March 29, Colombo (LNW):Finance State Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya announced that the Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to suspend the Special Commodity Levy Act from 01 January 2025. Speaking to the media in Ruwanwella on Friday morning (29), the lawmaker outlined the government’s intention to introduce new legislation aimed at safeguarding both consumers and local manufacturers.

During its meeting on Monday (25), the Cabinet instructed the Legal Draftsman to prepare a Draft Bill to suspend the Special Commodity Levy Act, No. 48 of 2007. This decision comes as the government has identified various challenges encountered during the implementation of the legislation.

The Special Commodity Levy Act imposes taxes on 64 commodities categorized under 210 HS Codes to facilitate their importation. However, recognizing the need for reform, the government plans to suspend this act and introduce new measures to address the concerns raised by consumers and local manufacturers alike.

The proposed suspension reflects the government’s commitment to creating a more favorable environment for both consumers and domestic industries. As preparations for the new legislation progress, stakeholders will closely monitor developments to ensure that the interests of all parties are adequately addressed.

March 29, Colombo (LNW): Today, on the 29th of March, Christians around the world commemorate Good Friday, a solemn occasion that marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ at Calvary. This significant religious observance holds particular importance for Christians and Catholics, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus for humanity’s salvation.

According to the New Testament, Good Friday falls on the Friday preceding Easter Sunday, the day of Jesus’s resurrection from the dead. It is the culmination of Holy Week, which begins with Palm Sunday and includes Holy Thursday, commemorating the Last Supper, and Good Friday, a day of fasting and penance.

As Sri Lanka still grapples with the aftermath of the tragic events of Easter Sunday in 2019, where suicide bombings rocked the nation, claiming the lives of over 250 individuals and injuring hundreds more, security concerns loom large. In response, the police have implemented a comprehensive security plan across all churches in the country.

Working closely with church authorities, the police have tailored security arrangements for each church, particularly during Holy Masses from the 29th to the 31st of March. A significant deployment of security personnel, including 6,837 police officers, 464 Special Task Force (STF) personnel, and 2,882 Tri-Forces personnel, has been mobilized to ensure the safety of worshippers.

Under this heightened security plan, thorough inspections of church premises are conducted before sermons commence, with additional security measures such as body searches implemented where necessary. Special focus is placed on churches that typically attract large congregations.

As Sri Lankan Christians observe Good Friday under the shadow of past tragedies, these security measures aim to provide reassurance and safeguard worshippers as they gather to reflect on the solemn events of the crucifixion and the message of hope and redemption that Easter Sunday brings.

March 29, Colombo (LNW): In a significant step towards safeguarding children online, an online platform was inaugurated on Thursday (28) at the Presidential Secretariat, under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe. This platform aims to swiftly remove websites, photos, and videos containing or potentially containing instances of child sexual abuse.

Recognizing the urgent need to address child abuse in cyberspace, this initiative specifically targets the dissemination of nude photos and indecent videos of children through the internet and social media channels.

Implemented by the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) in collaboration with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), renowned for its expertise in internet child safety enforcement, this program receives financial support from Save the Children and Child Fund.

With the launch of this online system, individuals can now visit the website of the National Child Protection Authority at www.childprotection.gov.lk to report incidents of indecent photos and videos of children exchanged online.

Reports submitted through this platform will be handled by the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), a UK-based global charity dedicated to hunting down and removing videos and images of child sexual abuse shared online. Working in collaboration with the NCPA, the IWF will ensure that offending videos are promptly removed from the internet, and legal action will be pursued against the perpetrators.

While many institutions in Sri Lanka are plagued with corruption and irregularities, Colombo Swimming Club is the only organization who forced a change of management, led by a group of concerned members.

Amid claims of disputable actions on the part of the Committee of 2022 led by President Kishan Karunaratna and Vice President Pam Pieris who came under heavy criticism for their dictatorial attitudes and the club always being under construction.

Members brought out these issues at the AGM and at subsequent SGMs held in 2023 and as a result everyone in the Committee except the newly elected VP resigned.

The members then demanded an audit of the accounts for 2022 and the audit report by the prestigious auditors BDO found that the 2022 millions have been spent by the President, VP and the committee member who had approved all the work Mr. Sanjeev Jayasinghe without the approval of the house when the club’s constitution and past practices have been to follow proper procedure.

Whereas the amount approved at the 2022 AGM was Rs 11,265,125 million a staggering Rs. 135,241,913 million without obtaining committee approval had been spent as per audited accounts, it has been revealed following a Special Audit on Project approval buckets shared by the former head of finance Namal Perera.

Most of these prestigious clubs in Sri Lanka were established during the time of the British governed by a set of rules and a constitution, but very few checks and balances. During the British period certain men of honour ran these clubs, but as most of us have seen now in Sri Lanka, most organizations are run by not so honorable people.

This actually demands a proper examination of the rules of all the clubs and proper practices for checks and balances should be adopted.

Sri Lanka Insurance, in collaboration with Sri Lanka Insurance Life Limited (SLICLL) and Sri Lanka Insurance General Limited (SLICGL), organized an enriching seminar focused on “Enhancing Law Enforcement Leadership and Communication.” Held on March 7, 2024, at the SLIC head office, the event featured Senior Deputy Inspector General for the Eastern Province, Mr. Ajith Rohana, as the keynote speaker.

During the seminar, Senior DIG Mr. Ajith Rohana delivered a captivating session, drawing from his extensive experience in law enforcement and public communication. His discourse emphasized crucial elements of effective communication and leadership strategies tailored for professionals in law enforcement.

One of the key highlights of the event was the discussion on the recently enacted Online Safety Act, with Mr. Ajith Rohana providing valuable insights into its implications for the general public. Attendees gained a comprehensive understanding of the Act and its significance in ensuring online safety and security.

The seminar, attended by both the management and staff of SLIC, served as a valuable platform for knowledge enhancement. Participants gained insights into the nuances of the Online Safety Act and acquired essential communication skills vital for success in a competitive working environment. Mr. Ajith Rohana’s expertise offered practical guidance on fostering teamwork and collaboration within law enforcement agencies.

The success of the seminar highlights SLIC’s commitment to continuous learning and development for its workforce and reaffirms its dedication to nurturing a knowledgeable and skilled workforce capable of adapting to evolving challenges in the insurance industry and beyond.

Photo Caption: Mr. Lalith De Silva, Head of Distribution (SLICGL) (Right) handing over the token of appreciation to Mr. Ajith Rohana, Snr. DIG, Eastern Province (Left) while Mr. Rohitha Amarapala, Deputy General Manager – HR & Administration (SLICLL) (Center) looks on.

1. The launch of an online platform enabling the swift removal of websites, photos, and videos containing or potentially containing instances of child sexual abuse took place under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe. Implemented by the National Child Protection Authority in collaboration with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), renowned for its expertise in internet child safety enforcement, this program receives financial support from Save the Children and Child Fund.
2. Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa stated that socialism is a force that undermines people’s lives, livelihoods, new businesses, as well as private industries. He emphasized that socialism’s an anti-entrepreneurial concept that does not foster entrepreneurship but rather hinders it.Premadasa made these remarks in Rathnapura while participating in the launch of the economic vision of Samagi Jana Balawegaya.
3. General Secretary of the Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera has been sentenced to 04 years of rigorous imprisonment over a statement made in 2016. Issuing the sentence, Colombo High Court Judge Aditya Patabendige also imposed a fine of Rs. 100,000 on the Buddhist monk.
4. Sri Lanka has called for proposals from dealer managers to support its restructuring of some $12 billion of international bonds, the Finance Ministry said on Thursday, in a fresh sign that the island nation is closing in on finalizing its debt rework. The government was expected to start formal restructuring talks with bondholders this week.
5. Amidst growing pressure to amend its travel advice to Sri Lanka which was deemed “overly harsh”, the United Kingdom (UK) has defended its decision and said it would continue to keep the island nation’s travel advise under close review. UK’s Minister of State for the Middle East, South Asia, Commonwealth Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon made this remark in the UK Parliament responding to a question raised on plans to update the travel advice to Sri Lanka to reflect the security situation in the country.
6. The Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court has ordered former President Maithripala Sirisena to make a statement in court on 04 April on his recent comments over the Easter Sunday bomb attacks. The order was issued after the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) had reported the relevant facts to the court, on the instructions of the Attorney General.
7. The Development Lotteries Board (DLB) has recorded its highest-ever profit of Rs. 3.6 billion in 2023 and a significant portion of Rs. 3.6 billion goes to the President’s Fund. In 2023, the Development Lotteries Board (DLB) achieved it’s highest-ever profit in its 40-year history.
8. The overall rate of inflation as measured by the Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI) on year-on-year basis has recorded a significant decrease in the month of March 2024, according to the most recent figures published by the Department of Census and Statistics (DCS). The CCPI-based inflation was calculated as 5.9% for the month of February.
9. Sri Lanka Police have busted over 50 brothels that had been operating under the guise of Ayurvedic Spas in Negombo, leading to the discovery of two women, including a minor, testing positive for HIV. The Ayurvedic spas, which had been operated illegally, were raided over the last week based on a tip-off, after which measures were taken to shut down 53 spas.
10. President Ranil Wickremesinghe has met with the Sri Lankan national football team at the Presidential Secretariat and commended the efforts in their recent triumph over Bhutan, marking the first win in a decade. The President expressed his support for the football team’s aspiration to claim the South Asian Championship (SAFF) next year, pledging his commitment to advancing football infrastructure in the near future.

March 29, Colombo (LNW): In a significant collaborative effort, the Colombo U.S. Embassy, in conjunction with the Central Cultural Fund’s Maritime Archaeology Unit, has embarked on a mission to conserve and document the Godawaya shipwreck, the oldest known shipwreck in the Asia-Pacific region. Supported by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, this initiative underscores the enduring partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka in cultural preservation and archaeological research.

Leading the charge, U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, accompanied by Heidi Hattenbach, Counsellor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy, and Senior Archaeology Officer Rasika Muthucumarana from the Central Cultural Fund’s Maritime Archaeology Unit, conducted an inspection dive to explore the ancient Godawaya shipwreck situated off the coast of Hambantota. This endeavor is part of a broader initiative funded by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, which has been supporting the project since 2022 to study and protect this submerged cultural treasure dating back to the 2nd Century B.C.

Expressing the significance of the mission, Ambassador Chung remarked, “Witnessing the Godawaya shipwreck firsthand, submerged 33 meters below the ocean’s surface, was a truly breathtaking experience. It sheds light on Sri Lanka’s pivotal history as a maritime hub. The United States is honored to contribute to this endeavor, enriching our understanding of Sri Lanka’s historical significance in global maritime trade and ensuring the preservation of its cultural legacy for generations to come.”

Thanks to the funding support from the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, the Maritime Archaeology Unit (MAU) has successfully safeguarded nearly 200 artifacts retrieved from the wreck, ranging from clay pottery to metal objects and intricate carnelian beads. As the project advances, the MAU aims to create a comprehensive 3D model of the entire shipwreck site, promising to revolutionize maritime archaeology and cultural preservation in Sri Lanka. The artifacts will be exhibited in Colombo later this year before finding a permanent home in the Maritime Archaeology Museum in Galle, where they will be accessible to Sri Lankans and tourists, providing insights into the country’s rich history. Additionally, the AFCP will fund an educational program, bringing learning opportunities from the Godawaya project to schools and students near the dive site.

March 29, Colombo (LNW): President Ranil Wickremesinghe, on an inspection tour, visited the John de Silva Memorial Theatre and the National Art Gallery, both of which have faced prolonged delays despite construction starting in 2011.

During his visit, President Wickremesinghe instructed officials to accelerate the opening of the National Art Gallery by year’s end, stressing the importance of consensus among artists and architects. He pledged government support for necessary financial allocations and raised the question of providing high-standard, affordable theaters in Colombo once the John de Silva Theatre is completed.

The President emphasized the significance of consulting dramatists in decision-making regarding construction and maintenance projects. He directed the Ministry Secretary to explore options for reviving the Lumbini Theatre and the Nawarangahala, and instructed steps to construct a drama theatre at Colombo’s Sudarshi premises.

Furthermore, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the need to establish a national cultural zone encompassing Nelum Pokuna, Kalabhavana, John de Silva Memorial Theatre, Museum, and related areas. He tasked the Cultural Affairs Ministry with preparing a comprehensive report on this initiative. Additionally, he urged officials to elevate Sri Lanka’s museum system to international standards and identify a suitable country for mentorship in this regard.

Joining the event were Secretary of the Ministry of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Somaratne Vidanapathirana, Additional Secretary Thilak Hettiarachchi, Director General of the Department of Cultural Affairs Yasintha Gunawardena, the team of architects from the University of Moratuwa who designed the buildings, and Navy officers overseeing National Art Gallery renovations.

Notable figures such as Prof. Praneeth Abhayasundara, Prof. Chandragupta Thenuwara, Parakrama Niriella, Mohamed Safeer, and Saman Athaudahetti also shared their perspectives on behalf of the artists.

March 29, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena delivered a stirring address at the BOAO Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 in Hainan, China, urging Asian nations to unite in their efforts to eradicate poverty and ensure equitable prosperity.

Commending China’s remarkable achievements in lifting millions out of poverty under President Xi Jinping’s leadership, Gunawardena emphasized the importance of this success story as a guiding path for other nations grappling with similar challenges.

The Prime Minister called for fresh initiatives to bolster agricultural growth and food security, stressing their vital role in fostering social harmony and peace. He underscored the urgent need to harness renewable energy resources to address the pressing issues of climate change.

Highlighting Sri Lanka’s ambitious port development projects, including the expansion of Colombo Port, Hambantota Port, and the establishment of Colombo Port City and Colombo Financial Centre, Gunawardena envisioned these endeavors transforming Sri Lanka into a pivotal financial hub, not only for the nation but for the entire region.

In his address, Gunawardena expressed gratitude to President Xi Jinping for his leadership in driving China’s economic growth, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global economic prosperity. He reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts among Asian countries to tackle shared challenges, particularly in renewable energy and environmental conservation.

Acknowledging the significant role of the BOAO conference in driving investment in renewable energy, Gunawardena emphasized the need for collective commitment to shared goals and targets. He pledged Sri Lanka’s continued support for cooperation in maritime trade and underscored the importance of open trade policies and sustainable development initiatives.

The conference, inaugurated by Zhao Leiji, President of the National People’s Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, witnessed the participation of several world leaders, including Presidents of Kazakhstan and Nauru, along with esteemed figures like former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon, currently serving as President of the Global Green Growth Institute.

March 29, Colombo (LNW): The Development Lotteries Board (DLB) has achieved its highest profit margin in its four-decade history during the fiscal year 2022-2023. With a staggering 32% profit margin, doubling the previous year’s figure, the DLB marks a significant milestone in its journey.

This unprecedented success has led to notable increases in contributions to both the President’s Fund and the government. Contributions to the President’s Fund saw a remarkable 13% rise, surpassing the set target, while contributions to the government witnessed a commendable 6% increase.

Chairman and CEO of the Development Lotteries Board, Ajith Gunaratne Narangala, attributed this remarkable achievement to strategic measures implemented to navigate the country’s economic challenges. He credited the special guidance provided by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who also holds the position of Finance Minister.

Narangala highlighted the implementation of measures aimed at enhancing the prize money for both regular and newly introduced special lottery tickets. Furthermore, the board has embarked on the introduction of lottery tickets through digital technology, offering consumers in the country a unique and modernized experience. A portion of the proceeds generated from these initiatives is allocated towards education and healthcare programs in the nation.