September 30, Colombo (LNW): A new digital system aimed at easing the renewal process for driving licences in Sri Lanka officially went live today (30th), marking a significant shift toward more accessible and streamlined public services.
The Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) has introduced the first phase of the online platform, allowing eligible applicants to begin the renewal process without the need to physically visit the DMT headquarters in Werahera. The move is part of a broader effort to modernise public administration and reduce congestion at government offices.
Under the updated procedure, those seeking to renew their licences can now obtain the required medical certificate at the National Transport Medical Institute (NTMI) in Nugegoda. Once certified, applicants will be issued a temporary licence on-site, and their details will be electronically transmitted to the DMT for further processing.
Online Platform Launched to Simplify Driving Licence Renewals in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Sets Ambitious Course Toward Digital Future at Inaugural AI Expo
September 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming into a digitally empowered nation, with an emphasis on education, innovation, and inclusive access to technology, Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya announced at the opening of the country’s first-ever National AI Expo 2025.
Addressing a gathering of innovators, educators, and tech industry leaders in Battaramulla, the Prime Minister highlighted that the cornerstone of this transformation lies in equipping the population with skills aligned with the demands of modern technology.
The National AI Expo, held on 29 and 30 September, brings together experts, businesses, and students under one roof to showcase and explore the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
Jointly organised by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Sri Lanka Telecom Mobitel, the event serves as a catalyst for AI integration across sectors, whilst also targeting early engagement by introducing AI tools to students and fostering partnerships between research institutions and private enterprises.
“Artificial intelligence is not merely an emerging field—it is already shaping the decisions we make as individuals, businesses, and governments,” Dr Amarasuriya noted during her keynote speech. “Our vision is not simply to adapt to this change, but to lead it.”
She outlined a bold roadmap to grow Sri Lanka’s digital economy to USD 15 billion by 2030, representing 12% of the national GDP. This includes a target of USD 5 billion in digital exports and the development of a skilled digital workforce of 200,000 professionals.
As part of this wider strategy, the government has designated September as ‘Digital Economy Month’—a move aimed at raising awareness and enthusiasm for digital transformation throughout the country. A series of exhibitions, workshops, and training programmes are being held to encourage the adoption of digital tools in both public and private sectors.
In the education sphere, reforms are already underway. Artificial intelligence, robotics, and environmental sciences are being added to the national curriculum, with a comprehensive effort to train 100,000 teachers and equip classrooms with smart learning technology.
“Empowering every citizen—from schoolchildren to entrepreneurs—with access to digital tools is essential. Our reforms are not just about infrastructure, but about fostering a new mindset,” the Prime Minister said.
Dr Amarasuriya also drew attention to several government-led digital service initiatives, including the expansion of GovPay for online transactions such as traffic fines, and the launch of aigov.lk, a national AI platform intended to support emerging sectors and streamline government services.
On the question of security and trust in the digital space, she confirmed that a national cyber security strategy and operations centre is currently being implemented to ensure safe access to e-services and digital markets.
The overarching goal, she stressed, is to position Sri Lanka as a regional hub for digital services in South Asia—an ecosystem where tech entrepreneurs, SMEs, and multinational investors can thrive in a connected, secure, and innovation-driven economy.
University Lecturers Launch Strike as Higher Education Crisis Deepens
September 30, Colombo (LNW): Academic staff across Sri Lanka’s state universities are set to stage a nationwide strike today (30), in protest against what they describe as the government’s persistent neglect of critical issues facing the higher education sector.
The Federation of University Teachers’ Associations (FUTA), which represents lecturers and academics from public universities, announced the industrial action during a press briefing in Colombo.
The Union accuses the current administration of failing to deliver on promises made to address longstanding challenges within the university system, despite having been in office for over a year.
FUTA Secretary, Senior Lecturer Charudaththe Ilangasinghe, voiced deep concern over the deteriorating conditions in public universities, emphasising that the government’s silence on the key issues could be dangerous for the future of public education in Sri Lanka.
Among the core grievances raised by the union are the declining quality of education, underfunding, and a growing exodus of experienced academic staff. Ilangasinghe highlighted the situation at the University of Peradeniya, where more than 200 lecturers have reportedly resigned or left for overseas positions in the past year alone—a figure he described as “deeply troubling.”
Sri Lankan Nationals Held in Bengaluru Over Illegal Entry and Criminal Allegations
September 30, Colombo (LNW): Authorities in Bengaluru have apprehended three Sri Lankan nationals believed to be involved in serious criminal activities, following a targeted operation carried out by the city’s Central Crime Branch (CCB).
The trio, aged 29, 31, and 41, were found residing unlawfully in an apartment complex located in the Devanahalli area, on the outskirts of the city. Initial inquiries suggest the individuals had been living in hiding for several months, evading detection by local authorities.
According to Indian media, the men—originally from Dondra, Ratmalana, and Kotahena—are suspected to have entered India illegally via a maritime route from Jaffna to Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, sometime in 2024.
After brief stopovers in Chennai and Coimbatore, they eventually made their way to Bengaluru, where they settled without proper identification or immigration documents. None of the individuals possessed valid passports or visas at the time of arrest.
Police investigations have revealed that at least two of the detainees are facing serious charges in Sri Lanka. One is reportedly wanted in connection with a drug trafficking case, while another is under suspicion for involvement in a murder, among other alleged crimes.
A few districts to witness showers further: Fairly strong winds to occur elsewhere (Sep 30)
September 30, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers will occur in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (30).
A few showers may occur in North western province.
Fairly strong winds of about (30-40) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central, North-western, and Central provinces and in Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle.
Winds:
Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph. Wind speed can increase up to (50-55) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota and from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Mannar. Wind speed can increase up to 50 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coast extending from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota and from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Mannar will be rough at times. The sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee will be fairly rough at times.
Vehicle Import Boom Threatens Sri Lanka’s Reserve Targets
By: Staff Writer
September 29, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s decision to lift the four-year ban on vehicle imports has unleashed a massive surge in demand, with Letters of Credit (LCs) for imports already nearing US$1.6 billion, raising concerns over potential pressure on the country’s fragile foreign exchange reserves.
Despite assurances from senior officials that the outflows are “manageable,” financial analysts warn that the timing of this import spree could complicate Sri Lanka’s commitments under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, which requires the country to build reserves to over US$7 billion by year-end.
Director General of Customs Seevali Arukgoda confirmed that there are no foreign exchange ceilings on commercial vehicle imports, with only a one-vehicle-per-year restriction on private buyers. “There is no threshold. Any amount of imports can come in. It will not negatively affect foreign reserves,” he asserted.
However, data from the banking sector indicates a sharp spike in LC openings between June and September 2025, largely driven by pent-up demand from vehicle dealers and leasing companies preparing for the post-ban market. With each LC backed by U.S. dollars, the foreign exchange outflow over the next few months could exceed US$2 billion, depending on shipping and settlement timelines.
Deputy Secretary to the Treasury Ajith Abeysekera defended the Government’s position, saying the current LC volume remains within “expected parameters” agreed under the IMF programme. “It does not look like it will impact foreign reserves,” he said, stressing that the IMF team stationed in Colombo is monitoring the country’s fiscal and external stability closely.
Officials maintain that the surge in imports is providing an unexpected fiscal windfall. Customs revenues from vehicle imports have already exceeded Rs. 700 billion, significantly strengthening Government coffers after years of stagnation. Yet, economic experts caution that short-term revenue gains may not offset the long-term foreign exchange cost, especially if importers settle LCs simultaneously during the final quarter.
Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, also the Cabinet Spokesperson, insisted that the Central Bank has raised no objections to the scale of imports. “We are doing this in cooperation with the CBSL, and there’s been no indication that it will harm reserves,” he said.
While officials argue that demand has peaked and is now stabilising, market observers note that the renewed appetite for vehicles especially hybrids and electric cars reflects rising consumer confidence and credit expansion. But if foreign inflows from tourism, remittances, and exports falter in coming months, Sri Lanka’s reserve accumulation target of US$7.5 billion could come under threat.
As one senior banker observed, “The question is not whether we can import, but whether we can afford this pace without derailing external stability. A few billion dollars in vehicles today could mean tighter monetary controls tomorrow.”
FACETS 2026 to Shine as Sri Lanka’s Gem Renaissance
By: Staff Writer
September 29, Colombo (LNW): With just three months to go, anticipation is building for FACETS Sri Lanka 2026, the 33rd edition of Asia’s premier gem and jewellery exhibition.
Organised by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) in collaboration with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority, the event will take place from 3-5 January 2026 at Cinnamon Life- The City of Dreams, unveiling a bold, two-floor showcase that merges heritage with innovation.
This year’s edition marks a new era for the global gem trade, reaffirming Sri Lanka’s position as the “Island of Gems”. The event will feature immersive experiences that trace the gemstone journey from mine to market, including interactive displays, VR showcases, and Story Corners where exhibitors narrate their brand legacies.
A major highlight is the formation of the Sapphire Sponsorship Circle, comprising 11 of Sri Lanka’s top gem and jewellery exporters.
The elite group includes Colombo Jewellery Stores, Domico Gems, Ellawala Exports, Gem Paradise, Mushan International, Regal Gems, RnR Fine Gems, Ruwanpura Gems, Subash Gems, Trust Gems, and Zam Gems. Their collective support underscores industry unity and commitment to positioning FACETS as the region’s most influential gem showcase.
SLGJA President Akram Cassim hailed the Sapphire Circle as a milestone for the sector. “Their support is a powerful endorsement of our shared vision to showcase Sri Lankan gemstones and craftsmanship on a global stage,” he said. “FACETS has always been more than an exhibition — it’s a celebration of our heritage and a bridge to the world.”
FACETS 2026 Chairman Armil Samoon emphasised the exhibition’s enduring legacy. “Since 1991, FACETS has carried Sri Lanka’s gem story across the globe. This edition builds on that history with a futuristic vision connecting our past to the opportunities of tomorrow,” he said.
Adding further value, Universal Travel Bureau (UTB) joins as the event’s Official Travel Partner, curating exclusive pre- and post-show experiences for delegates. These include gem mine tours offering a rare look into Sri Lanka’s centuries-old mining traditions and sustainable practices — transforming the exhibition into a cultural journey blending heritage, hospitality, and discovery.
FACETS 2026 also places strong emphasis on sustainability, ethical sourcing, and design innovation, ensuring alignment with evolving global standards and consumer expectations. Over the past three decades, FACETS has grown into a hallmark of excellence, drawing traders, collectors, and jewellery enthusiasts from around the world.
As Sri Lanka prepares to open its doors in January, FACETS 2026 promises to be its most dynamic and visionary edition yet a dazzling celebration of tradition, creativity, and the enduring brilliance of Sri Lanka’s gem heritage.
CEB’s Massive Losses Fuel Debate over New Tariff Increases
By: Staff Writer
September 29, Colombo (LNW): The Committee on Public Enterprises (CoPE) recently disclosed that the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) recorded a jaw-dropping cumulative loss of Rs. 594.36 billion between 2014 and 2022 (excluding 2015), attributing much of the damage to internal inefficiencies and poor governance.
The revelations, made during a CoPE session chaired by MP Dr. Nishantha Samaraweera, have triggered renewed calls for deep structural reform and brought into sharp focus the proposed shift toward a cost-reflective tariff formula.
During the same hearing, the Auditor General’s performance review for 2022–2023 and related years laid bare other malpractices: irregularities in shareholding arrangements of LTL, West Coast, and ESOT entities; a failure to deliver six vehicles worth Rs. 124 million for the Puttalam Coal Project; unauthorized provident fund loans exceeding Rs. 6.6 billion; and Rs. 507 million in allowances disbursed without Cabinet approval.
Of particular note: CEB lacked a permanent internal auditor for nearly a year before corrective action. CoPE has summoned LTL to appear before the committee next month.
While CoPE’s critique centers on past mistakes, the debate now extends to present-day policy: can CEB justify increasing tariffs under a cost-reflective model, given its more recent financial performance?
According to Central Bank of Sri Lanka data, despite steep tariff cuts and market headwinds, CEB reported a net profit of Rs. 148.6 billion in 2024, up 142.8 percent year-on-year.
The 2024 result was aided by foreign exchange gains of Rs. 11.7 billion and a capital gain of Rs. 26 billion from the sale of shares in LTL Holdings.
However, the grace did not last. In Q1 2025, after regulators implemented a 20 percent tariff cut in January, CEB’s revenue tumbled 44 percent (from Rs. 167 billion to Rs. 93.9 billion), and it posted a gross loss of Rs. 18.2 billion.
The cost of sales actually increased year-on-year, compounding the damage. In the following quarter (Q2 2025), CEB engineered a turnaround with a profit of Rs. 5.31 billion (group level profit Rs. 7.4 billion), largely by reinstating tariff adjustments mid-year and containing costs. +2
Yet, over the first half of 2025, CEB still faced a cumulative loss of Rs. 13.1 billion. These volatile swings in profitability highlight the precarious balancing act CEB must perform. On one hand, the legacy losses unearthed by CoPE suggest that unsustainable cross-subsidies and operational weaknesses plagued the utility. On the other, recent figures show that tariff cuts can swiftly reverse gains and plunge CEB back into red territory.
Proponents of a cost-reflective tariff formula argue that the utility must be priced to cover its production, transmission, and financing costs to avoid perpetuating state-sponsored losses. In Sri Lanka’s context, such a move is also seen as a structural necessity under the IMF-backed reform agenda to stabilize the power sector and limit contingent liabilities.
Critics, however, warn that frequent tariff hikes if not matched with efficiency improvements risk rubbing salt into consumers’ wounds in a country already under economic stress. Tariffs that oscillate with fluctuations in fuel costs or foreign exchange rates may prove politically unsustainable unless accompanied by stricter governance, prudent capital investment, and tougher accountability at all levels of the CEB.
As CoPE prepares to grill LTL and revisit CEB’s internal control failures, the public eye remains fixed on the tariff debate. Sri Lanka may soon confront a test: can the power sector be made self-sustaining and fair after decades of losses, mismanagement, and political interference?
CEA Joins GovPay to Boost Digital, Eco-Friendly Payments
By: Staff Writer
September 29, Colombo (LNW): The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) has officially joined Sri Lanka’s GovPay digital payment platform, allowing the public to settle fees for a wide range of environmental services online from Friday, September 26.
The move marks a major step in the government’s digital transformation drive— promising faster, paperless transactions, while also raising questions about accessibility and digital readiness among rural users.
Under the new system, clients can now make electronic payments for inspections, environmental licences, waste management permits, Basel export consents, certifications, laboratory tests, procurement services, and annual renewals. The initiative aims to eliminate lengthy in-person queues and reduce administrative delays that have long plagued service delivery at state offices.
According to the CEA, the integration with GovPay will enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability, ensuring payments are securely processed through 14 licensed banks and six fintech apps. Clients can also access real-time receipts and transaction records a key shift toward improving trust in government services.
The GovPay platform, introduced by the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) in collaboration with LankaPay (Pvt.) Ltd., operates under the Ministry of Digital Economy. Since its launch in February 2025, over 147 government institutions have adopted the system, facilitating Rs. 291 million in transactions across 2,017 services. The CEA becomes the latest state agency to integrate into this expanding digital ecosystem.
At the official signing ceremony held at CEA headquarters, senior officials from both organisations hailed the partnership as a milestone in Sri Lanka’s journey toward e-governance and sustainable administration. CEA representatives emphasised that digitisation not only improves service convenience but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing paper waste and physical travel.
However, while the system is widely welcomed by urban users and corporate clients, some experts caution that limited digital literacy and internet access in rural areas could hinder equal participation. “The platform is efficient, but public awareness and access remain key,” said an ICT consultant. “Without inclusive outreach, small businesses and rural applicants may still depend on manual processes.”
Despite these challenges, GovPay’s adoption is seen as a critical reform in improving public sector efficiency and reducing opportunities for corruption and cash leakages. With real-time transaction monitoring, the Treasury and Auditor General’s Department can track revenue collections more accurately.
For the CEA, the integration marks a significant leap in aligning environmental governance with digital transformation and transparency goals. As more state agencies join GovPay, Sri Lanka’s public service is steadily evolving toward a faster, greener, and more accountable digital future.
Jaffna MP Ramanathan Archchuna Arrested Over Alleged Obstruction of Police During Colombo Protest
September 29, Colombo (LNW): Jaffna District Member of Parliament Dr Ramanathan Archchuna was taken into custody earlier today by officers from the Fort Police, following an ongoing investigation into an incident during a recent public demonstration.
The arrest took place when the MP voluntarily appeared at the Fort Police Station this morning (29th) to provide a statement related to the matter. The investigation stems from a Satyagraha protest held in Colombo, during which Dr Archchuna was reportedly involved in a verbal confrontation with a police officer assigned to the area.
Authorities have confirmed that the arrest was made on allegations of obstructing a police officer in the execution of their duties.