May 25, Colombo (LNW): Winston Peters, New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, has commenced a multi-day official visit to Sri Lanka, marking the first such diplomatic engagement at this level from New Zealand in over a decade.
He arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) late on the evening of May 24, where he was welcomed by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment, Arun Hemachandra, along with senior diplomatic staff.
During his stay, the New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister is expected to engage in wide-ranging talks with key Sri Lankan leaders, including President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya, and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.
These discussions are anticipated to explore new avenues for cooperation in trade, agriculture, education, and tourism—areas of increasing importance for both nations. Enhancing digital connectivity and fostering closer sporting and cultural exchanges are also on the agenda.
Beyond formal governmental meetings, Peters will participate in several sessions with business representatives and media figures. These engagements are seen as an effort to foster private sector linkages and raise awareness of New Zealand’s foreign policy focus in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly as the global geopolitical landscape shifts.
Following his engagements in Sri Lanka, he is scheduled to continue to India, Nepal, and Australia, in what many interpret as part of New Zealand’s renewed strategic engagement with South Asia and the Indian Ocean region.
Whilst relations between Sri Lanka and New Zealand have historically been cordial, they have often remained low-profile. This visit, however, signals an opportunity to revitalise and elevate the bilateral relationship, aligning it more closely with shared goals such as sustainable development, food security, and educational exchange.
Deputy Prime Minister Peters is expected to conclude his official programme in Sri Lanka on May 28.
May 25, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s artistic community and the general public gathered in solemn reverence as the body of iconic actress Malini Fonseka was brought to the National Film Corporation, where it now lies in state at the Tharangani Hall.
Admirers from all walks of life began arriving to pay their final respects to the late star, whose passing marks the end of an era in the nation’s cultural history.
Arrangements have been made for the public to continue offering tributes tomorrow at Independence Square, a site that has often served as a backdrop for historic national moments—fitting for a figure so integral to the country’s cinematic and artistic legacy.
Malini Fonseka, affectionately celebrated as the “Queen of Sinhala Cinema,” passed away yesterday (24) at the age of 78 whilst undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Colombo. Her death has prompted an outpouring of national grief, as well as international condolences from those familiar with her transformative work in South Asian film and television.
In recognition of her unparalleled contribution to the arts, the government will honour her with a full state funeral on Monday (26). The official ceremony will be held in the evening at Independence Square, according to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. Senior state officials, fellow artists, and foreign dignitaries are expected to attend the solemn occasion.
Born in 1947, Malini Fonseka’s career spanned more than six decades and encompassed over 140 feature films, along with significant roles in stage and television productions. Not only did she captivate audiences with her nuanced performances, but she also broke barriers as Sri Lanka’s first female teledrama director. Her creative vision and quiet resilience helped elevate the standards of the island’s performing arts, earning her widespread recognition and a place in the hearts of generations.
She was not only a star on screen but also served as a parliamentarian, demonstrating her commitment to civic life and the wellbeing of her fellow citizens. Her numerous accolades—ranging from national film awards to international festival honours—only begin to tell the story of a woman who redefined artistic excellence in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.
As Sri Lanka mourns the loss of a beloved national treasure, tributes continue to pour in from every corner of the country and beyond. From seasoned filmmakers to aspiring actors and devoted fans, all remember Malini Fonseka not merely as a performer, but as a guiding force in the evolution of Sri Lankan cinema.
Her final journey, accompanied by state honours, serves as a reminder of the profound impact she made—not just on film, but on the very soul of a nation.
May 25, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa, North-western and Central provinces and in Galle and Matara districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (25).
Fairly heavy falls above 75 mm are likely at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara, Nuwara-Eliya and Kandy districts.
A few showers may occur elsewhere.
Strong winds of about (40-50) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central, Western, Southern and North-western provinces and in Trincomalee and Monaragala districts.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain: Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle. Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places over the other sea areas around the island.
Winds: Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph. Wind speed can increase up to (55-65) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Puttalam and Mannar and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambanthota. Wind speed can increase up to (50-55) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee via Mullaittivu.
State of Sea: The sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Puttalam and Mannar and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambanthota will be rough to very rough at times. The sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee via Mullaittivu will be fairly rough at times.
The wave height may increase (about 2.0 – 3.0 m) in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota (this is not for land area).
Naval and fishing communities are requested to be vigilant in this regard.
Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
May 24, Colombo (LNW): Wanniarachchige Malini Senehelatha Fonseka, fondly known as Malini Fonseka, was a towering figure in Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape—an iconic actress, revered theatre artist, pioneering director, and politician.
Born on April 30, 1947 in Kelaniya, she rose from modest beginnings to become the “Queen of Sri Lankan Cinema.” Her passing on May 24, 2025, at age 78, marks the end of an era that defined generations of artistic excellence.
Malini’s journey began in the theatre with her 1963 stage debut Noratha Ratha. Her breakthrough came in 1969 when she won Best Actress at the National State Drama Festival. She transitioned to cinema in 1968, debuting in Tissa Liyansooriya’s Punchi Baba, and swiftly rose to prominence with standout performances in films such as Dahasak Sithuwili and Adarawanthayo. By the 1980s, her talent was officially recognised with multiple Sarasaviya Best Actress Awards for Hingana Kolla, Aradhana, and Yasa Isuru.
Across a career spanning over seven decades and more than 140 films, Malini Fonseka became a beloved household name, admired for her emotional range and authenticity. Her cinematic pairings, particularly with Gamini Fonseka, remain amongst the most iconic in Sinhala film history. She also made waves internationally, starring opposite Sivaji Ganesan in the Tamil film Pilot Premnath (1978), and winning a special Jury Award at the 1975 Moscow International Film Festival—making her the first Sri Lankan actress to be so honoured on the global stage.
Born the third of eleven siblings to Gilbert and Seelwathie Fonseka, Malini was part of a deeply artistic family. Several of her siblings and extended relatives have been involved in Sri Lanka’s film and drama industry, including actresses Samanalee and Senali Fonseka, and director Prasanna Vithanage. Her family’s enduring presence in the arts reflects Malini’s legacy not only as a performer but as a matriarchal figure in the country’s cinematic community.
Beyond cinema, Malini made an indelible mark in television. She was a trailblazer as Sri Lanka’s first female teledrama director, debuting with Nirupamala. Her performances in Pitagamkarayo, Kemmura, Ambu Daruwo, and Manalada Puthe Kiri Dunne were widely acclaimed, earning her Sumathi Best Teledrama Actress Awards. Her directorial work on series like Sanasili Suwanda cemented her as a formidable force behind the camera as well.
Not confined to the screen, Malini also ventured into politics. In 2010, recognising her influence and public appeal, she was appointed as a Member of Parliament representing the United People’s Freedom Alliance. Her entry into public service demonstrated her broader commitment to the nation and was a testament to her stature as a cultural ambassador.
Her talents continued to resonate even in later years. In 2024, she delivered a mesmerising performance in the music video Eya Wasanthaya Nowe, alongside rising artist Chapa Jayaruk. Her emotional depth and expressive presence reminded audiences of her timeless appeal, even as she approached the twilight of her career.
Over the years, Malini Fonseka amassed a remarkable collection of awards and honours. Aside from her numerous Sarasaviya, Presidential, and OCIC Awards, she was honoured with the Wishva Prasadhini Award by President Chandrika Kumaratunga in 1996. In 2003, a grand tribute titled Maliniye was held at the BMICH, recognising her four-decade contribution to Sri Lankan cinema. Sri Lankan expatriates in the United States also honoured her in 2008 at a special event hosted by the Consul General in Los Angeles. Most recently, in 2019, she received the Janabhimani Honorary Award.
CNN’s inclusion of Malini Fonseka amongst Asia’s 25 greatest film actors of all time in 2010 was a fitting international recognition for a woman whose artistry transcended borders and languages. Her unique ability to bring profound humanity to her roles made her not only a national treasure but a symbol of South Asian cinematic excellence.
Malini Fonseka’s passing in Colombo, whilst receiving treatment in hospital, leaves an irreplaceable void. But her legacy—etched in celluloid, drama, public service, and the hearts of her people—will endure for generations. Her name will forever evoke elegance, resilience, and a boundless passion for storytelling.
Sri Lanka is on track to meet its ambitious vehicle tax revenue target for 2025, though uncertainties remain. The government aims to collect between Rs. 300–350 billion in revenue from vehicle imports, driven by a resurgence in demand following the relaxation of import restrictions. However, officials and analysts caution that several factors, including fluctuating import volumes, rising vehicle costs, and economic instability, could influence final outcomes.
Fitch Solutions projects that pent-up demand for vehicles, previously suppressed by import bans, will bolster tax revenue in the coming year. The government has introduced steep import duties and surcharges on vehicles, anticipating these measures will contribute significantly to its fiscal goals. Despite this optimism, the high cost of imported vehicles may dampen demand, potentially jeopardizing revenue targets.
Recent figures indicate encouraging signs. Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe revealed that Letters of Credit (LCs) worth USD 450 million have been opened for vehicle imports over the past five months. Approximately USD 200 million worth of vehicles have already arrived, with activity expected to grow steadily over the next three months.
Still, challenges persist. While initial import levels align with government forecasts, there is concern that volumes may not return to pre-ban highs. Economic pressures, including debt servicing obligations, could strain foreign currency reserves, affecting the country’s capacity to sustain import flows.
Additionally, the Committee on Public Finance (CoPF) has raised red flags about potential tax revenue losses stemming from inconsistencies in the taxation of used vehicle imports, particularly low-mileage vehicles. CoPF Chair MP Dr. Harsha de Silva questioned the transparency and fairness of VAT collections by Sri Lanka Customs.
Officials acknowledged variations based on vehicle usage and registration details. In response, the committee called for a detailed report on taxes collected from a sample of used vehicle imports, emphasizing the importance of efficient and equitable tax collection to meet revenue goals.
Meanwhile, the CoPF has approved revisions to the advance account limits for several ministries and departments under the 2024 Appropriation Act. These include budgetary adjustments for anti-corruption efforts, educational publications, and infrastructure needs such as prison industries and railway stores.
With mounting economic pressure and shifting trade dynamics, Sri Lanka’s ability to meet its 2025 vehicle tax target will depend on careful policy execution, transparent taxation, and efficient import management.
In a groundbreaking move, Sri Lanka’s Ideal Motors Ltd. has appointed Dilani Yatawaka as its new Group Managing Director and CEO, making her the first female business leader to head an automotive company in the country. Her leadership comes at a critical juncture, as Sri Lanka reopens vehicle imports after a five-year ban, threatening to derail the progress of the country’s burgeoning vehicle assembly sector.
Yatawaka, a seasoned finance and automotive professional with over 25 years of experience, steps into this pivotal role at a time when the local industry is voicing serious concerns over the government’s decision to lift the vehicle import ban without offering protective measures for domestic assemblers.
Industry leaders warn that the move, coupled with increased taxation, could have disastrous consequences for Sri Lanka’s rapidly growing automotive assembly sector.
The vehicle import ban, enforced in 2021 to conserve foreign exchange amid economic instability, led to a halt in the inflow of new vehicles. This has caused the country’s fleet to age significantly, making spare parts scarce and expensive.
With the lifting of the ban, the government aims to boost tax revenue, but industry stakeholders like Nalin Welgama, Founder of Ideal Motors, caution that the lack of safeguards could cripple local manufacturing efforts.
Under Welgama’s leadership, Ideal Motors partnered with India’s Mahindra and Mahindra to establish a strong local presence. Today, Sri Lanka hosts 17 assembly plants manufacturing a range of vehicles from SUVs to electric three-wheelers. Another 17 investors are poised to enter the market, reflecting the sector’s potential.
The sector supports over 15,000 jobs, highlighting its socio-economic importance. Experts warn that imposing “tax on tax” and allowing unrestricted imports could stifle this momentum unless a supportive policy framework is put in place. Welgama has advocated for a tax regime that favors locally assembled vehicles to ensure sustainability, attract investment, and support growth.
Amid these challenges, Yatawaka’s appointment signals a bold and strategic move. A graduate of St. Bridget’s Convent and a Fellow of multiple prestigious accounting bodies, she began her career at Ernst & Young before advancing to senior roles at Associated Motorways (AMW), where she led a successful restructuring post-acquisition by the UAE’s Al Futtaim Group.
Since joining Ideal Group in 2017, she has played a key role in steering the company through multiple crises, including the Easter Sunday attacks, the COVID-19 pandemic, and Sri Lanka’s economic collapse — all without layoffs or salary reductions. Her strategic overhaul of Mahindra’s aftermarket operations led to a notable sales surge in just five months.
Yatawaka’s leadership is marked by a commitment to shared growth and employee empowerment. “Her vision and resilience were instrumental in our turnaround,” said Welgama. “She is the right leader to take Ideal Motors into its next decade of growth.”
As Sri Lanka’s automotive industry faces an uncertain future, Yatawaka’s historic appointment provides both a fresh direction and a symbol of hope — for inclusive leadership and for a sustainable local industry amidst looming import pressures.
In a dynamic shift that reflects the changing needs of today’s businesses, OC by Orion City has launched a new flexible office space concept in the heart of Colombo 3. Located at one of the most prestigious and well-connected addresses in the city, this venture offers a seamless blend of functionality, comfort, and innovation — all under one roof.
Modern businesses, particularly startups and SMEs in Sri Lanka, are increasingly seeking workspace solutions that reduce overheads and allow them to focus solely on growth. OC by Orion City addresses this demand by eliminating traditional setup costs and offering private, ready-to-move-in office units of varying sizes.
These fully furnished spaces cater to a broad spectrum of professionals — from freelancers and small teams to established firms — providing everything needed to hit the ground running.
But OC is more than just a workspace. It’s a business ecosystem thoughtfully designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and well-being. Each floor is equipped with stylish chill-out zones, professional meeting rooms, soundproof call pods, and an inviting dining area. The rooftop, overlooking the Indian Ocean, is a standout feature — an inspiring venue for networking events, team get-togethers, and client meetings.
What makes OC by Orion City particularly valuable for startups and entrepreneurs is its plug-and-play nature. With high-speed internet, secure cloud access, and round-the-clock operations, it meets the demands of digital-era enterprises that work beyond traditional office hours.
In a city like Colombo, where the startup culture is rapidly growing, such infrastructure is crucial to support lean teams with ambitious goals.
In line with Orion City’s longstanding commitment to sustainability and tech-forward infrastructure, the facility incorporates green initiatives like rainwater harvesting, solar power, drip irrigation, and landscaped green spaces. With modern fire safety, dependable backup power, and ample parking, the building ensures safety and convenience.
Orion City CEO Jeevan Gnanam stated at the launch, “We are excited to welcome businesses to OC by Orion City. Our goal is to provide more than just workspaces — we are building environments where innovation flourishes and people are motivated to achieve more.”
Since its establishment in Colombo 9 in 2007, Orion City has played a pioneering role in redefining workspaces in Sri Lanka. The expansion into Colombo 3 through OC marks a new chapter — one that aligns perfectly with the evolving needs of contemporary businesses looking for a central, collaborative, and fully equipped environment to grow and succeed.
Sri Lanka’s Central Bank has mandated stricter reporting protocols for cyber incidents targeting licensed banks, responding to a sharp rise in cyber threats and financial phishing attacks in 2024.
The new directive, outlined in a recent circular, requires banks to report any information technology (IT) incidents, cybersecurity breaches, or online scams to the Central Bank within two hours of detection. These incidents are classified into three categories:
IT incidents involving system failures or disruptions with operational or reputational implications.Cybersecurity breaches compromising the confidentiality, integrity, or availability of bank systems and data.Online and digital scams, including internet fraud that deceives users into giving away sensitive information or money.
The Central Bank emphasized the need for “prompt and transparent” reporting to assess risks, mitigate service disruptions, and protect assets. This move comes amid alarming figures from the 2024 Kaspersky Security Bulletin, which reported 9,218 financial phishing incidents in Sri Lanka—a sign of increasingly sophisticated tactics used by cybercriminals.
Financial phishing, where fraudsters mimic legitimate financial institutions to steal banking credentials and payment details, is becoming a serious concern for both individuals and businesses. Attackers typically employ malicious links and attachments, leading to severe financial and reputational harm.
“Phishing attacks in Sri Lanka are a clear sign that cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated,” said Sam Yan, Kaspersky’s Head of Sales for Asia Emerging Countries. He urged businesses to adopt multi-layered cybersecurity strategies, stressing that cybersecurity must be treated as a core business priority.
Kaspersky’s data shows the rise of phishing is particularly acute in the business-to-business (B2B) space, with companies increasingly targeted via fraudulent financial communications. The report also recorded over 8.6 million web-based threats and 12.5 million local malware attacks in Sri Lanka in 2024, highlighting widespread vulnerability.
To defend against this growing wave of attacks, Kaspersky recommends the following measures for organizations:Deploy anti-phishing technologies to detect and block malicious messages in real time.Train employees to recognize phishing tactics and report suspicious behavior.Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to enhance the security of financial transactions.
Kaspersky also offers the Kaspersky Unified Monitoring and Analysis Platform (KUMA), a solution designed to enhance event monitoring and cyber incident response.
While countries like Belarus, Moldova, and the Philippines remain global hotspots for cyberattacks, Sri Lanka is emerging as a key regional target. The Central Bank’s updated rules signal an urgent push to bolster the nation’s cyber resilience in the face of mounting threats.
The Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, officially endorsed the certificate on the Foreign Loans (Repeal) Bill today (May 23), marking its passage into law.
Following the Second Reading debate earlier in the day, the Bill was reviewed at the committee stage and subsequently passed without amendment and without a vote during the Third Reading, the Parliamentary Communications Department confirmed.
The legislation, which was first introduced to Parliament on May 8, 2025, has now been enacted as the Foreign Loans (Repeal) Act, No. 6 of 2025.
This development formalizes the repeal of prior foreign loan provisions and signifies a new phase in the government’s legislative approach to external financing.
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Thailand, Wijayanthi Edirisinghe, recently met with Thailand’s Minister of Social Development and Human Security, Varawut Silpa-archa, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Bangkok to discuss ongoing bilateral cooperation in social protection and human rights.
Ambassador Edirisinghe expressed her gratitude for Thailand’s support in implementing the National Referral Mechanism (NRM) for victims of human trafficking, particularly in facilitating the rescue and repatriation of Sri Lankan nationals who had been trapped in cybercrime centres in Myanmar. She confirmed that all Sri Lankan victims have now been safely returned home.
The Ambassador extended the Sri Lankan Government’s deep appreciation to the Thai Government for its assistance and highlighted the exceptional support provided by Thai officials in both Mae Sot and Bangkok throughout the operation.
Minister Silpa-archa praised the close collaboration between the two nations and reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to continue supporting Sri Lanka in future humanitarian efforts. He also acknowledged Sri Lanka’s active role in promoting mutual cooperation on human rights and social protection.
Both sides welcomed ongoing bilateral initiatives, particularly those focused on protecting the rights of women and children and increasing women’s representation in national legislatures and decision-making bodies.
The meeting reaffirmed the strong partnership between Sri Lanka and Thailand, built on shared regional values and a joint commitment to advancing human dignity and inclusive development. The discussion was also attended by A.W.S. Samanmali, Head of Chancery, and Vireshika Bandara, Minister Counsellor (Commercial).
