The Government, in collaboration with the Northern Provincial Council, has announced a comprehensive five-year development plan aimed at upgrading all regional hospitals in the districts of Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Jaffna, Mannar, and Vavuniya. The initiative seeks to ensure that the rural population in the Northern Province gains access to high-quality and efficient healthcare services, according to Health and Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.

Dr. Jayatissa made this announcement during an inspection tour of several hospitals in the Mannar District, including visits to the regional hospitals in Murunkan, Adampan, Vankalai, Nanattan and Silavathurai. At each hospital, he engaged directly with healthcare staff, inviting them to share concerns and propose solutions to existing challenges in service delivery.

Hospital personnel raised issues such as shortages of both material and human resources. In response, the Minister directed officials to formulate and implement short, medium, and long-term strategies to overcome these obstacles. It was also noted that both communicable and non-communicable diseases are on the rise in these regions.

Dr. Jayatissa emphasised the importance of expanding health education initiatives, advocating for nutritious and toxin-free diets, the implementation of standardised treatment protocols, and strengthening community-based healthcare interventions. He further instructed authorities to introduce targeted nutrition and awareness programmes for mothers, young children, and school-aged youth.

The Minister also reviewed the existing systems in place to ensure an uninterrupted supply of essential medicines across Northern Province hospitals. Stressing that every patient should receive comprehensive treatment and care, he underscored the principle that recovery and wellness are shared responsibilities across all tiers of the healthcare system, regardless of administrative boundaries between provincial and central management.

Highlighting the strength of Sri Lanka’s free healthcare system, Dr. Jayatissa noted that the government allocates significant funding annually to maintain health services that, in many respects, rival those of developed nations.

The Northern Province is currently served by a healthcare network that includes one teaching hospital, four district general hospitals, ten base hospitals, 55 divisional hospitals, 48 regional hospitals, and 33 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) offices, catering to a population of approximately 1.2 million people.

The inspection tour also saw participation from Vavuniya District MP Mayilvaganam Jegatheeswaran, Northern Provincial Health Services Director Dr. Saman Pathirana, Mannar District Health Services Director Dr. Venodan Dharmarajan, as well as chief medical officers, administrators, specialists, nurses, allied health professionals, and hospital committee representatives.

World Bank (WB) Group President Ajay Banga concluded a successful official visit to Sri Lanka, marked by high-level engagements with top government leaders including President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath.

During his meetings, Mr. Banga reaffirmed the World Bank’s continued commitment to Sri Lanka’s development agenda, emphasising the institution’s role as a key partner in the nation’s journey towards economic and social recovery and advancement. His discussions with Minister Herath focused on strengthening collaboration in tackling Sri Lanka’s ongoing challenges and charting a course toward long-term prosperity.

Minister Herath expressed deep appreciation for the World Bank’s unwavering support through various stages of Sri Lanka’s development. “The Bank’s steadfast assistance has been instrumental in propelling our development efforts. Our discussions have further strengthened the alignment of our mutual goals for the future,” he stated.

Mr. Banga underscored that the World Bank remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s long-term development ambitions, pointing to key areas such as infrastructure improvement, climate resilience, and human capital development as priorities. He emphasised that sustained cooperation in these sectors would be essential for ensuring durable progress and inclusive growth for the country.

Joining the discussions were Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe, Ministry Secretary Aruni Ranaraja, World Bank Special Advisor Trevor Kincaid, WB Country Director for Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka David Sislen, and other senior officials from both the World Bank and the Ministry.

The visit reinforced the strength of the Sri Lanka–World Bank partnership and signalled a renewed focus on collaborative strategies to address pressing national priorities while laying the groundwork for sustainable development.

The seventh edition of the Global Business Leadership Forum (GBLF) and Asian African Iconic Awards 2025 took place recently at Water’s Edge, bringing together a diverse assembly of visionaries, changemakers and global influencers from Asia and Africa. Held under the theme ‘Global Vision, Local Action’, the event aimed to foster meaningful dialogue, promote sustainable leadership, and recognise impactful contributions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.

Addressing the gathering, Nobel Laureate and sustainability expert Mohan Munasinghe highlighted the urgent need for climate justice, emphasising that human activities over the past five decades have been the primary contributors to global warming. He noted that the burden of greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation must be shared more equitably, with richer nations bearing greater responsibility due to their high per capita emissions and financial capacity. Munasinghe stressed that sustainability—founded on ethical values and efficient resource use—is essential for future growth and equity. “We must transcend stakeholder boundaries to build the sustainability implementation triangle,” he said, calling on businesses to embrace leadership and good governance in protecting the development space.

The forum attracted participation from over 25 countries, featuring more than 10 high-profile speakers, including ambassadors, diplomats and influential business leaders. Among the event’s key speakers was Dr. G.D. Singh, Founder and Chairman of the Asian African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AACCI) and CIAC Global. Dr. Singh spoke passionately about global cooperation and the role of ethical entrepreneurship in shaping a peaceful and prosperous future. He praised the efforts of passionate innovators and peace-builders and underlined the significance of the forum in promoting entrepreneurship, diplomacy, and sustainable growth.

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of Passion Vista’s Women Leaders Special Edition, which honoured influential women leaders from around the world who have made notable contributions in various fields. The event also featured a Sustainable Development Fashion Parade curated by leading designers, creatively aligning fashion with the UN SDGs. The showcase emphasized ethical production, environmental awareness, and socially responsible innovation in the fashion industry.

The Asian African Iconic Awards segment celebrated outstanding individuals and institutions from education, healthcare, sustainability, diplomacy, and social entrepreneurship, who have demonstrated excellence and impact across borders.

The forum was jointly hosted by Unified Brainz Virtuoso Limited in collaboration with AACCI, CIAC Global and the World Peace and Diplomacy Organization (WPDO), reinforcing a shared commitment to global progress through collaboration, innovation and inclusive development.

The Presidential Secretariat has taken the lead in organising a series of events to mark the Vesak festival this year, aiming to bring together communities in celebration of the life and teachings of the Buddha. From May 12 to 16, a Bhakti Gee recital will be held in the vicinity of the Presidential Secretariat, featuring performances by schoolchildren, members of the Tri-Forces and Civil Security Department, as well as well-known vocalists. This initiative is expected to attract large crowds and showcase a blend of tradition and artistic expression.

In addition to the musical performances, the Secretariat, in collaboration with the Armed Forces, has arranged for a rice dansal to operate on May 12 and 13, while refreshment stalls will serve the public from May 12 to 16. The area surrounding the Presidential Secretariat will be lit up with colourful decorations and Vesak lanterns, forming part of the broader Gangarama Buddha Rashmi Vesak Zone and Buddhaloka Vesak Zone celebrations. The public is warmly invited to partake in the festivities and experience the spiritual ambiance of Vesak in the heart of the capital.

Meanwhile, a Vesak Pinkama is being held at Dakshinaramaya in Hokandara from May 4 to 14. Organised by the Sri Sambuddha Jayanthi Daham Pasala staff, students, and parents, along with members of the Vihara Dayaka Sabha, Dakshinarama Pirivena, and the Dakshinarama Aesthetic Committee, the event is conducted under the guidance of Ven. Dr. Maduruoya Dhammissara Nayaka Thera. Highlights of the Pinkama include an Ordination Ceremony, Buddha Pooja, Bodhi Pooja, Dhamma sermons and discussions, a Bhakti Gee recital, Sil observance campaigns, distribution of dry rations to the needy, and the display of a large Vesak lantern.

Another notable programme this Vesak season is the 25th annual Bodu Sadeha Gee, a travelling devotional music event initiated by the Panadura Media Cultural Foundation. Led by historian and journalist Nishantha Chaminda Peiris, this unique programme has brought newly composed Buddhist devotional songs to the public since 2001. Unlike other musical performances, Bodu Sadeha Gee features original compositions and melodies that focus on Dhamma communication rather than popular appeal. This year’s event will take place on May 13 and 14, from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm, covering Panadura, Wadduwa, Bandaragama, and Moratuwa. The programme is known for its colourful, decorated truck that travels from village to village, bringing a deeply spiritual and communal atmosphere wherever it goes.

As Sri Lanka prepares to celebrate Vesak—the most sacred time in the Buddhist calendar—these programmes reflect a nationwide effort to honour the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of the Buddha with reverence, generosity, and cultural pride.

The first group of 47 Sri Lankan pilgrims departed for Makkah on May 11 aboard an Air Arabia flight, marking the beginning of the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage season for the country. A farewell ceremony was held at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), attended by several key officials including Saudi Ambassador Khalid Humoud Al Kahtani, Western Province Governor Haneef Yusoof, National Integration Deputy Minister Muneer Mulaffer, Director of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs M.S.M. Nawaz, Hajj Committee Chairman Reyaz Mihular, Chairman of the Hajj Tour Operators of Sri Lanka M.D.A. Careem, and President of the All Ceylon Haj Travel Operators Association Rizmi Reyal.

Speaking to the media, Saudi Ambassador Khalid bin Hamoud Al Kahtani expressed his pleasure in joining the pilgrims for their departure on this spiritually significant journey. He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to serving the pilgrims, noting that under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom has mobilized every possible resource to ensure the comfort, safety, and wellbeing of the pilgrims throughout their stay. He further stated that all relevant Saudi agencies have completed preparations for the Hajj season, implementing a comprehensive system covering health, logistical, technological, and security services to guarantee a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience.

Deputy Minister Muneer Mulaffer extended his gratitude to the Government of Saudi Arabia for their continued cooperation and support in facilitating a successful Hajj pilgrimage. This year, a total of 3,500 pilgrims from Sri Lanka are scheduled to perform Hajj.

Hajj Committee Chairman Reyaz Mihular acknowledged the efforts of the committee, the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs, and all stakeholders in ensuring that all Hajj-related arrangements were completed efficiently. He stated that visa processing was concluded well in advance except for a few technical delays. He also highlighted significant improvements in pilgrim facilities this year, including gypsum board tents with split air conditioning units in Mina, limited to 18 pilgrims per tent, the provision of sofa beds, and the allocation of a dedicated bus for each group of 45 pilgrims. He expressed confidence that these measures would contribute to a more pleasant and comfortable pilgrimage experience for all Sri Lankan participants.

The Government of Sri Lanka has announced that construction of the country’s first multimodal transport hub in Kandy is progressing steadily and is expected to be completed by 2027. The project, costing approximately Rs. 15 billion, marks a major advancement in the national transport infrastructure.

Key features of the transport hub include:

• Integration of bus and rail services.
• Direct access to the Kandy National Hospital.
• Facilities such as bus parking, a modern shopping complex, retail outlets, restaurants, banks, and more.

Deputy Minister of Transport, Highways and Civil Aviation Dr. Prasanna Gunasena, during a site inspection, highlighted the scale and uniqueness of the project, stating that no other city in Sri Lanka currently has a transport terminal of this scope and modern design.

The development is funded through a World Bank long-term loan along with Sri Lankan Government contributions, and is a joint effort involving the Railways Department, Highways Ministry, and other relevant institutions.

The Department of Meteorology has forecast a slight increase in rainfall in the southwestern region of Sri Lanka beginning this evening (May 12).

According to the advisory:

• Several spells of rain are expected in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and Northwestern provinces, as well as in the Galle and Matara districts.
• Showers or thundershowers may also develop in the Central, Uva, and Eastern provinces after 1:00 p.m..
• Moderately strong winds of 30–40 kmph are likely at times in the Northern, North-Central, North-Western, and Southern provinces.

Residents are advised to take appropriate precautions, especially in areas prone to lightning, localized flooding, or falling branches.

Most appropriate to purify our minds on this day – Asgiriya Prelate

Chief Prelate of the Asgiriya Chapter Most Ven.Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Mahanayaka Thera issuing a statement to mark the Vesak day said shaping lifestyles according to the teachings of the Buddha will help people to lead peaceful and prosperous lives.

“On the Vesak Poya Day, Sri Lankan Buddhists give priority to Prathipatti pooja (practicing principles) such as alms giving, religious practices, meditation, and other observances.

They also engage in Vesak decorations and other offerings. However, it is very important to celebrate the Vesak festival as devoted Buddhists by engaging mainly in Prathipatti Pooja.

“We have so far been slow to utilise the teachings of the Buddha to save the people of the world from the destructive wars of this era, when we must look thoughtfully not only at the country we live in, but also at the entire world.

“It would be most appropriate to purify our minds on this Vesak day and follow Buddha’s teachings and work towards true peace and contentment”.

Work with determination to remember the boundless qualities of Buddha – Malwatte Prelate

The noble teachings of the Buddha, which explains suffering, the cause of suffering, the cessation of suffering, and the path to the cessation of suffering are the only ways to show the correct path to society, which is afflicted by various vices and frustrations in the current volatile era, Chief Prelate of the Malwatte Chapter  Most Venerable Thibbotuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Mahanayake Thera said in his Vesak Day message.

“On this auspicious day of the Vesak Full Moon Poya, the devout Buddhist public should work with determination to remember the boundless qualities of the Buddha, the embodiment of great wisdom and great compassion, and to set their minds on merit and strive for liberation from samsara.

“Therefore, striving to nourish oneself on the journey of life with the virtues of mindfulness, action, concentration, and wisdom is the highest respect that can be shown the Buddha.

On this auspicious day of Vesak Full Moon Poya, I would like to remind all Sri Lankans that it is important to be determined to achieve spiritual liberation by following Buddha’s teachings,” the Prelate said.

Inspired by Buddha’s teachings, we must strive to build a prosperous nation – President

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said we must strive to build a prosperous nation rooted in selflessness, equality and social justice, fulfilling the aspirations of our people for a “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life.”

In his message to mark Vesak, the President said: The Vesak Full Moon Poya Day, which marks the Birth, Enlightenment and Parinirvana of the Lord Buddha, is a day of profound significance for Buddhists worldwide. It was on such a sacred Vesak Day that the Buddha, having fulfilled the Perfections (Paramitas), vanquished the forces of Mara, cultivated wisdom through the Middle Path, realised the Four Noble Truths and eradicated all defilements to attain Supreme Enlightenment (Samma Sambuddha).

Throughout countless lifetimes, the Buddha endured suffering, perfected virtues and ultimately discovered the Dhamma, a timeless truth for the spiritual well-being of all beings. His core teaching was not merely religious but a path to inner development, guiding humanity towards moral and intellectual growth.  The Buddhist philosophy also provides profound insights into good governance. As the Buddha taught:

“Sabbamra ahasukhaaseti – Rajacehotidhammiko” (The whole country thrives in happiness – if its ruler is righteous.)  This underscores that when a nation’s leader governs with justice and virtue, the people prosper in peace.

Inspired by the Buddha’s teachings, we must strive to build a prosperous nation rooted in selflessness, equality and social justice, fulfilling the aspirations of our people for a “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life.” Let us unite with determination and diligence to achieve this noble vision.

“Moreover, the Buddha’s message of peace remains ever-relevant. In a world torn by conflict and division, we must embrace the Four Brahmaviharas, Loving-kindness (Metta), Compassion (Karuna), Altruistic Joy (Mudita) and Equanimity (Upekkha), to foster global harmony.

May this auspicious Vesak Festival illuminate all hearts with the light of Dhamma!”, the message said.

Citizens must unite in mind and spirit, bound together by mutual respect and compassion – PM

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said in her Vesak Day message called on all to unite in mind and spirit, bound  together by mutual respect and compassion.

The message said: It is an honour to extend my Vesak day message to all citizens of the nation during this sacred period in which the Buddhist community across Sri Lanka come together to pay homage to the Buddha, upholding both material and spiritual offerings and commemorating the threefold sacred events of the Lord Buddha’s life.

Since ancient times, the lives of the Sri Lankan people have been deeply rooted by the teaching of the Buddha and this is a greater inheritance we have received through the Dhamma.

In our country, where people of diverse ethnicities and religions co-exist in harmony, the collective celebration of a major religious festival such as Vesak stands as a powerful testament to that unity.

This year Vesak day celebration marks the first to be celebrated under the current Government, which was established with the vision of “A Prosperous Country, a Beautiful Life.”

I believe that this Vesak season is a particularly a time to heal the hearts and minds of humanity, especially as our nation embarks on a path of meaningful transformation.

Through this message, I take this opportunity to invite all of citizens to unite in mind and spirit, bound together by mutual respect and compassion.

“I join all Sri Lankans in praying that the flames of war burning in various parts of the world at this moment may be extinguished, and that all people across the globe may be blessed with lives of happiness and peace,” Prime Minister Dr.Harini Amarasuriya said in her message.

Opportunity to reflect on the Noble path of Dhamma – Opposition Leader

The sacred Vesak Full Moon Poya Day, which commemorates the triple events of the Buddha’s life, is an opportunity to reflect once again on the Noble path of Dhamma that Buddha revealed to the world, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said in his message to mark Vesak.

His message further said: “In the face of the many challenges we encounter, it is immensely important that we understand well the doctrine of cause and effect as taught in Buddhist philosophy.

Whether in addressing the issues facing our nation or the wider world, we often seek solutions by focusing on the outcomes rather than identifying and addressing the root causes that give rise to those problems. Lord Buddha’s teaching shows us that it is only by understanding the causes that we can find true and lasting solutions. This is why we must practically apply this profound Dhamma in our lives.

Sri Lanka, along with the rest of the world, is currently confronting not only an economic crisis but also serious challenges to peace. Within the Dhamma shown by the Buddha, there are clear and practical answers to overcome such difficulties. In state governance, noble principles such as the Ten Royal Virtues (Dasa Raja Dhamma) provide essential guidance. Likewise, Buddhist philosophy offers teachings that any religious person can embrace on how to build economic stability, unity, equality, and harmony amidst diversity. We must recognise that spiritual development alongside physical progress is a fundamental necessity for a country’s true development. This must become a central focus in governance.

The most priceless gift we can offer to the world is the pure Theravada Dhamma. We must firmly understand our unwavering duty to expand opportunities for its dissemination, to nourish the Maha Sangha with wisdom, and to ensure the preservation and continuity of the monastic order.

More than 2,500 years after the Buddha’s Parinirvana, Buddhists across the world continue to commemorate Vesak because they have realised the unparalleled excellence of his Dhamma. At the moment of his passing, the Buddha clearly instructed that after him, the Dhamma should be held as the supreme teacher.

On this Vesak day, our solemn determination should be to uphold this noble vision, entrusting the Dhamma as our guide and committing ourselves to building a better world. Such commitment will open a path to a world filled with loving-kindness and free of hatred”.