www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2020

For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit Health THE WORLD 25,987,062 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 3,092 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 6,263,906 189,114 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 862,709 BRAZIL 3,952,790 122,681 INDIA 3,810,625 66,871 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 1,005,000 17,414 12 2,883 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 18,260,039 PERU 657,129 29,068 THE ABOVE STATISTICS197 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 8.40 P.M. ON 02 SEPTEMBER 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU DUMPING UNSORTED GARBAGE IN KARADIYANA Ban temporarily relaxed z Waiting for a proper mechanism z Waste management agreement in final stage

BY SARAH HANNAN “Garbage from seven local to use the present site to collect the (Pvt.) Ltd. (FWM). The Morning councils is dumped at the unsorted garbage,” WMA Director contacted the project office to The Western Province (WP) Waste Management Authority Karadiyana waste disposal site. Nalin Mannapperuma told The inquire on the progress of Phase (WMA) said the decision to ban dumping of unsorted We are yet to adapt a method to have Morning. 1 of their initiative which was waste to Karadiyana was temporarily relaxed until a separate sites to dispose segregated In 2017, a waste-to-energy project stalled due to a delay in completing proper mechanism is introduced to process the garbage waste. Until we find a suitable was initiated at an adjacent site documentation. that gets collected. alternative, we will have to continue by Fairway Waste Management Contd. on page 2 Sri Lanka’s air All smiles! New Water quality best in South Asia Act in the Surpassing its competitors in South Asia, Sri Lanka’s air quality level has risen to number one on the 2020 works Environmental Performance Index The Minister of Water Supply Vasudeva (EPI) published by researchers at Yale Nanayakkara stated that a Water Bill will be and Columbia universities recently. drafted to protect water resources, establish responsibility and ownership of protecting water PCOI ON EASTER ATTACKS catchment areas, designate the areas around the streams as reserve areas, and ensure that the people have the right to access clean Hakeem water for consumption. Minister of Water Supply summoned Contd. on page 2 Vasudeva Nanayakkara tomorrow PROPOSED 20TH AMENDMENT The Presidential Commission of Cabinet gives Inquiry probing the Easter Sunday In commemoration of the 69th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), a special pooja took place at the Bellanvila attacks has informed Raja Maha Viharaya yesterday (2) with the participation of party Leader Maithripala Sirisena, General Secretary Dayasiri MP Rauff Hakeem Jayasekara, party memebers, and well-wishers the okay to appear before its PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE MP Rauff Hakeem Police Unit. The Cabinet of Ministers General (AG) yesterday said the NEWLY ELECTED MP PREMALAL JAYASEKARA SJB TO FORM AN ALLIANCE yesterday (2) granted approval proposed piece of legislation does 12 TOURIST VILLAGES to the proposed 20th Amendment not require a referendum and to the Constitution. could be enacted following two- Project Court to decide Samagi Jana The 20th Amendment was to be thirds approval from Parliament. Sandanaya in gazetted last night. The Attorney Contd. on page 2 completion in MP’s fate NEW POLITICAL PARTIES BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA Yapa Abeywardena told The four months Morning that it would be the making A sum of Rs. 18.96 million has been The judiciary would have decided by the courts. Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Interviews for allocated to complete the development to decide the fate of convicted “There is a court National Organiser MP Tissa of 12 tourism villages. felon MP Premalal case currently Attanayake said that establishing Sources at the Ministry of Tourism Jayasekara on ongoing with regard the Samagi Jana Sandanaya is vital said the 12 locations are in the Districts whether he to this matter. It is to ensuring the supporting parties are registration of Kurunegala, Matale, Mannar, can attend up to the courts and given a fair chance to deliver on the Interviews have been called to general election work has Kandy, Badulla, Ampara, and Kegalle. Parliament. Parliament has no promises made to their voter bases. register new political parties for been completed,” Election Speaker of hand in the matter.” “We are a recognised political 2020, The Morning learnt. Commssion (EC) Chairman SEE FULL STORIES Parliament Contd. on party according to the Election “We have already called for Mahinda Deshapriya told The ON PAGE 2 Mahinda Speaker of Parliament MP Premalal page 2 Commission. MP Tissa interviews and the process Morning. Mahinda Yapa Jayasekara Contd. on page 2 Attanayake has begun, now that the Contd. on page 2 CONTINUOUS ERADICATION PROGRAMMES Covid-19 threat not over Decline in for SL: Army Commander dengue cases Despite a visible relaxation (NOCPCO) Lt. Gen. Covid-19 and are behaving like ADVERSE WEATHER of the health guidelines Shavendra Silva said. it never happened. The Epidemiology imposed to combat the spread The Army Chief told The The truth is that the virus Unit records a of Covid-19 in Sri Lanka, the Morning that the increasing is still affecting people and Landslide considerable threat of the virus entering number of Covid-19- is very much there,” he said. reduction in cases society is very real, Army positive patients among the “We are repatriating of dengue being Commander and Head of Sri Lankans repatriated to stranded Sri Lankans because warning reported during this the Presidential Task the country is indicative of they have a right to return to year in comparison Force of the National the risk of the virus entering their country, but the number of to 2019. Operation Centre society if health guidelines infected persons are increasing issued Contd. on page 2 Army Chief Lt. Gen. for Prevention of are not followed. among them.” The National Building Research Shavendra Silva Covid-19 Outbreak “People have forgotten about Contd. on page 2 Organisation (NBRO) has issued a Level CAUSE OF KANDY TREMORS 2 (Amber) landslide early warning for parts of the Galle and Kalutara Districts. The warning states that since the rainfall within the past 24 hours has exceeded 100 mm, if the rains continue, people living in Pressure of limestone fractures the following areas are alert to the possibility The suspected cause of the second tremor “It is suspected that the pressure released Udaya De Silva told The Morning. compared to the initial tremor felt on 29 of landslides, slope failures, rock falls, cut in the Kandy District was the fractures and from the limestone cavities, which dissolve However, he said that the investigations August. failures, and ground subsidence, being ready cavities in the limestone situated near the very easily, and the movements within the are still ongoing. The confirmed causes of both tremors to evacuate to a safe location if the need arises. Victoria Reservoir, according to the Geological Victoria Reservoir resulted in this minor He further stated that the second tremor in are expected to be revealed within the next Contd. on page 2 Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB). tremor,” GSMB Senior Director – Geology the Pallekele area was extremely localised two days. 2 the morning NEWS Thursday, September 3, 2020

BY MEERA SRINIVASAN A shortage of turmeric, a key ingredient in Sri Lankan cuisine, has sparked concern Turmeric shortage sparks among consumers about supply amid soaring costs in recent months, after the Government decided to restrict imports in the wake of the global coronavirus concern in Sri Lanka pandemic. z Spice sold for five times the capped price in black market While the Government has capped the maximum retail price farming community cannot be acute shortage of turmeric in the view, the current focus on local (MRP) of turmeric powder at Rs. reversed”. To control foreign coming months. Sri Lanka produces production is welcome as it shines 750 a kg, traders point to a black exchange parity rates and to get about 2,000 tonnes of processed or the spotlight on local agriculture. market where the spice is sold for rid of high debt burden on farmers, dehydrated turmeric a year, a report But regaining self-sufficiency may almost five times the price. The imports should be restricted, in the local weekend newspaper The take time. Sri Lankan Navy has also busted he said, according to a media Sunday Times said. “In the case of turmeric, it will attempts to smuggle in turmeric by statement issued by his office. The flavourful spice is used in be early next year by the time our sea. Last week alone, authorities In April, a month after everyday cooking in Sri Lanka in production grows enough to meet recovered nearly 1,500 kg of dried coronavirus (COVID-19) hit Sri a range of regional dishes from 60-80% of our demand,” he told turmeric in Norochcholai, some Lanka, the Government announced the hodi or sodhi (stew), a staple The Hindu. 150 km north of capital Colombo, a ban on non-essential imports side dish with string hoppers, Meanwhile, importers and on the island’s western coast. to cope with the strain on the hoppers, and pittu to dal eaten traders point to a growing black Despite the shortage and reports country’s foreign reserves as with rice and curry. Further, market where 1 kg turmeric is of shooting prices, President the country’s crucial export and following the pandemic, some sold for Rs. 4,500 , despite the Gotabaya Rajapaksa has said remittances sectors were badly hit. have begun adding a pinch of Government’s price regulation. his Government will not go Vowing to boost local production, turmeric to their daily cup of tea, A group of turmeric importers back on its decision on import President Rajapaksa said his citing “medicinal” properties it is has also written to the President restriction. Addressing the Cabinet Government would focus on believed to have. and the Prime Minister, seeking Subcommittee on Cost of Living domestic agriculture. Sri Lanka was, in the past, self- the release of 1 million kg of on Monday (31 August), Rajapaksa sufficient in turmeric cultivation, turmeric, imported from India said even though the public faced Key source but along the years, its production earlier, stuck at the Colombo Port, difficulties for a “short period” of According to importers in Sri fell, according to Department in order to ease the shortage at least time, steps taken to “strengthen Lanka, India is among their chief about 5,000 tonnes a year. With meeting the demand – an estimated of Agriculture Director General temporarily. the rural economy and uplift the sources of turmeric imports, selling production in the island far from 7,000 tonnes – consumers fear an W.M.W. Weerakoon. In his (The Hindu) Contd. from page 1

a water purification process should be included, years,” Attanayake elaborated. National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) too said that Parliament had played its role. Ban temporarily... the Minister noted, adding that a water treatment “The Samagi Jana Sandanaya needs to be Director Dr. Anura Jayasekara, when contacted “The Parliamentary Secretariat has already “The project was scheduled to commence system that can be easily implemented for created so the UNP (United National Party) to inquire on the reasons for the decline of written to the relevant authority – the Prisons a year ago, but there were concerns over inclusion in community water projects needs can align with us under the leadership of Sajith cases being reported, noted that continuous Department – notifying them that Jayasekara the budgetary aspects of the paperwork. In to be developed in the future. Premadasa.” eradication programmes were carried out this has been gazetted as an MP and that he has been the meantime, the ministers changed, the “In order to take proper action in the matter The UNP clearly needs a person to lead year with the assistance of the military, the invited to attend Parliament. The Parliament government changed, and again, we have of conservation of water resources, several the party and a member pool that can revive Police, and environmental committees of the has done its duty. Now, it is a matter of the a totally different minister with whom we other institutions should be included under its now-diminishing reputation caused by its respective grama niladhari divisions. courts deciding whether he can be released or need to discuss matters. The paperwork is at our Ministry. I requested the President to many unresolved problems. He added that as of recent, the Sri Lanka not,” he explained. the final stage and once that is approved and include the Water Resources Board under the Noting that the party Constitution can be Air Force has been assisting with the use of The Election Commission (EC) too said the signed off, we can commence operations,” Irrigation Department in our Ministry. Also, clearly changed, he said that the requirement drone technology to identify potential dengue matter was out of their hands. an executive at the project office explained. if the existing forest conservation areas in of a nominated person being a serving breeding sites, which will be helpful to eradicate “We have done our part and held the election When asked whether the agreement pertains the catchment areas are included under our member of the Working Committee can be dengue furthermore in a more effective manner. and gazetted the new Parliament. The rest of to processing all the waste collected at the site, Ministry, it will facilitate future activities. addressed. – Sarah Hannan this issue is up to the courts and Parliament,” FWM noted that the agreement stipulates that These activities are very important for the “They are still not decided on their National EC Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya told The they process the waste that gets collected after right of water supply and protection of water List member who should sit in Parliament, Morning. operations commence. supply,” he concluded. which says a lot about how misguided the Landslide... They elaborated that processing the already – Sarah Hannan party already is. Therefore, we are open to Locations for potential risk include: Project... dumped garbage at Karadiyana would require discussing terms with the UNP in the coming yy Galle District: Elpitiya, Nagoda, and a different method including equipment to weeks and look forward to a positive outcome,” Baddegama Divisional Secretariat “Development activities have already started mine the garbage mountain and sort the waste, Cabinet gives... Attanayake concluded. Divisions and surrounding areas and Rs. 18.96 million has been allotted for this which would be costly. The proposed constitutional amendment will – Sarah Hannan purpose,” sources said. yy Kalutara District: Palindanuwara repeal the 19th Amendment to the Constitution The project is to be completed by the end Divisional Secretariat Division and and is to be taken up in Parliament this month. of this year. surrounding areas New Water... It is learnt that the 20th Amendment Covid-19... “The allocation was made for the remaining “We provide water to the people of our would retain some of the features in the 19th The Army Chief explained that when infected In the meantime, a Level 1 landslide early four months of the year,” sources added. country. But there is no profiteering that takes Amendment. persons arrive in the country, there are many warning has been issued for the following – Skandha Gunasekara place from water supply. For instance, the persons exposed locally. areas: water in the Rakwana River is fast receding The Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 yy Galle District: Niyagama Divisional Hakeem... and the Ministry has taken several steps to Interviews for... warned the public to be vigilant in their day- Secretariat Division and surrounding rectify this situation. As a first step, 2,500 He said that no new political parties have to-day lives to prevent another outbreak of areas Accordingly, the parliamentarian will be kumbuk and mee saplings will be planted in been registered. the virus. recording a statement with the Police Unit of yy Kalutara District: Mathugama, the Rakwana River area on 10 September,” “No new parties have been registered so far “Sri Lankan society has returned to normalcy, the PCoI on tomorrow (4). Walallawita, Ingiriya, Agalawatta, Nanayakkara explained, pointing out that for the year 2020. Only those parties that were but we urge the public to continue to be Horana, and Bulathsinhala Divisional deforestation is one of the main reasons for registered prior to the 2020 general election vigilant, as there are Covid-19-positive Sri Secretariat Divisions and surrounding declining water resources. have been recognised.” Lankans returning from abroad and many Sri Lanka’s... areas Some people cross streams, such as rivers, – Skandha Gunasekara are in quarantine,” Lt. Gen. Silva cautioned Sri Lanka scored 91 in air quality, according to obtain large quantities of water for personal the citizenry. yy Kegalle District: Dehiowita and to the 2020 EPI. More importantly, the country use. Due to this, the flow of water is reduced. He also noted that neighbouring countries Yatiyanthota Divisional Secretariat has, over a 10-year period, continued to The arbitrary use of waterways, which is Samagi Jana... are still struggling to control the outbreak. Divisions and surrounding areas demonstrate a positive growth when compared everyone’s right, cannot be tolerated by a We contested as the Samagi Jana Balawegaya “Our neighbour India is till trying to get yy Ratnapura District: Eheliyagoda to the rest of the region. certain group. Therefore, it is necessary to under the telephone symbol, while other parties control of the outbreak, so we too must remain Divisional Secretariat Division and The EPI survey ranked Sri Lanka at 109th make laws in this regard. aligned themselves to support us and secure cautious and ensure we have no room for error surrounding areas out of 180 countries with an EPI score of 39 out “Therefore, we are working to expedite the our voter base during this election.” to allow another outbreak.” As the rainfall within the past 24 hours of 100, which stood ahead of its South Asian passage of a Water Act, which would cover a Attanayake noted that if an alliance is not – Skandha Gunasekara has exceeded 75mm, the residents of the counterparts. Other South Asian nations lagged number of aspects including water resources, formed, it would cause a lot of disadvantages aforementioned areas are urged to be watchful behind in air quality, with Bhutan coming in at community water organisations, rights to to the other friendly parties that supported the for the possibility of landslides, slope failures, number two with a score of 154, Bangladesh water, and responsibilities for it. This is a SJB in gaining seats during the general election. Decline... rock falls, cutting failures, and ground scoring 166, Afghanistan 171, Nepal 178, India Bill that fully guarantees the people’s right to “We need to retain their support for upcoming “For the period of eight month of 2020, there subsidence if the rain continues. 179, and Pakistan 180. water. This is not a bill for the Government elections, and we will continue as the SJB but have only been 25,925 dengue cases that were The air quality issue category measures the but for the people,” Nanayakkara elaborated. will also form an alliance so we can afford fair recorded islandwide, whereas for the whole direct impacts of air pollution on human health At present, the process of water purification treatment to all the parties that align with us. It of 2019, we saw a total of 105,049 cases of Court to... in each country. It consists of three indicators: does not take place in the existing community will also strengthen the Opposition in keeping dengue recorded,” Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Meanwhile, Deputy General Secretary and PM 2.5 exposure, household solid fuels, and water projects in the country. But in the future, the governing party in check in the next five Sudath Samaraweera told The Morning. Chief of Staff of Parliament Neil Iddawela ozone exposure.

Defence Secretary presents his books Cartoon of the day The first copies of two books titled Gotabaya and The Underworld (Paathalayo) written by Secretary of Defence Major General (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne was presented at his official residence to Avant Garde Group Chairman Nissanka Senadhipathi last morning (2). After accepting the two books, Senadhipathi said: “I wish the Secretary of Defence success as well as strength for him to carry out the good work and write more books of national importance like these.” the morning Thursday, September 3, 2020 3 business Softlogic Life attracts

From left: The MarCom Collective Convener Rohan Rajaratnam, Video and Film Production Association $ 30 m funding from (VAFPA) President Santhush Weeraman, The MarCom Collective Convener Thayalan Bartlett, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance S.R. Attygalle, Ernst & Young Senior Partner and Head of Consulting – Sri Lanka and the Maldives Arjuna Herath, Ernst & Young Sri Lanka Partner – Tax Services Sulaiman European giants Nishtar, and Ministry of Finance Department of Fiscal Policy Tax Policy Advisor Thanuja Perera Softlogic Life Insurance and insurance-related risk capabilities even further. We together we hope to continue MarCom Collective PLC yesterday (2) solutions in the world. This remain fully confident of Sri contributing to its growth announced the inking arrangement is viewed as an Lanka’s growth prospects and journey. We appreciate the meets Treasury Secretary of landmark deals with innovative market-leading see the low penetration in the partnership with them, and two major development transaction in the South Asian life insurance industry as a we hope this investment also A team of senior communications) sector (Rs. 232,000), textile and financial institutions and life and health reinsurance great opportunity for future will contribute to economic representatives from generates Rs.151 billion garments (Rs. 444,444), arena. growth. We are proud to state growth and increase financial The MarCom Collective in annual net revenue and rubber (Rs. 452,308), and a leading reinsurer based Softlogic Life, Sri Lanka’s that during 2019, one in every inclusivity in Sri Lanka,” said met with Secretary to employs over 100,000 tourism (Rs. 1.068 million). in Europe amidst the third largest life insurance three life insurance policies Finnfund Investment Manager the Ministry of Finance people directly and The MarCom Collective Covid-19 pandemic. entity, has a share of 16.2% sold in the market was from Ulla-Maija Rantapuska. S.R. Attygalle recently indirectly, with about also facilitated a discussion The development of the market as at 31 March Softlogic Life, which is a great “Munich Re enjoys a to apprise him on the another 200,000 people with members from financial institutions are the 2020, doubling market share testament to the customer longstanding relationship of significant contribution depending on it. The sector within the industry. Ernst Finnish Fund for Industrial within the past five years and segments that we cover and over 15 years with Softlogic the sector has made to the also contributes 1% to the & Young Sri Lanka Co-operation Ltd (Finnfund) covering more than a million the extent of our product Life and has introduced a national economy, which country’s GDP and therefore presented their findings and and the Norwegian Investment lives. In 2019, Softlogic Life diversification.” number of product initiatives they say has “largely gone requires immediate and recommended proposals Fund for Developing Countries Insurance grew by 25% versus The investment marks one that have performed well unrecognised”. serious attention before to help complement the (Norfund), which have an industry growth of 11% of Norfund and Finnfund’s for our partnership. This The MarCom the crippling effects of Government’s effort to collectively signed a Rs. 15 issuing 247,755 policies and first investments in Sri Lanka’s financial reinsurance Collective is the industry Covid-19 take its toll on the accelerate the recovery of million Tier II subordinated selling the highest number of insurance industry, where, transaction heralds the next body comprising eight industry and the economy. the sector and the economy. debt transaction with the policies, accounting for 33% of like other developing markets generation of co-operation associations linked to the The revenue yield from Taking note of the policy company on 24 August 2020, the market. across Asia, they will be where we are pleased to advertising and marketing the sector as estimated by framework shared at the providing funding to further “These investments by looking to provide expansion be a part of an exciting communications sectors Ernst & Young is Rs.1.510 forum, representatives from develop the business objectives Norfund, Finnfund, and capital to sustainable businesses future,” said Munich Re as well as businesses and million per employee. The the eight constituent industry of the company. Munich Re are a testament to like Softlogic Life in the Spokesperson and Munich professionals associated significance and relevance associations confirmed that Norfund and Finnfund are the solid work we have put financial sector. Re India Branch Managing with them. of this is accentuated when they would be incorporated impact investors funded by into building Softlogic Life “Norfund invests in financial Director – Life and Health A study undertaken by juxtaposed with the per into the final proposal to be the Governments of Norway into a formidable business in institutions to strengthen Srinivasa Rao. Ernst & Young notes that employee yield from other presented to the Government and Finland and private capital Sri Lanka’s insurance industry. their ability to contribute to Softlogic Life recently the MarCom (marketing key sectors such as tea in the coming weeks. markets whose objectives are to We like to think of it as an increased access to capital made it to the Forbes’ “Asia’s fund sustainable development endorsement that we have for companies and previous Best under a Billion 2019” through responsible and done something special,” said unbanked people. Softlogic list, a business ranking profitable businesses across the Softlogic Life Insurance PLC Life is a great fit with our which spotlights Asia’s Asia Securities-Ceylon Chamber webinar globe. Chairman Ashok Pathirage. objective to create jobs and 200 top-performing listed Softlogic Life also concluded “We are always keen improve lives by investing companies with less than on financial restructuring today a financial reinsurance to develop our operations in businesses that drive $ 1 billion in revenue with The Chamber Academy will help business businesses successfully transaction in March 2020 of by utilising international sustainable development,” said consistent top and bottom-line in collaboration with Asia leaders kick-start growth access debt or equity Rs. 15 million with Münchener expertise, and together with Norfund Regional Director – growth. Softlogic Life is the Securities Investment and spur the nation’s finance,” the organisers Rückversicherungs- Leapfrog Investments who are Asia Fay Chetnakarnkul. only company in Sri Lanka Banking will conduct economic recovery. noted. Gesellschaft (Munich Re), shareholders of the company, “Softlogic Life’s leadership and one of the two insurance a knowledge-sharing Companies often do not The eminent speaker one of the top providers of we are continuously assessing team has over the years companies in the Asian region webinar on deploying see financial restructuring panel includes Commercial reinsurance, primary insurance, possibilities to improve our consistently delivered, and to achieve this feat. financial restructuring as a as viable tool due to Bank of Ceylon CFO growth strategy today (3) the lack of awareness, Nandika Buddhipala, Nithya from 11 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. unfamiliarity related to Partners Founding Partner For large and mid- legal and regulatory issues Naomal Goonewardena, sized businesses, surrounding restructuring, Asia Securities Investment DFCC iConnect enables economic recovery inability to raise the Banking Co-Head Sharini will require thoughtful required capital to Kulasinghe, and Ambeon consideration of the support restructuring, and Holdings PLC Group company's objectives, difficulty in engaging with Managing Director/CEO shrewd analysis of banks to restructure debt. Murali Prakash. The automated ETF payments the market landscape, “On that account, this session will be moderated and a comprehensive webinar aims to demystify by Echelon Media Editor- DFCC Bank announced don’t need to issue pay-orders understanding of some of the key aspects in-Chief Shamindra that its iConnect system now in favour of the ETF Board, as investors' expectations. of a typical financial Kulamannage. enables businesses to perform it will be a direct fund transfer. A focused financial restructuring exercise, To register, email automatic payment settlements DFCC Bank CEO restructuring strategy and offer tips to help [email protected]. to the Employees' Trust Fund Lakshman Silva said: “DFCC (ETF) Board, benefitting all iConnect is a product that is corporates and especially dedicated to ensure customer SMEs. convenience. From cash DFCC iConnect is a fully management to payment INIVOS Consulting launches ERP integrated payments and cash DFCC iConnect Log in Page 1 cycles, we want to ensure management (PCM) system a smooth and hassle-free solutions for enterprise sector that is geared to support is that customers are informed or fully automate the process process for our corporate businesses with access to their of formatting errors (character in line with their HR system, customers. To this end, the INIVOS Consulting, the account transaction information length/invalid entries) enabling them to discontinue bank will keep enhancing the fully fledged Enterprise from any location – locally or immediately. DFCC iConnect their current manual process DFCC iConnect product as Resource Planning (ERP) globally – at their convenience. allows customers to either of issuing a letter to the ETF required, and look forward solutions provider, launched Among the benefits of perform a manual bulk upload Board. Due to this automation, to welcome more corporate its assortment of solutions to making ETF payments online (through a standard template) DFCC iConnect customers customers in the future.” Sri Lanka’s enterprise sector in a bid to provide end-to- end solutions, earmarked to make progress in the business Arpico Insurance offers policy for sphere. INIVOS, an authorised INIVOS Director and Co-Founder INIVOS Director partner of global ERP Subashana Suwandarathna Ayomi Gunawardena Richard Pieris Finance customers solutions provider IFS, has to date served a multitude period for every project goals without worrying Life insurance provider of local and international making sure that customers about backend support,” Arpico Insurance PLC has clients providing consultation utilise its services for said INIVOS Director and created an exclusive policy services and support, ERP maximum effectiveness. This Co-Founder Subashana that provides a life cover of up suites, software development, distinctive effort ensures that Suwandarathna. to Rs. 1,000,000 to customers and business insights. every project is streamlined The ERP solutions of Richard Pieris Finance INIVOS said it offers and set goals are realised on offered through INIVOS Ltd. The Memorandum of comprehensive business time, the company said. are expected to lower Understanding (MoU) in solutions to sectors such as “Our main focus is to operational costs, enhance this regard was signed on 27 automotive, manufacturing, provide end-to-end ERP efficiency with integrated August 2020 in the presence supply chain, retail, asset solutions that ultimately systems, and provide real- of senior officials of both management, as well as shrink the gaps in the time business information companies. Customer Relationship industry. We are well geared and risk maintenance while Richard Pieris Finance Management (CRM). to provide widely sought- building up business values. boasts an asset base of Rs. Arpico Insurance PLC CEO Harsha De Alwis (centre) exchanging the MoU with Richard Pieris Finance Ltd. CEO A service provider to IFS, after business solutions that Its partnership with Novacura Lohika Fonseka. Also present are (from left:) Arpico Insurance PLC Head of Marketing Nelushan Gunewardena, 18 billion with fixed deposits AGM Sawan Rodrigo, GM Toni Kitchila, GM Melanga Doolwala, Richard Pieris Finance Ltd. CFO Ajith INIVOS caters business enable companies to reach Flow enables INIVOS to totalling Rs. 8 billion, having Ranasinghe, AGM Imruz Kamil, and Randil Keerthipala requirements of the enterprise their business goals. Our support the customers who forayed into the industry only sector via IFS product selling team is committed to cater seek such services. seven years ago. With over 15 in everything we do. The Lanka’s most successful and and most trusted life insurance while it provides services to to customer needs with INIVOS Consulting’s branches islandwide and over signing of this MoU marks a respected conglomerates. companies today,” said Arpico Acumatica and equips the dedicated support services strength lies in its highly 300 dedicated professionals, very important milestone for “We take great pride in Insurance PLC CEO Harsha SME (small and medium 24/7 and we share actionable experienced team of Richard Pieris Finance offers us. With this initiative in place, joining hands with Richard De Alwis. enterprise) sector with insights helping our consultants. Commenting vehicle leasing, fixed deposits, we look forward to further Pieris Finance to provide Arpico Insurance PLC has Acumatica’s solutions. Both customers to be on par in this on the INIVOS team, savings, business financing, strengthening our relationship all their customers with a embarked on an aggressive IFS and Acumatica are duly competitive business sphere. INIVOS Director Ayomi home loans, Arpico furniture with Arpico Insurance PLC comprehensive life insurance growth plan that, if successful, recognised by Gartner, the We always focus on building Gunawardena said: “Our financing, supplier financing, and working more closely on cover. This agreement will see them increasing their world’s leading technological long-lasting relationships team is the backbone of our and alternative financial a number of shared goals that accurately reflects our geographical footprint through research and advisory with customers and they company. INIVOS comprises solutions. are sure to give our customers business philosophy and the several branch openings, the company. will be treated to a host of of customer-centric technical Richard Pieris Finance the best of both worlds.” shared values of our parent addition of new products and INIVOS products range solutions which are highly and support consultants who Ltd. Chief Executive Officer Both companies are backed company. Being in existence services to their portfolio, as from planning to initialising, customisable. Our cutting- are well versed in providing (CEO) Lohika Fonseka said: by its over 85-year-old for less than a decade, we are well as building and fostering developing, and support edge business solutions will comprehensive business “We continuously seek ways parent entity Richard Pieris immensely proud to be one of new partnerships to benefit all services, and on top of that, enable business owners solutions that suit their to add value to our customers & Company PLC, one of Sri Sri Lanka’s fastest growing stakeholders. INIVOS offers a handholding to focus on their business increasing business needs.” the morning 4 Thursday, September 3, 2020 brunch

BY NAVEED ROZAIS RARE PRESS CONFERENCE Zoos are a constant topic of debate among the animal welfare community. One side of the argument is that zoos bring people and animals together, NEW DANGERS FOR educating people on the amazing diversity of the Earth’s species and creating a safe space for animals and humans to engage and interact. On the other ANIMALS IN ZOO? hand, zoos, no matter how humane, breed and raise Responding to decision to move Dep. of Zoological Gardens under Ministry of Tourism animals in captivity, keeping In response to this decision Gardens is bound by regulations, animals penned in against by the Government, Rally for norms, and protocols they need to their will. Animal Rights and Environment follow in terms of how animals Regardless of where one falls (RARE) held a press conference are kept and fed, adding that these in this debate, one thing is clear: It on 27 August to increase regulations and systems require is necessary for zoos and similar awareness of the potential adverse them to work closely with the institutions to be at the top of effects of this decision on the care Ministry of Wildlife. The removal their game when it comes to the of and wellbeing of the animals of the Department of Zoological welfare of animals and responding under the care of the Department Gardens from the purview of to crises within their domain. of Zoological Gardens. the Ministry of Wildlife leaves a In Sri Lanka, up until 2020, The panel of speakers lot of room for error, especially the Department of Zoological included Ven. Pahiyangala due to gaps in the bureaucratic Gardens fell under the purview Ananda Sagara Thera and procedure. of the Ministry of Wildlife veteran animal rights/welfare While noting that there and Forest Conservation. The activist Manoja Weerakkody are indeed benefits to be had Department, contrary to popular from RARE, who shared their from the Ministry of Tourism’s belief, doesn’t consist solely of concerns on the suitability of involvement in the Department the Dehiwala Zoo; it also includes the Department of Zoological of Zoological Gardens, the panel the Pinnawala Open Zoo, the Gardens falling under the shared that animal welfare is very Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Ministry of Tourism. likely not to be taken seriously and Ridiyagama Safari Park in The panel shared that the by the Ministry of Tourism in the Hambantota. Ministry of Tourism is not geared larger scheme of things. Under the formation of to be able to effectively look into Ven. Pahiyangala Ananda Sagara Thera speaking at the press conference The panel stressed it is in the new Government in 2020, animal welfare, in part because in when animals are sick or injured, Gardens being under the Ministry this procedure that could very the best interest of the animals it has been announced that the scheme of tourism, zoos and they need to be treated by vets of Wildlife, as it has in the past, likely deprive animals in need involved for the Department of the Department of Zoological zoological gardens are considered as quickly as possible. While the it is somewhat easy for this to be of treatment, and even result Zoological Gardens to stay under Gardens will now fall under the exhibits and sources of revenue, Dehiwala Zoo does have vets that facilitated and for the animals in in higher animal deaths. The the purview of the Department of Ministry of Tourism, causing which can lead to animal welfare can do this quickly and effectively need to receive care and treatment panel shared that the Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Conservation. concern among animal rights being neglected. up to a certain point, vets with quickly. Tourism is simply not equipped Representatives of RARE activists across the country with In addition, the panel shared expertise in dealing with wild The new move of shift to look after animals in the way and the Animal Protection Trust regard to the welfare of the that the Ministry of Tourism is ill- animals and exotic species are the Department of Zoological that the Ministry of Wildlife is. are due to meet with Minister of 100 elephants and many other equipped to respond to situations provided by the Ministry of Gardens falling under the purview Leaving aside situations of Wildlife and Forest Conservation zoo animals in the care of the like ill or injured animals in a Wildlife whenever needed. With of the Ministry of Tourism will urgency, the panel also shared C.B. Rathnayake this week to Department. timely manner, explaining that the Department of Zoological add a level of bureaucracy to that the Department of Zoological discuss potential ways forward.

BY NAVEED ROZAIS

Fashion is the one thing that will never go out of style. With the pandemic bringing the whole world to a halt, many found the time to reflect, gather their strength, and pursue things they’d only thought of but never got around to actually doing. Kirihodi: Kirihodi is one of those initiatives that found room to take root in the midst of the pandemic. Celebrating A small streetwear brand launched by a boyfriend-girlfriend duo, Kirihodi, is a quirky brand that celebrates those little everyday Sri Lankan things of being Sri Lankan; those little things that you see so often you don’t notice them, and those interesting sayings that only make sense to Sri Lankans but no one quirkiness through else. The Morning Brunch sat last seven years and building a down with Kirihodi Co-Founders life here, I just want to celebrate Rashoon Hafeel and Kat Scott to the little unnoticed things about streetwear Sri Lanka and Sri Lankans, for see what goes on behind Kirihodi and what makes it tick. example, the saying ‘shape’ Coming up with the name fashion from global companies mid-pandemic brand, Kirhodi sells which I have adapted into one of Kirihodi and building the brand like ASOS that feature exclusively online through their Kirihodi’s t-shirts.” Scott, who is Scottish, shared ironic statements and Instagram page @kirhodi. that the Kirihodi name came about imagery that is very Keeping the brand real western focused, Setting Kirhodi apart Keeping things light and because of her liking for the golden “All of Kirihodi’s elixir that is kirihodi. “It’s the and sometimes natural is very important to Kirhodi just not relevant prints are hand- and this came through even in their staple of a Sri Lankan diet, and it drawn and originate comes with my all-time favourite to a Sri Lankan photoshoots and imagery, with perspective. from me,” Scott food, string hoppers,” Scott shared, Kirhodi stepping away from staged friends to wear our t-shirts and then Kirihodi explained, adding: shoots. “We didn’t want our shoots adding: “I also thought it sounded “Nothing is just photographed them living their nice and it just stuck when we were is a local to be like staged high-fashion equivalent for copied. What I lives. thinking of names.” shoots. We wanted them to be real “We also partnered with a that aesthetic; wanted to do was people just eating, drinking, and Kirihodi deals with the create something few cool young designers and nostalgia of Sri Lanka, the things something to living while wearing Kirihodi,” resonate with that embodied my influencers and gave them creative that are overlooked, and the Scott explained. freedom to take their own photos young people love of Sri Lanka. Further, Scott shared: “Our general parts of Sri Lankan life that I take inspiration and illustrate the versatility and people don’t stop to think about. in Sri Lanka first shoot was entirely off the cuff and even South from everyday individuality of Kirihodi and how it “We wanted to do an ironic take on and took place in Arugam Bay can be worn by just about anyone. Asia.” products and sayings. where we literally just asked our Sri Lankan colloquialisms and the One of our ranges It also ensures that each shoot is unique bits of Sri Lankan culture A collaboration between Scott and called ‘Kade Heroes’ individual and doesn’t feel staged, that don’t make sense to anyone is a take on the typical and allows the joy, excitement, and unless they’ve lived here.” Hafeel (Scott is a textile and print designer Sri Lankan brands that happiness of Kirihodi to shine.” Hafeel, a Sri Lankan with every Sri Lankan cupboard seven years of experience in the who has worked closely Kirihodi’s next step with brands like Marks and must have. This was something I local apparel industry, shared came up with during the lockdown, Hafeel shared that Kirihodi’s that Kirhodi was an opportunity Spencer and Hafeel is one of the plan of action for the future is both people behind T-Shirt Republic, seeing how everybody was after to create something unique for design talent and Hafeel’s expertise the same iconic Sri Lankan brands. ambitious and low-key. “We want young Sri Lankans, “We see Sri Lanka’s largest online t-shirt to really expand our product range retailer), Kirhodi blends Scott’s in print, sourcing, and manufacture The other designs have been a lots of Sri Lankans buying fast to create unique streetwear for the few years in the making, really. and do more streetwear, creating playful Sri Lankan. They’re designs that pay homage cool, colourful, and easy-to-wear On building the brand, Scott to the quintessentially Sri Lankan Jersey-based clothing and products and Hafeel shared that the brand things like the simple malu paan and start stocking in some retail feels like a labour of love for the or our ‘Mango Friends’ t-shirt stores soon. couple. “The lockdown and the inspired by the book and television “We want to be Sri Lanka’s change in pace has really helped show Amba Yahaluwo.” answer to the ASOS aesthetic us bring our skills together. We’ve Kirihodi is a joyful happy of ironic streetwear. Why would had lots of ideas to do something brand that celebrates everything you buy something from ASOS like this but have never been able about living in Sri Lanka. “I when you can buy something from to put anything into action until the wanted to pay homage to Sri Lanka Kirihodi that is designed and made lockdown.” in a way,” Scott shared, adding: in Sri Lanka that celebrates your Keeping true to the ethos of a “As an expat living here for the own identity?” the morning 6 Thursday, September 3, 2020 education IIHS successfully overcomes the teaching hurdle

The International Institute staff and students of IIHS were important features which were “E Avurudu”, which helped them of Health Sciences (IIHS) has already using the LMS prior to essential for distance learning, as to rejuvenate their friendship. proven to be a role model the pandemic, we felt that we it was our own development. I for Sri Lanka’s education could incorporate our previous would say that this system is not Do you think you have industry by successfully guidelines for the delivery of actually based on rocket science, successfully overcome the facing the challenges of education during the pandemic. but furnished with user-friendly situation? Covid-19 with an effective If we speak about what an LMS features. Yes, of course. I would say this distance learning system. is, it’s a software application for This system fundamentally has was the most practical season for Being a responsible the administration, documentation, all the options to deliver online us to utilise our existing LMS educational institute in tracking, reporting, automation, lectures and the lecturers can since most of the day-to-day work and delivery of educational record their scheduled lectures was digitised. We believe that health sciences, IIHS has courses, training programmes, and easily upload them to the we have achieved great progress implemented a remarkable or learning and development system. Then the student could using a distance learning method Learner Management programmes. This system ensures access those data by following and our students have had the System (LMS) in order to that students can step out from quick steps within their own maximum benefit. We should overcome the obstacle of their traditional learning habits framework and the system has emphasise the fact that we are still reaching out to students of being in a teacher-centric in-built features which help able to manage approximately during the pandemic. IIHS environment. Through this system, us to track attendance and the 2,000 students via the system with Founder/CEO/Director educators who are involved engagement of students. We also the majority being Sri Lankan of Academics, Strategy, will transform the control to have set up guidelines and criteria students. I am glad to say that and International Affairs students and make the learning to accomplish the syllabus, so it we have a young and energetic Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe environment a student-centric one. automatically paves the path for seven-member technical team We always maintain our students to work on time while comprising our past graduates (MBBS, MSc, MD [Medical standards by using the best and enjoying their day-to-day life. who timelessly dedicated Administration]) briefly top technology for education. It doesn’t burden the student themselves for the betterment of spoke on overcoming the Therefore, deploying a distance as he/she will always have the this system and have managed recent teaching hurdle. learning or LMS was not a fresh ownership of allocating time for to keep track of the progress. effort. Years back, we initiated learning. I would like to stress Nevertheless, we have identified How did the Covid-19 pandemic innovative solutions to engage that this system only augments some areas that we should affect the education sector? with the students and we created IIHS Founder CEO Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe our current delivery methods to improve on so that the technology As we all know, Covid-19 a versatile LMS. It’s a very basic home or their workplace which a student-centric environment provide more support to tutors and would be more convenient for locked us within our houses and technological method of studying- led to an increase in the levels for learners where students can students. students in the future. it restricted our lives due to the in, where lecturers broadcast of satisfaction and improved IT expand their knowledge on their Furthermore, this distance Our technical team has inability to move out for day- lessons via a digital platform literacy skills among the nursing own accord. It grants a stress- learning system has more maintained a good rapport with to-day activities. Such social and students have easy access students, whilst giving them the free space for students to access features to ensure students’ students and parents and thus isolation affects people in many without having to attend lectures option of not having to travel long study materials and prepare for attention is drawn towards based on their opinions has been ways, mainly the students who physically. distances for education. Currently, the online class in the safety additional study materials and able to recognise some features were preparing for their higher IIHS believes that delivering approximately 1,500 state sector and comfort of their home. we have successfully conducted which need to be incorporated. educational hurdles. Being a skilled professionals with nurses utilise tablet devices to This platform has been set to examinations via this system, and We will consider them in a timely leading health educator, IIHS multiple knowledge segments access the LMS, thereby adhering international standards to ensure those experiences were fabulous. manner and have plans to execute also faced a major challenge is essential for this era and I to the contemporary modes of that students maintain autonomy them at the earliest. in continuing lectures and am proud to say that we always learning whilst staying up to while achieving the desired Since health education is more examinations, since we had an utilise compact learning methods date with the latest evidence in outcomes. related to practical learning, Can we see a future for the immeasurable responsibility inspired by international learning healthcare. So at IIHS, we are very glad how did IIHS overcome LMS even after the Covid-19 to complete our academic year practices. With that mindset, as In addition to the mentioned to say that we have been able the challenge of conducting pandemic? on a high note. So we decided an educator, we use a professional advances in online delivery, IIHS to conduct all the scheduled practical sessions? I think this should be the way to expand our existing Learner LMS platform which has been also created an independent LMS academic lectures and other That was the biggest challenge of offering education for students Management System to defeat this awarded at the Commonwealth for the state sector nursing training educational meetups online we had. But luckily, we managed who are willing to change. unexpected challenge. Digital Health Awards in 2016, schools to allow similar access to through this distance learning to offer practical presentations for Implementing such technologies 2017, and 2018 for its proven and content for students and tutors. platform, and that lifted us to students with the involvements in a country like Sri Lanka is How did IIHS manage to reach qualified learning features. This This initiative, whilst reducing the another level of quality education. of our experts. Not only that, on quite difficult, but is achievable students without a barrier system ensures the accessibility workload of the tutors, will also We are extremely proud to say a weekly basis, we host clinical with a mindset that is open to during Covid-19? to education for students and allow nursing students to access that we have catered our best sessions moderated by a student, changes. I think Covid-19 taught I feel it was one of the positive provides access to all the required learning material from home to the students who are keen on which have proven to be very us a valuable lesson which should outcomes of Covid-19. This learner materials. during the pandemic. education. effective among our students. be recalled when we plan to pandemic made people realise that Prior to the breakout of the Furthermore, within two weeks execute something fresh and big. they could utilise the technology pandemic, IIHS provided access How successful is it to defeat the What are the key features of the of the nationwide lockdown, we Furthermore, if we are planning at their fingertips with ease to to study content for all nurses pandemic through the LMS? LMS which have made students’ organised webinars for students to move with global trends of achieve their tasks. Especially the completing the Bachelor’s in Using LMS for education life easy? and managed to complete six education, we must have sound education sector of Sri Lanka took Nursing. Back in 2017, as an can be considered as a “baton The LMS, which we have webinars thus far with the IT literacy to face globalisation. off in a major way by migrating initiative to improve accessible, changeover” to the student. This been using for the last few years, participation of professionals in As an institute, we will definitely to digital learning or distance affordable education, IIHS system allows the teacher or was initiated by a team of IIHS the field. Another exciting fact is continue this learning system learning from traditional learning provided tabs to the nurses, lecturer to be a “moderator” and nurses a few years back. So that our students were able to hold parallel to traditional learning for during this lockdown period. As enabling access to the LMS from not a “controller”. LMS creates that system comprised all the an online Avurudu festival called the betterment of our students. Allianz Lanka powers youth employability Allianz Insurance Lanka Ltd. (Allianz Lanka) joined hands with SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka to empower youth with essential IT skills under the “Shape the World of Tomorrow” programme. The programme is part of Youth Can! – SOS Children’s Villages’ global partnership for youth employability – that strives to equip young care leavers with the tools they need to transition to independence and find decent work. Under this partnership, the insurer will be providing 100 youth between 14-19 years of age from six SOS Family Care and SOS Family Strengthening programmes across the island, with access to a globally recognised International Computer Driving License (ICDL) programme by February 2023. Allianz Lanka had recently won the Allianz Social Innovation Fund worth € 10,000 offered by Allianz SE and will be utilising it for this. The two parties signed the formal agreement for this programme at the SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka national office in Piliyandala recently. Several representatives from Allianz Lanka and SOS Children’s Villages From left: SOS Children’s Villages Sri Lanka Manager – Corporate Partnerships Nipunika Ruhunage, Director – National Youth Care Kapila Gunwardhana, Assistant Director – Head of Fund Development and Sri Lanka, including Allianz Insurance Communication Gayantha Dalpadado, and National Director Divakar Ratnadurai and Allianz Insurance Lanka Ltd. Chief Executive Officer Gany Subramaniam, Chief Marketing Officer Mangala Bandara, Lanka Ltd. Chief Executive Officer Gany Assistant Manager – Market Management Rienzie De Silva, and Executive – Corporate Communications Annesista Jeyakanthan Subramaniam, Allianz Insurance Lanka world. In line with that, we are excited to that is supported by governments, for partnering with us and supporting our and youth of SOS Children’s Villages Ltd. Chief Marketing Officer Mangala partner with SOS Children’s Villages Sri computer societies, international youth empowerment initiatives,” said SOS Sri Lanka. This is part of our wider Bandara, and SOS Children’s Villages Lanka yet again and help them take the organisations, and commercial corporations Children’s Villages Sri Lanka National ‘Digital Villages’ strategy which provides Sri Lanka National Director Divakar ICDL programme to more young adults alike, we believe that this will go a long Director Divakar Ratnadurai. “The ‘Shape children, young people, and caregivers Ratnadurai, were present at this event. across the island,” said Allianz Insurance way in supporting them in successfully the World of Tomorrow’ programme with digital literacy training and access “Youth empowerment remains one Lanka Ltd. Chief Executive Officer Gany managing the transition from school to uses information and communication to ICT resources to support education, of the key focus areas of Allianz’s Subramaniam. “Helping them get trained independent adulthood.” technologies (ICT) to foster education employability, training, and capacity community outreach efforts around the and gain a globally recognised certification “We would like to thank Allianz Lanka and self-development among children building.” the morning 5 Thursday, September 3, 2020 sports CSK bio-bubble was not safe Asian boxing to come alive in 2021 Serena closes in on Suresh Raina, upon returning to India from the IPL 2020’s The Asian Boxing Confederation (ASBC) confirmed yesterday (2) its Margaret Court preparatory quarantine period citing personal reasons, told intention to host four different continental events in 2021, Inside 2020 US Open at Flushing Meadows, New York. the media yesterday (2) that he couldn’t “take a chance” as the Games said. Members of the ASBC Competition Commission Serena Williams began her pursuit of a record- “the bio-bubble (in the Dubai venue of the have discussed virtually to have the Asian Elite C’ships in India equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title with a IPL) is not safe”. “I have a family with two little early next year. They plan to hold the Asian U-22 C’ships in March, dominant 7/5, 6/3 win over fellow American Kristie kids and elderly parents,” said Raina hinting, Asian Schools C’ships in September, followed by the Asian Youth Ahn. The 38-year-old went a break down in both though he was ready to rejoin the CSK party Boxing in November. Dian Gomes was re-elected President of the sets, but recovered to win in an hour and a half as if the situation improves. Boxing Association of Sri Lanka only last month with high hopes. she chases Margaret Court’s Grand Slam tally. In Brief LOCAL the members of our squad and their MALINGA QUITS IPL 2020, JAMES wellbeing will always hold utmost PATTINSON BROUGHT IN AS importance.” REPLACEMENT Indian Premier League’s (IPL) most INTERNATIONAL successful team Mumbai Indians ENGLAND VS. PAKISTAN THIRD AND (MI) has signed Australian speedster FINAL T20I IN MANCHESTER ON James Pattinson as a replacement for TUESDAY (1) Lasith Malinga for the its 2020 season, Pakistan 190/4 in 20 overs international media reported yesterday (Mohammad Hafeez 86 n.o. in 52 balls, (2). Haider Ali 54; Chris Jordan 2/29) beat Malinga has requested England 185/8 in 20 overs (Moeen Ali unavailability for the season 61 in 33, Tom Banton 46;Shaheen Shah for personal reasons and to Afridi 2/28, Wahab Riaz 2/26) by five be with family back home runs at Manchester in Sri Lanka, reports had Player of the Match and Series: added. Pattinson will join Mohammad Hafeez MI, currently based in Series: Three-match series drawn 1-1 Abu Dhabi, this weekend. MI owner Akash Ambani The Colombo FC that won the has welcomed Pattinson on first major national-level football board while extending their tournament “after” the Covid-19 all support to the Sri Lankan. pandemic, the FFSL-organised Vantage President’s Cup, beating Blue “James is the right fit for Eagles 4-0 in the tournament final us and adds to our pace held at Sugathadasa last (2) evening attack options available PHOTO ISHAN WANNIARACHCHI at hand especially for the conditions we will play in this season,” Ambani has been quoted saying to Indian media yesterday. “Lasith is a legend and a pillar of MI’s strength. There Blue Eagles downed is no denying the fact that we will miss Lasith’s cricketing acumen this zPresident’s Cup goes to Colombo FC season. However, we fully understand Lasith’s need The much-anticipated final of the Vantage-sponsored There were 20 clubs that took part in to be in Sri Lanka with President’s Cup football, organised by the Football Federation the tournament in five groups. In the his family during this of Sri Lanka, was won by Colombo Football Club last (2) semi-finals, Colombo beat Red Star SC time,” he has added. evening. Led by B.M.C.B. Rathnayake, Colombo FC routed their 3-2 (on penalties) while Blue Eagles “Mumbai Indians opponents Blue Eagles 4-0 in the final, held at Sugathadasa beat Java Lane 4-3 (also on penalties). is founded on Stadium under lights. In the quarter-finals, New Star had the values of beaten Blue Eagles, but the former ‘One Family’ Blue Eagles, captained by Lakmal Colombo FC led from the front from was disqualified from the tournament and for us James Pattinson Gunasinghe, had not much to do as the word go, staying 1-0 up at half-time. for violating tournament rules.

2020 Lanka Premier League (LPL) Dates: 14 November to 6 December Teams: Five Names of teams: Colombo Lions, Dambulla Hawks, Galle Gladiators, Jaffna Cobras, and Kandy Tuskers Total matches: 23 Format: Twenty20

Other regional league Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa keen too met for the first time representatives The LPL was originally scheduled of the PSJASL yesterday (2) at the to be held from 28 August to 20 Ministry in Colombo September, but on 11 August, SLC Jacob Oram is ecstatic. LPL was first announced that the tournament was played as the SLPL in 2012 but was postponed till November. Sports Minister meets never continued thereafter. Oram’s By the end of July, it was reported team Uva Next won the title then that around 70 overseas players had shown interest to sign up for the professional sports journalists league. Weeks before, foreign media said SLC announces other regional franchises that are zA permanent headquarters and a professional degree promised already participating in prominent annual leagues such as the Indian Minister of Sports and Youth the University of Sabaragamuwa. Journalist Ram Chris is the Premier League (IPL), the Pakistan Affairs Namal Rajapaksa yesterday One of the main eligibilities for incumbent President of the PSJASL launch of LPL Super League (PSL), as well as the (2) had a discussion with the enrolment for the degree will be and its current Secretary is journalist West Indies’ Caribbean Premier Professional Sports Journalists’ the work experience of the member Chathuka Diwashana. z Five-team event will be held from 14 League (CPL) are keen on buying Association of Sri Lanka (PSJASL) journalists. The PSJASL has a membership of franchises of the LPL. at the Sports Ministry in Colombo. over 100 sports journalists working November to 6 December Among many significant matters Main body of sports in the print, electronic, and digital The much-awaited Lanka Premier International Cricket Stadium, 2012 start and discussed was the installation of journalists in SL media institutions in Sri Lanka. It League (LPL), a franchised-based Pallekele International Cricket discontinuation a permanent and well-equipped Among other issues discussed was is the main body representing the T20 league organised by Sri Lanka Stadium, and Sooriyawewa A local Sri Lankan T20 franchise office for the Association. It was creating a health and life insurance sports journalists’ professional as Cricket (SLC), will be officially International Cricket Stadium. Five league modelled in the form of finalised that the PSJASL main scheme for all sports journalists in well as welfare requirements. launched in Sri Lanka early teams – named after the cities of the IPL, first launched in 2008, office will soon be established at Sri Lanka. November this year, SLC officially Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Dambulla, was inaugurated in 2012 under the the Sugathadasa Sports Complex announced yesterday (2). and Jaffna – will participate in the name the Sri Lanka Premier League premises in Colombo 14. The tournament is now scheduled League,” it added. (SLPL) but it did not take place to be played from 14 November to 6 The communiqué also said: “IPG thereafter due to various problems Sports journalism degree December. was offered rights for licensing of ranging from organisational issues at Sabaragamuwa Uni “SLC signed up with the franchises, broadcasting, production, to the lack of sufficient sponsorship, The proposed PSJASL office will Innovative Production Group and ground rights of the event. A it was reported. also include working facilities and (IPG) to manage and conduct the local league is welcomed by both New Zealand’s Jacob Oram took a fully equipped library containing tournament,” it said in a media players and fans alike as it provides the most number of wickets (15) books written on sports and related release yesterday. a platform for the players to horn in the SLPL 2012, representing the subjects in both Sri Lanka and their skills playing alongside top- victorious team Uva Next, while abroad. IGP won total rights notch cricketers in the world, while its Dilshan Munaweera scored the Among the other PSJASL “The 23-match League will be providing an opportunity for the highest number of runs (212). Uva proposals that were endorsed by played on the three international local fans to witness some quality Next, led by Thilina Kandamby, the Minister was starting a degree venues of Rangiri Dambulla cricket on display.” won the title. programme for sports journalists at