October 09, Colombo (LNW):Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts. Showers or thundershowers will occur elsewhere at several places in the island during the afternoon or night.
Fairly heavy showers above 75mm are likely at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western, Uva and Eastern provinces and in Galle and Matara districts.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka will pursue membership in the BRICS organization during the meeting in Russia later this month, as announced by Cabinet Spokesman Minister Vijitha Herath.
He confirmed that Sri Lanka has been invited to the BRICS summit and aims to seek membership. This decision follows discussions with the Indian Foreign Minister during his recent visit to Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka has been invited for the BRICS later this month… and we expect to seel membership in BRICS,” Herath told a weekly media briefing to announce the cabinet decisions.
The invitation to attend was delivered to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake by the Russian ambassador Levan S. Dzhagaryan.
“We have discussed with Indian Foreign Minister when he was here last week as well.”The previous government’s cabinet approved the country seeking the membership in the BROCS which includes economic giants such as China, India, and Brazil, he added.
Sri Lanka is to participate at the next BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit from October 22-24 on the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
However, none of the JVP/NPP political leadership will be attending the summit as they will be engaged in campaigning for the parliamentary elections
The previous Sri Lankan government had already approved efforts to join BRICS, which includes economic powerhouses like China, India, and Brazil. Originally an acronym created by an investment bank,
BRICS+ is a coalition that seeks to increase its influence on the global political landscape and advocates for a multipolar system that promotes democratic engagement in international decision-making processes.
Many of BRICS+’s goals and demands, regardless of whether they fall under economic, development, or political categories, are formulated and refined through a multilateral approach
BRICS has grown into a major intergovernmental organization that presides over a multilateral financial institution. In January 2024, it expanded by adding several key energy providers, potentially increasing its influence in a world dominated by the U.S.
BRICS, which initially included Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, aims to strengthen economic ties among emerging markets.
Four new members—Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates—have been added this year. Sri Lanka will attend the summit from October 22-24 at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, although leaders from the JVP/NPP political party will not be present due to election campaigning.
The group was established to unite developing economies and challenge the dominance of wealthier nations in North America and Western Europe. Russia currently holds the chair for the BRICS summit in 2024. The invitation to Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake was delivered by Russian Ambassador Levan S. Dzhagaryan.
The former Sri Lankan Cabinet had already recommended applying for BRICS membership and proposed creating a development bank under its framework.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Hayleys Fabric PLC, Sri Lanka’s largest textile manufacturer, has been honored with the prestigious ZDHC Torchbearer Award for its outstanding leadership in sustainable chemical management.
The award was presented by Prasad Pant, ZDHC South Asia Region Director, at the fifth ZDHC South Asia Regional Conference on Sustainable Chemical Management in the Fashion Industry, held in Chennai, India, on September 25.
Hayleys Fabric’s HR and Administration Executive Director, Prasanna Pathirana, accepted the award on behalf of the company, highlighting its dedication to creating a safer and more sustainable textile industry. The company’s role as the Gold sponsor of the conference further underscored its commitment to promoting sustainable chemical practices.
The ZDHC Foundation, a global non-profit, aims to eliminate harmful chemicals from the textile, apparel, and footwear industries, striving for a sustainable supply chain that safeguards the environment and human health.
The foundation collaborates with leading brands, retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers worldwide to develop and implement standards and tools for sustainable chemical management.
A signatory member of the ZDHC Foundation since 2021, Hayleys Fabric has been actively involved in the ZDHC ‘Roadmap to Zero’ (RtZ) program since 2015, showcasing its long-term dedication to environmental sustainability.
At the conference, Dunstan Weragala, Head of Compliance at Hayleys Fabric, shared insights on how the ZDHC RtZ program has significantly contributed to the company’s sustainability objectives.
Significantly, Hayleys Fabric is the first and only Sri Lankan textile manufacturer to receive the ZDHC Torchbearer Award, marking a major milestone for the country’s textile industry. This recognition highlights Hayleys Fabric’s leading role in implementing the ZDHC ‘Supplier to Zero’ program, which focuses on sustainable chemical management across the supply chain.
In his acceptance speech, Pathirana acknowledged the pivotal role played by Hayleys Fabric’s Managing Director and CEO, Rohan Goonetilleke, whose support has been instrumental in driving the company’s sustainability journey.
He also praised the relentless efforts of the Compliance Division, led by Weragala, and the DGM Compliance, who have been key in advancing the company’s progress in sustainable practices through the ZDHC initiatives.
Hayleys Fabric PLC’s commitment to sustainable chemical management is a core element of its broader sustainability vision, embedded in the Hayleys Life code.
By prioritizing eco-friendly practices, the company contributes to a safer and more responsible textile supply chain, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
This accolade not only reinforces Hayleys Fabric PLC’s position as a leader in sustainable textile manufacturing in Sri Lanka but also sets a benchmark for other industry players to follow in their pursuit of environmental stewardship.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka and Jordan have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Political Consultation Mechanism aimed at expanding cooperation in various areas of mutual interest.
The agreement was formalized on July 10, 2024, in Amman, with the signing carried out by the Sri Lankan Ambassador to Jordan, J.A.D.S. Priyangika Wijegunasekara, and Majed Thaliji Alqatarneh, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan.
In parallel with the political MoU, discussions on enhancing trade and investment relations between the two nations were held between the Sri Lankan Ambassador and Mohammad Shoha, Chairman of the Irbid Chamber of Commerce.
Shoha emphasized the significance of boosting trade ties, particularly in the agriculture and commerce sectors. He suggested exploring new investment opportunities that could benefit both nations and encouraged greater private sector involvement in advancing bilateral trade, tourism, and investment.
Shoha also proposed organizing joint exhibitions and delegations to further develop economic ties.
He assured that the Irbid Chamber is committed to supporting import and export operations to enhance the flow of goods and services between Jordan and Sri Lanka, with a particular focus on agricultural, industrial, and handicraft products.
Ambassador Wijegunasekara reiterated Sri Lanka’s dedication to strengthening economic cooperation with Jordan.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s economic potential, she mentioned that approximately 10,500 Sri Lankan workers are currently employed in Jordan, mainly in the textile, knitting, and domestic sectors. In 2023, Sri Lanka’s exports to Jordan were valued at $88 million, while imports from Jordan stood at $1.98 million.
The ambassador pointed out that Jordanian products like olive oil, Dead Sea salts, and dates align well with the needs of the Sri Lankan market. On the other hand, Sri Lanka’s major exports to Jordan include tea, furniture, and plant-based products, while Jordan exports textiles, fabrics, and iron products to Sri Lanka.
Acknowledging the long-standing relations between the two countries, established in 1965, Wijegunasekara called for enhanced collaboration in trade, economic relations, and skilled labor exchange. She invited Jordanian investors to explore opportunities in Sri Lanka’s Port City in Colombo, citing the favorable business environment in the country.
Additionally, she emphasized the benefits of deploying more skilled Sri Lankan workers to Jordan’s industrial cities, leveraging the existing cooperation in the industrial sector. The ambassador expressed her goal of increasing trade volumes and supporting Jordanian companies in promoting their olive oil and Dead Sea salt products to the Sri Lankan market.
Both nations acknowledged the significant growth in trade exchanges during the first half of 2024 and agreed to organize joint economic activities to deepen their bilateral cooperation in various fields.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Despite a previous directive to raise the daily wage of Sri Lanka’s plantation workers to Rs. 1,700, the workers will now receive a revised daily minimum wage of Rs. 1,350, along with an additional allowance of Rs. 50 for each extra kilogram of harvest starting from October 10.
This decision comes after extensive discussions among Regional Plantation Companies (RPCs), trade unions, and the Wages Board, which led to an agreement with the Estate Sector Wage Control Council at the Labour Department.
According to industry sources, the new regulations, outlined in the latest Gazette, require RPCs to pay this base wage of Rs. 1,350 beginning on October 10.
While the Rs. 1,350 excludes contributions to the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and Employees’ Trust Fund (ETF), the total daily earnings for workers will exceed Rs. 1,500 once these benefits are included.
Wages for these plantation workers, generally calculated at the end of each month, are scheduled to be paid on the 10th of the subsequent month.
The current wage agreement, reached on September 10, marked the conclusion of a series of disputes between employers and trade unions, with the workers continuously advocating for improved pay and conditions.
The new wage structure represents a significant step forward for plantation workers, who have long struggled for fairer wages. This productivity-based model allows workers in the tea and rubber sectors to earn additional income, with a potential increase of Rs. 50 or more depending on their output.
This revised wage system specifically targets workers in the tea and rubber industries, encompassing roles in tea cultivation, tea manufacturing, rubber cultivation, and raw rubber processing.
Under the existing system, plantation workers earn a base wage of Rs. 1,000 with an additional Rs. 40 per kilo after achieving a target of 20 kilos of tea leaves.
Previously, plantation companies had legally contested the directive to pay the Rs. 1,700 wage, with the prior government threatening to expropriate firms that did not comply.
An official confirmed that while the base wage of Rs. 1,350 remains, with the addition of EPF, ETF, and gratuity, workers’ earnings could exceed Rs. 2,000 per day.
The wage increase to Rs. 1,700 had initially been announced by former President Ranil Wickremesinghe at a May Day rally earlier in the year, with politicians from the ruling coalition at that time pressuring plantation companies to implement the change.
Despite resistance, about 14 boards ultimately voted in favor of the Rs. 1,700 wage, as noted by, a representative of the Ceylon Workers Congress, the leading labor union.
While the revised wage is lower than the initially proposed Rs. 1,700, it still marks a significant improvement for plantation workers, taking into account the productivity-based incentives.
This approach aims to balance the interests of both workers, who have long been advocating for better pay, and the plantation companies, which had previously opposed the wage increase.
The final agreement showcases a crucial effort to address workers’ grievances while also considering the sustainability of the plantation sector.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan government has announced the commencement of a fertiliser subsidy programme aimed at supporting paddy farmers, with the initiative set to kick off in the Ampara District on Monday, 14 October.
This announcement was made by Cabinet Spokesman Minister Vijitha Herath during a press conference held on 8 October.
Minister Herath highlighted the timing of the subsidy, noting, “As the Maha season approaches, we are keen to ensure that our farmers have the resources they need to cultivate their crops effectively.
We will begin by rolling out the fertiliser subsidy of Rs. 25,000 specifically for the farmers in the Ampara District next week.”
Following the initial implementation in Ampara, the subsidy programme will expand to include farmers in other vital agricultural areas, including Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Mahiyanganaya, and the Mahaweli regions.
This phased approach aims to ensure that farmers across the country receive the necessary support during the crucial planting season.
The government’s decision to introduce this subsidy comes in response to the challenges faced by farmers in recent years, including rising input costs and fluctuating market conditions.
By providing financial assistance for fertiliser, the government hopes to bolster agricultural productivity and enhance food security.
As the Maha season is critical for paddy cultivation in Sri Lanka, this initiative is expected to have a significant positive impact on the livelihoods of farmers.
Minister Herath reassured stakeholders that the government is committed to facilitating the agricultural sector’s growth and sustainability through targeted support measures.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Two standout Sri Lankan cricketers have been nominated for the prestigious ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for September 2024, alongside Australia’s explosive batter Travis Head.
The nominations are based on their remarkable performances across Test and limited-overs cricket during the month.
Prabath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka)
Sri Lankan left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya has continued his sensational form in Test cricket, earning a well-deserved nomination. He played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s series triumph over New Zealand, taking an impressive nine wickets in each of the two Test victories, including a standout five-wicket haul in both matches.
His 5/68 in the second innings of the first Test in Galle proved decisive on the final day, as Sri Lanka bowled out New Zealand, denying the visitors by 63 runs. Jayasuriya followed up with an outstanding 6/42 in the second Test, helping his team secure a resounding series victory.
Throughout the month, Jayasuriya took 21 wickets in three Tests, including the second Test against England, at an average of 27.90. His achievements also saw him become the fastest Sri Lankan bowler to reach 100 wickets in Test cricket, accomplishing this milestone in just 16 matches, surpassing the previous record of 24 Tests.
Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka)
Young batting sensation Kamindu Mendis had a historic month in Test cricket, further enhancing his reputation as one of the brightest talents in the game. Mendis amassed 451 runs at an extraordinary average of 90.20 in four Tests, playing a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s victory at The Oval in England, followed by a home series win over New Zealand.
Mendis became the first male cricketer to score fifty in each of his first eight Test matches, an incredible achievement. Additionally, he reached the 1000-run milestone in just eight Tests, matching the legendary Don Bradman’s record of achieving the feat in 13 innings – the fastest in 75 years.
His month was highlighted by an unbeaten 182 in Sri Lanka’s dominant 602/5 declared during the second Test against New Zealand, which set up a comprehensive victory. However, it was his 114 in the first Test, when Sri Lanka found themselves in trouble at 88/3, that stood out. Mendis held the innings together in a match Sri Lanka won by just 63 runs, further cementing his status as a rising star.
Travis Head (Australia)
Australian batter Travis Head also earned a nomination for his explosive performances in white-ball cricket. As an opener, Head delivered a series of blistering knocks during Australia’s recent T20I and ODI series against England and Scotland.
In his five T20I appearances, Head amassed 182 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 245.94, including a 23-ball 59 against England and a 25-ball 80 against Scotland. The latter effort contributed to Australia registering the highest-ever Powerplay total by a full member nation in T20Is.
Head’s month was capped off with a Player of the Series award in Australia’s 3-2 ODI victory over England. He scored 248 runs at an average of 82.66 in four innings, while also picking up six wickets, including a match-winning 4/28 in the series decider.
These three players showcased exceptional talent in their respective formats, making them worthy contenders for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for September 2024.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): The Democratic Left Front (Prajathanthravadi Vamanshika Peramuna) has officially pledged its support to the National People’s Power (NPP) in the forthcoming parliamentary elections.
Former MP and leader of the party, Vasudeva Nanayakkara, made the announcement during a press conference held today (08), signalling a significant political alliance ahead of the elections.
Nanayakkara emphasised the Democratic Left Front’s decision to back the NPP, stating, “With the parliamentary elections approaching, our party has resolved to support the National People’s Power. We will be contesting in alignment with them.”
Elaborating on the collaboration, Nanayakkara highlighted the party’s efforts to forge a close working relationship with the NPP.
“We have been striving to strengthen our ties with the National People’s Power and to stand united in this election. During the recent presidential election, we explored cooperation, but the differences in policy stood in the way. Now, we are ready to offer our full support to the NPP.”
He further urged his supporters to consider this alliance in the upcoming elections, stating, “The vote you give us is, in essence, a vote for the National People’s Power. We are wholeheartedly committed to this partnership as we approach this critical electoral contest.”
Nanayakkara, a prominent Sri Lankan socialist political figure but a strong critique against politics exercised by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), the core faction of the NPP, thereby exhibits his willingness to back the programme led by its leader, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): The Constitutional Council, chaired by Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, is set to convene this afternoon (08) at 2 p.m. within the parliamentary complex.
The primary agenda of the meeting is to reach a final decision regarding the appointment of Priyantha Weerasooriya as Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Under existing regulations, any individual serving as Acting IGP for more than 14 days must receive the formal approval of the Constitutional Council.
This provision ensures that key law enforcement positions are filled with full transparency and accountability, particularly during times of transition.
Speaker Abeywardena confirmed that Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, who recently assumed office, will attend today’s meeting, along with Minister Vijitha Herath.
The Constitutional Council’s approval will provide the Acting IGP with the full mandate required to execute his duties effectively.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): The Cabinet has resolved to terminate the services of officers and consultants appointed on a contract basis under three major projects initiated by the former government.
The decision was announced by Cabinet Spokesman Vijitha Herath, with the termination being effective from September 30, 2024.
These officers and consultants were originally appointed to support the establishment and execution of several key initiatives, including the ‘Office for the Affairs of Sri Lankans Abroad,’ the ‘National Peoples Council,’ and the ‘Agriculture Modernisation Programme.’
These projects were part of the previous regime’s developmental agenda, which required external expertise for implementation.
However, with the new government now in place, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has evaluated the current capabilities of the relevant ministries overseeing these initiatives.
The conclusion reached was that these ministries are sufficiently equipped to manage the ongoing functions and operations internally, without the need for external contract-based consultants or officers.
Minister Vijitha Herath emphasised that this step is part of the government’s broader efforts to streamline administrative processes, reduce reliance on contractual appointments, and enhance efficiency within state institutions.
By integrating the management of these programmes into the permanent functions of the relevant ministries, the government aims to foster greater accountability and resource optimisation, he stressed.
Additionally, the creation of the ‘Office for the Affairs of Sri Lankans Abroad,’ under the President’s Office, signals the administration’s intent to centralise efforts supporting the Sri Lankan diaspora.
Meanwhile, the ‘National Peoples Council’ and the ‘Agriculture Modernisation Programme’ will continue to progress under the direct oversight of the appropriate government ministries.
