The Hambantota International Port has embarked on a groundbreaking marine conservation effort to protect its naturally formed coral reef colony along the breakwater. This marks the first time a Sri Lankan port has undertaken such an initiative, highlighting its dedication to sustainable environmental practices.

Chief Executive Officer Wilson Kwo emphasized the port’s commitment to preserving marine ecosystems, stating that this initiative aligns with its broader environmental conservation goals.

The Department of Meteorology has forecasted showers or thundershowers in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, and Northwestern provinces after 2:00 p.m. today.

Fairly heavy rainfall of around 75mm is expected in some areas of Western, Sabaragamuwa, and Southern provinces.

Additionally, several spells of showers are likely in the Uva and Eastern provinces as well as the Polonnaruwa district.

Misty conditions can be expected in the morning in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, and Uva provinces, along with Galle, Matara, and Kurunegala districts.

The general public is advised to take precautions against localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers to minimize potential damage.

By Adolf  

Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s (AKD) rise to the presidency marked a historic moment in Sri Lanka’s political landscape. As the leader of the National People’s Power (NPP) and a long-standing opposition figure, his strength has always been his ability to critique the failures of past governments. He was the first president to be elected with less than 50% of the vote—securing only 43%. His victory was largely due to the bickering between Ranil Wickremesinghe and Sajith Premadasa, which split the opposition vote. However, AKD seems to have forgotten this, as his government now enjoys a two-thirds majority in Parliament. The opposition leader must be blamed for running a poor election campaign. History shows that whoever wins the presidency tends to win the subsequent general election. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, for instance, had a two-thirds majority and a record 6.9 (52%) million votes in 2019.  Anura got 5.6 (42%)  million in 2024.

Governing is Not Opposing  

Gotabaya’s presidency clearly demonstrated that governing is vastly different from opposing. If President Anura truly wants to lead Sri Lanka into a new era, he must transition from being an opposition politician to a statesman capable of making tough, pragmatic decisions. He must avoid surrounding himself with yes-men, chamber executives like Hulungamuwa, businessmen and academics, as Gotabaya did, which ultimately led to his downfall. While AKD is undoubtedly a skilled orator who can dismantle his opponents, that skill constitutes only 10% of the job. The real challenge lies in governance and results .  

Moving Beyond Protest Politics  

For decades, AKD built his career on exposing corruption, inefficiency, and mismanagement in government. His speeches in Parliament have been sharp and relentless, earning him a reputation as a formidable opposition leader. However, being in power requires more than just pointing out problems—it demands solutions. Protest politics is effective for rallying support, but as president, he must now work with institutions, business leaders, and international stakeholders to implement real reforms. The transition from opposition to governance requires a shift in mindset—from agitation to action.  

Managing Economic Realities, Not Just Criticizing Them  

AKD has been vocal about economic mismanagement, particularly regarding debt, foreign influence, and corruption. However, he has been reluctant to acknowledge Mahinda Rajapaksa’s role in ending the war or Ranil Wickremesinghe’s economic leadership. Sri Lanka’s economic reality is far more complex. The country is still navigating an IMF-backed recovery program, facing high debt repayments, and needing foreign investment for growth. Criticizing privatization, for example, is easy from the opposition, but as president, he must decide whether state-owned enterprises should be restructured, sold, or subsidized. If he fails to make pragmatic economic choices, investor confidence will plummet, and Sri Lanka’s economic recovery will stall.  

Balancing Idealism with Pragmatism  

AKD’s political ideology is deeply rooted in socialist principles, advocating for wealth redistribution and reducing corporate influence in policymaking. While these ideas resonate with many struggling Sri Lankans, running a country requires pragmatism. He must recognize that private sector growth, foreign direct investment, and global economic integration are crucial for Sri Lanka’s development. If he alienates key business leaders and investors, his administration will struggle to create jobs and boost economic productivity. Leadership means making compromises that ensure stability and progress, rather than rigidly adhering to ideological purity.  

Building Alliances Instead of Enemies 

As an opposition politician, AKD thrived on exposing the failures of the ruling parties. However, as president, his role must shift from confrontation to coalition-building. He needs the support of policymakers, the bureaucracy, the business community, and even sections of the opposition to pass critical reforms. If he continues to approach governance as an “us vs. them” battle, he will find himself isolated, with little ability to push through meaningful change. Successful leaders build consensus, even with those they once opposed.  

Political Maturity   

Leadership is about making tough, often unpopular, decisions. While the opposition thrives on populism, governance requires measured, sometimes painful choices. Whether it’s managing inflation, negotiating with international creditors, or reforming state institutions, President Anura must demonstrate that he can think beyond short-term political gains and act in the long-term interests of the nation.  

Presidential

President Anura’s election victory represents a shift in Sri Lanka’s political landscape, but his real test begins now. He must prove that he is more than just an opposition firebrand—he must be a leader who can unify the country, make tough economic decisions, and drive sustainable growth. If he fails to mature into a statesman, Sri Lanka risks falling into deeper economic and political instability. It is time for him to grow beyond opposition rhetoric and become the leader the country needs.  He has four years and few months left to deliver on his promises. Mahinda Rajapaksa, once seen as the uncrowned king, is now pushed into the political dustbin, his leadership during the war is ignored and the NPP tries very hard to discredit Ranil Wickremesinghe’s efforts . However, neither of the NPP ministers have Ranil’s experience or international exposure. They are happily running on the platform he put together during the crisis . The question is whether AKD can leverage these advantages to transform Sri Lanka or remain trapped in the role of an opposition politician. Time is running out fast for him and Sri Lanka.

Health authorities have raised concerns over a resurgence of the Chikungunya virus in Colombo and Kotte, following several years of low transmission. Medical experts emphasize that the only effective way to curb the spread of the virus is by eliminating mosquito breeding sites.

The Chikungunya virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito and has been reported across Africa, the Americas, Europe, Asia, and various islands in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Officials warn that infected travelers could further contribute to the spread of the disease to new regions.

Authorities note that Sri Lanka is experiencing a re-emergence of the virus, particularly in urban zones. With school holidays ongoing, children are spending more time outdoors, and recent rainfall has increased mosquito density, raising the risk of transmission. The public is urged to remain vigilant, destroy mosquito breeding grounds, and maintain clean surroundings to help prevent further outbreaks.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), symptoms of Chikungunya typically appear four to eight daysafter a mosquito bite but can range from two to 12 days. The most common symptoms include:

• Sudden onset of fever
• Severe joint pain, particularly in the hands and feet
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Skin rash

Most patients recover fully, but joint pain can persist for weeks or even months in some cases. While Chikungunya is rarely fatal, it can be more severe in older adults, newborns, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

Health officials urge the public to take proactive measures to reduce the risk of infection, particularly in high-risk urban areas, and to seek medical attention if symptoms appear.Health authorities have raised concerns over a resurgence of the Chikungunya virus in Colombo and Kotte, following several years of low transmission. Medical experts emphasize that the only effective way to curb the spread of the virus is by eliminating mosquito breeding sites.

The Chikungunya virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito and has been reported across Africa, the Americas, Europe, Asia, and various islands in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Officials warn that infected travelers could further contribute to the spread of the disease to new regions.

Authorities note that Sri Lanka is experiencing a re-emergence of the virus, particularly in urban zones. With school holidays ongoing, children are spending more time outdoors, and recent rainfall has increased mosquito density, raising the risk of transmission. The public is urged to remain vigilant, destroy mosquito breeding grounds, and maintain clean surroundings to help prevent further outbreaks.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), symptoms of Chikungunya typically appear four to eight daysafter a mosquito bite but can range from two to 12 days. The most common symptoms include:

• Sudden onset of fever
• Severe joint pain, particularly in the hands and feet
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Skin rash

Most patients recover fully, but joint pain can persist for weeks or even months in some cases. While Chikungunya is rarely fatal, it can be more severe in older adults, newborns, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

Health officials urge the public to take proactive measures to reduce the risk of infection, particularly in high-risk urban areas, and to seek medical attention if symptoms appear.

Sri Lanka’s apparel industry exhibited resilience and adaptability in February 2025, recording a 2.3% export growth generating $407.93 million compared to the same period in 2024. According to provisional data from the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), the industry experienced mixed performance across key markets, with declines in traditional regions but notable gains in emerging destinations.

Exports to the United States, a primary market for Sri Lankan apparel, saw a 7.43% drop, amounting to $153.11 million, while the UK market recorded a 14.58% decline, with total exports at $54.85 million. These downturns reflect economic uncertainties and changing consumer demand in Western markets.

However, the industry saw strong growth in other regions. Apparel exports to the European Union (excluding the UK)rose by 7.54% to $120.69 million, while shipments to other international markets surged by 39.85%, reaching $79.28 million. This diversification highlights Sri Lanka’s strategic expansion into emerging markets to mitigate losses in traditional strongholds.

For the first two months of 2025, total apparel exports increased by 12%, reaching $845 million compared to the same period in 2024. Despite a February decline, exports to the US market grew by 8.12% in January and February, totaling $322.86 million. The EU (excluding the UK) also showed a 17% increase, reaching $250.18 million. Meanwhile, the UK market remained weak, recording a 0.21% decline, with exports totaling $116.42 million.

The most significant growth was seen in non-traditional markets, with exports rising 23.16% to $155.54 million in the first two months of 2025. This shift underscores the industry’s focus on diversification and expansion beyond Western markets.

Despite challenges in key regions, Sri Lanka’s apparel industry remains robust, with total export earnings reaching $4.7 billion in 2024, marking a 5% year-on-year growth. Industry leaders are increasingly exploring alternative markets and adopting innovative strategies to ensure sustained expansion and competitiveness in an evolving global landscape.

The March edition of LMD, a leading business magazine, reports a generally optimistic outlook for Sri Lanka’s economy, despite an underlying sense of fragility in the investment environment.

According to LMD, corporate confidence in the economy remains strong, supported by a continued increase in business sentiment, as reflected in the latest LMD-PEPPERCUBE Business Confidence Index (BCI). However, insights from PepperCube Consultants reveal that while corporate perceptions have improved, concerns persist regarding long-term economic growth and strategic planning.

During the first week of February, LMD recorded that 64% of survey respondents believed the economy would improve over the next 12 months, marking a six-percentage-point increase from January. The magazine also highlighted a stark contrast in sentiment compared to the period leading up to the presidential election in September, when only 8% expressed optimism about the economy’s future.

A notable surge in confidence among sales professionals was also observed in February, with 90% of polled executives expecting an increase in sales volumes over the coming year—a sharp 20% jump from January’s results. Additionally, expectations for higher sales in the next three months soared by 28 percentage points to reach 79%, up from 51% in January.

The latest edition of LMD, published by Media Services, is now available, with its digital version circulated via WhatsApp and the publisher’s social media channels. The cover story of this edition explores the prospects for Sri Lanka’s crucial export sector, featuring insights from industry leaders on the opportunities and challenges in meeting the nation’s export goals.

Current Business Climate in Sri Lanka

Despite rising business confidence, Sri Lanka’s economic recovery remains delicate. The country continues to navigate high inflation, currency fluctuations, and ongoing debt restructuring efforts.

While investor sentiment is improving, concerns persist regarding policy stability and the ability to attract foreign direct investment. Sectors such as tourism and exports show signs of gradual recovery, but businesses are calling for stronger reforms and infrastructure improvements to sustain long-term growth. T

he coming months will be crucial in determining whether the recent optimism translates into tangible economic progress.

Sri Lanka’s automotive assembly sector currently experiencing a significant growth, becoming pivotal for the nation’s industrial landscape is to hit disastrously by imposing tax on tax and lifting vehicle import ban without any protective measures for the local industry, leading assemblers complained.    .

The new government’s move comes at a time in which the benefits of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the industry, and strategies to penetrate the Indian market, particularly Tamil Nadu area bearing fruits, Nalin Welgama, Founder and Executive Chairman of Ideal Motors  emphasised.

Under his leadership, Ideal Motors partnered with India’s Mahindra & Mahindra to assemble vehicles locally is boosting the domestic automotive industry

Sri Lanka operates over 17 vehicle assembly plants producing a diverse range of vehicles, including motorcars, SUVs, motorcycles, and electric three-wheelers.

An additional 17 investors are preparing to commence operations, signaling robust industry growth

. The sector directly employs over 5,000 technically skilled workers and indirectly supports more than 10,000 jobs, underscoring its role in national economic development.

 While this decision of lifting vehicle import ban is expected to enhance government revenue through duties and taxes, it poses challenges for the local assembly industry, Mr Welgama said a advocating for a competitive tax structure that prioritises locally assembled vehicles to sustain growth, attract investments, and ensure long-term viability.

Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) are emerging as an alternative to battery-electric vehicles. They offer longer driving ranges and quicker refueling times.

 However, the development of hydrogen infrastructure is still in its infancy globally, and high production costs remain a barrier to widespread adoption. For Sri Lanka, investing in hydrogen technology would require substantial infrastructure development and policy support, he said.

Sri Lanka’s component manufacturing sector is now producing  high-quality automotive parts, including batteries, tires, bumpers, exhaust systems, seats, plastic and composite parts, liners, wire harnesses, rubber components, and metal components.

These advancements have elevated the sector to international standards, positioning Sri Lanka as a competitive player in the regional automotive supply chain. The industry aims to increase component export revenues from $800 million to $2 billion within the next five years, creating an additional 45,000 jobs, he pointed out.  

The Ministry of Industries’ Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has provided a structured framework for the automotive industry, facilitating streamlined operations and regulatory clarity. This has attracted both local and international investors, fostering an environment conducive to industrial growth and technological advancement, he revealed. .

Tamil Nadu, a neighboring state of Sri Lanka, is a significant hub for India’s automotive industry. Sri Lankan companies can explore joint ventures and collaborations to penetrate this market.

 For instance, Lanka Ashok Leyland, a joint venture between Lanka Leyland Ltd (a wholly-owned company of the Government of Sri Lanka) and Ashok Leyland Ltd India, imports commercial vehicles in both knock-down kits and fully built units, carrying out assembly operations, repair and service, and body building on chassis.

Such collaborations can serve as models for future partnerships, leveraging Tamil Nadu’s established automotive ecosystem to enhance Sri Lanka’s industry capabilities, he explained.  

Sri Lanka’s vehicle fleet comprises approximately 8.5 million vehicles, including 5 million motorcycles, 1.3 million three-wheelers, and 2.2 million other vehicles.

Importing electric vehicles will not be a viable option for Sri Lanka at present as the present in adequacy of    widespread charging stations may hinder EV adoption, he predicted. .

 EVs often have higher upfront prices compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, which could deter consumers, he said adding that increased electricity demand from EVs may strain the existing power grid, necessitating upgrades.

Sri Lanka’s Hambantota Port is witnessing the natural growth of coral colonies along its breakwaters and artificial island, presenting a unique opportunity for conservation and research. The port, developed on reclaimed land and later flooded with seawater, has unexpectedly become a sanctuary for various coral species. Recognizing this ecological phenomenon, the port’s China-backed operating company has initiated a research project to study and protect these marine ecosystems.

The initiative aligns with the port’s commitment to sustainability under its ‘green port’ policy, which aims to balance industrial development with environmental preservation. The Coral Reef Protection Project, in collaboration with the Ocean University of Sri Lanka (OCUSL), seeks to assess the coral cover, species diversity, and presence of marine organisms such as fish, invertebrates, and algae.

“Several thriving coral colonies have developed within the port’s channel and basin,” said Wilson Qu, Chief Executive of Hambantota International Port Group. “Beyond fostering natural growth, we recognized the need for scientific research to understand and sustain this ecosystem.”

Coral reefs play a vital role in marine biodiversity, providing habitats for numerous marine species. Corals, though invertebrates, contribute to reef-building through their calcium carbonate skeletons. Some gain their vibrant colors from algae growing on their surface, while others, like soft corals, resemble anemones without skeletons.

Leading the research efforts is M.F.M. Fairoz, Senior Lecturer at OCUSL’s Faculty of Fisheries and Ocean Science. Over the next five months, the team will monitor coral health, establish a baseline for future conservation, and contribute insights to global coral restoration initiatives.

“This project not only evaluates coral cover and species diversity but also provides students with hands-on experience in marine biology and conservation,” Fairoz emphasized. “Fieldwork and data analysis will enhance their practical skills while advancing crucial marine research.”

Images released from the port showcase various coral species, including lettuce leaf coral, staghorn coral, and brain grooved coral, alongside diverse marine life. The project underscores the urgent need for coral reef conservation in Sri Lanka, ensuring these fragile ecosystems thrive despite environmental challenges.

Among requirements for some types of corals is to be protected from strong wave action.

The study will also evaluate sea water quality, macroalgae growth, with the ultimate goal of assessing the health of coral ecosystems and their potential as models for future conservation and restoration efforts.

Hambantota International Port has initially allocated 1.2 million rupees for the first phase of the project, Jeevan Premasara – Senior General Manager HR and Admin said. The first phase will be completed in May 2025.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has emphasized the need for decisive and immediate action to address the challenges, barriers, and discriminatory practices encountered by women both locally and globally.

Speaking at the International Women’s Day celebration organized by the United Nations Association in Sri Lankaat the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute in Colombo on March 22, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.

During the event, awards were presented to women who have made significant contributions in various fields, earning societal recognition.

In her keynote address, Dr. Amarasuriya stressed the importance of safeguarding the fundamental rights of all women, regardless of their socioeconomic status, educational background, religion, ethnicity, or disability. She noted that Sri Lanka has a long history of strong female leaders and that many such individuals were present in the audience.

The Prime Minister outlined the government’s initiatives to promote women’s leadership in politics, business, and social movements, including the enactment of the 2024 Women’s Empowerment Act, which established an Independent National Women’s Commission to institutionalize gender equality.

She also pointed out that while efforts are being made to enhance women’s participation in the workforce—including entrepreneurship programs and digital financial literacy initiatives for rural women—women’s representation in leadership and economic participation remains disproportionately low.

Key concerns raised by the Prime Minister included:

• The need for greater female representation in Parliament, which, despite doubling, still stands at only 10%.
• The low workforce participation rate of women, currently at 32%, compared to their male counterparts.
• The unrealistic expectations placed on women regarding work-life balance.
• The importance of recognizing unpaid caregiving responsibilities undertaken by women.
• The urgent need for legal and social reforms to combat gender-based violence and discrimination.

Dr. Amarasuriya stressed that achieving gender equality requires a collective effort, urging Sri Lanka to strengthen global partnerships and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly Goal 5 on Gender Equality.

The event was attended by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Secretary-General of the United Nations Association of Sri Lanka, M.M. Rushaudeen, Assistant Secretary-General Panchali Ratnayake, and other distinguished guests.

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore hosted an Iftar dinner on March 17, 2025, bringing together members of the Sri Lankan Muslim community in Singapore to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan.

The event fostered a strong sense of belonging among the Sri Lankan diaspora, emphasizing the values of compassion, reflection, and togetherness.

The Guest of Honour, Dr. Maliki Bin Osman, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for Education and Foreign Affairs, joined the gathering, reflecting Singapore’s commitment to interfaith harmony.

Welcoming the guests, High Commissioner Senarath Dissanayake highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a time for self-reflection, generosity, and communal solidarity. He also commended Singapore’s dedication to interfaith understanding and multiculturalism, values that resonate with Sri Lanka’s vision of peaceful coexistence.

The religious observances were led by Qari Sheikh Ibrahim from Balavi Mosque, followed by Maghrib prayers after breaking the fast.

The evening concluded with a traditional Sri Lankan Iftar dinner, offering guests a taste of Sri Lankan cuisine, further strengthening community ties in a spirit of unity and celebration.