A special police investigation has been launched to probe the potential misuse of the Presidential Fund. Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasuriya instructed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to conduct the inquiry following a complaint about individuals misusing the fund: It was revealed that 34 former Members of Parliament received millions of rupees for non-official purposes, with the misuse estimated to exceed Rs. 12.25 billion.
The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) has decided to take legal action over the reduction of security for former President Mahinda Rajapaksa: SLPP National Executive Member Ravindra Jayasinghe criticised the move, stating that security cuts for economic reasons are unacceptable: He also rejected claims made by NPP Parliamentarian Nilanthi Kottahachchi, calling them baseless and misleading.
Wasantha Handapangoda, a trade union activist of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) and former chairperson of the SLPP Teachers’ Union, has passed away in the United Kingdom: She died due to a sudden illness while visiting her daughter.
The Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) has reported a surge in online scams during the festive season: Chief Information Security Officer Nirosh Ananda highlighted complaints about scammers calling consumers, claiming they have won prizes, and other frauds involving AI technology: He urged the public to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from such scams.
Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa emphasised the urgent need to resolve issues in medicine supply, urging the National Medicine Regulatory Authority (NMRA), State Pharmaceuticals Corporation (SPC), State Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Corporation (SPMC), and Medical Supplies Division (MSD) to ensure a continuous supply of quality medicines: He highlighted the government’s commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka’s primary healthcare system and implementing a stable, long-term national policy for healthcare improvement.
The Police Special Task Force (STF) will be deployed to prevent the theft of power cables on the Katunayake-Colombo expressway, according to the Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation Ministry: Following instructions from Minister Bimal Rathnayake, the Road Development Authority (RDA) requested Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala’s support: STF personnel will patrol the expressway at night to combat thefts, primarily committed by drug addicts.
The newly appointed Excise Commissioner General, U. L. Udaya Kumara Perera, has proposed a solution to settle Rs. 5.8 billion in tax arrears owed by W. M. Mendis and Co. Ltd., suggesting the company pay 50% (Rs. 3 billion) to reactivate its suspended production licence: This approach aims to safeguard the livelihoods of 600 employees and their dependents, while allowing the company to resume operations.
A group of suspects, aged 19 to 26 and from Jaffna, has been arrested by the Galaha Police in Kandy for breaking into over 21 houses and jewellery shops across multiple areas, stealing valuables worth millions: The group is linked to 24 thefts spanning four years, with nine arrest warrants pending from Jaffna: Most of the stolen money has been spent, and some gold ornaments were recovered: They will be presented in court.
As Sri Lanka marks the 20th anniversary of the 2004 tsunami, the nation reflects on the immense loss of over 35,000 lives, the resilience shown by survivors, and the lessons learned: The disaster, one of the deadliest in history, devastated coastal communities, yet global aid and support helped in recovery: Efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and early-warning systems followed, making Sri Lanka more resilient: However, the emotional scars remain, with survivors continuing to rebuild their lives: The anniversary serves as both remembrance and a reminder of the need for vigilance against future natural disasters.
Sri Lanka has secured direct qualification for the 2025 Women’s Cricket World Cup in India, marking their first such achievement since 2008: The team, led by Chamari Athapaththu, earned this spot after Australia’s series win against New Zealand confirmed Sri Lanka’s place: Despite a poor showing in the recent T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka’s strong ODI performances secured their qualification for the prestigious event.
December 26, Colombo (LNW) As Sri Lanka marks the 20th anniversary of the devastating tsunami that struck on December 26, 2004, the nation pauses to reflect on the immense loss, the resilience that followed, and the lessons learned.
The disaster remains one of the deadliest natural calamities in recorded history, claiming over 35,000 lives in Sri Lanka alone and affecting millions of others.
The impact on the island was swift and merciless, with entire communities swept away in a matter of minutes, leaving a lasting scar on the collective memory of the nation.
In the hours following the tsunami, Sri Lanka found itself at the epicentre of global outpourings of sympathy and aid. The 2004 disaster was not just an event that ravaged the coastal communities, but also a moment that saw the entire world unite to offer support, canvassing humanity at its best during a period of profound loss.
Yet, for those directly affected, it was an unfathomable tragedy. The disaster left many grieving families, hundreds of thousands displaced, and entire villages destroyed.
The disaster, commonly known as the “Boxing Day Tsunami,” triggered not only an immediate humanitarian crisis but also long-term challenges for the survivors, as they struggled to rebuild their homes, their lives, and their futures.
In morning hours of December 26, 2004, just a day after the joy of Christmas leading up to the Boxing Day, the might of ocean struck without any warning, as waves up to 30 feet high surged through coastal villages in the south, east, and west of Sri Lanka. Towns such as Galle, Matara, and Trincomalee bore the brunt of the destruction.
In these regions, coastal communities that had once lived peacefully by the sea were now faced with the nightmare of losing everything – homes, livelihoods, and loved ones.
The powerful waves were not merely a force of nature; they were a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability, and the vulnerability of human settlements in its path.
Recovery efforts in Sri Lanka were immense. International aid flowed into the country, with millions of dollars poured in from various governments and charitable organisations. Emergency shelters, food, and medical supplies were quickly mobilised, and a global network of volunteers provided invaluable support.
But rebuilding Sri Lanka was far more than just physical reconstruction. It involved addressing the deep psychological trauma left by the event, rebuilding a sense of community, and restoring hope in the face of overwhelming despair.
The years following the disaster saw significant efforts to strengthen Sri Lanka’s disaster preparedness. The government, in collaboration with international partners, focused on building early-warning systems, improving disaster-response strategies, and raising public awareness about tsunami risks.
The aim was not only to prevent another tragedy of this magnitude but also to ensure that the survivors of 2004 would not have to face such horrors again.
Whilst Sri Lanka has made impressive strides in disaster management since 2004, the emotional scars of that day are still evident.
Many survivors continue to carry the weight of their loss, with countless families still rebuilding their lives and honouring the memories of those lost.
The anniversary of the tsunami serves as both a solemn remembrance and a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and solidarity in the face of natural disasters.
Two decades on, Sri Lanka stands as a symbol of resilience, having faced one of the greatest natural disasters in modern history and emerging stronger from it.
The 2004 tsunami disaster remains a painful chapter, but it also speaks to the indomitable spirit of a nation determined to heal, rebuild, and never forget.
Sri Lanka’s new government under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is intensifying efforts to implement effective anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) measures to safeguard the country’s economic recovery and financial stability.
These policies aim to combat money laundering (ML), terrorist financing (TF), and related crimes that undermine the integrity of the international financial system and pose threats to the domestic financial sector.
The country faces significant risks of being grey-listed by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for a third time, which could severely impact foreign direct investment (FDI), access to global markets, and overall economic confidence.
In response, the government has prioritized compliance with FATF recommendations to prevent destabilizing outcomes such as reduced investor trust, increased compliance costs, and possible credit rating downgrades.
In a key meeting led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, officials from the Central Bank’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) presented action plans involving 24 institutions, emphasizing legal reforms, capacity building, and enhanced inter-agency collaboration.
The government has directed the formation of dedicated teams to monitor progress, ensure accountability, and secure favorable evaluations during the next FATF review in March 2025.
The urgency stems from Sri Lanka’s prior experiences with FATF grey-listing. The country was first grey-listed in 2010 but managed to comply with required reforms and was delisted in 2013 under an International Monetary Fund (IMF) program.
However, it was grey-listed again in 2017 before being removed in 2019 following efforts by the Central Bank and other institutions. Failure to act now could result in being grey-listed once more, with potentially severe repercussions for financial stability and economic recovery.
The IMF has tied its US $3 billion bailout package to Sri Lanka’s compliance with AML/CFT measures, making it imperative for the government to address issues such as bribery, corruption, and weak governance.
The recent economic crisis, which led to widespread protests and the ousting of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has underscored the importance of robust financial systems to prevent such instability in the future.
The Central Bank’s FIU has been tasked with ensuring comprehensive adherence to international AML/CFT standards, including maintaining detailed records and fostering stronger coordination between regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies.
These efforts are crucial not only for financial stability but also for restoring international confidence in Sri Lanka’s economy.
In addition to preventing grey-listing, the government’s reforms aim to position the country as a compliant and trustworthy player in the global financial system.
President Dissanayake has emphasized the need for robust measures to counter the economic effects of ML and TF crimes, protect financial markets, and maintain external stability. With a clear focus on legal, institutional, and operational reforms, Sri Lanka seeks to avoid reputational damage and bolster its chances of long-term economic recovery
Sri Lanka’s export sector achieved significant milestones in the first 11 months of 2024, with total export earnings crossing $14.78 billion, reflecting a 6.44% year-on-year (YoY) growth.
According to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), merchandise exports contributed $11.61 billion, marking a 6.44% YoY rise, while services exports generated an estimated $3.17 billion, up by 7.39% YoY.
However, November saw a downturn in merchandise exports, which dropped 5.56% YoY to $943.1 million, a 14.4% decrease compared to October 2024. This was primarily due to reduced exports of rubber-based products, electrical and electronic components, food and beverages, and seafood.
Services Sector Performance
Despite the decline in merchandise, services exports for November 2024 surged by 21% YoY to $326.23 million, driven by robust growth in ICT/BPM, construction, financial services, and transport and logistics. Combined, merchandise and services exports for November reached $1.26 billion, showing a marginal 0.04% increase compared to November 2023.
Year-End Forecasts
The EDB had projected $16.3 billion in total export revenue for 2024, including $12.7 billion from merchandise exports and $3.6 billion from services. While the year’s overall performance has been positive, achieving this target remains uncertain given the mixed results in November.
Sectoral Analysis: Positive Growth Areas
Apparel and Textiles: November export earnings rose 0.54% YoY to $397.19 million, with notable increases in shipments to the US (1.4%) and the UK (4.6%).
Tea: Contributing 12% of merchandise exports, tea earnings grew by 4.72% YoY to $118.15 million. Growth was led by Tea Packets (14.14%) and Bulk Tea (5.02%).
Coconut-Based Products: Monthly earnings increased by 13.08% YoY. Subcategories such as Coconut Kernel Products (12.37%), Coconut Fibre Products (11.73%), and Coconut Shell Products (16.72%) saw significant gains. Specific items like Coconut Oil, Desiccated Coconut, and Coconut Milk Powder rose by 8.18%, 20.64%, and 24.8%, respectively.
Spices and Concentrates: Export earnings jumped 33.17% YoY to $41.27 million, driven by strong performances in Pepper (169.71%) and Cinnamon (15.96%).
ICT/BPM and Logistics: ICT exports are expected to rise 38.04% YoY to $141.39 million, while logistics and transport services may grow by 21.09% YoY to $162.34 million.
Sectors with Declines
Rubber and Rubber-Finished Products: Earnings fell 1.96% YoY to $77.2 million, with Pneumatic and Retreaded Rubber Tyres and Tubes dropping 22.95%.
Electrical and Electronics: Earnings decreased by 6.18% YoY to $35.08 million, primarily due to a 20.47% decline in Insulated Wires and Cables.Food and Beverages: Earnings dropped 8.29% YoY to $36.29 million, with notable decreases in Animal Feed (-22.81%) and Other Cereals (-30.73%).
Seafood: Export earnings plummeted 34.68% YoY to $16.46 million, attributed to declines in Frozen Fish (-22.49%), Fresh Fish (-39.92%), and Shrimps (-72.22%).Ornamental Fish: Earnings fell 26.64% YoY to $1.79 million.
While Sri Lanka’s export sector has demonstrated resilience and notable growth in key areas, challenges persist in certain industries. The mixed performance underscores the need for targeted strategies to bolster underperforming sectors while capitalizing on growth opportunities in high-performing categories.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa extended warm Christmas greetings, emphasizing the profound significance of the sacred festival in commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. He highlighted the universal themes of peace, love, and compassion, central to the life and teachings of Christ, as vital principles for creating a harmonious and inclusive society.
“This sacred occasion symbolizes God’s boundless love and the dignity of humanity, reminding us of the importance of fostering compassion and harmony,” Premadasa said. He stressed that the values of peace, co-existence, and empathy preached by Jesus Christ continue to play a crucial role in shaping the modern world.
Premadasa noted that Christmas, while a religious celebration for Christians, transcends religious boundaries and has become a global festival, uniting people from all walks of life. He urged Sri Lankans to embrace its true spirit by setting aside divisions of race, religion, class, or politics to foster reconciliation and brotherhood, particularly during this time of economic challenges.
He expressed hope that by next Christmas, the collective efforts of the nation would transform the current struggles into tangible progress, bringing hope and joy to every home.
“I extend my heartfelt wishes for a Merry Christmas to all Christians in Sri Lanka,” Premadasa concluded.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya extended her heartfelt wishes for a joyful and meaningful Christmas, urging reflection on the season’s true essence of togetherness, gratitude, and peace.
In her message, the Prime Minister highlighted the value of spending quality time with family and friends, particularly during this period of transition and rebuilding for the nation. “Coming together, sharing meals, and supporting one another not only strengthens our bonds but also enhances our resilience,” she noted, emphasizing that the foundation of a strong and healthy community begins at home.
Acknowledging those who are unable to be with their loved ones during the festive season, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to those working far from home to support their families and to essential service workers who sustain communities during this time.
Dr. Amarasuriya also called for a collective reflection on the hope for global peace amidst ongoing conflicts that continue to claim innocent lives, including those of children. “Christmas reminds us to reflect, forgive, and reconcile—values that inspire us to seek harmony within our families, communities, and the wider world,” she said.
While encouraging celebrations, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of prioritizing safety and making responsible choices to protect oneself and others.
“May this season inspire us to nurture connections, build resilience, and commit to unity and understanding,” the Prime Minister concluded, wishing everyone a very merry Christmas.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake extended warm wishes to Christians in Sri Lanka and around the world on the occasion of Christmas, emphasizing the timeless values of unity, peace, and humanity embodied in the birth and teachings of Jesus Christ.
In his message, the President reflected on the profound simplicity of Christ’s birth among humble shepherds, highlighting that Jesus Christ brought salvation to all, transcending divisions of wealth, status, and power. The divine message delivered to the shepherds by angels serves as a reminder of the call to unity and mutual care.
“As a nation, we are at a pivotal moment,” the President noted, “embarking on a journey to transform Sri Lanka into a land where peace replaces divisions, and mutual understanding fosters harmony.” Drawing inspiration from Christ’s life, rooted in the pursuit of freedom and justice, he urged the nation to embrace the values of love and unity in their shared commitment to a brighter future.
The President called for a transformative social revival to build a just, compassionate, and equitable society. “This is a moment for collective national renewal,” he said, “where determination, resilience, and courage can lead us toward a prosperous nation and fulfilling lives for all.”
Acknowledging the challenges of modern society, which often promotes selfish competition, he encouraged embracing humanity’s virtues this Christmas—empathy, respect for equality, fraternity, and coexistence. These values, he affirmed, are essential for creating a society that thrives on mutual care and collective joy.
President Dissanayake also pledged to work towards a strong and stable economy, social justice, and a political culture grounded in democracy and integrity. “Together, with firm resolve, we can create a beautiful nation filled with humanity and freedom,” he stated.
Concluding his message, the President wished all Christians a blessed and joyful Christmas, filled with the enduring spirit of hope and goodwill.
Colombo Archbishop Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith extended warm wishes for a joyful and holy Christmas in his message, urging people to reflect on the true meaning of the season.
The Cardinal highlighted the humble circumstances of Jesus Christ’s birth, recounting the Holy Family’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, where they found no shelter and sought refuge in a manger. He emphasized the profound simplicity of this event, which occurred far from the grandeur of a royal palace.
“Jesus was born among the poor and marginalized,” Cardinal Ranjith noted, pointing out that shepherds were the first to welcome the Savior while angels sang praises in this modest setting. He underscored this as a testament to God’s preference for the poor, reaffirming the Biblical principle that God is the God of the poor.
The Cardinal encouraged everyone to look beyond material gifts and external celebrations, focusing instead on the spiritual joy of Christmas. He emphasized the importance of empathy and solidarity with those in need, stating, “By reaching out to the less fortunate and embracing the spirit of giving, we honor the essence of Christ’s birth.”
Cardinal Ranjith called on people to embrace simplicity and spend time with the poor, offering love and support. He reminded us that true fulfillment and joy come from shedding material attachments and living in harmony with the message of Christ’s humble beginnings.
This Christmas, the Cardinal urged all to reflect on these values and extend kindness and compassion to those around them, celebrating the season in its truest spirit.
In his Christmas Message President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says “Christmas, the day that marks the birth of Jesus Christ, is celebrated with great reverence by Christians worldwide. Jesus Christ, who came into this world to bring salvation to all, saw no divisions among people, be they rich or poor.”
The Director of Public Relations for the Archdiocese of Colombo, Rev. Fr. Jude Krishantha, has reassured Catholic devotees and the public of their safety as they attend church services for Christmas celebrations, urging them to participate without fear or doubt.
The Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Prof. Anil Jayantha says that a salary increase for public sector employees ‘must’ take place in 2025. He made this statement during a media briefing , emphasizing the government’s commitment to easing the economic hardships faced by the public.
Sri Lanka is set to achieve a significant milestone in its tourism sector as the country prepares to welcome its two millionth tourist for 2024 on December 26th. This landmark occasion will take place at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) through the Silk Route, highlighting the success of ongoing tourism promotion efforts.
Sixty-two employees of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), suspended for participating in protests against its privatization during the previous government, have been reinstated with compensation. These employees were suspended following a protest campaign launched by CEB trade unions last January, opposing alleged privatization efforts.
A rare genetic disorder, Congenital Methemoglobinemia, has been diagnosed for the first time in Sri Lanka, affecting a child from the Medawachchiya area in Anuradhapura. The condition, which causes the skin to turn blue and severely impairs breathing, was identified by a specialist at the premature infant unit of the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital.
Dr. Senesh Bandara Dissanayake, the Chairman of Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation (SLRC), has announced his resignation just three months after assuming the role under the new National People’s Power (NPP) government.In a statement shared on social media, Dissanayake clarified that his tenure was always intended to be temporary.
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa has received death threats from ISIS terrorists and LTTE groups, according to Manoj Gamage, Vice President of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Lawyers’ Association. Speaking to the media Gamage revealed that, the Ministry of Public Security withdrew the remaining military officers assigned to Rajapaksa’s security detail.
Cabinet Spokesman, Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa stated that necessary steps will be taken to curb the resurgence of underworld activities. Addressing the Cabinet press briefing, Dr. Jayatissa highlighted the commitment of security forces to address this issue effectively.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) today announced the fixtures for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which will take place from 19 February to 9 March in Pakistan and UAE. The 15-match, eight-team event returns to the cricket calendar for the first time since the last edition was staged in 2017, with defending champions Pakistan hosting their first global cricket tournament since 1996, alongside the UAE which was confirmed as the neutral venue.
SJB Member of Parliament Dr. Harsha de Silva has welcomed the recent upgrade in Sri Lanka’s credit ratings by international agencies, stating it as a positive development for both the Government and the country.
Speaking at the SJB office in Colombo yesterday, Dr. de Silva highlighted the detrimental impact of previous credit rating downgrades on foreign direct investments (FDI). “The downgrading of Sri Lanka’s credit ratings adversely affected FDI. I hope that this upgrade will help boost foreign investments in the future,” he remarked.
The Parliamentarian also pointed out that the current Government has maintained the economic policies of the previous administration. He attributed the improved credit ratings to this policy continuity, underscoring its importance in fostering economic stability and growth.
