU beds to encourage healthcare That’s their cry and if you google that prevailed before Easter Sunday 2019. are dealing with after-death. Iran, an Islamic workers to battle against the killer virus. “Whatever it is, coronavirus has made the whine with ‘Sri Lanka’ you’ll find a copy In other words, Muslims were in any state no less, has abandoned Islamic burial It was also mentioned that the cost of mighty kneel and brought the world to a halt like of the petition on multiple sites. case persecuted and were utterly and rituals. Sure, they’ve not OK’d cremation, importing an ICU bed was around 7.5 nothing else could. Our minds are still racing back Of course, they can’t say ‘follow our absolutely blameless. That’s impression. but if it is about religious practices then it lakhs but one could be easily made in and forth, longing for a return to “normality”, guidelines,’ because they are not a body of That’s cute. is about an entire ritual, an entire process, the country for just 3 lakhs! This itself trying to stitch our future to our past and refusing epidemiologists. Fortunately, they had the But then, they have to draw up on all that all elements included. shows the potential of our citizens and to acknowledge the rupture. But the rupture exists. WHO ‘guidelines.’ Otherwise they’d be argumentative toilet wash as preamble. That’s Sri Lanka hasn’t got to where Iran is why we need to encourage them in every And in the midst of this terrible despair, it offers us stuck with ‘cultural preferences’ or ‘faith what makes the ‘plight of the Muslims’ so right now. One could argue that drastic possible way. Likewise, if we can get a chance to rethink the doomsday machine we have edicts.’ Those of Muslims, in this case. dreadful. So while deferring to the WHO measures should be considered only if together as one, we can all get through built for ourselves. Nothing could be worse than a Again, not surprisingly, the petitioners the last word on medicine, pandemic and the situation gets really out of hand. On this crisis, together. return to normality.” shed copious tears about persecution. Yes, science, the rent-a-signature worthies put the other hand, we are back to the basic A citizen Muslims, in their book are persecuted. So on the mantle of Islamic scholars. They and incontrovertible truth: NO ONE Like other affected countries worldwide, Sri who does the persecution? They don’t say believe that the country’s ‘greatly distressed KNOWS. And thus to the time-tested Lanka too is fighting an invisible enemy, which it, but say without saying it. Let’s keep Muslims’ (yes, Christians who suffered the adage, ‘BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY.’ does not pick and choose whom it infects. People, it that way. wrath of the most fervent of the Islamic faith- If tomorrow the WHO says ‘cremate,’ no matter who, are falling prey to this deadly virus There are linguists, writers and --and others too---cannot be as ‘distressed’ what then? Maybe it will, maybe it won’t. Recommendations and this is all the more reason why all Sri Lankans, anthropologists in this collective. They as the Muslims, we are supposed to infer) But we know that the WHO is on a learning whatever their caste, creed or ethnicity, need to know a lot about words and about absences. will feel they are being punished or that the curve. The 164 Civil Society activists and 17 from top medical cooperate with the authorities to exterminate this They were after all, roundly silenced a year country has little respect for their concerns organisations that have signed the petition, common enemy from our soil. ago when a bunch of terrorists subscribing to if any Muslim who succumbs to Corvid-19 on the other hand, are active as though they professors the Islamic faith detonated multiple bombs. is not buried. Not surprisingly they are know what’s what, what needs to be done, If those infected and those who come into They quickly shifted gears to footnote or part of a chorus which includes Amnesty and what should be avoided. Well, the WHO WEB COMMENTS contact with them continue to play hide and erase this particular religious community. International and Al Jazeera (which uses hasn’t given any guidelines as to how citizens seek there would be no end in sight to the curfew They spoke of violence (which was nothing the word ‘anguish’ in relation to the issue) should respond to quacks, but I can speak imposed to rope in the recalcitrant few. compared to what was unleashed on Easter Why? Well, that’s what Islam says! They for myself and say ‘I am thrilled you lot are LEENUS - Where were comprehensive. Please Sunday by National Thowheeth Jama’ath, know, let’s assume. not making decisions right now.’ these Professors all implement as suggested. (a group of ISLAMIC fundamentalists) Fine. Are these people saying that in [email protected]. www. these days. Hats off to I like the last para the that took place ‘in the aftermath of the situations such as this, practices should be malindawords.blogspot.com. the President and other most --the last thing we members of GMOA should have is violence / hate campaign against CITIZEN - Learned Muslims as some who ‘YOUR THOUGHT’ is a space, a right of the readers to support or contradict and discuss the No 8. Hunupitiya Cross Road, Colombo 2. P.O. Box 1136, Colombo. professionals did this, part time, are issues highlighted in the editorial and other articles in the editorial and op-ed pages. Designed as the Editorial: Tel: 011 2 436 998, 011 2 479 479 (ext.327,356). Fax: 011 2 304 545 should make such now engaged in same full reader’s editorial; our readers can send in their writings, with a word count not exceeding 200, to AGM Marketing & Corporate - (Dir.)2 479 561 recommendations for time as they have nothing progress ‘Your Thought’, Daily Mirror Political Features Desk, No 8, Hunupitiya Cross Road, Head of Circulation - (Dir.) 0112 479 672, 077 3 219 775 else to think of other than Colombo 2 or email to Subscription Manager-(Dir.)2 479 626, 2 479 628, 077 3 502 183 NADARAJAH - Very creating disharmony. [email protected]. E-mail: [email protected] See more web comments at www. .lk THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2020 A7 ‘We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope’ - MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. OPINION

If one looks at the curve of the corona situation during the past two weeks, he or she will IT’S BAFFLING HOW find it flattened (AFP) NATIONS RESPOND TO COVID -19 GOVT. KEEPS

Instructions on social distancing are pictured attached to railings on the front in Brighton, on the Some states in America have south coast of England, on April 5, 2020 (AFP) declared golf, guns and ganja FINGERS CROSSED (marijuana) as essentials By Ravi Some human rights groups have Nagahawatte warned governments that they shouldn’t invade into the privacy ll the efforts taken by the Government of Sri of individuals when TILL APRIL 20 Lanka (GoSL) to combat the COVID-19 pandemic tracking the Coronavirus have come in for praise In bid to see whether Aexcept for the efforts taken to discipline He alleges COVID 19 was some of the law breakers. The pandemic has exposed some of designed by China to be used as current crisis dissipates the various ways in which people and Governments around the world have a biological weapon responded to the crisis. Sri Lankans will continue further according to have been told to remain indoors and information available at the moment that essentials will be delivered to their was lifted we saw the uncultured exposing so many to the dangers of By and stringent quarantine measures doorsteps. Some states in America nature in some individuals surface. the ongoing pandemic. remain in place. have declared golf, guns and ganja Some people ignored maintaining Talking about law suits resulting Kelum The ruling side is not ready to heed (marijuana) as essentials. In many the mandatory distance of one metre from COVID-19 former federal Bandara a call for reconvening Parliament. places in Great Britain booze has been between individuals. Some even failed prosecutor Larry Klayman is working The government has focused its included in the list of essentials. And to wear face masks. For the record on building international pressure attention fully on the containment of some human rights groups have warned the death total arising from COVID- on China and has invited Sri Lanka early a month has lapsed the disease. The opposition parties- on the fact that the House should pass governments that they shouldn’t invade 19 is relatively low in a country like to join the cause. after the identification the United National Party(UNP), the a resolution to increase the burrowing into the privacy of individuals when Germany because people in this nation This prominent lawyer based in the of the first Sri Lankan Samagi Jana Balawegaya(SJB), the limit to get much needed money. tracking the Coronavirus. These have strictly adhered to maintaining UK has filed a US Dollar 20 trillion national infected with Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna(JVP) Likewise, Sri Lanka Muslim groups, also Including Human Rights a one metre distance between two law suit against China; because the COVID- 19. The first and the Tamil National Alliance(TNA)- Congress, a key ally of the SJB, Watch and Amnesty International, and individuals. One thing which would pandemic forced his company to incurs caseN was reported on March 11. Since are not harsh on the measures being is also building an argument based numbering 110 such organisations, serve us better for the future is if we a loss of US dollars 50,000 and layoff then the number spiked to 185 cases adopted by the government in on the constitutional provisions to have laid out eight conditions for continue with this practice of social employees. He alleges COVID-19 by Tuesday leaving six patients dead. fighting COVID-19. convene Parliament. governments when setting about the distancing. In other words we also was designed by China to be used as Beside, 42 people had recovered fully However, the SJB, backed However, the government task of controlling the virus; especially call it honouring private space. Apart a biological weapon. and were discharged from hospitals. by its allies, is trying is unlikely to yield to when using surveillance technology from the guidelines issued to maintain As much as medics around the world If one looks at the curve of the corona to mount pressure pressure from the in combat programs. social distancing the death rate from try to get a grip on the present virus situation during the past two weeks, on President If a opposition at this the virus has been kept low in Germany through lab tests countries like Sri he or she will find it flattened. That is Gotabaya downward hour. First, the thanks to the widespread testing for the Lanka have done well to control the because only 41 cases were reported Rajapaksa to government diseases, treatment and the availability number affected by the pandemic. during each of the past couple of reconvene the trend is reported, believes the This prominent lawyer of intensive care beds in abundance. Reports reveal that China, the country weeks respectively. now dissolved the country would President can based in the UK has filed Like during any other past catastrophe where COVID-19 originated, has Medical experts engaged in Parliament. reconvene a US Dollar 20 trillion the nature to give what we have as aid passed the peak stage of the virus. Sri fighting the spread of the virus have SJB Leader be opened for the dissolved has been showcased in no uncertain Lanka is vulnerable because it has not briefed government leaders about the Sajith Parliament law suit against China; terms. Goods are pouring in the form got to that stage. May be Sri Lanka is latest trend of the disease. Still, the Premadasa normal life on a only if he because the pandemic of bagfuls and lorry loads to collection only seeing the tip of the iceberg where infected patients belong largely to an inquired about case by case wishes to. So , forced his company to centres. The GoSL even showed a heart the Coronavirus is concerned. identifiable group meaning that the it when he, along basis he is not under incurs a loss of of gold when the authorities accepted health authorities can contact or trace with his party’s obligation to do it. two passengers from a cruise ship that the source of their infection. Some General Secretary At the same time, the US dollars 50,000 and Ranjith Madduma Bandara layoff employees entered one of its ports; one of them of them have contracted the disease , government is of the opinion being an elderly German lady whose Some even failed t o while on overseas travel, and others called on a government delegation that there is no need to reconvene health condition was deteriorating. The from those already infected with the led by the President last Monday. The Parliament since the President has In Sri Lanka a thief returned to his other passenger was a Sri Lankan chef. wear face masks. For the disease. Here, there is reason to be government leaders responded with the discretion to authorise expenses mode of generatng income. During It’s good to live up to our name of being record the death total contended with. One is that the police a categorical ‘no’ to the request for from the Consolidated Fund during an unsuccessful attempt at stealing a hospitable nation. But many opine that arising from COVID 19 is and the military, involved in tracking reconvening the House. an emergency situation like this. Also, valuables from a house in Bopitiya the state must strike a balance between relatively low in a country people who contacted with Nevertheless, the opposition the government believes the opposition he was nabbed by neighbors. compassion and being tough when like Germany because the infected persons, has not given up on wants parliamentary sessions for its Ten policemen who went to arrest necessary. Many want the government can perform it. Former Finance political ends; that is to use it as a the thief were in for double trouble to be tough on curfew violators and people in this nation their task quite Minister Mangala forum for its members to speak at because they were forced to go into those with the virus who expose have strictly adhered to conveniently in Also, the Samaraweera, a time when media attention is not quarantine after the thief was tested others to danger. Just the other day maintaining a one metre isolating them government a key architect focused on them. Media space is positive for contracting the virus. a man walked into Apeksha Hospital distance between for quarantine believes the of the political mostly occupied by information, A good number of the public and concealed many of his ailments two individuals measures. dispensation led events and analyses related to the has responded positively to the when questioned. Eventually he was That there opposition wants by Premadasa, coronavirus. The opposition does not government guidelines issued for diagnosed with COVID-19; but by that is no surge in issued a even get a chance to have a press protection against the virus. Apart time he had exposed all the medical Army Commander Shavendra Silva the number of parliamentary statement conference. Parliament will provide from the districts Colombo, Gampaha, staff (Numbering 15) who attended to informing people who are quarantined cases suggests sessions for its yesterday them with the platform to take Kalutara, Puttalam, Kandy and Jaffna him to much danger. It might not come to further isolate themselves for that there is no stressing the on the government and to make curfew in other districts was lifted as a surprise if the hospital authorities another 14 days suggests how serious community level political ends need for the House their presence felt by the country on some days; granting people some file a law suit against this patient for the health issue is. transmission of the to meet to approve through the media. Accordingly, breathing space. But when the curfew walking into a cancer hospital and The talk about the fall of greenhouse disease. According expenses needing in the government has firmed up its gas emmisions, the repairing of the to the briefings made responding to the current position that the House should not Ozone layer and the wandering of w ild to the government leaders crisis. His argument is premised be reconvened no matter what. animals to parks and roads frequented by the health authorities, steps by humans shouldn’t be a distraction regarding the gradual opening up to our focus on COVID-19 of the country for routine life can be The manner in which we have taken only after that. If a downward responded to the pandemic is more trend is reported, the country would concerning than receiving applause. be opened for normal life on a case There was a report of a female who by case basis. Restrictions would travelled in 15 delivery vehicles to get be eased first in the least affected to her home in Mirigama; not knowing districts. In that sense, Colombo will or not caring about whether she’d infect be the last to be done away with others with the virus she was battling curtailment of public movements. against. So many vehicles have been All will depend on indication of the taken into custody and a large number pattern of the spread of the disease by of people have been apprehended by the April 20. People can keep their fingers police for breaching curfew regulations. crossed in this respect, and should The government has shown a humane adhere to instructions and guidelines nature in addressing the pandemic, issued by the health authorities for but now it seems that the GoSL has the prevention of the community Police and the military, involved in tracking people who came in contact with the infected persons, People stand in a queue to buy kerosene oil at a fuel station in Sri Lanka during a nationwide to shed the ‘Good guy image’ to put spread until normalcy returns. Curfew can perform their tasks quite conveniently (AFP) lockdown imposed as a preventive measure against the spread of the COVID-19 (AFP) lawbreakers in their place! 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Curfew, lockdown Amid COVID- Dankotuwa manufactures and economic 19, the time customized steam P9 livelihoods... P9 to act... P10 inhalers... Tea industry urges relevant govt. depts. to increase number of working days to facilitate exports „Says industry handicapped working days of relevant government the necessary approvals from, are not consumption.“Our request is to have by authorities not operating departments to facilitate the necessary working. The banks are also working them open three days a week, Monday, services approvals for the export of tea. only three hours a day. This is slowing us Wednesday and Friday, for at least five Speaking to Mirror Business, Tea down,” Herath said. hours a day, so we can move forward,” „States opening Health Dept.’s Exporters Association (TEA) Chairman The TEA chief shared that after a lot Herath said. Food Control Admin. Unit most Sanjaya Herath said the request is of pressure from the industry players and According to the TEA chief, most of put forward so that the industry is the Sri Lanka Tea Board, the Commerce the factories have started work, however vital given the necessary support, allowing Ministry is now functioning three days a only with half the staff capacity. it to continue to steer through the week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday). While getting staff to factory sites „Most tea factories function stagnant times brought about by the Required is now to get the Food is currently the most challenging with half the staff coronavirus pandemic. Control Administration Unit of the endeavour to handle due to the ongoing „„ By Shabiya Ali Ahlam “The plantations are working to ensure Health Department to be open as well, curfew. Herath said stringent measures the production continues. However, he said. He said the department issues are in place to ensure work is carried The local tea industry is urging the we are slightly handicapped since the the necessary certification that affirms out in accordance to the Health government to increase the number of relevant authorities, where we get the final product as fit for human Ministry guidelines.

Govt. urged to Softlogic group cuts employee salaries to manage negotiate fresh loan costs during pandemic facility with IMF „5%-30% pay cuts for all staff earning above „ Economists say that will Rs.50,000 help rebuild investor confidence and prevent „Requests work extra First bunkering ship sharp fall in rupee hours with no overtime pay discharges low „Estimate SL would require a US $ 2.5bn to US $ 3bn „Cost-saving measures sulphur fuel at HIP loan facility adopted to minimise job losses Ashok Pathirage Bunkering vessel Mt. Melody was docked „Point out SL could engage at the Hambantota International Port (HIP) Softlogic Holdings PLC has the employees to work extra IMF for a fresh funding Murtaza Jafferjee Shiran Fernando last week to discharge approximately announced salary cuts for all hours without overtime pay as a 25,000 MT of oil into the port’s newly line via Rapid Funding employees who are earning above cost-saving measure to minimise furbished tanks. Instrument negotiate a fresh IMF programme “Weakness in LKR could be Rs.50,000, in the range of 5 job losses and to stay afloat as With the first shipment of very low sulphur to stabilise the economy, which sentiment-driven right now with the percent to 30 percent, as a measure the diversified conglomerate’s fuel oil (VLSFO) 380 CST in their tanks, HIP „Say decisive leadership has been adversely hit by the concerns on the economy owing to cope with the economic fallout revenue has taken a hit from the will soon begin bunkering for ships that call also should be extended coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. to COVID-19. To prevent a slide of the coronavirus pandemic. adverse impacts stemming from at the port, providing support to the heavily to addressing concerns According to the Central Bank, further, we may need to see measures The company also requested the virus. MORE ON P10 impacted international supply chain. during the year up to April 3, the Sri that will reassure confidence, such Over 31,000 vessels ply the main sea on economic stability Lankan rupee had depreciated by as announcements on potential debt route that lies just 10 nautical miles from the „„By Nishel Fernando 4.9 percent against the US dollar, moratoriums, foreign currency swap port every year. HIP, with its proximity to which now has reached 6 percent. lines and potentially other bilateral the route that connects the East and West, is ri Lanka should engage with The external sector in particular debt inflows,” he said. in an ideal position to provide these vessels the International Monetary has been hit by the pandemic, with Fernando pointed out these Millions of aviation jobs at risk, with bunkering services, helping them SFund (IMF) and explore other export revenue, remittance inflows, measures possibly could negate the airlines can’t afford refunds: IATA take the maximum advantage of the port’s debt inflows to the country to retain tourism revenue and FDI inflows, earnings losses from exports and unique location. the investor confidence on the slowing down drastically. tourism, due to the virus. (London) REUTERS: Global Bunkering is an important part of the economy as the selling rate of the Jafferjee estimated that Sri Lanka Meanwhile, Jafferjee stressed airlines warned that 25 million energy services portfolio offered by HIP. US dollar crossed Rs.200 for the would require a US $ 2.5 to US $ 3 that decisive leadership should jobs across the world could be “The port invested in refurbishing the first time in the country’s history, billion IMF loan facility to stabilise not only be limited to security and at risk from the coronavirus tank farm to Lloyds classification standards leading economists in the country the economy and rebuild the health matters but it should also be travel downturn and the and the tank farm facility will be operated urge the government. investor confidence. extended to address the concerns on industry’s representative body and managed by Sinopec, a leading global The selling rate of the US dollar Commenting on the possibility the stability of the economy. said airline finances were so operator, who will train our local staff hit Rs.200.46 yesterday while the of a fresh IMF programme, Ceylon “Decisive leadership is needed fragile they could not afford to up to international standards in safety buying rate reached Rs.193.95, as Chamber of Commerce Chief in economic matters, not only in refund customers. and operation. the LKR continued to slide against Economist Shiran Fernando said Sri security and health matters. It’s also The International Air of Lufthansa and British Airways The facility has a fully-fledged oil testing the US dollar and other major Lanka could engage with the IMF about giving bad news. We have to Transport Association (IATA) parent IAG, said global air travel laboratory at the site. HIP aims to become the foreign currencies, according to the for a fresh funding line through the swallow the pride and do what’s has held a series of weekly news slumped by 70 percent at the bunkering hub of the region and will work Central Bank data. Rapid Funding Instrument (RFI). right for the country,” he said. conferences, issuing increasingly beginning of the second quarter with Sinopec and the local bunker suppliers Speaking to Mirror Business, Further, he mooted possible debt Further, he cautioned that the desperate messages about the state and its Director General Alexandre in making this a reality,” Hambantota JB Securities Managing Director moratoriums, foreign currency swap government must act to manage of the airline industry and urging De Juniac said airlines could not International Port Group (HIPG) COO Tissa Murtaza Jafferjee, who is an lines and other potential bilateral debt the expectations of all stakeholders governments to help carriers. afford to issue refunds. He said Wickramasinghe said. economist, stressed that the inflows, to reassure confidence on in the economy, through carefully In its latest warning, IATA, customers should accept vouchers. MORE ON P10 government must act now to the economy. crafted messaging. MORE ON P10 whose members include the likes MORE ON P10

Moray Estate sets all-time record price Banks get additional Rs.53bn for lending at first-ever online tea auction Moray Estate set an all- from eased capital rules time record at the Colombo Tea Auction on April 4, 2020, „Fitch believes further idling. However, on the flip side, (D-SIB) and non-D-SIB status. Consequent to this, Fitch said with the sale of its BOPF relaxation in liquidity this could weaken the cushion Until then, the banks were banks could now operate below grade of tea for Rs.1300 rules in pipeline against shocks such as the current required to hold 250 basis points their current Tier regulatory per kilogramme. one from COVID-19, Fitch of their risk weighted assets as minimum of 10 percent applicable This line of quality tea, „Says such measures Ratings warned. additional capital buffer on top of on bucket two D-SIBs, such as which was sold by Eastern Last week, the Monetary their regulatory Tier I and Tier II Bank of Ceylon and Commercial Brokers Limited, was could weaken cushion Board decided to offer regulatory capital ratios. Bank PLC. purchased by Maskeliya Tea against shocks forbearance on a number “This would release around The banks in the bucket one Gardens (Private) Limited, of areas, including capital Rs.53 billion of capital for D-SIB, such as People’s Bank after active bidding by (COVID-19) pandemic that is foothills of the legendary „March 16 RSS cut adequacy, minimum capital level, lending purposes, based on and Hatton National Bank, can many buyers at the recently ravaging the world. Adams Peak mountain, also by 100 bps released recognition of non-performing banks’ reported capital ratios at operate below 9.5 percent and 8.5 concluded historic first- Moray Estate is uniquely referred to as ‘Sri Pada’ and another Rs.50-60bn to loans, impairments and also end-2019; however, it will also percent for non-D-SIB. ever ‘online’ tea auction in and picturesquely located was established in the year gave more time to file returns reduce buffers against potential Fitch Ratings on March 26 Sri Lanka. in the agro climatic district 1922. Its factory, with its banks and publish quarterly financial deterioration in asset quality,” revised Sri Lanka’s banking sector The Colombo Tea Auction, of Maskeliya in the western commanding view overlooking statements. Fitch Ratings said in its latest note outlook to Negative, from Stable, which is the largest single tea highlands, famed for the high the Mousakellie reservoir, „“Risks to the The above measures were to highlight the persisting risks for 2020 and said it would start auction centre in the world, quality of its teas that is evident was also built in the same banking sector have taken to alleviate the heightened on the banking sector, despite the assessing the impact on each bank has for over 135 years sold throughout most months year 1922, with L.B. Wilson increased”- Fitch pressure on banks, caused by the regulatory measures. under its rating watch shortly. the island’s teas in traditional of the year and particularly being its first superintendent. economic fallout of the pandemic. However, according to the Although the extraordinary fashion, using the public outcry in the seasonal period from The estate now comes under The Monetary Board’s Under eased capital adequacy BASEL III rules, the prime regulatory measures by the auction method. It has now December to April each year, the stewardship of Dinu decision to ease certain capital requirements, the banks were intention of introducing a capital Central Bank should relieve switched over to an e-platform, when ideal weather conditions Abeykoon, who has been rules on banks in response to the allowed to draw down from their conservation buffer after the immediate pressure on the conducting its first-ever online conducive for the production responsible for the continued coronavirus pandemic will release capital conservation buffers by global financial crisis in 2008 banks’ financial profiles, Fitch tea auction, breaking with of the best seasonal quality success of Moray Estate in over Rs.50 billion from capital 100 basis points and 50 basis was to promote building capital said those would not prevent tradition, in an effort to contain western teas prevail. recent times. buffers for new lending, which points based on their Domestic in good times that can be drawn medium-term deterioration. the spread of the coronavirus The estate nestles at the MORE ON P10 otherwise would have been left Systematically Important Bank down in periods of stress. MORE ON P10 THURSDAY, OPINION APRIL 09, 2020 09 CURFEW, LOCKDOWN AND ECONOMIC LIVELIHOODS AMID CORONA CRISIS and gas stations are permitted to the exchange rate soft peg. In The bank sector is already remain open. particular, the widening of the US$ struggling with non-performing This approach is prevalent in the sovereign credit spreads warrants loans and is poorly equipped to take more developed markets. Several full attention. a full hit and more importantly a emerging and developing countries The quantitative easing measures weakened banking sector will make BY Sharhan including Sri Lanka have opted deployed would typically lead it a huge challenge to engineer the Muhseen for a stronger form of lockdown to higher inflation and rupee post crisis economic recovery. which follows the ‘Hammer and depreciation. In this environment The Sri Lankan government in ational policymakers have Dance’ theory. The key challenge of low demand, inflation pressures its COVID-19 combat tool-kit been grappling on the right to this approach is the question on maybe better contained and the U.S. has several levers to deploy. The Nbalance between lockdowns the length of sustainability of the economy woes may take some of the proposed direct pay outs from the (total or partial) and maintaining a ‘Hammer’ or lock down period. sting out of the Rupee depreciation. Employee’s Provident Fund to its functioning economy to safeguard The success of a prolonged A sharp fall in the rupee against the members by the Prime Minister the livelihood of its citizens and lockdown can only be effective dollar raises concerns on the ability senior advisor Nivard Cabraal is viability of its corporate sector. if essential supplies can be made to re-pay dollar liabilities. thinking in the right direction. Some Whilst no solution seems optimal, accessible or delivered to vulnerable Fiscal stimulus key to economic other initiatives for the government the need for a well-orchestrated households. The sufficiency of management and recovery to consider targeting key vulnerable recovery strategy is central to avoid national resources to facilitate sectors is partially offsetting of a pro-longedsupply and demand this support net is central to this On the fiscal font, several short- wages in the tourism and apparel led economic recession. determination. If the appropriate unemployment levels surging to Industry, Food services and term measures centred around industry and provided unpaid Sri Lanka needs to take a mechanisms are not in place new highs. Transport sectors. Apparel industry extension of deadlines for payment leave and work insurance cover for comprehensive review of its to address the concerns of the In Asia, Singapore has one of executives are estimating an impact of taxes, utility bills, personal loans, vulnerable segments. vulnerable sectors and put vulnerable segment the short-term the largest stimulus packages with of around US$ 1.5 billion with a grace period for lease payments, In conclusion, whilst the together a targeted strategy with measures put in place to arrest US$ 33.7 billion being earmarked loss of revenue from the March to etc. have provided much needed Presidential Task Force on COVID- its limited resources to support the spread of COVID-19 may not to counter COVID -19 fallout. June period resulting in about 30 immediate relief. 19 is focused on containing the a rapid recovery.Whilst we need be successful over the medium The main trust of the Singapore percent lay-offs. Apparel industry Direct support measures including virus and supporting livelihoods to recognize that this is both to long term. In light of this, Sri relief package is to offset wages in accounts for 6 percent of GDP and providing Rs. 5,000 as single payment a separate Task Force needs a supply and demand driven Lanka may need to gradually phase the food services sector, provide 40 percent of total exports. to low income families, Rs. 50 billion to be composed to develop slowdown addressing the supply out of the curfew restrictions and co-funding to the aviation and To-date, the State has rolled out bailout package for COVID-19 hit the post COVID-19 economic side with the right fiscal stimulus move to anintensive testing-based tourism sectors and provide direct several commendable measures on business can be effective under proper recovery roadmap to ensure the is more fundamental to facilitate a approach to tackle COVID-19 in the money to low income households. both the fiscal and monetary side. administration and deployment. administration vision of ‘Vistas of quick recovery. days ahead. Most countries globally and in Whilst the monetary initiatives have Several of the fiscal measures Prosperity and Splendour’ remain Economists across the world are Safeguarding livelihoods Asia have also put in place multi- been robust fiscal stimulus could be announced, directly impact the on the horizon. debating various stimulus packages billiondollars packages to try and more-hard hitting and far-sighted. banking sector.Whilst the efforts (The writer is a Singapore- to get their countries back on track The most vulnerable segment soften the impact of COVID-19. The monetary initiatives centred to get the banking sector to share based Investment Banker and and shake off the effects of the to a pro-longed indefinite curfew Sri Lankan roadmap around liquidity injections (from the painis sensible, attempts to use former Economist. He has also economic crisis from COVID-19 is people on daily wages. It is a series of rate cuts and profit the banking sector as a first line of served on the National Council the novel coronavirus. estimated that there are 6-7 million Sri Lanka needs to take a transfers) needs to take into far defence by absorbing a large portion for Economic Development. This As I write the number of people in the Island depended on comprehensive review of the greater account the linkages of the full economic impact is fraught article represents the author’s infected have surpassed well over daily incomes. vulnerable sectors and put between monetary stability and with dangers. personal views) one million with no part of the Self-employed and contract- together a targeted strategy with worldsecure from this ravage. As based individuals typically have its limited resources to support a countries struggle to put in place limited monetary reserves and rapid recovery. Whilst we need to emergency medical personnel, need direct support to withstand recognize that this is both a supply hospital beds and ICU units there their loss of income. Food security and demand driven slowdown, Hammer and the dance theory are early and encouraging signs that is the immediate concernfor this to get the economy back on track the medical community will take group as the number of days of the addressing the supply side is the right measures to push back and curfew lengthen. more fundamental to facilitate a Coronavirus eventually contain COVID-19. As A prolonged curfew could quick recovery. cases the focus on the medical initiatives also lead to job losses with some On a broader macro level, Sri Do nothing intensifies the economic policy- estimates putting this at around Lanka will be looking at slower Mitigation makers have been working towards 2 million with no intervention growth, larger budget deficits and containing theeconomic devastation from the state in the short term. deterioration of the Balance of that is to follow. A compounding complication in payments (BOP) for 2020. Most The fears for the economy delivering a solution is that a vast economists are now looking at were highlighted by the often- majority of this group are not in GDP growth to come in around 2-3 repeated phase ‘if you try zeroing the formal banking systems making percent depending on their views The Hammer The Dance thecoronavirus you will end up it more difficult to provide direct on the length of the epidemic. The zeroing the economy’. The potential monetary support. budget deficit already primed with economic devastation will be most Scoping stimulus package the pre COVID-19 tax cuts now severe on the most vulnerable needs to account for much higher poorer segments of the population. Globally a series of economic health related spending programmes Curfew and total lockdowns and fiscal stimuli are being rolled and slower revenue collections. On out to try and counter the impacts the BOP front, the drop in tourism, A few countries in the world have of COVID -19.The U.S. is now remittances and exports will not enforced complete lockdowns. Most taking a more aggressive stance as be offset by a lower fuel bill and Today 3-7 weeks Ongoing countries have preferreda partial the epicentre of the virus shifts to import restrictions in place. lockdown where essential services New York and the U.S. Economy Key sectors under tremendous such as supermarkets, pharmacies begins to feel its effects with pressure are the Tourism, Apparel Amid COVID-19, the time to act now to protect food security incomes is often limited, and the Responsive policies impact of reduced income will be Timeliness is critical, and rapid and potentially severe. governments need to develop While efforts are underway to responsive policies and programmes hand out basic food, it may not cover without hesitation. In response to the the nutrition needs of populations food price hikes of 2010/2011, many and definitely not those of children governments designed programmes BY Hans Woldring, and pregnant women. Low nutrition which were implemented to address food, even when consumed for just the stresses at the time. Susann Roth for a couple of months, has long- New programmes should term impacts on children’s brain consider the lessons learned from With the impacts of the pandemic development and overall health. that period and be targeted for on food and nutrition being felt Although businesses working in effectiveness within the constraints of around the region, planning is needed the essential services area, including a supply chain operating in a partial to avoid higher food prices, decreased food imports, deliveries and sales, lockdown situation. nutrition and reduced food security. are typically open for business, Looking forward 3 to 6 months, of COVID-19 has captured the full functionality is low as staff is unable real concern is the impact of COVID- attention of governments across to come to work, or is caught up with 19 on food production and supply. the world. Their immediate focus 14-day self-isolation. Clearing food We know in many countries there has been on strategies to manage imports at the ports has slowed down are currently farm labor shortages both the pandemic from a public with a shortage of workers. The entire as workers can’t travel to farms, health perspective and the economic whole food processing sector is likely are quarantined, ill, or caring for ill and financial fallout through the to suffer from worker shortages, at family members. This will affect implementation of varying economic least in the coming 3 to 4 months. the timeliness of farm operations, rescue packages. As a result, supply chains are and the ability to complete various While understandably these are key functioning at reduced capacity, farm operations. priorities, people living in the locked causing supply side stresses. With Export ban down cities of Asia and the Pacific are food consumption being relatively worrying about fresh food markets constant, buffer stocks currently allow Fertilizer shortages are being that are closed, dwindling stocks in supplies to be maintained, however reported as supply chains in the supermarkets and the broken supply supply side shortages can easily production and transport phases are chains of local fruit and vegetable flow through to price rises. In some disrupted, and this will translate to a policies and investments in the food drying and storage technologies to arise in the coming weeks, months deliveries while food is held up on the countries, we can already observe reduction in crop yields. production value chain to reduce reduce losses. and even years. While the focus wharves. It’s getting harder every day increased prices in distant provinces. Some countries have implemented the level of COVID-19 impacts on The focus should be on staples of most governments is presently to get food. There is evidence that fruit and or are considering implementing the supply chain to control food food products and fruit and on health, financial and economic Possible impacts vegetable farmers using e-commerce a ban on rice exports, as in price rises. vegetables. With the closure of impacts, planning is required today platforms are already demanding 2010/2011 which could cause alarm Governments can take a range of markets, food delivery services to avoid higher food prices, impact We need to start thinking about the higher prices. that protectionism has not been short-term actions to ensure domestic and mobile food vans will be on populations’ nutrition status and possible impacts of the current crisis Lower income households abandoned. Rice export bans in 2011 food supplies. Local food systems important, which can be brought reduced food security. on food and nutrition security, and disproportionately feel the impact were a key reason behind rice price will have enhanced importance. to operation by the hundreds of Reducing shocks in the food what options exist for governments of reduced financial resources and hikes at that time. Open borders and regular revision stall holders from the now defunct supply chain will help contain to minimize food and nutrition the effect of increased food prices. Countries vary in the level of towards more targeted local markets. It will be crucial to help food price rises and will be a lower security risks. The flow-on effects of poor food and buffer stocks they carry in the lockdown policies to keep transport farmers stay connected with cost solution than managing food Reduced working hours or nutrition security at the household public and private sector. However, links open and food processors through the crises and lock downs shortages, higher prices and the risk unemployment will cut incomes level in varying contexts are well- a slowdown in the supply chain working are essential. increasingly decentralized markets of social instability. The time to act is for tens of millions of workers in documented and have impacts from upstream of the farm gate, at Depending on the situation, each and consumers. In the medium term, now, not later. Asia. This reality is well underway. far beyond health and nutrition. the producer level, and post farm DMC should study its circumstances investments need to be made in (Hans Woldring is Principal For many, household income could Countries are varied in their safety through processor to the fresh to ease the burden of access to inputs. upgrading of wholesale markets with Natural Resources and Agriculture easily fall to levels that cause severe net mitigation mechanisms, but market or supermarket is underway, Short term output-based stimulus proper cold storage facilities, which Specialist at ADB and Susann financial hardship, and both the fundamentally well targetedassistance reducing stocks. payments can act as an incentive for has been neglected for years. Roth is Principal Knowledge quantity and quality of the weekly is required, whether through Processed food items, with more farmers, including bonus payments Ultimately, the immediate impacts Sharing and Services Specialist, food basket will deteriorate. direct household cash transfers, complex supply chains, have a per ton delivered, or matching of COVID-19 on food and nutrition Sustainable Development and For families who live paycheck to food banks, food stamps or other greater risk of shortages. It will be grant programs for rapid adoption security are just beginning to emerge Climate Change Department, paycheck, their resilience to reduced similar means. critical that governments prioritize of proven and simple on farm and many additional tensions will ADB) THURSDAY, NEWS 10 APRIL 09, 2020

Dankotuwa manufactures SLIC pays tribute to heroes in customized steam inhalers for battle against COVID-19 homes and healthcare enterprises ankotuwa Porcelain PLC, glazing technologies, personalized renowned for its luxurious designs and endless options, the Dand elegant porcelain company continues to create tableware introduced the all new timeless and modern collection customized steam inhaler which of porcelain-ware that expresses is ideal for individuals affected exclusive dining experience for by respiratory tract infections every occasion. including COVID-19. “At a time when health officials SLIC Chairman Jagath Wellawatta speaking at the press conference. From left: Designed and advised by and governments are battling to Kumara Meegahage Director SLIC, Surekha Alles Director SLIC are also present Dr. Charith Nanayakkara, this create a better place amidst current modified steam inhaling device global pandemic, the Ambeon The national insurer, Sri Lanka loss of life due to COVID-19 will be made available at hospitals Group is pleased to be able to Insurance, has taken many within the year 2020. From left: Dr. Amal Harsha De Silva - Deputy Director General, Medical Services II, Ministry of Health, Channa and quarantine centers currently contribute towards this effort and Gunawardana - Chief Executive Officer, Dankotuwa Porcelain PLC , Yoshan Fernando - Director/Chief Executive initiatives to pledge support to The cover Viru Abhiman providing medical care for patients serve the people of Sri Lanka and Officer Royal Fernwood Porcelain Limited, Dr. Charith Nanayakkara - Lecturer of the Department of Surgery the government initiatives in is extended to all healthcare affected by the Coronavirus the world,” stated Murali Prakash, specializing in Neurosurgery at Teaching Hospital, Kotalawela Defense University Sri Lanka the prevention of the spread of employees in the State sector (eg: Disease (COVID-19). Group Managing Director COVID-19. Health Ministry officials, doctors, The Dankotwa steam inhaler Ambeon Capital PLC and Ambeon Special features/benefits of the steam inhaler One such initiative was the Rs. nurses, attendants, drivers, minor is also easy to use and can be Holdings PLC. 50 lakhs donation made to the workers, public health inspectors, utilized at homes for prevention „„The Dankotuwa Steam inhaler „„The rubber tube which was used „„The product is easy to use and COVID-19 Health and Social regional health officials etc) of multiple respiratory tract comes with a nasal steaming tube in the first batch of inhalers can also be used in the household Security Fund last week. members of the armed forces related conditions. It is also which will help to directly focus produced is intended to be setup as it could be disinfected Today Sri Lanka Insurance (Army, Air Force, Navy) Sri Lanka noteworthy that this product is a the steam to the mouth/ nose. modified and replaced with easily using household disinfectant launches yet another initiative in Police and Civil Defense Force modified version of the existing This will give a closer path for the Porcelain, so that it could be chemicals or boiling. support of motivating all State of Sri Lanka, members of the steam apparatus called the Nissen inhaled steam to move towards sterilized and cleaned easily thus sector employees on the frontline divisional secretariats including the Frontal Sinus when treating would trap less germs. This will „„All Dankotuwa Products are Lead Steamer which is considered and Cadmium free and does not of COVID-19 service. Viru field officers, members of the outdated but is currently being Frontal Sinusitis (Frontal Sinus is also ensure that germs will be Abhiman - a free financial cover district secretariat, members of the the sinus that one has right above killed, avoiding transmission from use animal bone ashe. Therefore, used by hospitals. this all new Dankotuwa steamer for the families of the state sector Postal Department.This is the first Dankotuwa Porcelain PLC, a the eyes. This is also a common one patient to another, even if the employees who are actively and the only cover in Sri Lanka sinus which causes sinusitis and inhaler is shared. is even safer than the apparatus subsidiary of Ambeon Holdings that is and was used commonly in involved in combating COVID- offered free for our heroes who are PLC commenced its commercial headache). 19. The cover is extended at the taking the frontline in ensuring the Dankotuwa steam inhalers hospital wards for centuries. operations in 1984. From superior unfortunate event of employee’s safety of our people.

Maliban supports IDH Hospital during battle against pandemic Fonterra to support communities In aim to contribute towards yahaposha, biscuits and tea, the combat of the ongoing to help sustain their energy in the fight against COVID-19 COVID-19 pandemic, while being on the frontlines Maliban Biscuits recently of the pandemic. Additional Multiple initiatives are underway by Fonterra donated special cold storage to the donation at IDH Dental Brands Sri Lanka, the company behind Anchor, to facilities and highly essential Hospital, Maliban Biscuits support the country’s efforts to combat the COVID- medical equipment to treat recently aided the Manusath 19 pandemic and help sustain affected communities. infected patients, at the Derana programme with its Rs. 10 million has been donated to the COVID- National Institute of Infectious products as well. 19 Healthcare and Social Security Fund established Diseases Hospital (IDH). Ravi Jayawardena – Group by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. This donation The donation recently CEO of Maliban stated, will provide for the humanitarian mission and commenced on April 01st at “During this critical period, the requirements of health workers and officials the IDH Dental Hospital and IDH provides an incredible working tirelessly to keep the public safe. was graced by Kumudika service to all Sri Lankan Managing Director for Fonterra Brands Sri Fernando – Managing Director citizens. On behalf of the Lanka and the Indian Subcontinent Sunil Sethi of Maliban, Ravi Jayawardena Maliban Group, it is a great said, “We are indebted to the heroic efforts of the Sunil Sethi (left) handing over the donation of Rs. 10 million – Group CEO of Maliban, pleasure to be able to donate to Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa Handing over of donations to Dr. Hasitha Aththanayake – Director, IDH healthcare workers, the Tri-Forces and the Task Dr. Hasitha Aththanayake – Hospital (left) from Kumudika Fernando – Managing Director ofMaliban to IDH and its valued staff. We Force set up under the leadership of the President, rations to hospitals and healthcare workers and Director of IDH Hospital and Biscuits and Ravi Jayawardena – Group CEO ofMaliban Biscuits (right). really appreciate the efforts who are striving to help Sri Lanka overcome worked with its all island distribution networks to Dr. Chintha Sooriyaarachchi made by all staff members the situation. Our primary focus at this time is dispatch aid to needy communities. Financial aid and – Deputy Director of reputation as a brand which of need, Maliban Biscuits and I humbly request all Sri supporting their efforts.” product donations collectively amounting to over Rs. IDH Hospital. steps forward to provide its further supplied the hospital Lankans to help them as much Fonterra is continuing to collect milk from its 12 million have gone towards these efforts to date. Renowned for its utmost support during times staff with snacks such as as possible during this period.” network of local dairy farmers, thereby providing With the necessary approvals obtained from the them the reassurance of a guaranteed income in authorities and recommended controls in place, the these uncertain times. In doing so, the company has company is honouring the government’s intention put in place several systems to ensure the safety of of ensuring the consistent supply of essential food milk collection operations including the provision of items such as milk and milk powder and are looking CCC to hold webinar on ‘Planning for the unpredictable’ with Fahad Farook personal protective equipment for the safety of the at ways to broaden public access to its dairy products farmers and staff. through online and other delivery services. How can you plan for the experiences as well – during lockdown, register now over several years through individual “In tough times such as these, what is most In all its operations, the company is ensuring the unpredictable? Join the Chamber especially concerning stress, at https://event.chamber.lk/ development, team development, important is how all of us come together in health and safety of its employees, having taken all Academy for a webinar with international emotional management, Fahad Farook is an adventure based learning, leadership, supporting the collective humanitarian effort, and precautions to safeguard them as it now operates with trainer, certified transformative coach, and security. International Trainer, Certified creativity and motivational programs, in as a dairy company, we want to ensure we are a team of essential and limited staff on-site. Fonterra and motivation specialist Fahad Farook on Farook will share ideas, Transformative Coach (ICF) addition to being involved in consultancy safeguarding the livelihoods of our farmer network,” has so far invested over Rs. 9 million in safety and Planning for the Unpredictable, this Friday techniques, and models and Motivation Specialist projects with several organsiations. His said Sethi. hygiene controls across the supply chain on behalf of from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. that can be used to who has carried out training main areas of interest include human Further through Anchor, the company has its team and partners during this health crisis. The session will focus on how to manage this tumultuous programmes in USA, Australia, interaction, interpersonal relationships supported humanitarian initiatives such as Manusath “We’re very proud of our teams for the discipline, absorb shock and manage worry in period a bit better. Fahad Farook Japan, India, Dubai, Malaysia and challenging paradigms, aspects he Derana and Hiru Sahana Yathra that reach vast rural leadership and humanity they have demonstrated, these uncertain times. Though everyone Whether you are a student, and Sri Lanka. He is an includes in his interventions in order to communities in need of food supplies and other aid. and we continue to serve the nation at this time of is affected by COVID-19 in numerous a freelancer, an entrepreneur, or a home- innovative and articulate trainer who create interactivity as well as to stimulate Meanwhile, teams from Fonterra have distributed need,” noted Sethi. and different ways, there are common maker wondering how to move ahead has interacted with thousands of people alternative thinking amongst participants.

Contd. from Page 8 Chairman Ashok Pathirage stated via an internal memo to the IATA highlighted the loss of jobs and the impact on the and HIPG’s strategic partner Sinopec will supply employees, yesterday. world economy if governments let airlines collapse. Sri Lanka accordingly. Govt. urged to... The group, which has over 10,000 staff, has presence in Three months of severe travel restrictions plus lower traffic This is another step by HIP in achieving its goal of He pointed out that the recent policy decisions to ban ICT, healthcare, retail, financial services, automobiles and over 2020 could put 25 million jobs at risk, IATA warned, becoming an energy hub. In October 2018, the port non-essential imports to the country while suspending the leisure sectors. adding that about a third of 2.7 million direct jobs in the airline partnered with Laugfs Gas, a pioneer in Sri Lanka’s purchase of Sri Lanka international sovereign bonds (ISBs) Accordingly, the memo stated that salaries (excluding sector had either been lost or were furloughed. power and energy sector, to service its storage and by the licensed banks and relaxation of foreign exchange rules vehicle/travel allowance) of employees who are earning Airlines are burning through their cash reserves as they try transshipment requirements of liquefied petroleum to attract foreign inflows without any review process, have Rs.50,000 or above would be reduced between 5 percent and to stay afloat, IATA said and providing refunds for cancelled gas (LPG). Transshipment of LPG is part of the energy created excessive panic among investors. 30 percent, for a period of three months. flights, as rules in many parts of the world such as EU261 in hub mix at HIP and many vessels called at the port for “Recent announcements have disastrous implications,” The executive staff earning Rs.1 million or above would be the European Union, require them to do, was not possible. transshipment, during the past year. he stressed. subjected to the largest pay cut of 30 percent. Consumer groups are angry at airlines for ignoring those Following these announcements, Jafferjee noted that Pathirage also stressed that no overtime payments would rules and say hard-up passengers need the cash just as much the foreign investors rushed to sell off Sri Lanka’s ISBs at be made for the next three months. However, he noted that it as the airlines. double-digit rates to the face value in the secondary market, would be required for employees to volunteer and work the IATA said about US $ 35 billion of tickets were due Moray Estate sets... on Tuesday, which was one of the largest sell offs seen in extra hours, should the job requires such commitment. for refund at the end of the second quarter and vouchers The estate is ISO 22000 and Rain Forest Alliance recent times. He urged all staff to come forward and volunteer to take on or a delayed refund was all airlines could offer. IATA has certified and has an annual production of 700,000 In particular, he was critical of the relaxation of foreign an extra function at this critical juncture. approached governments to ask them not to force airlines to kilogrammes of tea. exchange laws to attract foreign inflows, which he cautioned The measures are being implemented in conjunction with provide cash refunds. Moray Estate is managed by Maskeliya Plantations that it may lead to the international terror financing and the withholding of bonuses and pay increases for the year for a But the U.S. Transportation Department has told airlines PLC, which is part of Richard Pieris Group of Companies money laundering watchdog, the Financial Action Task Force period of three months. they must refund tickets for flights that they cancel or and is spearheaded by its CEO/MD Manoj Pathiraja, (FATF), taking actions against Sri Lanka. In addition, the group also decided to freeze all expenses make a significant schedule change that passengers do not whose experience, commitment and leadership have been With the engagement with the IMF, he was hopeful that pertaining to training and development and employee welfare, accept, following a rising number of consumer complaints the cornerstone of the company’s success. the country would be able to raise funds from international unless it’s regarded as a critical expense. and inquiries. capital markets at reasonable rates, when the market stabilises Further, all new plans and capital expenditure are also In the United States, a passenger filed a class-action lawsuit to service external debt, including the settlement of US $ 1 being temporarily suspended along with all new recruitments, on Monday against United Airlines for refusing to pay a billion ISB scheduled to expire in October. including head count replacements. refund after his family’s flight was cancelled. Banks get additional... Although the IMF is likely to show more leniency than “We have decided to implement cost-saving measures Separately on Tuesday, an environmental group called The earlier reduction in the Statutory Reserve Ratio usual, he noted that the multilateral lender is most likely to to ensure that job losses are minimised while taking the Stay Grounded published an open letter signed by 250 (RSS) on March 16 by 100 basis points to 4 percent was push Sri Lanka to rebuild its tax base, which he predicted opportunity to look inwardly and reduce wasteful expenses, environmental groups and charities from across Europe expected to have released at least another Rs.50 to Rs.60 would fall below 10 percent of GDP this year, amid the centralise functions to avoid duplication of work, eliminate calling on governments to attach climate and labour billion as extra liquidity to the banking sector. sweeping tax cuts announced late last year and the COVID- unviable business practices and adopt the right strategy - so conditions to any airline bailouts. Fitch Ratings believes there could be further support 19 pandemic. that the management may accordingly stay on top of the IATA has been asking governments for a reduction of in the liquidity front for the banks in the areas of eased Hence, Jafferjee urged the government to put forward the learning curve and face challenges of today’s harsh economic charges and taxes to help its members, which represent 82 liquidity coverage ratio, considering the non-payment of country and to focus on stabilising the economy, instead of realities,” Pathirage elaborated. percent of global air traffic, survive and for funds to help loans and possible deposit outflows. focusing on the upcoming parliamentary elections. Softlogic Holdings plans to review these cost-saving restart routes in future. Banks are currently mandated to maintain 100 percent “If the government takes the right measures despite short- measures at the end of the three-month period and consider It said on Tuesday that European countries had agreed to coverage on both local and all currency ratios, where it is term consequences, the people will vote for them,” he said. a possible extension of these measures until the country’s defer air traffic control charges totalling some 1.1 billion euros mandated under BASEL III to maintain a stock of high- economy recovers to satisfactory levels. (US $ 1.2 billion) from February to May. quality liquid assets to withstand net cash outflows over the next 30 days. “Notwithstanding such measures, the risks to Softlogic group.. the banking sector have increased, with the weaker “The unprecedented lockdown in the country with curfew Millions of aviation... First bunkering ship... operating environment exerting pressure on banks’ being imposed from March 17, 2020 and which continues “The key element for us is to avoid running out of cash The International Maritime Organisation set a limit loan quality and profitability. Fitch expects weaker unabated to date, erodes the group’s performance with most so refunding the cancelled ticket for us is almost unbearable for sulphur in fuel oil used on board ships of 0.50 profitability to also weigh on capitalisation over the next companies being closed for business,” Softlogic Holdings financially speaking,” De Juniac told reporters on Tuesday. percent m/m (mass by mass) from January 1, 2020 12 months,” Fitch added. FIND US ON www.facebook.com/life.lk [email protected] / [email protected] life_lk @dmlife_lk 011 2300552, 011 2479343 0777009998 LifeOnlineTv life_lk

LADY GAGA ANNOUNCES STAR-STUDDED CORONAVIRUS BENEFIT TELECAST Pop music superstar Lady Gaga on Monday announced a worldwide telecast featuring Paul McCartney, Lizzo, Billie Eilish and others to support healthcare workers responding to the global coronavirus outbreak.The event, called “One World: Together at Home,” will be shown on multiple television and digital networks around the world on April 18. It will be ANNA KOURNIKOVA SHARES hosted by late-night television comedians A PHOTO OF HER BABY GIRL Jimmy Kimmel, DYNAMO SAYS HE’S IN Anna Kournikova shared a sweet Jimmy Fallon photo with her two-month old baby girl and Stephen ‘MUCH BETTER SPIRITS’ Masha online Monday. The former tennis Colbert. Dynamo has updated his social media pro looked like she was acing motherhood REUTERS followers on his well-being after testing as she carried her pride and joy over her positive for COVID-19 amid his Crohn’s shoulder while sheltering at home in disease battle. In a clip posted to Twitter on | thursday Miami with her family. The 38-year-old Monday, the magician, 37, revealed he’s in beamed while hanging out in the stunning ‘much better spirits’ as he thanked his fans kitchen she shares with husband Enrique for their support after suffering from ‘quite | april 9, 2020 Iglesias. DAILY MAIL severe’ symptoms. DAILY MAIL

BY TINA EDWARD GAMINI HRITHIK GUNAWARDHANA JAYASURIYA “These students ith the need to return entire world to Sri Lanka to experiencing a the safety of their lockdown and STRANDED ABROAD families and we many countries closing their appeal to the president borders,W masses of Sri Lankan to organise a flight to bring us back students overseas are facing difficult to Sri Lanka” times especially in Australia, UK, and USA which are the most sought NOORUL BUHARY after countries for Sri Lankan CRUNCH TIME FOR “I am now managing students to pursue higher studies. with savings from my When the spread of the Coronavirus part time job which was escalating many international students availed themselves of the I was doing before flights and returned back to Sri Lanka the virus outbreak where they spent the requisite two and now that source is weeks in quarantine camps run by SRI LANKAN STUDENTS also fast depleting. There the government before they were in Spain is Saakya Rajawasan, a university student Ishini Gammanpila a student at Cornell University KAVINDYA has been some help from the Sri Lankan released to their homes. However, in Madrid. Saakya’s university closed a week before in Ithaca, New York had booked a flight to return to Society in Adelaide for which I am grateful” Spain ordered all schools to close and they moved Sri Lanka on 20th March but as the country imposed THENNAKOON others have not been so lucky. Some “I think the sense of are still stranded overseas and due to an online platform to continue their studies. The a lockdown, Ishini had no time to change her flights. university has given the option for foreign students to Speaking of the support given by her university Ishini uncertainty is really SHAQUILLE to borders being closed they have no return to their countries and has availed facilities so says “ They provided money from the school's Access chance of returning to Sri Lanka any crippling and being BALASURIYA that students in different time zones have access to Fund for students who had trouble leaving campus “I came back because time soon. In Australia the authorities the lectures. Speaking of her current circumstances, due to their financial situation. Some of the dining away from home you announced that students who could Saakya says “ I have mentally prepared myself to stay halls remained open for students who were unable feel very helpless. I was the situation in the not sustain themselves for 6 months in Spain till the December holidays in case the borders to leave campus. I was alone on campus and feeling doing a part time job UK was poor to the should return to their countries. This are still closed in June and July. I have been inside for miserable and my friends were really concerned so which is no longer available but I am truly extent that we got was a little too late for thousands three weeks and I am confident I can continue in this one of them came to "rescue" me with her family. I'm grateful that I am on a fellowship and instructions saying of Sri Lankan students in Australia matter for another month or two. My university has also currently staying at their house in Connecticut so I'm most of my tuition fees is covered. I know that even if we got the provided us with a two month free subscription to HBO doing alright now, but there are times where I feel sad as Sri Lanka had already closed its in addition to providing mental health services to cope because I start to get homesick, and worry because the many friends both in the United States symptoms we would not be treated until borders with Australia following with these stressful times. In June Saakya’s lease on situation across the world keeps worsening.” and outside who are unable to cover their we had the symptoms for 7 days.” swiftly behind. her accommodation runs out and she is faced with the For many students the overriding concern is when tuition fees. I wish I had hugged my mother daunting task of renegotiating the lease. If not, she has they will be allowed to go back to their universities. and my friends a little longer when I had Gamini Hrithik Jayasuriya a first year Business to find a new place to live. Faced with these mounting Echoing this is Ammaar Careem an undergraduate the chance to. Nothing, absolutely nothing ROSARIYA Admin student at RMIT in Melbourne explained that challenges Saakya remains hopeful when she says student at Nottingham Trent University who says “ the will be the same again” LIYANAGE there were many Sri Lankan students who were “I am trying to be very optimistic about the current only concern that I have is the time period that would “I got a scholarship stranded with little or no money. "Many of the students situation and ready to face any challenges that might take to return back. This is an unforeseen event and I ‘things haven’t changed much and there isn’t special who are here are helped by their parents to get to come up. I am trying my best to stay safe, especially hope a solution in this regard will be found soon, which treatment given for us. But many students who have to do my MA Australia. Most of them have to do extra jobs to pay as I have no family here and there is no Sri Lankan will enable us to return to normalcy.” gone for exchange programs are having a hard time in Rome. I was for their food, accommodation and also a component embassy or consulate here either.” While some students have been fortunate to have returning to their own country or even coming back hoping to do a part of their fees. Now that there is no work they are stuck. Like Saakya there are numerous students who are online classes, Areeb Thassim from the University to Japan. My place of work hasn’t been asked to Most of the students work all hours and as a result faced with accommodation problems. Speaking on of Amsterdam has had a different experience “My time job in Rome to close down yet. However a popular hotel where many help with my expenses have a nonexistent social network and don’t know the condition of anonymity a student advisor at one of university has struggled to move to the online international students and Japanese students work many Sri Lankans who they could even approach for Colombo’s leading international schools said “ many platform and will take some time to get there. With the has closed some restaurants inside, which made but that looks remote now as there help. These students need to return to Sri Lanka to the of our former students have been kicked out of their uncertainty, I made the decision to move myself out of them reapply for other jobs. This means pay rates are are so many people without jobs in safety of their families and we appeal to the president university rooms. Fortunately, most of them have found my flat in Amsterdam to avoid paying rent for the next different and so are working hours. Therefore they Rome now” to organise a flight to bring us back to Sri Lanka." kind Sri Lankans, be it relatives or family friends, who couple of months and save some money since I'll be at may not be able to earn the same wages they did Gamini also added that he knew of some students they have been able to stay with. I think, by and large, home for the foreseeable future.” before at their previous job.” whose parents had pawned their gold jewellery to send these students are aware they are nowhere near the Compare that with Manasha Silva a student at Speaking about the strict imposition of rules at the money to their children in Australia so that they can buy people hardest hit by this situation and they respect Istituto Marangoni in Milan. Speaking of her experience University of Oxford, which Sheshadri Kottearachchi SAAKYA the basics. the privilege of their education, opportunities and with virtual classrooms she says “Our lessons are attends she says “The University shut down almost RAJAWASAN Echoing his sentiments is Noorul Buhary an MSc the food on their table so they're not feeling sorry for conducted by Zoom which is not complicated at all. immediately after the government announced a lock student from University of South Australia. Noorul lives themselves. Issues like this are part of their education It’s actually quite easy to handle. All the class codes “I am trying to be down. International students were allowed to remain very optimistic in Adelaide and like countless other Sri Lankans in the and they recognise the growth they can make as are entered into our schools intranet and we receive where they couldn't return home but asked to self same predicament he worries about funding himself. "I socially responsible people because of it” an email the day before on the codes of each class. isolate and/or practise social distancing. As libraries about the current am now managing with savings from my part time job We are also provided with a translator in English or and labs were closed, resources were made available situation and which I was doing before the virus outbreak and now Italian as my course is mostly taught in both languages. online and classes are due to be carried out in the ready to face any that source is also fast depleting. There has been some We have classes almost 5 days a week. With 2 to 3 same manner. There is uncertainty as to when we challenges that might help from the Sri Lankan Society in Adelaide for which I lectures a day. It’s quite tiring and that’s an issue we will be allowed back home to Sri Lanka, but the Sri am grateful. The Australian government said that those have brought up with the school because we end up Lankan High Commission has been in touch with come up. I am trying my best to stay who can not afford to stay for 6 months under these spending more than 12 hours a day in front of a screen us and has sent several updates regarding what we safe, especially as I have no family circumstances should return home. But how can we? and also the fact that we have group work for our finals ought to do. Thus far we've been asked to comply here and there is no Sri Lankan The borders across Sri Lanka and Australia are closed. Many of our former which is next week. Another great thing is that most with government regulations.” embassy or consulate here either” There are many other Sri Lankans here in Adelaide in of our lecture subjects have been adjusted to how Summing the thoughts of thousands of Sri Lankan the same situation and we are also being helped by students have been kicked we could use our course content to deal with these students stranded in foreign shores Kavindya fellow Sri Lankans who are permanent residents in out of their university issues in the future. We also got a skill class on how to Thennakoon a graduate student from Stanford Australia. We have also sent a letter to the President communicate through online mediums due to this crisis. University says “I think the sense of uncertainty is ISHINI of Sri Lanka asking him to intervene and help over 200 rooms. Fortunately, most The school has been very supportive about everything really crippling and to be away from home you feel very Sri Lankan students in Australia to return to Sri Lanka else including time zones for kids who have gone back GAMMANPILA of them have found kind helpless given that there are several issues especially “They provided as we feel much safer back at home” he pleaded. “ to their countries because the majority of the students in my hometown around grocery stores and overall Once this is over we would like to return back to Sri Lankans, be it relatives are international students. So if someone misses a distribution of food. I was doing a part time job which is money from the Australia and finish our education and for that we would or family friends, who class, a recorded copy is available for viewing and so no longer available but I am truly grateful that I am on a school’s Access Fund need our visas extended and we hope at that time the are ‘one on one’ time with lecturers if needed” fellowship and most of my tuition fees is covered. Many for students who had Australian Government will help us by extending our they have been able to Living in Japan which has relatively fewer Covid-19 of us also help our families and communities back trouble leaving campus visas If that does not happen, then I don't know how casualties, Rahul De Silva a student of Environment home, that depend on us so losing income has a trickle we will finish our education. We came here for a better stay with. I think, by and and Development at APU decided to stay back instead due to their financial down effect. I know many friends both in the United situation. Some of the dining future but now we are not sure if we will have a future” large, these students are of returning to Sri Lanka because the area he is lives States and outside who are unable to cover their tuition Noorul added. aware they are nowhere showed 0% in terms of both confirmed cases and fees. I wish I had hugged my mother and my friends halls remained open for students who One student who was fortunate enough to return deaths due to Corona. Speaking about the situation a little longer when I had the chance to. Nothing, were unable to leave campus” to Sri Lanka is Shaquille Balasuriya a first year BSc near the people hardest hit for international students in his area Rahul says absolutely nothing will be the same again. student at the University of Bristol in the UK. " I came back because the situation in the UK was poor to the by this situation and they extent that we got instructions saying that even if we respect the privilege AMMAAR got the symptoms we would not be treated until we had CAREEM the symptoms for 7 days and a fever of 102. It was then of their education, “The only concern that I felt really unsafe and decided it was best to head opportunities and that I have is the time home. I spent two weeks at the Diyatalawa quarantine period that would camp and the facilities and care we received there was the food on their just amazing. I have heard that some universities in take to return back. the UK have cancelled exams but I am still expected to table so they’re not This is an unforeseen submit all my assignments and do my exams online in feeling sorry for event and I hope a May. I am supposed to return in September to start the solution will be found soon” next academic year but who knows what will happen.” themselves” Taha Adamaly is another student who decided to fly back to Sri Lanka. Reading for a BSc in Economics and Finance at the University of Bristol, Taha decided MANASHA to fly back to Sri Lanka on the 19th of March just as SILVA the situation in the UK was escalating. “ I wanted to “We have classes be with my family at home where I would feel safe almost 5 days a and secure.” Taha spent the requisite two weeks in quarantine at the Diyatalawa camp and returned to week. With 2 to his family. Speaking of how the university handled 3 lectures a day, the situation Taha said “my university handled the it’s quite tiring and situation quite well and has moved the entire third that’s an issue we have term teaching online so all teaching and assessments will be submitted online. If the current situation brought up with the school because prevails I am unsure what will happen in September we end up spending more than 12 when the new academic year starts.” hours a day in front of a screen. We Waiting to fly the nest and start a course of study is also received a skill class on how Rosariya Liyanage, a graduate from Raffles Institute of Fashion who was on the eve of her departure to a to communicate through online Business School in Rome to begin her MA in Fashion mediums due to this crisis” Management when the deadly COVID-19 outbreak escalated. The virus thwarted her plans of leaving Colombo as her parents forbade her from leaving the AREEB country. "Rome is the last place my parents wanted me to go to even though they knew that I was very THASSIM disappointed that I was not able to leave. I got a “My university has scholarship to do my MA in Rome and I am heartbroken struggled to move to as I don't know what will happen. I was hoping to do a the online platform part time job in Rome to help with my expenses but that and will take some looks remote as there are so many people without jobs in Rome now. I will just have to sit this one out like so time to get there” many other students and see what will happen." Watching the daily Covid-19 death rate increase Main pic from internet Printed and published by Wijeya Newspapers Ltd. on Thursday April 9, 2020 at No. 8, Hunupitiya Cross Road, Colombo 02