August 23, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of light showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle and Matara districts.
Showers or thundershowers will occur at a few places in Eastern and Uva Provinces and in Polonnaruwa district during the evening or night.
Fairly strong winds about (30-40) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Hambantota district.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
August 22, Colombo (LNW): The Chamber of Young Lankan Entrepreneurs (COYLE) has announced the launch of its latest initiative, the Young Lankan’s program.
This youth development project is designed to foster entrepreneurship among the next generation, empowering young minds across Sri Lanka to become the driving force behind the nation’s economic growth.
As the world rapidly evolves, COYLE recognises the need to invest in the youth of today to secure a prosperous future for tomorrow.
The Young Lankan’s program is a collaborative effort by COYLE to tap into the immense potential of young people across the island.
By targeting the youth, COYLE aims to unlock opportunities for innovation and enterprise that will not only benefit individuals but also contribute significantly to the national economy. This initiative goes beyond mere encouragement; it seeks to actively cultivate a culture of entrepreneurship by providing mentorship, inspiration, and the essential training required to succeed in the business world.
At the core of the Young Lankan’s program is a robust mentorship framework, where seasoned entrepreneurs and COYLE members will play a pivotal role in guiding young entrepreneurs on their journey to success.
This approach ensures that the wisdom and experience of veteran businessmen are passed down to the next generation, offering invaluable insights that can help young entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business.
Youth development has always been a fundamental goal of COYLE, and the launch of the Young Lankan’s program is a testament to this commitment. By engaging with the younger generation, COYLE is not only fostering individual success but also laying the groundwork for a more vibrant and resilient economy.
The Young Lankan’s program marks a significant step in COYLE’s ongoing mission to promote entrepreneurship and economic growth in Sri Lanka. By equipping young people with the tools, knowledge, and support they need, COYLE is helpi
ng to shape a future where innovation and enterprise are at the heart of the nation’s progress. As this program takes root, the Chamber looks forward to seeing the emergence of a new generation of leaders who will drive Sri Lanka towards a brighter, more prosperous future.
August 22, Colombo (LNW): As the foremost industry body representing the ceramics and glass sectors in Sri Lanka, SLCGC is dedicated to promoting innovation, sustainability, and growth, thereby playing a crucial role in advancing industry standards and global competitiveness.
At the commencement of the meeting, outgoing President Anura Warnakulasuriya, extended a warm welcome to the members while emphasising the Council’s notable accomplishments in the face of persistent challenges in recent years.
He commended the dedication and efficacy of the Executive Committee and the Secretariat in addressing members’ concerns, navigating supply chain disruptions, and managing regulatory changes.
During the AGM, the Sri Lanka Ceramics and Glass Council confirmed the appointment of its new leadership for the 2024/2025 term. Aravinda Perera was elected as President, bringing a wealth of experience and vision to the role.
Supporting him are Wipul Kularathna as the Vice-President, and Channa Gunawardana as the Secretary, each renowned for their dedication and expertise. Major General Mervin Perera will serve as Vice-Secretary, adding strategic leadership to the Council’s initiatives. Financial stewardship will be overseen by T. C. Tennakoon as Treasurer.
This newly appointed team is poised to lead the Council with innovation and resilience, ensuring continued growth and success for the industry.
The AGM was followed by a Technical Session sponsored by Litro Gas Lanka Ltd., featuring insightful guest presentations on key topics relevant to the ceramics and glass industry. The event featured a keynote address by Industries Ministry Secretary Shantha Weerasinghe who served as the Chief Guest.
In his speech, Weerasinghe highlighted the Government’s pivotal role in supporting the ceramics and glass industry, the collaborative efforts between the industry and the Government, emphasising the importance of continued partnership to ensure the industry’s sustained development and global competitiveness.
Hayleys PLC General Manager – Group ESG Prashani Illangasekara, delivered an insightful presentation on the critical importance of sustainability practices within the ceramics and glass industry. She highlighted various initiatives possible to reduce environmental impact, setting an example for industry-wide adoption.
Jaisinh Sampat, a first-generation entrepreneur, addressed the significance of energy conservation in the context of the ceramics and glass sectors. He also explored future trends in LP Gas usage, underscoring the need for sustainable energy practices to drive long-term industry success.
Sri Lanka Standards Institution former Director General/CEO Dr. Lalith Senaweera discussed the profound impact of carbon footprints on the ceramics and glass industry. SLCGC Vice President Wipul Kularatne provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of the ceramics and glass industry. He emphasised recent trends, challenges, and emerging growth opportunities, offering a clear perspective on the industry’s future trajectory.
August 22, Colombo (LNW): The civil society is to play a critical role in driving the National Sustainable Infrastructure Plan (NSIP) for Sri Lanka Emeritus Professor Chitra Weddikkara, from the University of Moratuwa said.
The Alliance for Sustainable Infrastructure (ASI) Sri Lanka held its inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 17 August at the Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Training and Research Institute (HARTI), Colombo.
The event was a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s journey towards sustainable infrastructure development, bringing together key stakeholders from government, civil society, and the private sector.
The ceremonial session of the AGM commenced with the arrival of the special guest, US Embassy Economic Officer Bradley Gardner, and the keynote speaker, Emeritus Professor Chitra Weddikkara, from the University of Moratuwa.
The session was highlighted by a keynote address delivered by Professor Weddikkara, who emphasised the critical role of civil society in driving the National Sustainable Infrastructure Plan (NSIP) for Sri Lanka.
Her speech underscored the importance of integrating sustainability into infrastructure planning and execution to promote long-term environmental health, economic vitality, and social equity.
Professor Weddikkara’s address highlighted key objectives of the NSIP, including sustainable development, resilience to climate change, inclusive growth, and economic efficiency.
She also discussed the significance of the NSIP in protecting Sri Lanka’s biodiversity, stimulating economic growth, and promoting social equity. The professor called for a collaborative approach involving government, civil society, and the private sector to ensure the successful implementation of the NSIP.
The AGM also featured addresses from ASI Convenor Samantha Abeywickrama, and COSMI – ASI Coordinating Body President Nawaz Rajabdeen who both echoed the need for sustainable infrastructure that benefits all segments of society.
Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) Country Representative Sarrah Sammoon further elaborated on the role of international cooperation in achieving sustainable development goals. The vote of thanks was delivered by SOND Executive Director S. Senthurajah, an ASI member organisation, followed by lunch and networking opportunities for the attendees.
The 1st Annual General Meeting of ASI marks the beginning of a concerted effort to promote sustainable infrastructure in Sri Lanka.
The organisation aims to create a framework that not only meets current needs but also safeguards the aspirations of future generations. With the active participation of all stakeholders, ASI is poised to lead the way in building a sustainable future for the nation.
August 22, Colombo (LNW): LTL Holdings Ltd. from Sri Lanka and India’s Petronet LNG Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on developing infrastructure for storing, regasifying, and supplying Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to the ‘Sobadhanavi’ Combined Cycle Power Plant in Kerawalapitiya.
This partnership marks a key advancement in modernizing Sri Lanka’s energy sector and reducing its dependency on traditional fuel sources.
The MoU was signed by LTL Holdings CEO Nuhuman Marikkar and Petronet LNG’s CEO and Managing Director Akshay Kumar Singh.
Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera emphasized that this initiative aligns with President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s broader energy strategy, aimed at ensuring a continuous, cost-effective electricity supply across Sri Lanka.
Minister Wijesekera highlighted that the Sobadhanavi plant, operated by Lakdhanavi Ltd., will significantly enhance Sri Lanka’s energy capacity, with its first phase expected to be operational by August 2024 and the second phase in early 2025.
Initially, LNG will be imported from Petronet’s terminal in Kochi, India, transported to the Kerawalapitiya storage and regasification terminal using cryogenic ISO containers.
Addressing recent challenges in the energy sector, including tough decisions like tariff hikes, Wijesekera noted that these steps have enabled the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) to become financially stable and debt-free, attracting new investments.
The government aims to reduce electricity costs by 40-50%, eventually passing these savings onto consumers, though the task remains challenging.
Wijesekera also mentioned plans for the Sobadhanavi and Yugadhanavi power plants to commence operations by early 2026, with the Sobadhanavi plant expected to be operational by August 28. Initially, these plants will operate on diesel and fuel oil before transitioning to LNG, contributing to lower energy costs and reduced environmental impact.
The government’s policy aims to phase out diesel, crude oil, and naphtha, targeting 70% of electricity needs to be met through renewable energy and the remaining 30% through LNG.
Minister Wijesekera reflected on the difficult decisions made during the economic crisis, which prioritized consistent power supply over price stability. These decisions enabled the government to repay significant debts and settle outstanding payments to suppliers, positioning the country for future energy agreements and investments.
Deputy High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Dr. Satyanjal Pandey, emphasized that a reliable, clean, and sustainable energy supply is crucial for economic growth and improving citizens’ quality of life.
He noted that the ongoing collaboration between Sri Lanka and India focuses on boosting energy security and reducing costs, with the potential to connect Sri Lanka to regional and global grids.
This could attract investments, unlock green energy potential, and position Sri Lanka as a significant energy exporter.
Dr. Pandey also mentioned advanced discussions on power grid connectivity, infrastructure projects, and renewable energy initiatives, such as a solar project in Sampoor, underscoring the commitment of both governments to these shared goals.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe receives the credentials of five new diplomats at a ceremony in Colombo: The newly appointed envoys include High Commissioners from Zambia and Bangladesh and Ambassadors from Lithuania, Vietnam, and Myanmar, underscoring Sri Lanka’s commitment to enhancing diplomatic relations with these countries, with discussions focusing on mutual cooperation and interests.
Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa vows to renegotiate Sri Lanka’s IMF deal if elected, critiquing its focus on debt sustainability over essential economic growth: argues the current 3.1% growth target by 2029 is insufficient, stressing the need for a more ambitious and inclusive economic strategy to drive long-term prosperity.
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa asserts party members currently working with other factions will eventually need to rejoin the SLPP: criticises these individuals for supporting rival parties for personal gain rather than their own, underscoring the need for unity within the SLPP.
Sri Lanka’s dollar bonds have fallen below 55 cents due to uncertainty about debt restructuring and the upcoming presidential election: The bonds, down from 59 cents in June, reflect investor concerns over the restructuring plan, which requires IMF and creditor approvals: The political instability and restructuring delays have led to Sri Lanka being one of the worst-performing emerging markets this month.
The Cabinet approves six companies to operate tourist service counters at Bandaranaike International Airport’s entrance lobby, enhancing services for international travellers: Following evaluations, successful bidders include Airport Tourist Drivers Association and Ayubowan Tours: The counters, operational for three years, support the government’s push to boost tourism by improving infrastructure and streamlining visitor services.
Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya, orders the Election Commission to conduct the long-overdue Local Government elections, initially scheduled for 9 March last year: The ruling, which followed petitions from various political and civic groups, deems the delay a violation of citizens’ Fundamental Rights, urging swift action to uphold democratic processes: These petitions were filed by SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara, NPP MP Harini Amarasuriya, the Centre for Policy Alternatives, and PAFFREL.
A UN report highlights rising threats to fundamental freedoms in Sri Lanka due to regressive laws, weakened democratic safeguards, and ongoing intimidation of civil society: criticises the use of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and calls for accountability, economic fairness, and reconciliation ahead of upcoming elections, urging international measures if domestic reforms falter.
The Postal Department designates 8th September as a special day for distributing polling cards for the 2024 Presidential Election: Despite being a public holiday, cards will be delivered from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Distribution ends on 14th September, after which voters can collect cards from post offices: This ensures timely card delivery for voter participation.
The Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court has issued a restraining order preventing health sector trade unions and the Inter-University Students’ Federation (IUSF) from holding protest marches or entering the Health Ministry premises today: Effective from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., the order aims to prevent disruptions and public inconvenience amidst ongoing protests for improved working conditions and educational reforms.
On the opening day of the first Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, Sri Lanka posted 236 in 74 overs, thanks to resilient half-centuries from skipper Dhananjaya de Silva (74) and debutant Milan Ratnayake (72): Despite an early collapse to 113 for 7, their partnership helped stabilise the innings: England’s bowlers, led by Chris Woakes and Shoaib Bashir, dominated early, but play was curtailed early due to bad light, with England at 22 for no loss.
August 22, Colombo (LNW): A new report by the UN Human Rights Office has raised concerns about increasing threats to fundamental freedoms in Sri Lanka, citing regressive laws, weakened democratic safeguards, and continued intimidation against civil society and journalists.
Released on 22nd August, the report also highlights recurring human rights violations, echoing unresolved issues from the past.
As Sri Lanka prepares for its upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk emphasised the need for the government to recommit to the transformative changes demanded by its citizens, particularly in areas of accountability and reconciliation.
The report warns of recent legislative changes that empower security forces and further restrict freedoms of expression, opinion, and association, a troubling trend during this critical pre-election period.
Despite a promised moratorium, the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) continues to be used for arbitrary arrests, detentions, and reports of torture, according to the findings.
The ongoing impacts of the 2022 economic crisis, coupled with austerity measures, have disproportionately affected the most vulnerable, especially women.
Türk urged that economic policies be aligned with international human rights obligations and called for Sri Lanka’s creditors to allow fiscal flexibility to support social rights.
The report also underscores the enduring culture of impunity for crimes committed during and after the civil war, including the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks.
Türk urged the next government to address the root causes of conflict through substantial constitutional reforms and initiatives aimed at reconciliation.
Additionally, the report notes consistent harassment of journalists and civil society groups, particularly those involved in sensitive issues like enforced disappearances and land disputes.
Families seeking truth and justice for the disappeared continue to face threats, surveillance, and arrests.
In the absence of meaningful domestic accountability, the report calls on the international community to explore alternative strategies, such as targeted sanctions and the application of extraterritorial jurisdiction, to ensure justice for victims in Sri Lanka.
August 22, Colombo (LNW): The Postal Department has designated Sunday, 8th September, as a special day for distributing polling cards for the upcoming 2024 Presidential Election.
Despite the date being a public holiday, Deputy Postmaster General D.A. Rajitha K. Ranasinghe confirmed that official polling cards will be delivered from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The department encourages residents to be at home during this period to receive their cards. The final date for distributing these cards is set for 14th September, as announced by the Election Commission.
After this deadline, door-to-door distribution will cease. However, voters who miss the delivery can still collect their polling cards from local post offices until election day, provided they present valid identification.
This effort aims to ensure that all eligible voters receive their cards promptly, enabling smooth participation in the election process.
August 22, Colombo (LNW): The Cabinet has approved the implementation of tourist service counters at Bandaranaike International Airport’s vacant lobby near the entrance terminal.
Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Ltd. had called for bids to operate six counters, attracting twelve proposals.
Following evaluations by the Technical Appraisal and Standing Procurement Committees, the Cabinet endorsed the selection of six bidders offering the highest and most suitable bids.
These companies will now be permitted to operate in the designated areas for a three-year term.
The successful bidders are as follows:
Airport Tourist Drivers Association
Ayubowan Tours and Travels (Pvt) Ltd
Avawia Tours (Pvt) Ltd
Lanka Travel Agent Association
Casons Travels (Pvt) Ltd
JNW Lanka Tours
This initiative is expected to enhance visitor services and streamline tourist facilitation at the airport, catering to the growing influx of international travellers.
The decision aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and promote tourism as a key driver of economic growth.
August 22, Colombo (LNW): The Cabinet has granted approval for a proposal to provide fertiliser subsidies to farmers cultivating paddy during the 2024/25 Maha season.
This initiative aims to boost food security and enhance agricultural productivity by supporting paddy and other crop cultivation across the country.
The approved plan, presented by the Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, involves importing fertilisers through both the State Fertiliser Company Ltd. and private sector entities.
The fertilisers will then be sold at a competitive price, ensuring wider accessibility for farmers.
Under the subsidy scheme, farmers will receive financial support of Rs. 15,000 per hectare, with a maximum of two hectares covered for each farmer.
This effort aligns with the government’s broader objective to stabilise local food production and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.
