Shahmy Shaheed, a young man from Beruwala who made headlines by walking 1,500 kilometers around Sri Lanka in just 45 days, was honoured by President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the President’s official residence in Colombo. Shahmy’s achievement serves as an inspiring example of how individual efforts can contribute to national pride and economic growth, particularly in the tourism industry.
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s (SJB) presidential candidate, opposition leader Sajith Premadasa has handed over his presidential election manifesto to the Chief Prelates of the Asgiriya and Malwathu Chapters. Accordingly, Premadasa’s presidential election manifesto will be released to the business community and the public on 04 September, 2024.
China had been an “easy source of money” for past governments and the National People’s Power (NPP) wants to ensure future investment isn’t wasteful, said Harini Amarasuriya, a lawmaker and a member of the NPP. Amarasuriya said the NPP wants to maintain ties with China since the country had been one of the few to back Sri Lanka when it faced global scrutiny for human rights violations as the civil war drew to a close.
The Election Commission has reported a total of 1,229 complaints related to the ongoing presidential election so far. Among these, a significant 1,172 complaints pertain to violations of election laws.
Sri Lanka Police says that more than 95% of the investigation activities into the recent killing of two persons including businessman Surendra Wasantha Perera, also known as ‘Club Wasantha’, have been completed thus far. Additionally, DIG Thalduwa also highlighted that all the main suspects including the two gunmen related to the case have already been identified, and taken into custody.
State Minister of Defence, Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, has announced that a significant change will be implemented in the system of providing ration allowances to armed forces personnel, effective from January. The Minister also emphasized that this adjustment aims to enhance the financial status of the personnel and improve transparency and accountability in financial matters.
Ambassador Andrés González thanked Sri Lanka for its support every year in the United Nations vote against the blockade of the United States against Cuba, an official source disclosed. In a meeting in Colombo with Dayani Mendis, director general of the United Nations and human rights of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, González also highlighted that Sri Lanka is part of the group of 123 nations that signed a declaration before the Human Rights Council of the UN, demanding the exclusion of Caribbean Cuba from the list of State sponsors of terrorism created by Washington.
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry assured that Sri Lanka will not accept any resolutions brought forward by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) regarding alleged human rights violations during the civil conflict that ended in 2009.
Former High Commissioner Milinda Moragoda presented a copy of the Pathfinder Foundation’s Study Group Report on India-Sri Lanka Physical Connectivity to Ajit Kumar Doval, National Security Advisor of India. Doval is in Colombo on an official visit.
Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva won the toss and decided to bowl in the second test of the three-match series against England on Thursday under glorious sunshine at Lord’s. England made one enforced change from the side which won the first test by five wickets at Old Trafford last week, with seamer Olly Stone replacing the injured Mark Wood.
August 30, Colombo (LNW):Showers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts. Fairly heavy showers above 50 mm are likely at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara, Nuwara-Eliya and Puttalam districts.
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Uva province and in Ampara and Batticaloa districts during the evening or night.
Strong winds about (40-50) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills, Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Hambantota and Trincomalee districts.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
The sun is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka during 28th of August to 06th of September due to its apparent southward relative motion. The nearest places of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (30) are Vavuniya, Vannamoddai, Analkaddimady and Periyapandirichchan about 12.10 noon.
August 29, Colombo (LNW): India has taken a significant step in advancing the Hybrid Power Projects on three islands off Jaffna, with the first payment being handed over to Sulakshana Jayawardena, Secretary of the Ministry of Power and Energy, and Ranjith Sepala, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority (SLSEA).
The funds were presented by Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha.
This payment marks a crucial milestone in the implementation of hybrid renewable energy projects on the islands of Delft, Nainativu, and Analaitivu.
The initiative follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the governments of India and Sri Lanka in March 2022.
Subsequently, in March 2024, the SLSEA entered into a contract with M/s. U Solar Clean Energy Solutions Pvt. Ltd. to carry out the project.
The project is designed to address the energy requirements of these remote islands, which are currently not connected to the national grid.
By combining solar and wind energy, the initiative aims to optimise energy production and provide a sustainable power solution for the local communities.
Preliminary work has already begun at the project sites, with completion expected by early March 2025, and the final handover anticipated by late April 2025.
Funded by a grant of USD 11 million from the Indian Government, this project underscores India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in the energy sector.
It also highlights the human-centric approach of India’s development partnership initiatives in Sri Lanka, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for people in the region.
August 29, Colombo (LNW): The Government has directed Heads of key State Departments to update its Information Technology (IT) system to boost efficiency and quality of public services.
The move comes following a Cabinet decision on 5 August, which involves mandatory inclusion of National Identity Card (NIC) numbers, Passport numbers and Company Registration numbers in all relevant Government IT systems.
The Finance, Economic Stabilisation and National Policies Ministry on Monday issued a circular, addressing all Secretaries to Ministers, Chief Secretaries of Provincial Councils, Heads of Departments/District Secretaries, Heads of State Corporations, Statutory Boards, Universities and Higher Education Institutions and Chairpersons of State-owned Enterprises to ensure compliance with the mandatory inclusion of information related to company/business registration number along with NIC and passport numbers with nationality of individuals.
It also added that all Heads of Institutions should ensure to take action during next year to develop the existing IT systems and IT systems being at the developing or planning stages and to include requisite financial provisions in this respect into the Budget Estimates for the year 2025 and the Medium Term Budgetary Framework for the year 2026 and 2027 in terms of Section 03.1(i) I of the National Budget Circular No. 02/2024 dated 12 August 2024.
In addition, it directs all Heads of institutions to take action to comply with the provisions of the Personal Data Protection Act No. 07 of 2022 and the instructions provided under the Circular No. MOT/2023/02 dated 21 September 2023 of the Ministry of Technology.
It added that the circular was issued with the approval of the Registration of Persons, Immigration and Emigration, Registrar of Companies and Registrar General’s Department.
Relying on legacy information technology (IT) systems makes it difficult for government agencies to overcome (or even address) these challenges.
Inefficiency, outdated processes, and concerns around privacy and data security slow down service delivery and negatively impact constituents — and isn’t scalable for the future.
Findings by the Deloitte Center for Government Insights note that innovations creating value in new waysopens in a new window often won’t work with old business processes and that increasing time savings and reducing backlogs requires new systems and processes.
That said, government IT modernization is more than just new technology or integrating legacy systems. It requires a complete redesign of business processes and, more often than not, a cultural shift in thinking.
However, this is hard to accomplish alone. So much so that a global digital survey of government officials found that 85% felt collaboration with external partnersopens in a new window positively impacted their agencies.
Engaging a technology partner in an effort to accelerate innovation can enable government agencies to more efficiently and effectively meet modern-day demands and better address the needs of the constituents they serve.
August 29, Colombo (LNW): Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Kumar Doval arrived in Sri Lanka today, where he is expected to hold discussions with several key presidential candidates, including the incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Sajith Premadasa, the candidate from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB).
Earlier in the day, Doval met with former Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India, Milinda Moragoda.
During their meeting, Moragoda presented Doval with a copy of the Pathfinder Indo-Lanka Physical Connectivity Report, a comprehensive study outlining strategies for enhancing physical links between the two nations.
The report, recently launched by the Pathfinder Foundation, serves as a detailed blueprint for developing infrastructure connectivity in the areas of road, rail, electricity, and petroleum.
The ultimate objective of this initiative is to foster closer economic integration between India and Sri Lanka, with the aim of boosting Sri Lanka’s annual economic growth rate from 3 per cent to 6 per cent.
The report, which Doval received during his visit, underscores the significance of strengthening bilateral ties through enhanced connectivity, which is seen as a vital step towards achieving sustained economic growth for Sri Lanka.
August 29, Colombo (LNW): iPay, Sri Lanka’s leading mobile payment platform, has reached a significant milestone by processing over Rs. 300 billion in transactions.
This achievement comes just six months after the platform crossed the Rs. 200 billion mark, demonstrating its rapid growth, increased consumer trust, and widespread acceptance across the nation.
Since its launch, iPay has been at the forefront of Sri Lanka’s digital payment revolution, offering users a seamless and secure experience.
The award-winning app provides a variety of services, including instant bank transfers, real-time utility bill payments, e-channeling, mobile reloads, and digital savings and fixed deposit accounts. With a growing network of over 45,000 merchants,
iPay has made financial transactions more accessible and convenient, reflecting the increasing reliance on digital payments in a rapidly changing economic environment.
Designed with a user-friendly interface available in Sinhala, Tamil, and English, iPay ensures inclusivity and ease of use for a diverse audience.
Features such as easy registration through a selfie, three-step bill payments, and secure fund transfers highlight iPay’s dedication to simplicity and efficiency.
Advanced security measures are in place to protect transactions, providing users with confidence and peace of mind. iPay also regularly updates its features to enhance the user experience, demonstrating its commitment to meeting the daily financial needs of its users.
iPay’s focus on innovation has earned it several prestigious awards, including the Gold Award for Best Mobile Application for Retail Payments via Just Pay and the Gold Award for Most Popular Digital Product (Internet and Mobile Banking) at Technovation 2024.
These accolades position iPay as a benchmark for excellence and a key driver in Sri Lanka’s digital future. The platform’s success reflects its strategic vision and ability to adapt to emerging trends and technologies, ensuring it delivers advanced services to both current and future generations, particularly digital natives.
Commenting on the milestone, iPay AGM Nimesh Fernando stated, “Our journey has been one of innovation and perseverance. Reaching this milestone not only confirms our platform’s reliability but also highlights the growing confidence in digital payments among Sri Lankans. LOLC Finance Head of Consumer Banking and Digital Hasala Thilakaratne added, “This milestone is not just a reflection of our success but a testament to the shift towards a digital economy in Sri Lanka.
As the lifestyle app of LOLC Finance, iPay continues to set new standards by introducing innovative solutions and expanding its merchant network for digital payments in Sri Lanka. With a mission to revolutionize the FinTech landscape, iPay is dedicated to driving the future of financial technology in the country.
Litro Gas Lanka, Sri Lanka’s leading LPG provider, has announced significant developments in its supply and distribution network. As per the Sales & Marketing Plans for 2024, areas are identified for supplier and distribution expansion. The company has undertaken a series of strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the accessibility and reliability of LPG services across the country.
The existing distributor yards in Aluthgama, Panadura, Palamunai-Batticaloa, and Navalady-Batticaloa have been refurbished, featuring new office infrastructure and an expanded vehicle fleet. These upgrades are set to improve the quality of service and delivery efficiency.
In addition to these refurbishments, new distribution yards have been established in Wellawaya, Godakawella, Padeniya, Waradela-Kotadeniyawa, Walathapity-Ampara, and Mulamaldeniya. This expansion enhances service coverage, particularly in rural areas, providing better access to LPG for all Sri Lankans.
To support these operations, new staff members have been recruited from local communities, bolstering the workforce and promoting regional employment. The expansion also includes additional vehicles and infrastructure improvements, crucial for streamlining operations and ensuring efficient service delivery.
These efforts will integrate seamlessly with Litro Gas’s primary filling operations at Kerawalapitiya and the newly commissioned Mabima storage and filling facility. This integration is vital for maintaining a seamless supply chain and addressing the increasing demand for LPG across the country.
Litro Gas’s expanded and refurbished network will support the seamless supply of LPG to 4.5 million domestic households, 12,500 dealer points/sales points, over 16,000 HoReCa establishments (Hotels, Restaurants, Catering), and more than 6,000 medium and large commercial businesses.
Distributors have shown increased confidence in the company’s leadership and organizational sustainability, recognizing LPG as an essential service rather than just a commodity. This belief in the growth and future of LPG usage underscores the importance of Litro Gas’s role in ensuring energy security.
Mr. Muditha Peiris, Chairman & CEO – Litro Gas Lanka, highlighted the company’s commitment to ensure access to clean and safe energy for all Sri Lankans, stating, “Access to clean and safe energy is not a privilege but a fundamental right of every citizen. Our expansion efforts are a testament to our commitment to providing uninterrupted LPG supply to all parts of the country.”
These enhancements to the distribution network follow the successful commissioning of the state-of-the-art Mabima facility, demonstrating Litro Gas’s commitment to operational excellence and ensuring that all citizens have access to this essential resource.
August 29, Colombo (LNW): Ambassador Andrés González expressed gratitude to Sri Lanka for its consistent support in the United Nations vote opposing the United States’ blockade against Cuba, according to an official report.
During a meeting in Colombo with Dayani Mendis, Director General of the United Nations and Human Rights at the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, González underscored Sri Lanka’s role within the group of 123 nations that signed a declaration at the UN Human Rights Council, advocating for the removal of Cuba from Washington’s list of State sponsors of terrorism.
The discussions between González and Mendis also touched upon the mutual support both nations provide to each other in international forums and United Nations organisations, highlighting the strong diplomatic relationship between Sri Lanka and Cuba.
This year marks a significant milestone as Sri Lanka and Cuba celebrate 65 years of diplomatic relations, which were established on 29th July 1959, shortly after the Cuban Revolution.
The relationship was further solidified when Commander Ernesto “Che” Guevara visited Sri Lanka, then known as Ceylon.
In recent days, the Cuban ambassador presented Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister, Ali Sabry, with a congratulatory letter from Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez, commemorating the anniversary of bilateral ties.
In the letter, Rodríguez reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
August 29, Colombo (LNW): President Ranil Wickremesinghe officially launched his manifesto for the 2024 Presidential Election at a ceremony held at the Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo earlier today (29).
The manifesto, titled “Five Years of Winning the Country with Ranil,” outlines the President’s vision for the nation over the next five years and is built around five key pillars: “Theravada Trade Economy,” “Operation – Beyond 2025,” “Make a Radiant Society,” “Win the Motherland,” and “Unite Sri Lanka.”
The event, which drew significant attention, was attended by Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Ministers Ali Sabry, Bandula Gunawardena, Nimal Siripala de Silva, other parliamentarians, political leaders, and religious dignitaries who support the President’s candidacy.
In a statement on his social media platforms, President Wickremesinghe expressed his commitment to rebuilding Sri Lanka, emphasising his intent to deliver on his promises over the next five years.
He described the upcoming period as a “triumphant time for Sri Lanka” and assured citizens that he would only pledge what he could realistically achieve.
The manifesto, which was also made available online through the newly launched website www.ranil2024.lk, details several priority areas for the President’s proposed five-year plan.
These include addressing the cost of living, job creation, tax relief, economic growth, and the implementation of social programs such as ‘Aswesuma’ and ‘Urumaya.’
As part of the initial phase, the President has committed to creating 100,000 new employment opportunities, which will contribute to broadening the job market and enhancing income generation prospects for Sri Lankans.
The launch of this manifesto marks the beginning of President Wickremesinghe’s bid for re-election as an independent candidate, setting the stage for a competitive presidential race.
August 29, Colombo (LNW): Associated Motorways (Private) Limited (AMW), a forerunner in Sri Lanka’s automotive industry and sole distributor of Suzuki in Sri Lanka, recently embarked on a campaign to safeguard Suzuki vehicle owners around the country.
In a dedicated effort to address potential safety concerns, AMW recently launched a comprehensive recall for Suzuki WagonR models, to rectify an issue that could lead to inaccurate fuel gauges and engine stalling.
The safety recall was initiated to address fuel impurity blockages in the fuel system, paying special focus to the accuracy of fuel readings in the vehicles instrument cluster panel.
If this issue is left unattended, it could result in the failure of insufficient fuel warnings, which could result in the engine stalling. The vehicle models affected by this issue include the Suzuki WagonR Premium, Suzuki WagonR FX/FZ, and Suzuki Stingray.
AMW made it remarkably easy for Suzuki WagonR owners to facilitate this safety recall. To date, 30% of recalls have been successfully completed, and customers can rest assured that the process was carried out efficiently and conveniently.
The recall service can be completed at any AMW Service location or AMW Authorised Service Dealer across the island.
To make the process even easier, customers can simply visit, https://suzuki.lk/wagonrrecall/index.html or contact the AMW Hotline on 0117 609 609, to register for the service and obtain any further information required.
The safety of its customers is of paramount importance to AMW. The company is proud to have been able to take this kind of swift action to address this issue and ensure that all Suzuki WagonRs are brought up to the highest safety levels.
The recall campaign is a testament to AMW’s commitment to providing reliable service, and secure transportation solutions to Sri Lankan motorists.
All Suzuki WagonR owners are hereby encouraged to take advantage of AMW’s extensive service network and complete their recall as soon as possible, which reaffirms the fact that safety remains a top level priority at AMW.
