SRI LANKA’S NATIONAL NEWSPAPER I SINCE 1918
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2023 I 32 PAGES I VOLUME - 105 - NO 288 I RS. 70.00 I REGISTERED AS A NEWSPAPER IN SRI LANKA I LATE CITY 
Substantial measures
to speed up backlog of
over 1.1 Mn cases
Measures to
expedite resolution
of criminal cases
Outstanding complaints
at Office of Missing
Persons slated for
resolution by year end
Reconciliation Society
within each village
Veteran actor
Suminda Sirisena
passes away
NIRMANEE IGALAHEWAGE
Veteran actor Suminda Siri-
sena passed away yesterday
(4), at the age of 75.
Sirisena, who excelled in
the three-way medium of act-
ing – stage, cinema and small
screen – began his career in
the 1960s.
He became popular for his
role in the stage play Muhudu
Puththu. He made his film
debut in 1976 with Vijaya
Dharma Sri’s movie Duhulu
Malak. TO PAGE 04
Sri Lanka dominates at World Youth
Scrabble Championship 2023
Hivin Dilmith was adjudged the World Youth Scrabble Champion 2023, while Adheesha Dissa-
nayake and Kavindu Malawaraarachchi won First Runner Up and Second Runner Up positions,
respectively.
Hivin Dilmith (16) from Mahinda Col-
lege, Galle was adjudged the World Youth
Scrabble Champion 2023. The World Eng-
lish Language Scrabble Players’ Association
(WESPA) Youth Cup 2023, also known as
the World Youth Scrabble Championship
2023 was held in Thailand. One-hundred-
and-forty-two players from 17 nations con-
tested.
Search for Kuveni’s gold
pot lands four in remand
HIRAN PRIYANKARA
Puttalam Corr.
Four suspects, including the
watchman of an
estate belong-
ing to the Act-
ing Magistrate
of Puttalam,
were arrested by
Cremation of Most Ven. Metaramba
Hemarathana Thera today
JAYAKANTHA LIYANAGE, Balapitiya Spl. Corr.
Metaramba Hemaratha-
The cremation of the late Vihara- na Thera, will be held
dhipathi of the historical Situlpavwa today (05) at the Yatagala Raja Maha
Raja Maha Viharaya, Chief Prelate Viharaya, Galle, the Situlpawwa Raja
of Dakshina Lanka, Most Venerable Maha Vihara Foundation said. TO PAGE 02
“Legislative framework a dire need” President discusses joint climate initiatives
Justice, Prison Affairs and Con- the establishment and operation of
with US Presidential Envoy John Kerry
stitutional Reform Minister Dr.
Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe unveiled
plans to introduce a new legisla-
conciliation boards aimed at facili-
tating the expeditious resolution
of select cases, the Minister said. President Ranil Wickremesinghe remesinghe outlined the Government’s
tive framework aimed at regulat-
ing microfinance institutions oper-
He further stated that globally
recognized expedited methods for
engaged in a crucial conversation yes-
terday (4) with US Special Presidential
ambitious proposals, prominently fea-
turing the establishment of a Climate
ating within the country. resolving criminal cases stand in Envoy on Climate Change, John Kerry, Change University.
Expressing deep concern regard- contrast to our nation’s outdate emphasizing Sri Lanka’s commitment The President shed light on the com-
ing the unregulated status of cer- legal framework, resulting in pro- to combatting climate change through prehensive plan designed to address
tain microfinance entities, Min-
ister Rajapakshe emphasized the
longed durations for case resolu-
tions. This delay in criminal pro-
innovative initiatives.
At the discussion, President Wick-
climate challenges and foster sustain-
able solutions. TO PAGE 02
necessity for decisive measures.
He underscored the intention to
establish an independent regula-
presently oversees the operational
responsibilities of 21 institutions,
encompassing a diverse range of
ceedings represents a substantial
issue, jeopardizing the adminis-
tration of justice and leaving all October Aswesuma payments totalling
tory institution, distinct from the
Central Bank, dedicated to the
subjects, including law enforce-
ment and law reform. With a
parties involved without timely
recourse. Rs. 8,775 mn to be paid from today
oversight and effective regulation
of microfinance entities.
caseload exceeding 1.1 million
cases within the Courts in the
To address this challenge, a draft
law aimed at expediting the resolu-
Minister Rajapakshe made these
remarks yesterday (04) during a
country, concerted efforts have
been undertaken in recent times
tion of criminal cases is currently
under development and is slated
VARUNA DAYARATNE
Aswesuma payments for
Semasinghe said. Taking to
X, State Minister Semasinghe
press briefing at the President’s to mitigate delays in case adjudica- for submission to Parliament in the month of October have said that the payments due to
Media Centre (PMC), under the
theme ‘Collective path to a stable
tion.
Substantial measures have been
January. In advanced jurisdictions,
there is a paradigm shift towards
been transferred to banks
and will be credited to the
1,406,932 Aswesuma benefi-
ciary families amounting Rs.
country’.
The Minister further com-
implemented to address the back-
log and streamline the judicial
non-custodial measures for indi-
viduals involved in minor offences,
the Minister said. TO PAGE 02
beneficiary accounts from
today (05) onwards, State
8,775 million had been trans-
ferred to relevant banks from
mented that the Justice Ministry process, with a particular focus on Minister of Finance Shehan the Treasury. TO PAGE 02
Wife held for murder of husband Mahinda Rajapaksa Vidyalaya Homagama, Godagama Plot to kill Shani
Father tried to take nude pictures of daughter ‘Performance of O/L students in foreign languages an example to all’ in pre-arranged
accident: AG
PUSHPAKUMARA JAYARATNE, Kurunegala Additional Corr. and Transport, Highways and Mass Media The Minister mentioned that the for-
SUNIL S. PALLANDENIYA, Kurunegala Corr.
Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana eign language results of the last Ordi-
Wellawa Police reported that a man who tried to take said that the result of passing foreign nary Level Examination have proved NELKA MEDEGEDERA
nude photos of his 14-year-old daughter by force in order languages by the students of Homaga- that the country’s rural schoolchildren
to make his YouTube channel popular and put it on the ma, Godagama Mahinda Rajapaksa have an innate ability to learn any for- The Attorney General
internet to earn money, was hacked to death by his wife. Vidyalaya in the last GCE Ordinary eign language. He said that 769 stu- informed the Court of Appeal
The deceased is a 37-year-old resident of Wellawa Level Examination is an example for the dents sat for the English subject out of yesterday (4) that there was a
Talwita, who worked as an attendant at the TO PAGE 04 country. which 768 of them passed TO PAGE 04 conspiracy to murder the for-
mer Director of the Criminal
Investigation
‘Debt restructuring a must to get School Grades to be Plantation workers get Department,
Shani Abey-
reduced from 13 to 12 permanent addresses for sekara in a pre-
out of current economic crisis’ IRANGIKA RANGE first time in 200 years
arranged vehicle
accident.
Additional
RAKSHANA SHRIYANTHA
The Education Ministry disclosing the The Attorney General informed the Solicitor Gener-
Member of Parliament Dr. Har- proposed new educational reforms envisages Supreme Court yesterday (4) that for the first al (ASG) Rohan-
sha De Silva said that the country the reduction of school grades from 13 to 12. time in history, the Government has taken tha Abeysuriya,
cannot move forward without debt This was disclosed when presenting the steps to provide permanent addresses for who appeared for the Attorney
restructuring and restructuring debt progress of the year 2023 and plans for the plantation workers in this country. Chief Jus- General, stated this when a
is a must to get out of the current year 2024 for the budget of the Ministry of tice Jayantha Jayasuriya praised the efforts writ petition filed by Abey-
economic crisis. He was speaking at Education by Education Minister Dr. Susil to provide permanent postal addresses for sekara against not providing
a press conference held at the Opposi- Premajayantha for Ministers and Members of plantation workers for the first time in the him with proper protection
tion Leader’s office. TO PAGE 02 Parliament recently. TO PAGE 04 history after 200 years. TO PAGE 02 was called. TO PAGE 04
Traffic cops allegedly seek See Sumanthiran and Sritharan submit
bribe from Tiran’s son page 5 applications for ITAK leader post
RASULA DILHARA, North Corr.
Parliamentarians M.A. Sumanthiran and S.
Sritharan have reportedly applied to be the next
leader of Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK)
party. The leader of the Tamil National Alliance
R. Sampanthan MP and the leader of ITAK
Mavai Senathirajah, the former MP, are slated
to retire from politics next year. TO PAGE 02
Women too can head Tri Forces – State Minister
IRANGIKA RANGE
State Defence Minister Premitha Bandara Ten-
nakoon told Parliament yesterday that women
officers will be given an opportunity to reach the
top level positions of the Tri Forces in the future.
“A woman can only earn the rank of Major,
especially in the Army at the moment. TO PAGE 02
Sri Lanka’s Youth Scrabble team won the
Kalmunai warden had no
‘Best Team’ title for the second consecutive
year at the Championship.
professional training: Geetha
IRANGIKA RANGE
The 10-member Sri Lankan Scrabble team
also recorded an outstanding performance Women and Child Affairs State Minister Geetha
by securing the top three spots of the event, Kumarasinghe told Parliament yesterday that the
etching Sri Lanka’s name in history as the female warden of the children’s detention centre in
first-ever country to clinch all three top Kalmunai who was arrested on suspicion of killing
places in the tournament. TO PAGE 04 a 15-year-old child after severely TO PAGE 02
Assault of security officer
SLC files complaint with Kelaniya University closed
Bribery Commission against until further notice
Roshan Ranasinghe VARUNA DAYARATNE
Police while they were dig- The University of Kelaniya, with the
ging in the estate in search Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) yesterday said exception of the Faculty of Medicine, has
of an ancient sembuwa ( a it has formally lodged a complaint with the been temporarily closed until further notice.
pot) made of gold, which they Commission to Investigate Allegations of Accordingly, all the Kelaniya University
believed was owned by Kuveni, Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) against hostels, except those of the Medical Fac-
the wife of King Vijaya. former Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe, ulty, will also be closed, including at the
The 25-acre estate is located MP, over the alleged misuse of funds pro- university’s premises in Dalugama until
at the Alankuda area of Noro- vided by SLC TO PAGE 02 further notice, the Administrative Authority
chcholai. TO PAGE 02 of Kelaniya University stated. TO PAGE 02
DN page 2 NEWS T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

NPP protest dispersed MICROFINANCE INSTITUTIONS TO BE...

Recognizing that incarceration, in
From page 01

politicians do not play a direct role. landscape. The repercussions of these

with water cannons

VARUNA DAYARATNE
Police used water cannons to dis-
perse a group of protesters at the
Polduwa Junction in Battaramulla
yesterday (4).
The protest was carried out by the
SLC files complaint......
to the National Sports Fund for
the development of various other
sports in Sri Lanka.
The decision to file this complaint
stems from the concern that Ranas-
inghe has not appropriately dis-
closed the utilization of funds allo-
cated by SLC for the intended pur-
poses, the SLC in a media release
said.
The media statement further said
that this move comes in the wake of
a discernible disparity between the
information disclosed to the media
women’s wing of the National Peo-
ple’s Power (NPP) near the Parlia-
ment Roundabout yesterday morning.
The NPP’s women’s wing staged
the protest over several of their
demands, including the rising cost of
From page 01
by Ranasinghe and the response
received by SLC under a Right to
Information (RTI) application, out-
lining the specifics of the expendi-
tures made.
The SLC wishes to emphasize the
importance of maintaining the
integrity of financial transactions
and ensuring that funds are utilized
for their designated purposes and
the said formal complaint filed with
the Bribery Commission under-
scores SLC’s dedication to uphold-
ing the highest standards of govern-
living, the tax burden imposed on the
people, and other issues in the coun-
try. Riot Police had resorted to using
water cannons as the protesters had
attempted to march towards the Par-
liament along the Parliament Road.
ance and ethics within the realm of
sports administration.
SLC trusts that the Bribery Com-
mission will conduct a thorough
investigation into the matter to
ascertain the facts and take appro-
priate action as necessary and Sri
Lanka Cricket will continue to col-
laborate with relevant authorities
to ensure a fair and just resolution
to this issue, as part of its ongoing
commitment to the promotion and
advancement of sports in Sri
Lanka.
many instances, is not the most suita-
ble recourse, the new legal framework
being proposed aims to explore alterna-
tives. Notably, some individuals find
themselves incarcerated due to societal
oversights, and the proposed legisla-
tion acknowledges this by providing
avenues for release on bail conditions.
This approach aims to strike a balance
between societal concerns and individ-
ual liberties, fostering a more nuanced
and equitable criminal justice system,
Minister Rajapakshe said.
The Office of Missing Persons cur-
rently manages a caseload of approxi-
mately 14,000 complaints. Upon
assuming duties of this Ministry, only
62 complaints had undergone investiga-
tion. Presently, we have successfully
concluded investigations for 4,795
complaints, reflecting a substantial
improvement in case resolution. It is
noteworthy that all outstanding com-
plaints lodged with the Office of Miss-
ing Persons are slated for resolution by
the coming year, the Justice Minister
said.
Furthermore, to fortify and enhance
the efficiency of the judicial process, a
comprehensive set of eight new bills is
set to be submitted to Parliament, he
said. Efforts are underway to establish
a reconciliation society within each vil-
lage, where government officials and
Search for Kuveni’s gold...
Acting Magistrate of Puttalam
ordered the four persons including the
watchman to be remanded for 11 days.
Police investigations revealed that
The activities of these societal initia-
tives, referred to as reconciliation soci-
eties, are guided by the preferences of
elders and religious leaders within the
respective villages. The responsibilities
encompass the independent execution
of tasks such as infrastructure develop-
ment, including road construction and
provision of electricity, rendering polit-
ical involvement unnecessary, the Min-
ister said.
The villagers take charge of organiz-
ing religious festivals, sports events
and cultural celebrations, fostering a
sense of community ownership and
participation. The overarching vision is
to seamlessly integrate each Grama
Seva Division into a unified network,
operating independently from external
interference. The reconciliation society
is entrusted with safeguarding the wel-
fare and interests of the village, there-
by ensuring the preservation and well-
being of the community, he said.
Presently, widespread discourse
revolves around the state of the coun-
try’s economy, which has been adverse-
ly affected by various factors. The
extensive toll on lives and property
incurred during the war against the
LTTE and the destructive actions of
the JVP, including the burning of buses,
transformers and over 25 Courts, have
significantly impacted the economic
From page 01
the main suspect who is the watchman
had brought a kapuwa (a custodian of
a devalaya) to this land and he had
said that Kuveni’s sembuwa made of
incidents continue to reverberate, influ-
encing the nation’s economic trajectory,
Minister Rajapakshe said.
One pressing issue contributing to
economic challenges is the unregulated
proliferation of microfinance institu-
tions, perceived as a substantial con-
cern in the country. The absence of
legal frameworks and regulatory over-
sight, coupled with the lack of registra-
tion with the Central Bank, has created
an environment where individuals find
it challenging to secure loans through
conventional financial institutions due
to their stringent rules. Consequently,
many turn to microfinance institutions,
exacerbating the existing economic
predicament.
To address this concern, there is a
pressing need to establish a dedicated
regulatory body, separate from the Cen-
tral Bank, to oversee and govern micro-
finance institutions. Efforts are under-
way to introduce comprehensive laws
aimed at regulating these entities and
mitigating the potential adverse effects
they pose to the country’s economic
stability. The goal is to install a regula-
tory framework that ensures responsi-
ble and accountable practices within
the microfinance sector, thereby con-
tributing to the overall economic well-
being of the nation, Minister Raja-
pakshe said.
gold was buried in the land. Police
arrested the four suspects following
information they received that they
were digging the land for treasure.

OBITUARY NOTICE October Aswesuma payments totalling... From page 01 President discusses... From page 01

In addition, he said that once the
review of appeals and objections are
completed, the eligible individuals
will receive their Aswesuma welfare
benefit payments from July 1.
These payments will be distribut-
ed among four social categories,
namely transitional, vulnerable, poor,
and extremely poor. Additionally, the
usual allowances for the differently-
abled, elderly, and kidney patients
will also be provided. Meanwhile, the
Finance Ministry said that the
November and December Aswesuma
instalments will be paid to the bene-
ficiaries before the end of this year
and in addition, the call for new
applications will also start this
month.
A total of 209,225 families under
the transitional category, 290,070 fam-
ilies under the vulnerable category,
605,379 families under the poor cate-
gory and 302,258 families under the
extremely poor category will get bene-
fits this year, the State Minister said.
He said that according to Presi-
dent Ranil Wickremesinghe’s instruc-
tions, he will conduct Aswesuma
reviews every six months. He also
emphasized that he has taken neces-
sary steps to pay the arrears to elder-
ly, kidney and disabled beneficiaries.
A major focal point of the conversation was
the critical issue of raising the necessary
funds to effectively tackle climate change.
President Wickremesinghe stressed the
imperative of private sector involvement to
augment financial resources for climate-relat-
ed projects.
President Wickremesinghe extended an
invitation to Envoy Kerry, urging him to visit
Sri Lanka and witness first-hand the ongoing
efforts and initiatives being undertaken by the
country in its commitment to combat climate
change.

ANTON THEVAPALAN Cremation of Most Ven. Metaramba... From page 01

The remains of the prelate
It is with profound sadness that we announce the were kept for public respect at
passing away of Mr Anton Thevapalan, Chairman of Situlpawwa Rajamaha Vihara
Dharma Mandiraya from Sunday
Best Holidays (Pvt) Ltd. on the 01st of December 2023. (3) morning until yesterday (4)
He leaves behind his daughter, Araliya Thevapalan and 9.00 am and the body was then
the three sisters, Shanthy, Rajini and Arulini along with taken to Galle, Yatagala Rajama-
ha Viharaya at 9.30 am yesterday
their families Nimal, Patricia, Timothy, Rajan, Tabitha, in a special vehicle procession.
Ariyanesan, Jeshuran, Andrew and Araliya Thevapalan's The funeral committee said
mother Nilanthi. that the body will be kept at the
Yatagala Raja Maha Vihara Dhar-
ma Mandiraya from noon yester-
Funeral Service will be held at A.F. Raymond's Funeral day (4) to 2.00 pm today (5).
Parlour at 2.00 p.m. on Tuesday the 05th of December
and thereafter burial in the Christian Section at the
The body of the Chief Prelate
was taken to the Yatagala
Rajamaha Viharaya, Galle on
Most Venerable Metaramba
Hemarathana Thera, the Chief
Prelate of Dakshina Lanka Mal-
wathu faction of Siam Maha
Nikaya, including the historic Sit-
ulpawwa Rajamaha Vihara and
Ashtamaha Viharadipathi passed
away on December 1 while
receiving treatment at a private
hospital in Colombo. He was 83.
The Most Venerable Thera
was born in 1942 as the fifth in
a family of six children to
Ahangama Nanayakkara Gamage
James Nanayakkara and Akmee-
mana Palliyaguruge Alice Nona
alias Yatagama Hamine who
On April 5, 1956, he entered
the religious life with the name
Metaramba Hemarathana under
the tutorship of Viharadipathi of
the Galle, Yatagala Rajamaha
Viharaya, Ven. Illuppitiye Jinar-
athana Thera, Ven. Wattehene
Rathanasara Thera and Ven. Wat-
tahene Piyarathana Thera.
He presided over eight temples
including the historic Situlpawwa
Rajamaha Viharaya, Galle Yataga-
la Rajamaha Viharaya, and the
historic Magul Maha Viharaya.
He has also written many
scripture and literature books
including Vandana Gatha,
‘Debt restructuring... From page 01
He said that it is hoped that the second
tranche of the International Monetary Fund
(IMF) facility will be received soon.
Dr. De silva said that the SJB is working
based on the basic concept of building a man-
ufacturing economy in Sri Lanka and the
need to conquer international markets
through Sri Lankan products. The MP also
said that huge economic reforms should be
done to establish competitive economic rela-
tions with foreign countries.
Sumanthiran and... From page 01

General Cemetery, Borella at 3.15 p.m. December 2 afternoon and was resided in Mataramba, Unawatu-
then taken to the Sithulpawwa na. The lay name of the prelate
May his Soul Rest in Peace. Rajamaha Viharaya on the same
day.
was Nanayakkara Gamage Nel-
son Nanayakkara.
Women too can head... From page 01
Accordingly, the Ordinance of the
Women Corps of the Tri Forces will be
THE DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF SRI LANKA
updated in this regard and the relevant
MINISTRY OF IRRIGATION draft has been prepared and forwarded to
the Attorney General’s Department.
He said this while joining the Budget
INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) debate on the expenditure head of the Minis-
Climate Resilience Multi-Phase Programmatic Approach (L.N.:8996-LK)
NATIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING Kalmunai warden had... From page 01
Upgrade and Maintenance of Automated Rain-Gauge Systems assaulting him, has not received any
in 14 Landslide Prone Districts vocational training and professional qualifi-
Contract No: SLMOI/CRES/NBRO/G/NCB/09 cations.
She said that an internal investigation
1. The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka has received a loan from the International has been started to ascertain whether the
Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) towards the cost of Climate Resilience relevant warden was recruited on incorrect
Multi-Phase Programmatic Approach of Ministry of Irrigation, and intends to apply part of procedure. According to the investigations,
the proceeds of this loan to payments under the contract of Upgrade and Maintenance of
Automated Rain-Gauge Systems in 14 Landslide Prone Districts.
2. The Chairman, Project Procurement Committee on behalf of the Climate Resilience
Multi-Phase Programmatic Approach now invites sealed Bids from eligible and qualified
Bidders for Upgrade and Maintenance of Automated Rain-Gauge Systems in 14
Kelaniya University closed...
Landslide Prone Districts. University students have been directed
3. Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedure. to vacate their respective hostels by 8.00
am today (05).
4. Interested bidders may obtain further information from Procurement Division, Climate
Resilience Multi-Phase Programmatic Approach, No. 11, Jawatta Road, Colombo The decision to close the university,
except the Medical Faculty, has been
05, T.P.: 0112507855, Fax: 0112058451, E-mail pdcresmpa@gmail.com and inspect
the bidding documents free of charge from 5th December 2023, to 26th December 2023 reached at by the Kelaniya University
administration owing to an alleged incident
during normal working days from 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.
of a security officer of the university being
5. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English language may be purchased by interested abducted and assaulted while he was sleep-
bidders on the submission of a written application to the address below and upon payment of ing in the break room at night and later,
a non-refundable fee of LKR. 37,000.00 from 5th December 2023, to 26th December tied to the entrance gate at the Student
2023 between 9.30 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. on any working day. The method of payment will
be by Cash.
6. Bids shall be delivered in duplicate to the address below on or before 27th December 2023
at 2.00 p.m. Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened soon after closing in the presence
of the Bidders’ representatives who choose to attend. Plantation workers get permanent...
7. Bids shall be valid until 24th April 2024.
The Chief Justice stated this after the
8. All Bids shall be accompanied by a Bid-Security, (as per the format given in the Bidding
Document) of LKR 3,000,000.00. Bid Security shall be valid until 22nd May 2024. Deputy Solicitor General, who appeared for
the Attorney General, informed that under
9. Pre-Bid Meeting will be arranged on 12th December 2023 at 2.00 p.m. at the Conference
the provision of permanent postal address-
Room, Climate Resilience Multi-Phase Programmatic Approach, No.11, Jawatta Road,
es to plantation workers in the country,
Colombo 05.
steps have been taken to provide postal
Chairman, addresses to the families of plantation
Project Procurement Committee workers residing in Muwan Kanda Estate,
Climate Resilience Multi-Phase Programmatic Approach Kurunegala, Mawathagama.
No. 11, Jawatta Road, Colombo 05. Deputy Solicitor General Kanishka De
T.P.: 011 2507855 / 011 2058452 Silva informed this when the fundamental
rights petition submitted by Jeevaratnam
Hindu Arya Culture, Historical
Magul Maha Viharaya,
Advanced Buddhist Dharma
Sangrahaya and Lekhana Rekha.
try of Women, Child Affairs and Social
Empowerment. The State Minister said that
women should always get equal status and
this will start with the three Armed Forces.
The Minister also mentioned that the oppor-
tunity will be given to women sailors in the
Navy for the first time in history.
even though she has passed the examina-
tion, she has not obtained any professional
training, the State Minister said.
State Minister Kumarasinghe also said
that the Ministry of Women and Child
Affairs will soon train probation officers
across the country.
From page 01
Centre by a group of university students.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of
Kelaniya said that the decision of closure of
the university until further notice was
taken since the peaceful atmosphere which
prevailed among the students and the non-
academic staff has been challenged and
therefore disciplinary action needed to be
taken against those responsible for the inci-
dent in order to re-establish the peace
within the university.
From page 01
Suresh Kumar, a resident of Muwan Kanda
Estate, Kurunegala, Mawathagama, request-
ing to issue an order to the authorities to
take steps to provide permanent postal
addresses to the plantation workers includ-
ing himself. Lakshan Dias, the lawyer who
appeared for the petitioner, said that he
appreciated the Government’s efforts to
provide postal addresses for the plantation
workers who have been performing a great
service to develop the country’s economy
for more than 200 years.
Sumanthiran and Sritharan have forwarded
their applications when applications were
invited for the next leader of the party.
Party Secretary P. Sathyalingam had
announced that an application should be sub-
mitted with the approval of more than six reg-
ular members of the party.
Accordingly, the application submitted by
Sunmanthiran has received the recommenda-
tion and approval of 12 regular members,
while Sritharan has received the approval of
six regular members.
After deciding on the ITAK leadership,
then a decision will be taken as to who will
be the leader of the TNA, a coalition of
Tamil political parties of which ITAK is also
a member.
The ITAK Central Committee is scheduled
to meet in Vavuniya in January and the new
leader of the party is to be chosen at the
meeting.
BERHARDT - JOHN MAURICE (Ex
Staff of Hatton National Bank PLC),​
dearly beloved husband of late June,​loving
father of Horace,​Steuart,​Jerome (All of
Australia),​Sherlock and Veron,​father-
in-law of Romaine and Perin (Australia),​
Tracy and Dilika,​beloved grandfather of
Kirk,​ Amanda,​ Dexter,​ Derrick,​ Joshua,​
Jadyne,​ Natalie,​ Sherwyn,​ Trent,​ Bomal
and Delvin. Remains will lie at A.F.
Raymond’s Funeral Parlour from 8 a.m.
on Wednesday 6th December. Cortege leaves
the Parlour on Thursday 7th December at 3
p.m. for Burial at General Cemetery Borella
(Roman Catholic Section). Family contact
Number : 0772991183. 080238
KURUPPU - HESKETH (AIA Wealth
Planning,​Ceylon Oxygen). Dearly beloved
husband of Chandra. Ever loving father
of Angelo and Thabeetha. father-in-
law of Sujani and chandika,​much loved
grandfather of Hiruna,​Yenuth,​Chiara
and Tiana. Loving brother of Late Frankie
and of Terry,​Yvonne,​Flavia and Astrid.
His remains will lie at A.F. Raymond’s
Funeral Parlour on Monday 4th December
from 10 a.m. onwards. Cortege leaves the
parlour on Tuesday 5th December at 1.30
p.m for cremation at General Cemetery.
Borella. (Old Crematorium) at 2.00 p.m.
 079957
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3 ADVERTISEMENTS page 3 DN
 DN page 4 NEWS T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

International language education President Wickremesinghe meets

should be expanded throughout Sadhguru at COP28 in Dubai
the country - Dr. Gunawardhana

VARUNA DAYARATNE
Transport, Highways
and Mass Media Minister,
Dr. Bandula Gunawardha- President Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in cordial discussions with the
na said that International distinguished founder and head of the Isha Foundation, Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, on the
language education should sidelines of the COP28 in Dubai on December 3.
be expanded throughout
the country while handing
over the newly built out-

door theatre of Homaga-
ma, Godagama Subharathi
Mahamathya Vidyalaya to
the students.
Minister Bandula fur-
ther said:
“Subharathi Mahamath-
ya Vidyalaya is one of the
best model schools in the
area. Especially with the
guidance and financial sup-
port of Pradeep Yasaratne,
the Chief Secretary of the
Western Province, and the
interest of the teaching
staff including the Princi-
pal, one of the best prima-
ry sections in the Homaga-
ma region is established in
Subharathi Vidyalaya.
Smart digital classrooms
in this college can be used
as an example for any
school in the country.
The exam-centred edu-
cation system that existed
in our country for a long
Homagama Mahinda Rajapaksa Vidyalaya O/L results in foreign languages
time will be transformed
into a student-centred edu-
cation system under the
new national education
policy from the year 2024.
A new education policy
will be implemented in the
year 2024, where evalua-
tions will be made for
extracurricular activities
inside and outside the
classroom, and which will
produce citizens with good
personality and who can
be a resource for the uni-
verse.
More space is given to
the aesthetic aspects such
as dance, music, painting,
drama, theatre arts which
add new value to the lives
of these small schoolchil-
dren. Paying special atten-
tion to that, today the new
outdoor theatre of this col-
lege will be opened for the
children. Through this,
children with talents, skills
and creative abilities will
get special support to fur-
ther develop their innate
talents.
The truth that all teach-
ers here must accept is
that world education is
changing seriously and
rapidly. Education and eco-
nomic activities are under-
going a major transforma-
tion, especially through the
use of Artificial Intelli-
gence (AI). Countries with
a small economy like ours
need to further develop
children’s learning of for-
eign languages including
English.
Most of the children of
Subharathi Vidyalaya who
pass the scholarship exami-
nation with excellent skills
go to Homagama Mahinda
Rajapaksa Vidyalaya for
secondary education. It is
the largest secondary
mixed school in Asia.
All the students of the
college who appeared for
the GCE Ordinary Level
examination have been
able to show a result of
100 percent, qualifying for
the GCE Advanced Level
examination. Among them,
the excellence shown in
foreign languages is also
special.
It is clearly evident, chil-
dren and teachers in
Homagama rural areas
have proven that they can
study not only English but
also any international lan-
guage like French, Japa-
nese, Korean and Hindi
and many more.
Next year, Russian and
Chinese languages will
also be taught in this
school. In my opinion, the
children of Subharathi Vid-
yalaya should also be
given the opportunity to
learn other foreign lan-
guages apart from Eng-
lish.” At the invitation of
Saman Manjula, the Prin-
cipal of the college, West-
ern Province Chief Secre-
tary Pradeep Yasaratne,
Education Secretary and
other officials, college
teaching staff, students,
parents and a large num-
ber of people attended this
event.
Construction of ECT
completion targeted
for mid next year
The Ministry of Ports,
Shipping, and Aviation
underscores that the con-
struction of the East Con-
tainer Terminal (ECT), the
largest container opera-
tions terminal in the Port
of Colombo, is currently in
progress.
The Sri Lanka Port
Authority aims to complete
its construction by the
middle of next year to
commence operations.
The jetty planned for
this terminal will be 1,400
metres long, allowing three
mega ships to berth simul-
taneously upon comple-
the ECT will operate as a
semi-automated terminal,
incorporating digital tech-
nology.
A total of US $585 mil-
lion has been allocated for
the development of the ter-
minal through financial
provisions by the Sri Lanka
Ports Authority (SLPA).
China Engineering and
Access Engineering are the
appointed construction
contractors. Ports, Ship-
ping, and Aviation Minis-
ter - Nimal Siripala de
Silva, made a special
inspection visit at con-
struction works of the ter-
ge, and several other offi-
cials. During the event,
Minister Nimal Siripala de
Silva emphasized the sig-
nificance of the East Con-
tainer Terminal within the
Port of Colombo. He
urged collaboration with-
out disputes to ensure the
immediate and quality
construction of the termi-
nal, stressing that any
losses incurred would
affect the port's employees
more than him.
The Minister also high-
lighted the potential for
the Port of Colombo to
be recognized as one of

Saudi Arabia extends helping hand tion. The ECT will feature
12 gantry cranes and 40
transfer cranes. The Termi-
minal recently. The event
was attended by Keith Bar-
nard - Chairman of Sri
the main ports in Asia.
He advocated for the
establishment of a suita-

to develop Sri Lanka’s economy

Saudi Arabia consist-
ently supports Sri Lanka's
economic development
through humanitarian aid
and substantial projects,
creating job opportunities
for over 5 million Sri Lan-
kans. Under the leader-
ship of King Salman bin
Abdul Aziz Al Saud,
Crown Prince Muham-
mad bin Salman bin
Abdul Aziz Al Saud, and
Minister of Economy and
Planning Faisal Falil Al
Ibrahim, Saudi Arabia
aims to enhance Sri Lan-
ka's economy.
During Minister Faisal
Al Ibrahim's recent suc-
cessful visit to Sri Lanka,
discussions at the Presi-
dential Palace with Presi-
dent Ranil Wickremesing-
he focused on strengthen-
ing economic ties, particu-
larly in apparel and tour-
ism. The post-LTTE era
has seen increased Saudi
Arabian tourists, contrib-
uting to Sri Lanka's eco-
nomic growth. The agro-
tourism sector and gar-
ment exports were key
points in the talks.
Minister Faisal Al Ibra-
him emphasized Saudi
Arabia's commitment to
enhancing regional eco-
nomic ties, with Sri Lanka
holding a significant posi-
tion. The Minister engaged
with CEOs of major Sri
Lankan companies, dis-
cussing various aspects of
economic and investment
cooperation. Meetings
with Sri Lanka's Foreign
Affairs Minister Ali Sabri
covered deepening eco-
nomic relationships and
addressing common issues.
The gathering took place
at Galle Face Hotel, Colom-
bo, with the participation
of Minister of Power and
Energy Kanchana
Wijesekhara, as well as
nal’s container yard area is Lanka Ports Authority, ble process to position it
estimated to be 75 hec- Gayan Alagewattege - Vice as the hub port of Asia,
tares. Designed to handle 3 Chairman, Managing attracting more ships to
million containers annually, Director - Prabath Malavi- Colombo.
State Ministers Taraka Bal-
asuriya and Shehan Semas-
inghe, and Saudi Arabian
Ambassador Khalid Bin
Hamood Al Qahtani. Saudi
Arabia's robust economy,
driven by initiatives like
Vision 2030 and significant
projects, positions it as a
formidable global competi-
tor. Recent oil discoveries
in the eastern region of
Saudi Arabia are expected
to further strengthen the
economy of the kingdom.
In addition, the nation's
strides in eliminating cor-
ruption have also played a
pivotal role in its transfor-
mation into a hub of exten-
sive development and pros-
perity. (M. H. Shehuddeen The Coconut Development Authority has handed over Rs. 125 million from the income earned
Madani, Director, Al in this year to the Treasury. The relevant cheque was symbolically handed over to Agriculture
Hikma Welfare Associa- and Plantation Industries Minister Mahinda Amaraweera by Coconut Development Authority
tion, Colombo) Chairman Prof. Roshan Perera on November 30 at the Plantation Industries Ministry.

Wife held for murder... Plot to kill Shani... Blustery weather forecast as cyclonic phase abates; NBRO
warns Kandy, Kalutara and Ratnapura of possible earthslips
From page 01 From page 01

Kurunegala Teaching Hospital. He has one other child ASG Abeysuriya stated that as per the earlier order
– an eght-year-old boy. It has been revealed in the police of the court, the Intelligence Division of the Victim and NIRMANEE IGALAHERWAGE the Northern, North-cen- to continue. Cloudy the dangers caused by
investigation that the deceased had recently started a Witness Protection Authority had prepared an evalua- The Department of tral, North-western and skies can be expected temporary strong winds
YouTube channel and was uploading nude photos of tion report regarding the security of Abeysekara. Meteorology has issued a Southern provinces and over Northern, North- and lightning that may
women with the aim of making it popular. The ASG said that the report revealed that there was warning about heavy in Trincomalee and Batti- central and Eastern occur with thunder-
For that, he has tried to take nude photos of his only a conspiracy to murder Shani Abeysekara in a pre- rains for West, Sabaraga- caloa districts. provinces. storms.
daughter on several occasions, but due to the strong arranged vehicle accident. muwa, Central, South, It is expected that it In addition, following Meanwhile, due to
opposition of his daughter and wife, he has not been able He also mentioned that an agreement has been North and North-West will go towards northern the impact of Cyclone heavy rainfall, landslide
to accomplish the task. Due to this, it has been revealed reached before the court that adequate protection provinces. Accordingly, Tamil Nadu and then “MICHAUNG”, the warning notices have
that the deceased had constant quarrels with his wife and should be provided for the petitioner Shani Abeysekara. heavy rains exceeding 75 move northwards and Meteorological Depart- been issued in 03 dis-
even assaulted her. It is also said that on the night of the The ASG said that in addition to the police protec- mm can be expected in enter the land from the ment advises caution in tricts of the island.
incident, he threw his wife and son out of the house, tion provided to Shani Abeysekara, steps were taken some places in those coast of southern Andhra fishing and shipping The National Building
closed the door and tried to take nude pictures of his earlier to provide more officers and motorcycles. areas. The department Pradesh, the Department activities, in the North- Research Organization
daughter. Later the wife had forced open the door. Upul Jayasuriya PC, who appeared for Shani Abey- noted that although the of Meteorology said in a ern coastal areas and the states that a landslide
It is also said that she first attacked her husband with sekara, said that the police protection provided to him cyclone was moving statement. deep sea region of Bay of warning notice was
chili powder and then hacked him to death with a sword so far is not adequate. away from the island, its Due to the cyclone in Bengal. issued to the districts of
which she had brought from her mother’s house. The After considering the facts, the bench decided to call effects continued. the South West Bay of The Department of Kandy, Kalutara and Rat-
Wellawa Police have arrested the wife of the deceased in the case again on December 14 to make a suitable Strong winds of about Bengal sea area, the rain Meteorology requests napura from this morn-
connection with the murder. order regarding this request. 40-50 km/ph can be situation in the South the people to take neces- ing.
expected at times over West region is expected sary measures to reduce

‘Performance of O/L... From page 01 School Grades to be reduced... From page 01

and 452 students who
passed have obtained an
‘A’ grade in English.
Also, the Minister said
that 20 students sat for
the French language as a
subject and all of them
passed and 11 students
have passed with an ‘A’
grade.
The Minister further
mentioned that 23 stu-
dents sat for the Japa-
nese language subject
which 58 of them passed
the exam and 20 of
them received ‘A’ grade.
He said that two stu-
dents sat for the subject
of Hindi language and
both of them have
obtained ‘A’ grade.
The Minister further
mentioned that the dedi-
cation of the teachers
has immensely influ-
enced the success of the
children.
Accordingly, the educational authorities
stated that every child will be given the
opportunity to complete school at the age
of 17 through the proposed new education
reforms. Accordingly, pre-school education
will be given at the age of four, primary
section within the age group one to five
years, junior section between ages six and
eight and senior section between ages nine
and 12.
It has been proposed to give a certain
percentage of marks from school-based
evaluations and a certain percentage from
nary Level Examination in Grade 10 and
the Advanced Level Examination in Grade
12. It has also been decided to reduce the
number of subjects for OL’s from nine to
seven. Officials representing the Education
Ministry stated that among those seven
subjects, it has been proposed to make it
mandatory to study three new subjects:
Information and Communication Technolo-
gy (ICT), technical and professional skills
and religion and values.
Officials of the Education Ministry point-
ed out that more than 80,000 students fail
Sri Lanka dominates... From page 01
Adheesha Dissanayake (15) from
Gateway College, Colombo and
Kavindu Malawaraarachchi from
Royal College, Colombo grabbed
titles as first and second runners up
respectively.
The tournament was held at Thum-
rin Thana Hotel in Mueang Trang dis-
Veteran actor... From page 01
trict, Trang Province in Thailand. One-
hundred-and-forty-two players partici-
pated representing Australia, Hong
Kong, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malay-
sia, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philip-
pines, Qatar, Romania, Singapore, Sri
Lanka, Thailand, United Kingdom and
the United States. (YK)

and all of them passed it,
out of which 13 students
have got an ‘A’ grade.
In addition, the Minis-
ter said that 60 students
sat for the subject of
Korean language out of
Minister Dr. Bandula
Gunawardhana said this
at the opening of the
outdoor theatre faculty
of Subharathi Mahamath-
ya Vidyalaya, Homaga-
ma, Godagama.
exams for the Grade 5 Scholarship Exam.
The Education Ministry has also proposed
to simplify the Grade 5 Scholarship Exam
and eliminate competition.
Furthermore, through the proposed new
education reforms, the Education Ministry
has proposed to conduct the GCE Ordi-
the Ordinary Level Examination in a year
and it has been suggested that no child will
fail through the new education reforms and
that all children who passed the Ordinary
Level Examination should be given the
opportunity to study vocational training
courses.
Sirisena, who acted in teledramas
in the 1980s, contributed to more
than 40 popular teledramas such as
Asalwasiyo, Sihina Nimnaya, Char-
itha Thunak, Ramya Suramya, Yasa
Isuru, Kumarihami, and Hiruta
Muwavi.
He was a consummate actor in cin-
ema, stage drama and television and
has won Best Actor awards on many
occasions. Sirisena, who had been ill
for some time, passed away last
morning while receiving treatment at
a private hospital in Gampaha.
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3 NEWS page 5 DN

Traffic cops allegedly seek bribe SAARC Cultural Centre

embarks on a promising 2024
from Public Security Minister’s son Thirteenth Governing Board Meeting held in Colombo

Two Traffic Police officers on
duty allegedly seek a bribe from the
son of Public Security Minister
Tiran Alles during a traffic stop in
the Galagedara area of Kandy last
Saturday.
Reportedly, the Minister’s son,
en route to Kandy, was pulled over
by the traffic officers for violating
traffic rules while overtaking a
vehicle. The Minister’s son
acknowledged the traffic violation
and accepted the issued fine sheet.
It was reported that the Minis-
ter’s son inquired about the nearest
post office to pay the fine.
However, the officer writing the
fine reportedly informed the Minis-
ter’s son that he could avoid going
to the post office by assisting them.
Upon revealing his identity as
the son of the Public Security
Minister, the Minister’s son insist-
ed on receiving the fine sheet for
the committed offence. Subse-
quently, the officers obtained
Rs.1,100 from the Minister’s son
to pay the fine and used the Police
motorcycle to pay the fine to reach
the post office, and provided the
receipt along with the driver’s
licence.

Int’l leadership confab for Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Vihara to be

Parliamentarians begins tomorrow
The International Leader-
ship Conference for the Par-
liamentarians of the Asia
Pacific Region, under the
theme of ‘Accountability in
Action: Fostering Transpar-
ency and Good Governance
Among Parliamentarians’, is
scheduled to take place
tomorrow (6), at 2.00 p.m.
in Parliament.
The event will be held
under the leadership of
Speaker Mahinda Yapa
Abeywardane on the invita-
tion of International Sum-
mit Council for Peace
(ISCP), Asia Pacific Region
Chairman, former President
Maithripala Sirisena.
This is jointly organised
by Sri Lanka Parliament
and the Universal Peace
Federation (UPF) with its
affiliated organisations,
International Summit Coun-
cil for Peace (ISCP) and
International Association of
Parliamentarians for Peace
(IAPP).
Chairman - UPF Interna-
tional Charles Yang, Chair-
man - IAPP Asia Pacific Ek
Nath Dhakal MP (Nepal)
and Chairman – UPF Asia
Pacific Region Masaichi
Hori and several MPs repre-
senting Malaysia, Nepal,
India and Bangladesh are
expected to participate as
international delegates for
the conference.
developed as an eco-friendly tourist zone
Under ‘Travel to Pilikutthhuwa’ programme
IRANGIKA RANGE
Plans are afoot to devel-
op Pilikuththuwa Raja
Maha Vihara, Yakkala as
an eco-friendly tourist
zone under the Mahara
Development Plan. The
programme has been
named as ‘Travel to Pili-
kutthhuwa’.
This Mount Pilikuththu-
wa is located in an area of
250 acres with a mountain
ridge about 400-450 feet
high. Around 52 acres of
it belongs to the Pilikuth-
thuwa Rajamaha Viharaya.
The area with the Pilikut-
Pilikuththuwa Raja Maha Vihara, Yakkala
tutu Rajamaha Viharaya is
considered to be the tem-
ple with the highest num-
The SAARC Cultural Centre in
Colombo, convened its 13th Govern-
ing Board Meeting at the Galle Face
Hotel, Colombo recently. In a pio-
neering move, the meeting embraced
a hybrid format, hosting Governing
Board Members physically from
Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan, and
Sri Lanka, while Bhutan, India, and
Nepal participated virtually.
The distinguished Governing
Board Members were Md. Mizanur
Rahman, Joint Secretary (Adminis-
tration) of the Cultural Affairs Min-
istry of Bangladesh; Tshering Choki,
Senior Programme Officer, Home
Affairs Ministry of Bhutan; Yash
Veer Singh, Director International
Cultural Relations of the Culture
Ministry in India; Shamun Hameed,
Permanent Secretary of the Dhivehi
ber of caves in the coun- Language, Culture and Heritage
try. There are about 99 Ministry of Maldives; Dr. Suresh
stone caves in the area. Suras Shrestha, Head of Division /
Joint Secretary, Culture Division of
the Culture, Tourism and Civil Avia-
tion Ministry of Nepal; Humaira
Board Report, elucidating the suc-
cessful activities conducted through-
out 2023 and outlining the proposed
programmes for 2024.
As the supreme decision-making
body, the Governing Board com-
mended the activities conducted by
the SAARC Cultural Centre in the
year 2023, which included collabora-
tive ventures such as painting exhibi-
tion of with the Royal Asiatic Society,
SAARC Talk Series, SAARC Special
Lectures in partnership with entities
like the Archaeology Department,
Kelaniya University, and National
Library and Documentation Services
Board and the SAARC Film Day in
collaboration with the National Film
Corporation.
Discussions and recommendations
ensued, leading to approval of the
proposed programmes and activities
for the year 2024, with Member
States pledging their full support.
The SAARC Cultural Centre looks
forward to an exciting 2024, marked
by food festivals, film festivals, musi-

Minister hails Agrarian Development Dept Ahmed, Secretary National Heritage

and Culture Division of Pakistan;
and Somarathne Vidanapathirana,
cal extravaganzas, textile and fashion
events, artists camps, research semi-
nars, and workshops.

for financial management success Secretary, Buddhasasana, Religious

Agriculture and Planta-
tion Industry Minister
Mahinda Amaraweera said
that the financial manage-
ment success of the Agrari-
an Development Depart-
ment in spending the
money allocated by the
Government for the year
2023 for the related pro-
jects is 100 percent.
In the year 2023, the
Government has allocated
Rs.3,000 million through
the budget for many pro-
jects such as renovation of
small tank systems, provi-
sion of parachute discs to
farmers, measurement of
paddy land by Geo Goviya
application, establishment
of youth Agri-entrepreneur-
ship villages etc.
The Minister expressed
these views while partici-
pating in the distribution of
chicks and coconut seed-
lings to the beneficiaries of
Agriculture and Plantation Industry Minister Mahinda
Amaraweera distributing chicks to the Lunugamwehera
Lower Mattala Youth Agri-Entrepreneurship Village benefi-
ciaries.
the Lunugamwehera Lower
Mattala Youth Agri-Entre-
preneurship Village.
The Agrarian Develop-
ment Department has taken
steps to successfully spend
the relevant amount on the
specified pro-
jects within
the specified time without
allowing even a single
rupee of the allocated
money to be diverted back
to the Treasury.
Considering the good
financial management of
and Cultural Affairs Ministry of Sri
Lanka.
The Centre anticipates a vibrant
year of cultural rejuvenation across
the SAARC region, showcasing resil-
The meeting also welcomed ex- ience and rebuilding cultural activi-
the department, the Treas- vided without any reduc- officio members, Irosha Cooray, ties post-pandemic. About the
ury has allocated another tion, and it is important to Director – Education, Security and SAARC Cultural Centre: The SAARC
Rs. 3,000 million for the establish the trust of the Culture of the SAARC Secretariat in Cultural Centre, established in 2009,
year 2024. The Minister Government by spending Kathmandu, Nepal; T. P. Dharmase- serves as a hub for promoting cultur-
also mentioned that all the the money given in an na, Director-General of SAARC Divi- al cooperation among SAARC Mem-
systematic projects pre- orderly and transparent sion, Foreign Affairs Ministry of Sri ber States. It undertakes various ini-
sented by the Agrarian manner without defects. Lanka; and Renuka Ekanayake, tiatives to strengthen ties, foster
Development Department Hadabima Authority Director of the SAARC Cultural Cen- understanding, and celebrate the rich
have been earmarked finan- Chairman Sarath Withana tre, Sri Lanka. Renuka Ekanayake, cultural diversity within the region.
cial allocations without any and a group of others par- the Director of the SAARC Cultural For more information, visit https://
reductions in this year’s ticipated in this event. Centre presented the Governing saarcculture.org/
budget.
The Minister said that if
every Government institu-
tion presents projects that
are prepared in a systemat-
ic manner like the Agrarian
Development Department,
the money given by the
Government will be pro-
CHANGE OF NAME
Vellanadhan Vijayakanth
(holder of NIC No.
803290377V)
of 37/36, Sri Kalyani
Gangarama Mawatha,
Mattakkuliya, Col. 15 (post)

HelpAge distributes water

in the Gramaseva Division
of Mattakkuliya within the
Divisional Secretariat limits

tanks, dry rations to of Dam Street in the District

of Colombo, Western
Province, hereby give notice
drought victims to the Democratic Socialist
Republic of Sri Lanka and to
the General Public that I use
my full name henceforth as
Velautham Vijaykanth, with
effect from today.
V. Vijaykanth
05.12.2023

HelpAge officials distributing water tanks to

recipients.

ANANDA KANNANGARA
HelpAge Sri Lanka (HASL) recently dis-
tributed water tanks and dry rations worth
over Rs. 16 million to over 900 underprivi-
leged families living in Mahaoya, Dehiatta-
kandiya and Pothuwil in Ampara District
and Delft, Kytes and Chunnakam in Jaffna
Distict.
HelpAge, Sri Lanka’s one of the oldest
social service organisations also provides
free cataract surgeries for underprivileged
senior citizens.
Accordingly, HASL distributed sixty
(2,000 litre capacity) water tanks and 1,500
ten litre water cans and 900 dry ration
packs to needy families living in Ampara
and Jaffna districts.
The recipients received a dry ration pack
including rice, dhal, sugar, wheat flour, tea
leaves, chillies, canned fish, milk powder
and spice. In addition, recipients also
received soap, toothpaste, towels, mosquito
nets and mats.
The distribution was carried out under
the guidance of respective District Division-
al Secretariat offices.
HASL Executive Director Samantha
Liyanawaduge said such water tanks and
dry ration distributions will be carried out
even in other vulnerable areas in the future
and thanked the Global Emergency Fund of
HelpAge International for this drought
relief project.
HASL, Head of Programme Chaminda de
Silva extended gratitude to the Divisional
Secretaries and Grama Niladaris in respec-
tive areas for the assistance given towards
the goods distribution.
 DN page 6 GLOBAL T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

Israel-Gaza war: Israeli forces

pushing into south Gaza
Israeli ground forces are
pushing into southern
Gaza, after three days of
heavy bombardment.
Initial reports from
Israeli army radio effec-
tively confirmed Israel has
launched a ground opera-
tion to the north of Khan
Younis.
The BBC has also veri-
fied images of an Israeli
tank operating near the
city.
The head of the Israel
Defence Forces (IDF) later
told troops the IDF was
also fighting "strongly and
thoroughly" in south Gaza.
Lt General Herzi Halevi
was speaking to reservists
from the Gaza division
about military objectives
and the IDF's killing of
Hamas commanders.
He told the soldiers:
"We fought strongly and
thoroughly in the northern
Gaza Strip, and we are
also doing it now in the
southern Gaza Strip".
An IDF spokesman later
confirmed Israel "contin-
ues to expand the ground
incursion" across all of
Gaza, including troops
"conducting face to face
battles with terrorists".
Since a week-long cease-
fire ended on Friday, Israel
has resumed a large-scale
bombing campaign on
Gaza, which residents of
Khan Younis have
described as the heaviest
wave of attacks so far.
The seven-day truce
saw Hamas release 110
hostages being held in
Gaza in return for 240
Palestinians being
released from Israeli pris-
ons. On Sunday morning,
the Israeli army issued
evacuation orders for sev-
eral districts of Khan You-
nis, urging people to leave
immediately.
Israeli authorities
believe members of the
Hamas leadership are hid-
ing in the city, where hun-
dreds of thousands of peo-
ple have been sheltering
after fleeing fighting in
the north in the early stag-
es of the war.
A UN official has
described a "degree of
panic" he has not seen
before in a Gaza hospital,
after the Israeli military
shifted the focus of its
offensive to the south.
James Elder, from the chil-
dren's agency Unicef,
described Nasser Medical
Hospital in Khan Younis
WO R L D
as a "war-
zone".
An adviser
to Israel's prime
minister said Israel
is making "maximum
effort" to avoid killing
civilians.
James Elder told the
BBC he could hear con-
stant large explosions
close to the Nasser hospi-
tal and children were
arriving with head inju-
ries, terrible burns, and
shrapnel from recent
blasts.
"It's a hospital I've gone
to regularly and the chil-
dren know me now, the
families know me now.
Those same people are
grabbing my hand, or
grabbing
my shirt
saying
'please take us
somewhere safe.
Where is safe?'"
"They are unfortunately
asking a question to
which the only answer is
there is nowhere safe.
And that includes for
them, as they know, that
hospital," he said.
The Hamas-run health
ministry in Gaza says
more than 500 people
have been killed since the
bombing resumed.
More than 15,500 peo-
ple have been killed in the
strip since the war began,
the ministry also said.
BBC

At least 47 people killed and India-Kazakhstan relations: A strategic nexus

85 injured by landslides in Tanzania
At least 47 people have
been killed and 85 others
injured in landslides
caused by flooding in
northern Tanzania, a local
official has said, with
warnings the toll would
rise.
Heavy rain on Saturday
hit the town of Katesh,
300km (186 miles) north
of the capital, Dodoma,
district commissioner
Janeth Mayanja said on
Sunday. "Up to this even-
ing, the death toll reached
47 and 85 injured," Queen
Sendiga, regional commis-
sioner in the Manyara area
of northern Tanzania, told
local media. Both warned
that the death toll was like-
ly to increase.
Mayanja added that
many roads in the area had
been blocked by mud,
water and dislodged trees
and stones. Livestock had
also reportedly been swept
away. Tanzania's presi-
dent, Samia Suluhu Has-
san, in Dubai for the
Cop28 climate conference,
sent her condolences and
said she had ordered the
deployment of "more gov-
ernment efforts to rescue
people".
Images broadcast on
state television, TBC,
showed many flooded
homes and vehicles stuck
in thick mud.
After experiencing an
unprecedented drought,
east Africa has been hit by
weeks of torrential rain
and flooding. The Guardian
of enduring unity and progressive synergy
The enduring ties
between India and
Kazakhstan, spanning
over two millennia,
encompass historical, cul-
tural, and civilizational
connections. Evolving
since Kazakhstan's inde-
pendence in 1991, their
collaboration intensifies
across diverse realms, evi-
dent in institutions like
the India-Kazakhstan
Inter-Governmental Com-
mission.
Engaging on interna-
tional platforms and
addressing shared con-
cerns, the recent India-
Central Asia Secretaries/
National Security Advisers
relations. The historical,
cultural and civilisational
Central Asia and Sufism
from Central Asia to
ary 2022, the cooperation
between two countries on
matters related to not only
bilateral but also regional
concerns have increased
manifold. Aspects such as
regional security, connec-
tivity, economic integra-
tion, and people-to-people
ties have gained immense
salience in the bilateral
relation.
Similar to the inaugural
meeting, this recent gath-
ering reiterated the shared
concerns regarding terror-
ism, drug trafficking, and
organized crime affecting
both India and the Central
Asian states. Extremism
and radicalism persist as

UK snow: Man misses wedding after meeting marked a signifi-

cant stride. Emphasizing
security cooperation, con-
ties between India and
Kazakhstan go back over
two millennia.
India.
The two countries col-
laborate and cooperate on
significant security
threats, capable of generat-
ing internal instability

spending 19 hours stranded in traffic jam nectivity priorities, and

A man was 19-hours late
for a wedding after being
stuck in standstill traffic as
motorists stranded their
cars in the snow on Satur-
day.
Ant Brett travelled to
Cumbria from his home in
Essex for a family wedding
but never made it after get-
Cumbria, he ran out of
food and water.
He claimed emergency
responders failed to deliver
supplies to cars in the
street of road where he
was stranded.
"I was heading up to a
family wedding - it's fair to
say I didn't make it. The
just been left here without
help."
Meanwhile, another driv-
er Paul Smith was stuck on
a local road while trying to
get to Ambleside. He spent
his Saturday evening in
seriously delayed traffic on
the M6.
"The snow just came
ing ten yards, stopping and
moving again."
Emergency responders
from Cumbria Fire and
Rescue Service said it had
deployed 4X4 vehicles to
help "vulnerable people
stuck in the snow as
required". Cumbria Police
said that junctions 38 and
economic integration, the
dialogue reaffirmed com-
mitment.
The upcoming SCO
Summit in Astana symbol-
izes the strong bilateral
commitment, anticipating
PM Modi's participation,
emphasizing the positive
outlook for Indo-Kazakh
A continuous two-way
flow of ideas, cultural
influences and trade in
goods between the two
countries kept flowing
between them.
This two-way flow
between India and
Kazakhstan is best exem-
plified by the exchange of
Buddhism from India to
multiple international fora
including the Shanghai
Cooperation Organisation
(SCO), Ashgabat Agree-
ment, the International
North-South Transport
Corridor (INSTC), and
other multilateral for a like
the United Nations, etc.
Since the first India - Cen-
tral Asia Summit in Janu-
through law enforcement
challenges in both regions.
Indian NSA Ajit Doval
reaffirmed India's commit-
ment to aiding the Central
Asian nations in fortifying
their defence against
cyber threats and further
deepening the mutual
defence and security coop-
eration. India Bloom

ISIS claims deadly blast at Catholic

ting stuck in standstill traf-
fic for 19-hours.
During the ordeal,
which numerous other
drivers also experienced
as snow came down in
Avian flu confirmed in California, 250,000
cars here haven't had any
water or food supplies. I'm
down to my last bit of
water and having to ration
it. I know the emergency
services are busy but we've
down and as you can see
the road all the way down
is still blocked," he said.
"We're still about a mile-
and-a-half from Ambleside
and it's just been like mov-
37 of the M6 Southbound
were left blocked after Lor-
ries jack-knifed. The A595
between Millom and Fur-
ness was also left impassa-
ble, the BBC reported. mass in southern Philippines
ISIS has claimed responsibility for
a deadly explosion that ripped
through a Catholic mass service at a
university gym in the southern Philip-

birds euthanized amid spread concerns pines on Sunday.

Animal disease experts
confirmed that 250,000
birds were euthanized
this week after testing
positive for the avian flu
at two farms in the Bay
Area.
According to health offi-
cials, the decision came as
concerns were raised over
the spread of the virus
when two farms in Sonoma
County reported positive
avian flu tests among their
birds.
The positive cases were
confirmed by the California
Department of Food and
Agriculture.
"It's just been devastat-
ing for us, nothing but dev-
astating," Mike Weber, a
third-generation Sonoma
County egg farmer, who
co-owns Sunrise Farms,
told Fox 2 San Francisco.
Weber said even though
they had to euthanize more
than 80,000 chickens, he
said his neighbour's duck
farm was devastated even
more and hit harder than
his farm.
"They lost their entire
operation, 170,000 ducks,
and those ducks are covet-
ed across the state," Weber
said. The new cases of
avian flu come just weeks
after California State wild-
life agencies announced
that a new vaccine, while
still in the early stages of
testing, has helped protect
them from bird flu so far.
The vaccine has yet to
receive a formal seal of
approval.
According to the Centres
for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC), this
strain is considered to be a
low risk to human health,
but is highly contagious
and often fatal disease in
birds. Fox News
At least four people were killed and
dozens of others were injured in the
blast at the Mindanao State Universi-
ty in Marawi City, according to
authorities.
In a communique, ISIS said its
fighters "detonated an explosive
device on a large gathering of Chris-
tian disbelievers in Marawi City,"
according to the SITE Intelligence
Group, a counterterrorism threat
intelligence organization that tracks wi, while a number of others with regarded as enemies to our society,"
the online activity of extremist minor injuries were treated at the uni- he said, adding that additional securi-
groups. versity's infirmary following the blast. ty personnel had been deployed to
Photos of the scene showed sol- Philippine President Ferdinand assist in the response. The United
diers and emergency workers stand- Marcos Jr. condemned the attack in a States condemned the "horrific terror-
ing among debris in the gym. A sec- post on X, formerly Twitter. Without ist attack" in a government statement.
tion of the seating area was blown up, naming any specific groups or elabo- "The United States is in close con-
chairs strewn across the floor. rating further, he described the blast tact with our Philippine partners and
Lanao del Sur province Gov. as "senseless and most heinous, per- stands with the people of the Philip-
Mamintal Adiong Jr., told reporters petrated by foreign terrorists." pines in rejecting this act of vio-
more than 40 people were being treat- "Extremists who wield violence lence," State Department Spokesper-
ed at a government hospital in Mara- against the innocent will always be son Matthew Miller said. CNN

IMF expects Pakistan’s debt to be
around Rs 82trn by end of this fiscal
ISLAMABAD: The International Mon-
etary Fund (IMF) estimates that Pakistan's
rising debt might be close to Rs 82 trillion
by the end of the ongoing financial year
ending on June 30, 2024.
The IMF staff has also assessed that the
pace of accumulation of total public debt
and liabilities would continue to persist,
which might go up to Rs 92.24 trillion in
FY2024-25.
Pakistan and the IMF have struck a staff-
level agreement by evolving consensus on
the Memorandum of Economic and Finan-
cial Policies (MEFP) for presentation
before the Fund's Executive Board for
release of $700 million tranche under the
$3 billion Standby Arrangement (SBA)
programme.
The fiscal framework agreed between
the two sides showed that the general
government and government guaran-
teed debt, including the IMF's, was
estimated to rise up to Rs 81.836 bil-
lion till end of June 2024, which stood
at Rs 77.9 trillion till end of September
2023.
The total public debt and liabilities stood
at Rs 68 trillion in FY22-23. This data on
public debt and liabilities shows that it
would go up by Rs 11.8 trillion in the cur-
rent fiscal year.
The total public debt and liabilities
would go up manifold mainly because of
the rising fiscal deficit and the Fund esti-
mated that fiscal deficit would escalate by
Rs 8.227 trillion for the current fiscal year,
equivalent to 7.8 percent of GDP.
Despite hectic efforts of the government
to convince the IMF for projecting lower
debt servicing, the IMF did not accept the
stance of the government and projected the
debt servicing on domestic and external
loans standing at Rs 8.627 trillion for the
current fiscal year. The News
Narendra Modi’s BJP triumphs in India State elections
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi's Bharatiya Janata party
has won a series of resound-
ing victories in India's state
polls, strengthening its grip
on national politics ahead of
general elections next year.
The BJP achieved majori-
ties in Madhya Pradesh,
Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh -
three states in the populous
and politically influential
northern Hindi-speaking belt
- flipping the last two away
from opposition rival the
Indian National Congress.
Modi declared victory for
his party on Sunday evening.
"The results in Chhattisgarh,
Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan
indicate that the people of India
are firmly with politics of good
governance and development," he
wrote on social media platform X.
Congress won a majority only in
Telangana, a prosperous southern
state.
The party's wipeout in north-
ern India in the closely watched
polls will deal a blow to
efforts to secure its place as
the main challenger next
year. National elections, in
which Modi hopes to secure a
third term as prime minister,
are expected to start in April.
"Modi's appeal is still very
strong in the Hindi heart-
land," said Asim Ali, a politi-
cal commentator based in
Delhi.
The prime minister and
his allies would now "get a
free hand to run the 2024
campaign. Had the BJP done
badly in these elections, I
think dissension would have
begun", Ali added. Smriti
Irani, a BJP minister, said the
results were evidence of "Modi
Magic" - what party loyalists call
the prime minister's personal pop-
ularity and ability to win votes.
The party leaned heavily on
Modi to lead their campaigning
for the elections, which were stag-
gered over November. The prime
minister spent weeks travelling
across the states to tout the BJP's
record.Mizoram, a smaller fifth
state in India's north-east, will
report its results on Monday.
The biggest upset was in Con-
gress-ruled Chhattisgarh, a miner-
al-rich state that pollsters had
expected the opposition to retain.
As of Sunday night the BJP was
leading in 54 of the state's 90
seats, according to the Election
Commission of India, representing
a gain of 39 seats from the previ-
ous state election in 2018. Supriya
Shrinate, a spokesperson for Con-
gress, acknowledged that the
results in Rajasthan and Madhya
Pradesh were "deeply shocking".
Financial Times
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3 NEWS page 7 DN

SL Envoy pays farewell call on Chair of

Friends of SL Group in EU Parliament The Head of Mission sincere appreciation for watham commended symbolized the strong
of Sri Lanka to the Zdechovsky’s unwaver- Zdechovsky’s profound bond between Sri Lanka
European Union, ing support for Sri understanding of South and the European Par-
Ambassador Grace Lanka and his dedicat- Asia, with a particular liament, acknowledging
Asirwatham paid a fare- ed leadership to the emphasis on Sri Lan- the crucial role played
well call on the Chair of informal friendship ka’s unique needs and by MEP Zdechovsky
the Friends of Sri group, which serves as the imperative of sup- and expressing grati-
Lanka Group in the a crucial support base port for economies fac- tude for his continuous
European Parliament, within the European ing vulnerabilities. support.
Member of Parliament Parliament. In response, Zdecho- The Friends of Sri
Tomas Zdechovsky She highlighted the vsky commended Lanka Group in the
from the Czech Repub- group’s pivotal role in Ambassador Asir- European Parliament is
lic, who represents the comprehending the watham for her out- an informal group of
European People’s current situation in Sri standing dedication to MEPs who support Sri
Party (EPP), the larg- Lanka, particularly dur- maintaining the active Lanka in the EU Parlia-
est party in the Euro- ing the challenging engagement of the ment on an issue basis.
pean Parliament, on times of the economic Friends of Sri Lanka It was initially estab-
November 28, at the crisis, and its under- Group and her effective lished in 2006 and re-
Parliament premises in standing of the need to efforts to promote Sri launched twice thereaf-
Brussels. continue the provision Lanka’s interests with- ter: when a new Parlia-
Ambassador Grace Asirwatham at her farewell meeting with During the meeting, of the GSP Plus facility in the European Parlia- ment was elected in
Chair of the Friends of Sri Lanka Group in the European Par- Ambassador Asir- to Sri Lanka ment. 2019 and after Brexit
liament, Member of Parliament Tomas Zdechovsky. watham expressed her Ambassador Asir- The farewell meeting in 2022.

‘KALANA 3.0’ to extend helping hand to Apeksha Hospital

The Leo Club of the University cal show on December 12, at the
of Colombo, Faculty of Science, New Arts Theatre at the Univer-
will hold ‘KALANA 3.0’, a musi- sity of Colombo, starting from
5:30 pm.
The Yaka Crew band led by the
Chanuka Mora will perform. The
show will also feature other pop-
ular artistes such as Dinesh
Gamage and Kaizer Kaiz and
Ashanya Premadasa.
Dompe Rotary Club elects
new office bearers
SUDATH KEERTHI The Head of Arthur C. Clarke
Delgoda Group Corr. Centre and Astronomer Prof.
The election of new officer Chandana Jayaratne was elected
bearers for the Dompe Rotary as the President. District Rotary
Club for the year 2024 took place President Jeremy Rajendan par-
recently Hotel PT Gardens in ticipated as the chief guest.A
Biyagama. wheel-chair was donated to an
83-year-old woman living
in Ratmalana, who is
being treated for liver can-
cer, by Rotary President
Prof. Chandana Jayaratne
and other officials.
The office bearers
include President, Prof.
Chandana Jayaratne. Sec-
retary Laksheen Fernan-
do, Treasurer Supun Jay-
alath, Vice Presidents Ver-
non Gunaratne and
The Dompe Rotary Club donated a wheel- Mahesh Gunaratne and
chair to an 83-year-old cancer patient. Pic- Assistant Secretary Tar-
ture by Sudath Keerthi indu Ellepola.
Beyond the melodies, the
essence of KALANA 3.0 lies in its
mission to raise funds for the
Maharagama Apeksha Hospital,
contributing to a cause that
breathes life into life.
Tickets will be available at the
gate on the day of the event.
More details could be obtained
from Sandaru – 076 463 4612,
Vihanga – 070 484 0800 and
Apsari – 077 267 7622.
THE COMMITTEE ON HIGH POSTS OF THE
PARLIAMENT OF SRI LANKA TO EXAMINE
THE SUITABILITY OF PERSONS APPOINTED/
NOMINATED TO THE STATE SERVICES AND
STATE CORPORATIONS
The Committee on High Posts of the Parliament of Sri Lanka is due to examine the suitability
of the persons appointed to the following posts :-
Name and Address Designation
1 Mr. Palitha Gunarathne Maheepala Appointed as Secretary to the
No. 262, Area 7 Ministry of Health
“Paradise”, Millennium City, Athurugiriya
2 Mr. K. Chanaka Leshan de Silva Appointed as the Chairman of
No. 78, Galle Road, Lanka Ashok Leyland Limited and
Moragalla, Beruwala. Lanka Leyland Limited
3 Mr. W. Densil Indrajith Perera Appointed as the Chairman of
No. 53, R.G. Senanayake Mawatha, Colombo 7. Lanka Salusala Limited
4 Mr. Rushan Marambage Appointed as the Chairman of
No. 199, Kelanimulla, Angoda. Sri Lanka Handicraft Board
5 Mr. W.G.K.B. Ranathunga Appointed as the Chairman of
State Officers Housing Complex, New Town National Design Center
Polonnaruwa.
6 Mrs. D. Nandanie Samarawickrama Appointed as the Chairman of
Moronthuduwa Watta, Moronthuduwa. Sri Lanka Institute of Textile & Apparels
7 Mr. Vajira de Silva Appointed as the Chairman of
No. 56717, Ekamuthu Mawatha, National Gem and Jewellery

Smuggled Tendu 8
Thalawathugoda
Mr. A.M. Rathnayake
Authority
Appointed as the Chairman of
leaves recovered No. 100/96, Kanaththa Road, Gem and Jewellery Research and
by Navy Kurunda Mawatha, Thalapathpititya. Training Institute
9 Mrs. G.A.M.B.P. Abanwala Appointed as the Chairman of
No. 23110, Kotuwegedara, Matale. Lanka Phosphate Limited
10 Dr. Saranga Alahapperuma Appointed as the Chairman of
No. 352/N, Brilliance Residencies Ceylon Industrial Development
Madiwela, Kotte Board
The consignment of
smuggled Tendu 11 Mr. K.A.L.P. Kariyapperuma Appointed as the Chairman of
leaves discovered by No. 355/2, Saama Mawatha National Enterprise Development
the Navy. Kirillawala, Kadawatha Authority
A special search 12 Mr. Ajith Nilanga Ruwan Munasinghe Appointed as the Chairman of
operation mounted Rathnarama Road, Hokandara, Malabe. Ceylon Ceramics Corporation
by the Navy in the
13 Dr. G.A.S. Premakumara Appointed as the Chairman of
lagoon area of Keeri-
76/2A, Edirisinghe Road, Nugegoda Industrial Technology Institute
mundalama, Kalpiti-
ya on the Sunday 14 Mr. Nilanka R. Jayewardhana, Appointed as the Chairman of
(3) morning, result- No. 6, Rotunda Gardens, Colombo 3. Ceylon Fishery Harbours
ed in the recovery of Corporation
about 465 kg (wet 15 Dr. Dulan Hettiarachchi, “Asiri”, Appointed as the Chairman of
weight) of Tendu
Gammedda Kottawagama, Galle. Cey-Nor Foundation
leaves hidden away
in the area. 16 Mr. S.N. Sumanasekara Appointed as the Chairman of
The Sri Lanka 93 A, Deshabandu Sarath Sumanasekara Lanka Coal Company (Pvt)
Navy consistently Mawatha, Pelawatta, Battaramulla Limited
carries out search
operations and 17 Mr. N.S. Ilangakoon Appointed as the Chairman of
patrols along the 45/25 H, Higgaha Watta Mawatha, Pepiliyana. Ceylon Electricity Board
island’s coastal areas 18 Mr. S. Jayasekara Appointed as the Chairman of
to deter the smug- 193/5, Jayanthi Mawatha, Himbutana, Angoda Sri Lanka Atomic Energy
gling of unauthor- Regulatory Council
ized items into the
country. As an 19 Mr. B. Wijayaratne Appointed as the Chairman of
extension of these 39 A, Kandy Road, Galthotamulla, Yakkala National Aquaculture Development
efforts, SLNS Vijaya Authority
in the Northwestern 20 Dr. Kingsly Bernard Appointed as the Chairman of Sri
Naval Command 392 A, School Lane, Thalawathugoda, Pannipitiya Lanka Export Development Board
carried out this spe-
cial operation in the 21 Mr. Dinesh S. Weerakkody, Appointed as the Chairman of
vicinity of Keeri- 43A, Sumangala Road, Colombo 8. Colombo Port City Economic
mundalama Lagoon Commission and Board of
on Sunday. The Investments Sri Lanka.
operation led to the 22 Dr. S.R.J. Perera, Appointed as the Chairman of
recovery of eight 1037/9, Parakumba Place, Athurugiriya Road, Geological Survey and Mines
sacks hidden away Malabe. Bureau
in the lagoon area.
After conducting Any organization or individual desirous of making representations with regard to the above
further examination appointments should send duly signed written memoranda under registered cover to “The
of the sacks, the Secretary, Committee on High Posts, Committee Office, Parliament of Sri Lanka, Sri
Navy seized around Jayewardenepura, Kotte” on or before 18th December 2023. Representations may also
465 kgs of Tendu
be faxed to fax No. 011-2777389 or be sent via email: highposts_c@parliament.lk.
leaves with wet
weight. The Committee may require such memoranda to be supported by oral evidence. The
The retrieved advertisement is also available in the Parliament Website (www.parliament.lk)
stock of Tendu
leaves has been kept Secretary to the Committee
in the safe custody Secretary General of Parliament
of the Navy, until Parliament of Sri Lanka
they are produced Sri Jayewardenepura, Kotte
for onward legal 5th December 2023
action.
DN page 8
Tu e s d a y, D e c e m b e r 5 , 2 0 2 3
Towards Climate
Justice
N
otwithstanding the two wars raging in Russia-Ukraine
and Israel-Gaza, the most pressing issue faced by the
world at the moment is Climate Change. Some even
call it the Climate Crisis, because it has grown to such vast
proportions.
Yet, our understanding of the processes that drive Climate
Change is still at a minimum level. Why is there a sudden
cold spell in Europe? Why are wildfires and floods happen-
ing in places that have never experienced them before?
Why are some parts of the world hotter than ever? Why
have rainfall patterns shifted over the last few years?
We are yet to find proper answers to these and many other
problems vis-à-vis Climate Change. While scientists on dif-
ferent continents and in different countries do research to
unlock the secrets of Climate Change, there is still no cen-
tral place where they can get together and pool their
resources and ideas to find solutions.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe was one of the first world
leaders to comprehend the need for a central institution to
study Climate Change and its effects on the planet. In fact,
just a few weeks after he became President last year, he
proposed that a university be established in Sri Lanka
exclusively for researching Climate Change.
Just over a year later, President Wickremesinghe symboli-
cally launched the International Climate Change University
(ICCU) at the COP28 Conference in Dubai, UAE. Speaking
at this event, the President underlined that, despite the
global commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement of
2015, no significant institutional changes were implement-
ed to assist the world in achieving the agreed-upon targets.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the ICCU aims to
fill this void by developing postgraduate-level capacity build-
ing, serving as a crucial support system for the climate
sciences.
The campus for the ICCU is set to be established on 600
acres of land in Sri Lanka, which is geographically well
positioned for climate studies. But the University will not be
confined to students and researchers from Sri Lanka - it will
be an international stakeholder university, welcoming col-
laboration and contributions from around the world. Being
an island whose coastal areas may be severely impacted if
sea levels rise as a result of Global Warming, Sri Lanka will
be an ideal research destination for those from Small Island
Developing States (SIDS), which face similar risks.
According to the President, Bangladesh, Seychelles and
Moldova have already pledged their support to the ICCU.
The first two countries have already experienced the
adverse effects of Climate Change. The University is also
timely in the sense that climate action is not the sole
responsibility of any single nation. It should rather be a
global effort. In this respect, the formal launch of the ICCU
marks a significant step towards fostering international col-
laboration, knowledge exchange and building a collective
response to the urgent and complex challenges posed by
Climate Change.
This is not the only initiative that President Wickremesinghe
spearheaded at COP28. The President unveiled the ground-
breaking Tropical Belt Initiative (TBI), a visionary plan
aimed at addressing the challenges of Global Warming and
securing Sustainable Development Goals for nations within
the tropical belt. He highlighted the urgency of the initiative,
emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in climate fund-
ing and a multilateral approach to achieve meaningful
results.
The TBl focuses on harnessing commercial investments in
vital natural resources within the tropical belt, such as for-
ests, swamps, and mangroves. The President stressed the
importance of making these investments commercially via-
ble, unlocking the funds needed to combat Global Warming.
He highlighted the TBI’s potential to attract private sector
involvement, contributing to the ambitious goal of securing
trillions of Dollars annually to address the Climate Emer-
gency.
Not stopping with these laudable initiatives, the President
also took the lead to launch a Climate Justice Forum (CJF)
in association with the United Nations Environment Pro-
gramme (UNEP). The formal establishment is likely to be at
the UN Climate Summit next year.
Although there is already a Loss and Damages Fund (LDF)
for compensating or otherwise providing funds for poorer
countries affected by Climate Change, the CJF is likely to
be a more inclusive mechanism for funding climate actions.
With Sri Lanka alone needing around US$ 100 billion for
climate actions, one can perceive the scale of funding
needed to avert a climate disaster in the next few decades.
Ironically, if even a fraction of the global annual defence
budget of US$ 2.2 trillion can be diverted towards address-
ing Climate Change, the world will be a much better place.
It is also time to end our reliance on fossil fuel as much as
possible. Sri Lanka is already planning to start six Renew-
able Energy (RE) projects next year, with the aim of gener-
ating 70 percent of the total electricity demand from RE by
2030. Once car imports begin sometime next year after a
four-year ban, only Battery Electric (BEV) and Hydrogen
Fuel Cell (HFC) cars should be permitted to be imported to
the country. More individuals and commercial entities
should also be encouraged to go for solar power, with
Photo Voltaic (PV) panels getting cheaper and more effi-
cient by the day. Climate action needs more such practical
solutions to usher in a better world.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
You cannot get through a single day without
having an impact on the world around you.
— Jane Goodall
EDITORIAL
Difference between Emergency Remote
Teaching and Online Learning
G
DR S. UMASHANKAR
lobally, emergency situa-
tions bring the normality
of any system to a stand-
still. The recent global
pandemic created havoc
in every sector whether private or
Government. Among the worst
affected, education was one of the
sectors that needed immediate inter-
ventions especially in terms of mode
of delivery since social distancing
was a matter of concern. As a result,
no face-to-face education – teaching,
learning and assessment activities –
was possible. Then, many active
members in this field of education
started to debate an alternative to
face-to-face.
In Sri Lanka, online learning was
recommended as a replacement
medium to take forward educational
activities during the pandemic. In
this regard, were we really involved
in effective online learning? There is
a need for referencing to confirm
whether we have correctly interpret-
ed what online education means.
Online learning has been studied
both extensively and intensively for
several years and countless theories,
models and evaluation criteria have
been proposed for quality online
learning to include online teaching,
learning, course design and assess-
ment. The common findings of these
studies are that effective online learn-
ing results from careful instructional
design and planning, using a system-
atic model for design and develop-
ment. The design process and careful
consideration of different design
decisions have an impact on the qual-
ity of the instructions.
The critical view on online educa-
tion, as we presume that we have
been engaging in at least since Covid
19, is that a careful design process is
absent in most cases in the emergen-
cy shift towards online teaching and
learning.
The research studies on online
learning are to recommend dimen-
sions, within each of which there are
a number of sub-divisions, highlight-
ing the importance of the design and
decision-making process for online
learning. Among these dimensions,
modality, pacing, student and instruc-
tor ratio, pedagogy, student and
instructor role online, online com-
Online learning has been studied both extensively
and intensively for several years and countless
theories, models and evaluation criteria have been
proposed for quality online learning to include
online teaching, learning, course design and
assessment. The common findings of these studies
are that effective online learning results from careful
instructional design and planning, using a
systematic model for design and development. The
design process and careful consideration of
different design decisions have an impact on the
quality of the instructions.
munication synchrony, the role of some explanations to highlight the
online assessments and sources of fact that online learning is totally a
feedback are considered important different practice compared to emer-
features for online learning to be gency remote teaching. In online
effective (Check the web on Learning learning, modality varies from fully
Online – What Research Tell Us online, blended to web-enabled face-
About Whether, When and How, and to-face teaching and the pacing can
Online Learning Design Options). be self-paced (open entry, open exit),
This article does not go into defin- class-paced or class-paced with some
ing these terms and provide details self-paced. The instructor’s role var-
about what is given within each ies from active instruction online to
dimension. However, it looks for none.
However, what we
practice as online learn-
ing does not necessarily
require us to include
some of these conditions
or to provide opportuni-
ties for instructors the
options. Well-planned
online learning is mean-
ingfully different from
courses offered online in
response to a crisis.
Therefore, the stake-
holders of the academic
community should
understand the differ-
ences before compari-
sons are made between
these two practices and
arriving at any critical
decisions.
The argument here is
not to evaluate whether
online learning or emer-
gency remote teaching is
beneficial to a system
but to avoid the tempta-
tion to equate emergen-
cy remote teaching with
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3
online learning during any evalua-
tions. In this case, emergency remote
teaching is online learning that is
planned from the beginning and
designed to be online whereas emer-
gency remote teaching is a tempo-
rary shift of instructional delivery to
an alternative delivery mode due to
crisis circumstances such as a pan-
demic. The primary objective in
these circumstances is to provide
temporary access to instruction that
is readily available during various
crises.
It should be noted that online
learning carries a stigma of being
lower quality compared to a tradi-
tional classroom set up despite
research studies showing otherwise.
In fact, the transition to online learn-
ing under these emergency situations
is considered as “done in a hurry” by
partly or totally ignoring the careful
planning.
These under - planned hurried
moves to emergency remote teaching
further fuel the perception of online
learning as a weaker choice and also
the rapid approach necessary for
emergency remote teaching dimin-
ishes the quality of the courses deliv-
ered.
Here, the important focus, howev-
er, should be on how well the intend-
ed learning outcomes of the courses
are achieved. So, the researchers and
other stakeholders join hands to for-
tify emergency remote teaching by
incorporating the necessary features
into it with careful planning.
Hence, there will be an effective
system in operation to face emergen-
cy situations which are sometimes
natural or they are man-made at
times. Whatever the causes may be,
the emergency situations will persist,
that is for certain.
So, we will stop confusing our-
selves with different practices as
totally the same but to think outside
standard boxes to generate various
possible solutions that help meet the
new needs of our learners and com-
munities.
The writer is a Senior Lecturer
at the Eastern University, Sri
Lanka and can be reached at:
umashankars@esn.ac.lk
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3
Sri Lanka Police can face future challenges
DISHAN JOSEPH
P
ublic security covers a wide spec-
trum and involves many stake-
holders. One of the primary stake-
holders is the Police force. The
Police are the Guardians of the Law.
However, the public has a collective
responsibility to ensure the safety of their
neighbourhoods and workplaces. The
global security arena has faced many new
threats over the last decade, some of
which are case studies of how an individu-
al or group can suddenly unleash mayhem
and death in a peaceful environment. As
the Guardians of the Law, the Sri Lanka
Police is mandated with crime prevention.
In the traditional security sense Police
forces across the world were always
empowered and deployed for crime pre-
vention and crime detection. With a his-
tory of more than 150 years the Sri Lanka
Police have done their share towards this
concept, with some shortcomings. The
Police made a significant contribution
towards the suppression of subversive
uprisings and defeat of terrorism. The
Special Task Force did an excellent job in
the latter theatre. For the record almost
3,200 Police officers have died gallantly in
the line of duty, and this is testament to
their courage.
What are the new challenges to Police
forces around the globe? Today “acts of
domestic terrorism” and “acts of criminal
violence” manifest in new and deadly
forms. Criminals and terrorists have
stepped up their game, and the traditional
modus operandi wanders away from
human logic. Even FBI psychological pro-
filers are bewildered about some bizarre
forms of crime, which deviate from nor-
mally accepted human behaviour. One of
the emerging crimes in the USA is the
Nuclear Deterrence: An Unproven Gamble that Risks Humanity
THALIF DEEN
I
s it justifiable for a country to go
nuclear—justifying it on the grounds
that it is doing so to protect itself
from nuclear attacks?
The argument is based on the
concept of “nuclear deterrence”: a widely-
challenged theory that nuclear weapons
are intended to deter nuclear attacks
prompting the question: would the Rus-
sians have invaded Ukraine if it was a
nuclear power?
The invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq,
and the ouster of Libyan leader Muammar
el-Qaddafi, were perhaps facilitated by
one fact: none of these countries either
had nuclear weapons or had given up
developing them (as in the case of Libya).
“And that is why we will never give up
ours,” a North Korean diplomat was quot-
ed as saying, while pointing out that the
invasions by the US and Western nations
would not have taken place if those coun-
tries were armed with nuclear weapons.
But the 2017 Nobel Peace laureate, the
International Campaign to Abolish Nucle-
ar Weapons (ICAN), a coalition of Non-
Governmental organizations in over 100
countries, says “deterrence is an unprov-
en gamble—a theory on which the future
of humanity is being risked—that is based
on the implicit threat to use nuclear weap-
ons that has brought the world close to
nuclear war on a number of occasions.”
The weeklong UN meeting of members
of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nucle-
ar Weapons (TPNW), which concluded
December 1, called out the doctrine of
nuclear deterrence adhered to by the
nuclear-armed States and their allies as a
threat to human security and an obstacle
to nuclear disarmament.
The Executive Director of ICAN, Melis-
sa Parke, said: “The condemnation of
nuclear deterrence doctrine by the mem-
bers of the TPNW at their meeting at the
UN in New York is a highly significant
move”.
Never before has a UN treaty laid out
the threat that nuclear deterrence poses
to the future of life on our planet. Deter-
rence is unacceptable. It is based on the
threat to wage nuclear war, which would
kill millions outright and lead to a nuclear
winter and mass starvation that recent
research shows would kill billions of peo-
ple, she declared.
Tariq Rauf, former Head of Verification
and Security Policy at the International
Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), told IDN
the second session of TPNW meeting of
States Parties (MSP2) was noteworthy in
that there was a thematic discussion on
the humanitarian impact of nuclear weap-
ons, consideration of the status and opera-
tion of the Treaty.
This included victim assistance, envi-
ronmental remediation and international
cooperation and assistance, complemen-
tarity with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation
dangerous outburst of the ‘lone shooter’.
These individuals have some form of
hatred towards society and unleash their
violence by shooting innocent people in
public venues.
No matter how much manpower or
resources a Police service has, it is impos-
sible for Policemen to be on duty every-
where, round the clock. This challenge is
faced globally. For a developed country
like the USA with a skilled Police force
and so many specialized counter-terrorism
teams it is not possible to secure every
public location, i.e., malls, parks, libraries,
sporting stadiums, hotels, churches, etc.
Jane’s Defence Weekly brings to light the
changing crime trends and unexpected
acts of violence manifesting globally.
There is a need for an attitudinal change
on the part of some Sri Lankan Police
officers on how they view and analyze
criminal and terrorist activity.
The Inspectorate of the Sri Lanka Police
is the backbone of the Police force. There
are hundreds of hardworking honest offi-
cers in the ranks of Chief Inspector,
Inspector and Sub-Inspector. These offi-
cers perform a massive workload with
dedication. One is left to ponder on the
updating of effective policing methods
amongst the sergeants and constables.
Again there are thousands in this rank
who perform their duty with dignity and
decorum, and should be appreciated.
The hardworking Police officers must
be given good welfare, training directed
towards career development, recreation
and appreciation. These diligent and pub-
lic oriented cops are the backbone of the
Sri Lanka Police.
Frontline Police officers on the streets
need modern safety gear, firearms and
decent off-duty breaks. Transport from the
station to the duty
points must improve,
especially at night.
Mess facilities must
improve for Officers
and Constables island-
wide. Female Police
staff must have better
facilities during preg-
nancy and maternity
leave. All Policewom-
en and Policemen are
human beings, like us.
Honest and efficient
cops must be duly
rewarded as a motiva-
tion for other cops. A
better system for ser-
vice transfers must be
set in motion, consid-
The hard truth is that neither the
NPT nor the TPNW can achieve
disarmament until the nuclear-
armed States are willing to re-
imagine a global system that
puts universal human security
above the narrow interests of
“national security” enforced by
nuclear coercion — euphemis-
tically called deterrence,
declared Cabasso.
Treaty (NPT), and a report of a Scientific
Advisory Group (SAG) on verification of
nuclear disarmament.
One important outcome of MSP1 was
the establishment of a SAG. It submitted
a useful report to MSP2 on the status and
developments regarding nuclear weapons,
nuclear weapon risks, the humanitarian
consequences of nuclear weapons, nucle-
ar disarmament and related issues.
This report using available open source
information provided a compilation of
data on the status of nuclear forces based
on the data and reports published by the
Federation American Scientists and the
Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists on the
inventories of nuclear warheads and relat-
ed nuclear materials.
Rauf said existing nuclear disarmament
verification exercises such as the US-led
International Partnership on Nuclear Dis-
armament Verification (IPNDV) and the
QUAD basically have replicated existing
IAEA practices and procedures on verifi-
cation of the nuclear fuel cycle.
“There is, as yet, no agreement among
States on any feasible or practical mea-
sures for verification of dismantlement of
nuclear warheads. Indeed, the US is on
record that it shall never allow any inter-
national oversight of nuclear warhead
dismantlement,” he pointed out.
In a statement released December 1,
UN Secretary-General António Guterres
congratulated States Parties to the Treaty
on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
(TPNW) on the successful conclu-
sion of their Second Meeting.
The Secretary-General said he is “encour-
OPINION
ering the families of serving Policemen
and Policewomen.
The Sri Lankan public have convenient-
ly moved away from public vigilance, and
given their undivided attention to cricket
matches and cable television. The public
must always assist the Police in crime pre-
vention. There are some shortcomings by
a few Police officers in how they respond
to public tip-offs, and this has caused a loss
in public confidence. This can be restored.
The public is sure to see suspicious activi-
ties related to drug trafficking, illegal
weapons and financial fraud.
Discipline must come from one’s family.
Childhood development is a prime stage
for Police to engage children in school
awareness programmes. Children must
grow up having respect and confidence in
the Police uniform. The home is the train-
ing venue for a mature, law abiding citi-
zen. Parents must induce good behaviour
and religious values in their children.
It is unfair to always accuse the Police
for every criminal incident. Mentoring is
another example of positively influencing
youth, who may otherwise become anti-
social and take up crime. Big Brothers Big
Sisters (BBBS) of America is a national
youth mentoring organization that was
founded in 1904 and is committed to
improving the life chances of at-risk chil-
dren and teens in all 50 States.
It is the duty of Sri Lankans to reactivate
their vigilance committees incorporating
temples, kovils, churches and mosques, in
cooperation with their respective Police
divisions. These vigilance committees
yielded good results in the past. All Police
station OICs must duly engage the public
in a friendly manner to eradicate crime
and enhance public security. Female Police
aged by the work done by States Parties in
collaboration with other stakeholders,
which showcases what is possible within
multilateral nuclear disarmament negotia-
tions and bolsters the global disarmament
and non-proliferation architecture”.
Meanwhile, at the meeting, about 700
individuals, representing over 100 NGOs
took part in an interactive process with
the Member States. And in what could be
viewed as a much broader, week-long
nuclear disarmament conference, more
than 65 side events, including panel dis-
cussions, art exhibitions, concerts, and
awards ceremonies were held inside the
UN and around New York City.
Jackie Cabasso, Executive Director,
Western States Legal Foundation, told
IDN that the TPNW meeting manifested
a unified and unambiguous recognition
that growing threats of nuclear war are
intolerable and that the only solution is
the total elimination of nuclear weapons.
“It is evident that even though the
TPNW cannot achieve nuclear disarma-
ment without the participation of the
nuclear-armed States, its members are
energetically using it as a platform to
develop and disseminate information and
analysis that is valuable in the broader
global context’ she pointed out.
Examples of this were the report on
gender impacts, including the dispropor-
tionate effects of radiation on women and
girls’ health, and the first report of the
SAG on developments regarding nuclear
weapons, nuclear weapon risks, the
humanitarian consequences of nuclear
weapons and nuclear disarmament.
officers must be sent out more into com-
munities to interact with other women,
and build trust. Women (mainly house-
wives) would be more comfortable reach-
ing out to a Woman Police Officer.
Police visibility creates a feeling of secu-
rity and confidence in the law-abiding citi-
zen, and a feeling of fear to criminals.
Effective crime prevention policies need
to establish channels of communication,
and platforms of exchange (Police-public),
aimed at actively involving individual citi-
zens, professional and religious associa-
tions, and the private sector in determin-
ing how to make society collectively safer
through civic commitment and democratic
participation.
In addition, the Police must start using
Body Worn Camera or Body Cams, so that
Police personnel have visual and audio
evidence on their patrols. This is for the
safety of the Police officer against any
biased complaints by the public. They are
widely used in the US and several other
countries. K-9s (trained Police dogs) are
absorbed into Crime Prevention by many
Western nations.
We must remember this is our mother-
land and appreciate our ethnic diversity
respecting all religions. Transparency is
the call of an effective law enforcement
service. A strong partnership between the
Police and the community will help ensure
the success of the Sri Lanka Police in its
drive against criminality. Public support is
urgently needed to contain the use of nar-
cotic drugs that ruin young lives. The
Police and public partnership is vital for
public security and prosperity. It ulti-
mately impacts on national security too.
(The writer is author of Target
Secured - Police Special Task Force)
The SAG also called for a new UN
study on the consequences of nuclear war,
given that the last comprehensive studies
were done in the late 1980s.
Over half the world’s population live in
countries whose national security pos-
tures explicitly depend on nuclear weap-
ons and the doctrine of “nuclear deter-
rence. Thus nuclear deterrence is the
Gordian Knot blocking the path to nuclear
disarmament.
The Latin root of the word deterrence
means to “frighten away, fill with fear”. In
other words, to threaten. Deterrence
undergirds entire military-industrial
establishments and the national security
states and elites they serve.
It is an ideology which has outlived its
Cold War origins and is used by nuclear-
armed states to justify the perpetual pos-
session and threatened use—including
first use—of nuclear weapons.
The hard truth is that neither the NPT
nor the TPNW can achieve disarmament
until the nuclear-armed States are willing
to re-imagine a global system that puts
universal human security above the nar-
row interests of “national security”
enforced by nuclear coercion — euphe-
mistically called deterrence, declared
Cabasso.
Elaborating further, Rauf said: “In my
view, chasing modalities for verification
of nuclear warhead dismantlement is
going down an endless rabbit hole”.
“The uncomfortable truth is that we
cannot achieve 100% nuclear warhead
dismantlement verification, we can do so
for missiles, submarines, and bombers but
not for the warheads—period.
While this might be an interesting intel-
lectual challenge for scientists and univer-
sities, it is not a practical option.
Recall, that at the height of the Cold
War it was estimated that the global num-
ber of deployed nuclear warheads peaked
in 1986 at an estimated 70,374. In all, it is
estimated that more than 125,000 nuclear
warheads were built since 1945.
Today, he said, there are about 12,500,
What happened to the difference of nearly
58,000 warheads between 70,374 and
12,500; and the 112,500 from the 125,000?
All were unceremoniously dismantled –
unilaterally, without direct verification.
“I would recommend that TPNW
States set up an International Panel of
Scientific and Technical Experts (IPSTE)
to advise the SAG on practical relevant
aspects of nuclear disarmament verifica-
tion comprised of experts with nuclear
weapons and verification expertise – that
is retired weaponeers and inspectors
dealing with nuclear weapons matters,”
declared Rauf.
The meeting was also attended by sev-
eral NATO states and countries that rely
on American nuclear weapons in their
defence, including Australia, Belgium,
Germany and Norway.
IDN-InDepthNews
page 9 DN
The virtues of an
empty canvas
W
hat are the essential ‘carry-ons’ when it
comes to traveling? Many answers to that
question. ‘Nothing,’ is one. ‘The bare mini-
mum’ is another. It could be responded to
with demand for a qualifier: depends on where you are
going, for what and how long. A legitimate response.
Let’s narrow it down. It’s a holiday, let’s say. Even
then we need to know where to and for how long. If you
want to travel abroad and plan to stay away for a week,
a month or longer, what you need to take with you
could be very different from what could be called essen-
tial if it was a one-day or two-night trip to the Knuckles.
The mode of transportation makes a difference. The
kind of place you plan to spend the night at makes a
difference.
And the kind of person you are makes a difference.
So far we are thinking of material things; clothes,
toothbrush and other toiletries, a laptop, mobile phone,
a camera perhaps, books, files and other stationery,
food, water etc. We take such things in lesser or greater
amounts. Some travel light. Some do not, even if it is a
day-trip and doesn’t involve traveling a great distance.
I’m thinking of non-material things that we carry
when we travel. For example, expectations. It can take
the form of a list of things to do or places to visit. Some-
times it is more like a must-do list. Some travel but take
with them the baggage of all the worries they have,
even if the intention is to get away from them. Some
pick up anxieties along the way.
Some leave the clutter behind. They travel light. It is
as though they have opted to carry a blank piece of
paper, an empty canvas.
The truth is that everyone carries a canvas when
traveling. Some of these canvases have maps drawn on
them. Some have lists. Then there are canvases that are
already painted with images of things anticipated —
not the sensations, but the places or the ‘things-to-do.’
When this happens, the space available for colouring
diminishes. The journey, if at all, will only get imprinted
in the spaces remaining on the canvas or its colours will
merge with those that are already there.
It is a color problem in a way, or rather a problem of
carrying and using colouring instruments. When you
have them, you feel compelled to use them. If you don’t,
and that’s perhaps the ideal situation, then that which is
seen, heard, tasted, touched and breathed has the
opportunity to combine in delightful ways to narrate
upon canvas the most remarkable elements of the jour-
ney.
Journeys are often anticipated with relish and one
might say this is inevitable or that it’s not necessarily a
bad thing. It is not easy to discard the mind’s clutter.
And so we travel from A to B, be in 10 miles or a 100,
blind to the magic that may await gaze and therefore
pause and delight along the way. The canvas just
doesn’t have space because the A and the B are gigantic
icons painted with bold strokes using a broad brush.
Of course this does not mean that the journey will not
be memorable. A and B could arguably have their own
charm and stamp this over whatever one paints on the
canvas or whatever overcomes impediments of color
and line to occupy some space on it, marginal perhaps,
unconnected in all probability, but evident enough to
fuel nostalgia. And yet, it seems a poor harvest in rela-
tion to what was anticipated or, more correctly, what
fertile soils, adequate moisture and abundant sunlight
promised.
There’s color waiting to be gathered — wind, sun-
light, random conversation, byroads and other unchart-
ed things. There are invisible brushes that dip of their
own accord into this amazing palette and make play on
a canvas in ways we have not imagined were possible.
They can pick one color and write down a story that
had never been written. They can mix and match. They
know that white is also a colour that gives breathing
space to the story and leaves the reader breathless. An
empty canvas is easily turned into a chest which can be
filled with unimaginable treasures.
It is good to travel light. It is good not to carry any-
thing at all. An empty canvas has no weight but upon it
perspectives can get transcribed. When this happens,
we return home with rich metaphors elegantly arranged,
but however voluminous the harvest of the journey we
carry not one extra ounce. Indeed our burdens are
somehow made to feel lighter.
malindadocs@gmail.com.
www.malindawords.blogspot.com.
DN page 10 ADVERTISEMENTS T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

GOVERNMENT OF THE DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST

PROCUREMENT NOTICE REPUBLIC OF SRI LANKA
Bids are invited for the Lease of the property of Rambukkana
Pradeshiya Sabha mentioned below for the Year 2024. MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT & HIGHWAYS
Bid documents will be issued from 05.12.2023 up to 2.30 p.m. ROAD DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
on 18.12.2023.

CAG-5072 Toyota
Axio,​2015,​car for
highest offer. Val-
libel Finance PLC.
No. 310,​Galle
Road,​ Colombo-03.
CAV-4977 Zotye
Z100,​2017,​car for Tel: 0714-542958.
highest offer. Val-  079435
libel Finance PLC.
No. 310,​Galle
Road,​ Colombo-03.
Tel: 0714-542958.
 079429
PX-3666 Tata Ace,​
2014,​for highest of-
fer. Vallibel Finance
PLC. No. 310,​Galle
Serial
INVITATION FOR BIDS
Details of Property
No.
Contract Name
Premises located at the left side of the Ground
1. Floor of Pradeshiya Sabha Building (Opposite Construction of Concrete for Naachchikuda Road
NSB) Construction of Concrete for Palath Palli Road
2. Beef Stalls of this Sabha
Construction of Concrete for Mancholai Market Road
3. Fish Stalls of the Sabha
Construction of Concrete for Thulasipuram Para and Thabowanam Road
4. Public Toilet, Rambukkana
Improvement of Pulmoddai - 04 Internal Road (0+00 — 0+750 Km) (Section — 01)
5. Lands with yield
Improvement of Pulmoddai - 04 Internal Road (0+750 — 1+080 Km) (Section — 02)
Further details could be obtained from the Office - Inquiries :
035-2265275. Improvement of Kerniyadi 5th Lane, Naga Kovil Para, Railway Line Para, Pansala Linda Langa Para
Secretary Improvement of Paddikuda Karayaveli Road
Pradeshiya Sabha,
Improvement of Santhipuram Road
Rambukkana.
Improvement of Clinic Centre Road, Ice Factory Road and Jinnanagar Para
Improvement of Neelapola Party Mahathage House Near the Bridge to Kanguveli Bridge
TENDER NOTICE Road (section — 01) (0+000 to 0+400 Km)
Improvement of Neelapola Party Mahathage House Near the Bridge to Kanguveli Bridge
SRI JAYEWARDENEPURA Road (section — 01) (0+0+400 to 0+800 Km)

Road,​ Colombo-03.
Tel: 0714-542958.
GENERAL HOSPITAL Improvement of Neelapola Party Mahathage House Near the Bridge to Kanguveli Bridge
Road (section — 01) (0+800 to 1+300 Km)
 079431
TENDER FOR THE PROVISION OF PEST CONTROL SERVICE Improvement of Neelapola Party Mahathage House Near the Bridge to Kanguveli Bridge
Road (section — 01) (1+300 to 1+710 Km)
Correction Notice FOR THE YEAR 2024-2025 Improvement of Neelapola Party Mahathage House Near the Bridge to Kanguveli Bridge
Department of Export Q 614/23 Road (section — 01) (1+710 to 2+120 Km)

Agriculture - Peradeniya
Registration of Suppliers of
Goods and Services - 2024
This refer to the above titled advertisement
published on page IV of Daily News on 01st
December 2023.
Please note that Item No. 03 should be
corrected as follows;
03. Application can be submitted for the goods
and services numbered from 01 to 50 in the
item list below and applicants willing to
submit applications for more than one item
should prepare separate applications and
all such applications can be sent enclosed
in one cover. Applicants should pay Rs.
500.00 per each item as registration fee.
The amounts can be paid by crediting the
A/C No. 7042612 maintained at Peradeniya
Branch of Bank of Ceylon in favour of
Export Agriculture Director General and the
receipt thus received or the receipt received
from the head office of the Department of
Export Agriculture / District Offices, should
be attached with the application (money
orders or cheques will not be accepted). All
state institutions, corporations, statutotary
boards, Cooperative societies, Samurdhi and
farmers organisations will be exempt from
the registration fee payments.
The other contents remain unchanged
Director General of Export Agriculture,
Department of Export Agriculture,
1095, Sirimavo Bandaranaike Mawatha,
Peradeniya.
01 Chairman, Tender Board, Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital Improvement of Neelapola Party Mahathage House Near the Bridge to Kanguveli Bridge
wishes to invite Tenders for the Provision of Pest Control Services at Sri Road (section — 01) (2+120 to 2+540 Km)
Jayewardenepura General Hospital from reputed firms who have registered
Bids are hereby invited for above works under the National Competitive Bidding
as Pest Control Organizations and sound experience in this field up to
procedure. Interested bidders are requested to refer the RDA and Ministry of
10.00 a.m. on 28.12.2023.
Highways Web Page on www.rda.gov.lk from 05.12.2023 to 14.12.2023.
02 Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding
procedure.
03 Tender conditions and application forms could be obtained from the Supplies
Officer (Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital) on production of the official
letter with cash receipt issued by the Accountant (Sri Jayewardenepura
General Hospital) for payment of a non-refundable tender fee of Rs. 3,000.00
in cash till 27.12.2023 between 9.00 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. on any working day.
04 Completed Tender documents should be submitted in duplicate under Calling Applications for the Post of ECD
registered cover addressed to the Chairman-Procurement Committee,
Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, Thalapathpitiya, Nugegoda, or
be deposited in the Tender Box placed near the Chairman’s Office in Sri
Jayewardenepura General Hospital on or before 28.12.2023 at 10.00 a.m.
Instructor (Preschool Teacher)
05 Tenders will be opened at Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, Early Childhood Development Unit of Central Province which is located at No. 2/A,
New Town, Kundasale is looking for an ECD Instructor (Preschool Teacher) for
Thalapathpitiya, Nugegoda at 10.00 a.m. on 28.12.2023.
the Model preschool which will be operated from the year 2024. The candidates
06 The tenderer will be permitted to be present at the time of opening of the
should fulfill the following requirements.
tenders, and the officer who opens the tenders will read out the amounts
quoted by each tenderer to those present.   Should be a Sri Lankan Citizen
07 Bid security shall be Rs. 50,000.00.   Should reside permanently in the Central Province for more than five
years for the last date of the application.
Contact numbers are : Phone : 011-2778624, 0112778610 Ext : 3142,
Facsimile : 011- 2778624   Age should be more than 18 years and less than 40 years on the last
E-mail : suppliceofficesjgh@gmail.com date of the deadline.
  Should pass G.C.E. O/L with minimum three credits and six passes
Chairman - Procurement Committee including Mathematics and Language.
Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital   Should have completed One-year ECD Diploma from a recognized
Thalapathpitiya institute or One year certificate course or two years advanced certificate
Nugegoda course awarded by Open University of Sri Lanka.
  Should have minimum five years working experience in relevant field.

Those who are interested can download the application and other relevant
details from the website www.cm.cp.gov.lk or can obtain the applications from
the ECD Unit (No. 2/A, New Town, Kundasale). Please submit your applications
on or before 2023.12.15.

Director,
Early Childhood Development Unit,
No. 2/A,
New Town,
Kundasale.
T.P - 0812424337

The Country’s
Breaking largest For
INVITATION FOR BIDS - (IFB) boundaries recruitment
database
jobseekers

The Chairman, Department Procurement Committee (Major), on behalf of Ceylon Petroleum Storage Terminals Limited (CPSTL) will receive sealed bids from eligible
parties via through International Competitive Bidding (ICB) procedure for the Supply of Services for Dry Docking and Hull repair of the Dual Path Single Point Mooring
Buoy (SPBM) SO 17820 in Sri Lanka, details as follows. www.observerjobs.lk

Non
Bidding
Refundable Bid Bid
Documents
Description of Work Bidding Opening Date Validity Refundable Bid Security
could be
Document Fee & Time Period
obtained
(Per Set) Rs.
Supply of Services for Dry Docking and Hull repair of the LKR 25,000.00 0900 to 1400 hrs On LKR. 1,260,000.00 or USD 3,800.00
Dual Path Single Point Mooring Buoy (SPBM) SO 17820 in or up to 16.01.2024 16.04.2024 &
Sri Lanka Bid No: KPR/ 59 /2023 USD 80 15.01.2024 at 1400 hrs valid up to 14.05.2024
Eligibility criteria for contract awarding as stated in the Bidding Document.
Interested parties may refer the bidding document (only for viewing purpose) and obtain necessary information through the website : www.cpstl.lk and the original
Bidding Document could be obtained from the undersigned as stated above date and time.
A Pre bid meeting will be held at 1000 hrs. Sri Lanka local time (GMT+5.30) on 21st December 2023 via video conferencing method. Interested parties who wish
to participate in the Pre bid meeting shall send their request to email procure@cpstl.lk at or before 1400 hrs. Sri Lanka local time (GMT+5.30) on 20th December 2023.
Bids shall be submitted on the bidding document obtainable from Procurement Function and duly filled bidding documents may be sent by post/courier under registered
cover or sealed cover to reach the Chairman, Department Procurement Committee (Minor), C/o Manager Procurement, Ceylon Petroleum Storage Terminals Limited,
Procurement Function, 01st Floor, New Building, Oil Installation, Kolonnawa, Wellampitiya or could be deposited in the tender box kept at the main entrance of CPSTL,
on or before as stated above.
In case the bidders are unable to submit the original bids as above, they could submit the scanned copy of the duly filled bidding documents in PDF format via email
to tenders@cpstl.lk to reach on or before as stated above, at their own discretion. The original bid document shall be securely kept to be submitted to the Manager
Procurement when requested. However, their original bids will be obtained only for the filing purpose, not for verification against the e-bid.
Bids will be closed as stated above and will be opened immediately thereafter at the office of Manager Procurement, in the presence of the authorized only one
representative of the bidders who choose to attend.
The bid & bid security shall be valid as stated above.
Any of the party who wishes to submit a bid, shall register himself at the Department of Registrar of Companies www.drc.gov.lk (e-ROC) as per the Public Contracts Act
No. 03 of 1987 for every public contract value exceeding Sri Lankan Rupees Five million (LKR 5,000,000.00). Widest reach for your
Any clarification shall be sought from the Manager (Procurement) on Telephone Nos. 011-2572156/2547238, Fax : 0112074299, E-mail : procure@cpstl.lk employment advertisement
The Chairman, Department Procurement Committee (Major), Email : info@observerjobs.lk Hotline: 1949
C/o Manager Procurement,
Ceylon Petroleum Storage Terminals Limited, For more information
Procurement Function, New Building,
Kolonnawa, Wellampitiya. 0777270012 / 0112429314
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3 11

GROUPM SRI LANKA CREATES HISTORY, PAGE

WINS 4 TOP HONOURS AT CAMPAIGN
ASIA AGENCY OF THE YEAR AWARDS 14
Merchandise exports dip by 14.6 %

Sri Lankan service exports for

The Sri Lankan services exports
for the period of January to October
2023 increased 67.2% over the corre-
sponding period of 2022. Total
exports were US$ 2,606.34 million, a
release from Export Development
Board said. The services exports con-
sist of ICT/BPM, Construction,
Financial services and Transport and
Logistics.
The estimated value of ICT exports
are expected to increase by 96% to
US$ 166.01 million in October 2023
when compared to October 2022.
Also, the value of Transport & Logis-
tics services exports are expected to
increase by 54.73% in October 2023
compared to the corresponding peri-
od in the previous year.
January to October increases by 67%
However in contrast Sri Lanka’s
merchandise exports decreased by
14.6 % to US$ 898.0 million in Octo-
ber 2023 compared to October 2022
as per the provisional data released by
the Sri Lanka Customs. Also, it is a
13.13 % decrease when compared to
the value recorded in September
2023. The decline in merchandise
exports is due to decreased demand
for export products, particularly in
sectors such as Apparel & Textiles,
Rubber & Rubber-based products, and
Coconut & Coconut-based products.
Export earnings from Food & Bev-
erages have increased by 20.77 %
y-o-y to US$ 36.86 Million in October
2023, with the strong performance in
exports of Processed Food (29.49 %).
Export earnings from Seafood
increased by 3.73 % to US$ 20.29 Mn
in October 2023 compared to Octo-
ber 2022. This increase was mainly
due to the strong performance in
export of frozen fish (5.21 %) and
Fresh fish (13.78 %).
Export earnings from Apparel &
Textile have decreased by 20.05 %
y-o-y to US$ 353.3Million in October
2023 compared to October 2022.
Export earnings from tea, which
made up 12% of merchandise exports,
decreased by 12.02 % y-o-y to US$
95.63 Mn in October 2023 compared
to October 2022. This decline is
mainly due to the negative perfor-
mance in the export of Bulk tea,
which decreased by 18.81% to reach
US$ 43.35 Mn in October 2023.
Among the top 10 export markets,
Italy has shown a strong performance
in both the month of October 2023
and the period of January to October
2023 when compared to the corre-
sponding periods in the previous
year. Furthermore, UAE and France
have shown significant performance
during the period of January to Octo-
ber 2023 compared to the corre-
sponding period in the previous year.
Exports to the United States of
America, Sri Lanka’s single largest
export destination, decreased 13.84
% to US$ 206.77 Mn in October 2023
compared to October 2022. Further,
exports to the United States of Amer-
ica decreased by 19.18% to US$
2,281.57 Mn in the period of January
to October2023 compared to the
same period in 2022.

After lapse of nearly 4 years

Tourism records highest arrival monthly figure mark in Nov.
With the country’s economic situa-
tion improving, seasonal advantage,
free visa on arrivals for 7 countries saw
Sri Lanka Tourism record its highest
arrivals figure mark for a month in
November after a lapse of nearly 4
years.
The November 2023 arrivals hit
151,496, passing the previous best of
143,039 recorded in July 2023.
The November arrivals figure also is
a 153.5% increase against 2022
November which was 59,759.
With this the total number of arriv-
als from January to November end
was at 1,276,951 in comparison
719,978 arrivals recorded in the entire
last year.
Once again for the seventh month in
succession India was the best course
destination for Sri Lanka fielding
30,339 tourists and accounting to 20%
of total arrivals for November.
The Russian Federation was in sec-
ond place with 24,912 (16%) arrivals
while Germany (12,331) and the Unit-
ed Kingdom (11,526) were the third
and fourth source markets for Sri
Lanka. Australia (7,900) and China
(6,673) remained fifth and sixth.
“Budget 2024 pays large portion of attention
to construction industry”
A large portion of attention in the
2024 budget is attributed to the con-
struction industry, Chairman of Ceylon
Institute of Builders Dr. Rohan
Karunaratne said.
“From its outward appearance, it
seems that the budget 2024 has no ben-
efit for the construction industry. This
is because over Rs. 500 billion govern-
ment contracts have been halted, out of
which only Rs 55 billion has been
allowed to recommence. “This is
10-15% which makes it nearly impossi-
ble for the industry to survive.”
Most importantly, there is Rs. 1.26
trillion allocated for development.
“As a country’s construction industry
is the main driver of development, we
expect that a larger portion of this will
be given to construction. For example,
construction and expansions of univer-
sities and conversion of private higher
education institutes, the commence-
ment of a National Education Universi-
ty along with, New Technology & State
Universities in 2024, are given some
billions. The same shall apply for SME
sector development.”
Drinking water projects, estate hous-
ing, the Bimsaviya program, rehabilita-
tion of structures affected by natural
disasters, will be given prominence in
the budget and when acquiring foreign
support. Under the 10-year multipur-
pose rural and community development
program commencing from 2024, public
infrastructure and services in the hill
country are to be developed, for which
Rs. 10 billion has been allocated with an
additional Rs 10 billion for the mainte-
nance of rural
roads. “The
d e c e n t ra l i s e d
budget shall
restart with Rs.
11,250 million
for regional
development.”
Projects of USD 3 billion have been
halted by funding agencies such as
ADB, JAICA, World Bank etc. which
may restart next year after the IMF has
been streamlined. Along these lines,
FDIs are also expected to come in, espe-
cially the Port City Development.
“Therefore if we, the construction
industry, stay alert and find a way to
draw out these budget allocations from
the government, we may survive the
coming years.”

CBSL Governor, co-chairs RCG Asia Meeting of FSB, in Hong Kong

The Financial Stability Board (FSB)
Regional Consultative Group for Asia
(RCG Asia) met on November 29, 2023 in
Hong Kong SAR1 and discussed recent
financial market developments and their
impact on the region, vulnerabilities aris-
ing from non-bank financial intermedia-
tion, the deepening of the sovereign-bank
Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort unveils eco-friendly Christmas Tree: Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach nexus in some emerging market and
Resort for the first time launched an eco-friendly Christmas tree totally designed and installed by the hotel staff developing economies, and ways to pro-
on Wednesday opening the festive season activities and here some of the large number of tourists is seen merry mote effective regulation and supervision
making during the event. The Xmass tree would be lightest until the first week of January. Picture by Wimal Karunatillike of crypto-asset related risks.
Members shared their experiences of
identifying, monitoring, and addressing
these risks and welcomed FSB’s continued
member co-chair, and Dr. Nandalal
Weerasinghe, the Governor of the Central
Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) and the current
Non- Member Co-chair of the RCG Asia.
The Membership of RCG Asia comprises
financial authorities from Australia, Bru-
nei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Hong
Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea,
Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philip-
pines, Singapore, Sri Lanka,
Thailand, and Vietnam.
The FSB has six Regional
Consultative Groups, estab-
lished under the FSB Charter,
to bring together financial
promote financial stability. The FSB
coordinates the work of national finan-
cial authorities and international
standard-setting bodies at the interna-
tional level and develops and promotes
the implementation of effective regula-
tory, supervisory and other financial
sector policies in the interest of finan-
cial stability.

SriLankan introduces double daily to Mumbai

SriLankan Airlines has intro-
duced double daily flights
between Colombo and Mumbai,
multiplying the convenience for
passengers travelling to and from
India’s financial and entertain-
ment capital. The new double
daily service to Mumbai will not only
give a 505 boost to SriLankan’s capacity
on its Mumbai route, but will also
strengthen the airline’s already vast net-
work in India.
Flights will depart from Colombo to
Mumbai at 17:10 and 23:45 daily from
Mumbai to Colombo at 20:45 and 03:10.
Passengers travelling out of Mumbai on
SriLankan Airlines will now have the
advantage of more flight options to
Colombo and convenient connections
via Colombo to popular destinations in
the Far East, Europe and Australia
including Singapore, Kuala Lumpur,
Bangkok, London, Frankfurt, Paris,
Melbourne and Sydney.
Head of Worldwide Sales and Distri-
bution of SriLankan Airlines, Dimuthu
focus on enhancing the resilience of finan- authorities from FSB member
cial systems. and non-member countries to
The meeting was co-chaired by Eddie exchange views on vulnerabil-
Yue, Chief Executive, Hong Kong Mone- ities affecting financial sys-
Tennakoon, stated, “The Indian mar- tary Authority (HKMA) and the current tems and on initiatives to
ket has been incredibly important to
SriLankan Airlinessince the get-go,
and with India fast becoming one of
the world’s largest outbound travel
markets, we are only happy to expand
our operations in one of India’s most
celebrated cities and make travel
between Mumbai and Colombo extra
seamless.”
“Our frequency increase comes on
the heels of Sri Lanka announcing free
visas for Indian visitors and we hope
that these positive developments will
encourage more travellers from Mumbai Dr Nandalal Weerasinghe, Governor,CBSL, Eddie Yue, Chief
to stop by Sri Lanka.” TO PAGE 12 Executive, HKMA, John Schindler, Secretary General, FSB

India’s Mukesh Ambani to People’s Bank launches export hubs in Kandy and
launch INR 15,000 Laptop Kurunegala to empower SME exporters
Reliance Jio, computing service People’s Bank has taken a significant throughout the country. This strategic rate Internet Banking specifically
owned by India’s offered by Reliance step towards supporting small and medi- move aims to provide SME customers designed for exporters and importers.
richest man Muke- Jio. This will allow um exporters (SMEs) by inaugurating with comprehensive financial solutions, The export hubs will play a pivotal role
sh Ambani, is in users to get access to export hubs in Kandy and Kurunegala. all conveniently housed under one roof. in fostering the growth of SMEs in the
talks with laptop computing at a way The inauguration ceremonies were At the export hubs, SMEs will benefit export sector by adopting a holistic
manufacturers like lower cost, paving held at the Kandy Branch and Kurunegala from a range of services tailored to meet approach to offering financial support.
HP, Acer, Lenovo, the way for Mukesh Super Grade Branch, officiated by Chief their unique needs. These services This initiative recognizes the importance
and others to Ambani to reach Executive Officer/ General Manager, include credit facilities at preferential of SMEs in contributing to the economic
launch an INR first-time laptop buy- Clive Fonseka. The Export Hub initiative, interest rates, export banking facilities, development of the country and aims to
15,000 (SLR ers and educational designed to consolidate essential services guarantee facilities, advisory services, streamline their access to vital financial
59,750) laptop in institutions. Jio for SMEs, is set to be implemented supplementary services, and dedicated services.
coming months Mukesh Ambani Cloud comes in a across seven branches in seven regions digital banking facilities such as Corpo- Kandy District Secretary Chandana
that will bring subscription model Tennakoon, People’s Bank’s Deputy Gen-
down the ownership cost dras- and multiple subscriptions can eral Manager (Channel Management) T.
tically, Economic Times said. be accessed on a single laptop. M. W Chandrakumara, Deputy General
The report suggests Jio will As per the report, the company Manager (Enterprise Banking) Wickra-
be able to keep the cost of the has already started to conduct ma Narayana, Assistant General Manag-
laptop low as it will be powered trials for the same on HP er (Corporate Banking Relationship 11)
by the ‘cloud’ and the device Chromebook. Rohan Perera, Kandy, Kurunegala, Keg-
will just be a dumb terminal. The laptop and tablet market alle, Anuradhapura,
This means that the processing size in India is currently esti- Polonnaruwa,Trincomalee and Wanni
and storage of the laptop will mated to be around USD 6 bil- Regional Managers, Bank staff and cus-
take place on Jio Cloud, a cloud lion. tomers participated in the event.
 12 BUSINESS MARKET T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

Daily Market Watch

ASPI opens the week in the green… 04th December 2023

Market Performance Contributors to ASPI Market Benchmarks Corporate News

42, Sir Mohammed Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 3.
01.12.2023 %Chg.
Hotline: 0705 666 777
04.12.2023 14.0
12.0
ASPI S&P SL20
CASH DIVIDENDS
WhatsApp: 0777 233 633
All Share Price Index 10,743.6 10,720.3 0.22 10.0 10,790 3,080
8.0 3,070
S&P SL 20 Index 3,067.7 3,047.1 0.68 6.0 10,740 3,060 Commercial Development Company
4.0 3,050
Market Commentary Turnover (LKR mn) 708.4 962.2 -26.4 2.0 10,690 3,040 PLC (COMD) - LKR 3.00. XD date –
- 3,030
Foreign Purchases (LKR mn) 36.9 56.0 -34.1 (2.0)
10,640
3,020 05.12.2023.
The Colombo Stock Market continued to rise yesterday (4.0)
with the All Share Price Index gaining 0.22% to close at
Foreign Sales (LKR mn) 89.4 51.1 74.9 (6.0)
10,590 3,010
3,000
10,540
10,743.59, while the S&P Sri Lanka 20 Index gained 0.68% Market Cap (LKR bn) 4,308.9 4,296.8 0.3 (8.0) 2,990
2,980
to close at 3,067.73. Turnover was LKR 708mn. 10,490
Market Cap (US$ bn) 13.1 13.1 0.3 2,970
The IMF Executive Board is strongly expected to grant 10,440 2,960
Traded Companies 244 247 -1.2

01-Dec-23
approval for its first review on 12th December 2023 and

29-Nov-23
28-Nov-23

30-Nov-23

04-Dec-23
allowing for the IMF to disburse the second tranche of Market PER (x) 11.3 11.2 0.3
USD 330 mn by 14th December 2023. After completing the
Turnover Breakdown
Price to Book (x) 1.0 1.0 0.0
first IMF review, Sri Lanka will get budget support loans All Share Price Index S&P SL 20 Index
Dividend Yield (%) 3.3 3.3 -0.3 Sales
from the ADB (USD 400mn) and World Bank (the Purchases
remaining USD 250mn of the USD 500mn budget support).
We also find that Financial Institutions are now more Relative Strength Index (RSI) 95% 87% Largest Trades
aggressively marketing their services in margin trading
during the last several days and the decline in lending
5%
rates should provide investors with the necessary funds ASPI Vs RSI RSI 54.33 13% LKR mn
to buy stocks. This should improve the liquidity conditions
of the stock market, which was the main reason for the
14,000 100 60
stock market stagnation over the last few months.
12,000 80 Domestic Foreign Domestic Foreign 50

10,000 60
Top % Gainers and Losers 40

55.0
8,000 40 Key Rates 30
45.0 6,000 20
35.0
25.0 04.12.2023 20 Disclaimer - The information contained in this material has
15.0 4,000 0 not been independently verified. No representation or
5.0
Prime Lending Rate ( Weekly Avg. Weighted) 13.03%
1-Aug-21
1-Aug-16
1-Oct-15

1-Nov-17

1-Dec-19
1-Feb-19

1-Mar-21
1-Jun-17
1-Mar-16

1-Apr-18
1-Jan-17

1-Sep-18

1-Jul-19

1-Oct-20

warranty express or implied is made as to, and no reliance

1-Nov-22
1-May-20

1-Apr-23
1-Sep-23
1-Jun-22
1-Jan-22
-5.0 10
-15.0 should be placed on, the fairness, accuracy, completeness or
-25.0 Fixed Deposit Rate (Avg. Weighted) 15.54%
-35.0 0 correctness of the information or opinions contained herein
Treasury Bill Rate (364 Days) 12.89% LIOC and nothing in this presentation is, or shall be relied upon as,
SAMP
RSI ASPI LLUB a promise or representation by the Company .
Consumer Price Inflation - CCPI (YoY % ) 3.40% DIST

Market Statistics on 04.12.2023 Coconut Products – Prices on 04.12.2023

Security Volume **V.W.A. Open High Low **V.W.A. Change Security Volume **V.W.A. Open High Low **V.W.A. Change 1. FRESH COCONUT
Previous Yesterday’s (Rs.) Previous Yesterday’s (Rs.)
Market Price 17th Nov. to 23rd Nov. 2023 (Source-HARTI)
Close Close Close Close
Main Board Wholesale Retail
(a)Large Size Rs/Nut 95.00-110.00 100.00-120.00
A.SPEN.HOT.HOLD. 19,779 65.00 64.50 67.90 64.50 66.50 1.50 RENUKA HOLDINGS [RHL.X0000] 680 10.70 10.40 11.10 10.40 11.10 0.40 Small Size Rs/Nut 85.00-95.00 90.00-100.00
ABANS 19 149.00 151.00 151.00 150.00 149.00 0.00 RESUS ENERGY 214,850 15.30 15.50 15.70 15.40 15.50 0.20
ACCESS ENG SL 365,040 18.80 19.00 19.40 18.80 19.00 0.20 RICHARD PIERIS 1,409 19.50 19.40 19.90 19.40 19.50 0.00 (b)Coconut Development Authority – Colombo Auction 30/11/2023 (For
ACL 104,813 70.50 70.50 72.00 70.50 72.00 1.50 ROYAL CERAMIC 69,465 27.70 27.80 27.80 27.50 27.60 (0.10) Industry Use)
ACL PLASTICS 1,140 365.25 365.25 365.25 362.25 365.25 0.00 S M B LEASING 195,644 0.60 0.60 0.60 0.50 0.60 0.00 Average Price77,735.04 T – Offers 522,497 - Nuts Trated 377,216
Next Auction on 07/12/2023 10.00 a.m. at Coconut Development
ACME 32,652 5.80 5.90 5.90 5.60 5.80 0.00 S M B LEASING [SEMB.X0000] 553,060 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.20 0.20 (0.10) Authority (3rd Floor), No. 11, Duke Street, Col-01.
AGALAWATTE 42,444 29.00 29.00 29.00 28.20 28.20 (0.80) SAMPATH 712,950 69.80 70.80 72.50 70.80 71.50 1.70
AHOT PROPERTIES 1,120 60.90 61.00 62.00 61.00 61.50 0.60 SAMSON INTERNAT. 3 144.75 144.75 144.75 144.75 144.75 0.00 (d)Locally Traded (Farm-gate price)
AITKEN SPENCE 3,059 118.00 123.00 123.00 118.00 118.00 0.00 SANASA DEV. BANK 2,451 32.00 32.00 32.00 31.70 32.00 0.00 Rs. 1000 Nuts Rs/Mt (Husked Ex-Mill)
ALLIANCE 10,980 82.90 87.20 87.20 83.00 83.30 0.40 SARVODAYA DEVFIN 44,592 12.00 12.90 13.00 12.90 12.90 0.90 Kurunegala Dist. 65,000-72,000 115,000-125,000
Puttalam Dist. 65,000-72,000 115,000-120,000
AMANA BANK 1,490,801 2.30 2.30 2.30 2.20 2.20 (0.10) SEYLAN BANK 160,971 47.00 47.00 48.00 45.00 45.20 (1.80) Gampaha Dist. 68,000-72,000 115,000-122,000
ASIA ASSET 23 12.00 11.80 11.80 11.80 12.00 0.00 SEYLAN BANK [SEYB.X0000] 205,875 36.70 37.70 38.50 36.50 37.80 1.10 Hambantota Dist. 60,000-62,000 105,000-112,000
ASIA CAPITAL 2,000 3.30 3.30 3.40 3.30 3.40 0.10 SEYLAN DEVTS 554 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.00 14.00 0.00
ASIRI 3,460 24.10 24.40 24.40 23.70 24.30 0.20 SHAW WALLACE 79,841 9.00 8.90 9.40 8.90 9.30 0.30 Copra (At Colombo Auction)
ASIRI SURG 2,004 12.90 12.50 12.50 12.50 12.50 (0.40) SIERRA CABL 20,711 12.00 12.00 12.00 11.60 12.00 0.00 Quality of Copra Offered (Kg)
Quality of Copra Sold (Kg)
AUTODROME 16 100.75 94.30 99.00 94.30 100.75 0.00 SIGIRIYA VILLAGE 2,238 52.30 51.60 52.60 50.90 51.20 (1.10) M.S. No.1 Copra (Top Price) (Rs.250Kg)
BAIRAHA FARMS 20,744 182.75 184.00 189.00 184.00 186.25 3.50 SINGER FINANCE 401 11.80 11.60 12.00 11.60 11.70 (0.10) M.S. No 1 Copra (Single Average Price) (Rs.250Kg)
BALANGODA 721 50.40 50.40 51.50 50.20 51.40 1.00 SUNSHINE HOLDING XD 152,563 50.00 50.00 50.50 49.60 50.50 0.50 M.S. No.1 Copra (Mart Price) (Rs.250kg)
BLUE DIAMONDS 63,814 0.30 0.40 0.40 0.30 0.30 0.00 SWISSTEK 26,222 16.50 16.10 16.50 16.00 16.10 (0.40) M.S. No.2 and 3 Copra(Single Average Price) (Rs.250kg)
BLUE DIAMONDS [BLUE.X0000] 51,610 0.20 0.20 0.30 0.20 0.30 0.10 TALAWAKELLE 2,874 111.50 112.75 112.75 110.75 111.25 (0.25) M.S. No.2 and 3 Copra (Market Price) (Rs.250kg)
BUKIT DARAH 37 410.00 381.25 385.00 380.00 410.00 0.00 TANGERINE 3 51.00 50.60 54.40 50.60 51.00 0.00 2. COPRA - (Locally Traded) 30.11.2023
C M HOLDINGS 1 80.20 80.20 80.20 80.20 80.20 0.00 TEA SMALLHOLDER 13 43.90 43.20 44.90 43.20 43.90 0.00 daily Copra - Edible (Rs./250 Kg)
C T HOLDINGS 209 254.00 253.00 254.00 253.00 253.25 (0.75) TEEJAY LANKA 191,881 35.40 35.10 35.70 35.10 35.60 0.20 M.S. No. 1 Copra (Rs./250 Kg) 100,000
CARGILLS 37 360.00 360.00 362.00 360.00 360.00 0.00 THREE ACRE FARMS 5,260 243.50 247.00 247.00 241.50 242.75 (0.75) MS No. 2 Copra (Rs./250 Kg) 85,000
CARGO BOAT 154 54.60 52.00 53.00 52.00 52.00 (2.60) TOKYO CEMENT 112,421 47.50 46.80 46.80 45.00 45.40 (2.10)
3. DESICCATED COCONUT
CARSONS 169 260.00 260.00 260.00 256.75 260.00 0.00 TOKYO CEMENT [TKYO.X0000] 2,656 38.20 39.00 39.00 38.00 38.10 (0.10) Fine Sri Lanka (Domestic) (Rs/Kg) 600-630 N
CDB 2 200.00 190.25 190.25 190.25 200.00 0.00 UNION BANK 12,366 10.10 10.40 10.40 10.30 10.30 0.20 Medium (Rs/Kg) 600-630
CDB [CDB.X0000] 5,082 86.50 86.80 86.80 82.00 85.50 (1.00) UNION CHEMICALS 79 650.50 651.00 651.00 651.00 650.50 0.00
CENTRAL FINANCE 44,492 108.25 109.50 112.00 0.00 108.25 0.00 UNITED MOTORS 70 64.00 64.50 64.50 64.50 64.00 0.00 4. COCONUT OIL
CENTRAL IND. 85,523 90.70 91.00 91.90 90.00 90.10 (0.60) VALLIBEL 182,515 6.80 6.90 7.00 6.90 7.00 0.20 Local Wholesale Price (Rs/Mt) 580,000-640,000 N
White Oil 580,000-750,000 N
CEYLINCO INS. 1 2,450.00 2,302.50 2,302.50 2,302.50 2,450.00 0.00 VALLIBEL FINANCE 3,391 34.50 34.50 34.50 34.00 34.50 0.00 Philippines (CIF-Rott)
CEYLINCO INS. [CINS.X0000] 19,000 820.50 820.00 821.00 818.25 820.00 (0.50) WATAWALA XD 13,043 71.20 71.40 71.40 70.90 71.00 (0.20) (Oil World) (01/12/2023) (Rs/Mt) 375,559
CEYLON GUARDIAN 5,981 89.70 90.00 94.00 90.00 91.00 1.30 WINDFORCE 72,507 19.20 19.20 19.20 19.00 19.00 (0.20)
CEYLON INV. 50,707 49.50 49.90 52.00 49.90 51.20 1.70 hSENID BIZ 53,538 12.10 12.10 12.30 12.00 12.00 (0.10) 5. POONAC (Rs/Mt) 90,000 - 100,000 T
CEYLON TOBACCO XD 1,021 960.00 965.00 965.00 957.00 960.00 0.00 6. MATTRESS FIBRE (Rs/50kg) 900-1,000 T
7. OMAT FIBRE (FAQ) (Rs. /50 Kg) 3,750-4,500 T
CHEVRON 546,342 88.00 88.40 88.90 87.60 88.80 0.80 SECOND BOARD 8. MIX FIBRE (Rs. /50 Kg) 900-950 T
CIC 16,027 66.00 66.50 66.50 66.00 66.30 0.30 ABANS FINANCIAL 15 23.80 23.50 23.50 23.50 23.80 0.00 9. BRISTLE FIBRE 1 TIE (Rs. /50 Kg) 6,750-7,250 T
CIC [CIC.X0000] 5,821 48.90 50.00 50.60 48.60 48.80 (0.10) AMBEON CAPITAL 29,510 7.80 8.00 8.00 7.80 7.80 0.00 10. BRISTLE FIBRE 2 TIE (Rs. /50 Kg) 9,000-10,000 T
CITRUS LEISURE 21,536 6.00 6.10 6.20 6.10 6.20 0.20 BROWNS BEACH 42,255 12.10 13.00 13.00 11.50 11.70 (0.40) 11. COCONUT HUSKS (22.11.2023)
COLD STORES 4,738 44.00 43.60 44.00 43.00 43.30 (0.70) DIALOG FINANCE 2 56.00 55.10 55.10 55.10 56.00 0.00 District Rs/per 1,000 husks
Puttalam 5,000-5,500 Gampaha 3,500-4,500
COLOMBO CITY 7 48.60 51.50 51.50 51.50 48.60 0.00 DISTILLERIES 1,688,742 27.00 27.00 28.00 26.80 27.80 0.80 Matara 3,500-4,500 Kurunegala 3,500-4,500
COLOMBO LAND 150 19.70 19.70 19.70 19.70 19.70 0.00 EDEN HOTEL LANKA 16,756 10.70 10.50 10.80 10.50 10.60 (0.10) Coir Fibre (Moisture is more than 50%) Rs/Kg 7.50
COMMERCIAL BANK 92,562 89.90 90.80 92.50 90.20 90.90 1.00 HAPUGASTENNE 1 31.80 30.80 30.80 30.80 31.80 0.00 Coir Fibre (Moisture is 40%-50% Rs/Kg 8.00
COMMERCIAL BANK [COMB.X0000]89,010 76.60 78.00 79.50 77.00 78.00 1.40 HUNAS HOLDINGS 1,144 26.20 26.00 26.70 26.00 26.70 0.50 Coir Fibre (Moisture is 30%-40% Rs/Kg 10.00
DANKOTUWA PORCEL 4,309 21.40 22.00 22.00 21.00 21.10 (0.30) JAT HOLDINGS 22,671 15.00 15.40 15.50 15.10 15.10 0.10 Coir Fibre (Moisture is 20%-30% Rs/Kg 11.00
Coir Fibre (Moisture is 10%-20% Rs/Kg 12.00
DFCC BANK PLC 76,689 83.50 82.80 84.50 81.20 81.30 (2.20) KOTMALE HOLDINGS 15 418.25 449.00 449.00 444.75 418.25 0.00 Coir Fibre (Moisture is less than 10% Rs/Kg 15.00
DIALOG 89,512 9.00 9.00 9.20 9.00 9.10 0.10 LOLC FINANCE 468,506 4.70 4.70 4.80 4.60 4.80 0.10
DIPPED PRODUCTS 144,472 28.80 28.90 28.90 28.00 28.10 (0.70) MADULSIMA 1,310 11.00 10.60 10.70 10.60 10.60 (0.40) 12. COCONUT SHELL (Rs./MT) 26,000-28,000 T
DOCKYARD 12,066 52.30 52.70 52.70 49.00 50.00 (2.30) ODEL PLC 10 14.90 14.90 14.90 14.90 14.90 0.00 13. COCONUT SHELL CHARCOAL (Rs/MT) (17.11.2023-23.11.2023)
DOLPHIN HOTELS 1,335 33.10 32.40 34.70 32.40 33.10 0.00 ORIENT FINANCE 3,780 8.40 8.40 8.90 8.40 8.90 0.50 Moisture-12%, Dust 3% 100,000 – 103,000 T
14. COCONUT EKELS (Rs/MT) 65,000-75,000 T
DURDANS 13 125.00 126.00 130.00 126.00 125.00 0.00 SINGER SRI LANKA 16,786 14.00 13.60 13.60 13.00 13.10 (0.90)
DURDANS [CHL.X0000] 5 104.00 104.50 104.50 104.50 104.00 0.00 SLT 41,038 100.25 100.00 101.00 99.50 99.70 (0.55) T – Traded N – Nominal (Courtesy: Coconut Development Authority)
E B CREASY 9,759 22.90 22.80 23.50 22.50 22.90 0.00 SOFTLOGIC FIN 1,789 5.90 5.90 6.20 5.90 6.10 0.20
EAST WEST 15,904 7.50 7.70 7.90 7.70 7.90 0.40 TRANS ASIA 1 39.40 40.00 40.00 40.00 39.40 0.00
EASTERN MERCHANT 71,315 7.00 7.10 7.10 6.80 6.90 (0.10) UDAPUSSELLAWA 18,113 67.00 71.00 71.00 61.00 70.00 3.00
EX-PACK XD 108,213 12.60 12.70 12.80 12.60 12.60 0.00
EXPOLANKA 73,820 132.25 132.00 134.50 130.50 132.00 (0.25) EMPOWER BOARD
FORT LAND 272,320 27.10 27.30 27.50 27.30 27.50 0.40 ALPHA FIRE 4,600 37.00 37.00 37.00 36.00 36.00 (1.00)
GALLE FACE CAP 18,268 28.40 29.50 29.50 27.50 28.00 (0.40) CHRISSWORLD 1,900 9.30 9.30 9.30 9.00 9.00 (0.30) 04.12.2023
GESTETNER 400 103.00 103.00 103.00 96.00 102.25 (0.75) EML CONSULTANTS 16,101 3.40 3.50 3.50 3.40 3.50 0.10
GRAIN ELEVATORS 125,829 168.00 169.75 174.00 169.00 172.75 4.75 (1) Average rates of the following currencies quoted by
licensed banks in Colombo for Telegraphic Transfers
HAYCARB 12,880 63.30 63.40 63.80 62.90 63.10 (0.20) DIRI SAVI BOARD (TT) at 9.30 a.m. are as follows.
HAYLEYS 186,072 75.00 75.00 75.50 74.70 74.70 (0.30) AGARAPATANA 258,301 7.50 7.50 7.90 7.50 7.80 0.30
HAYLEYS FABRIC 156,398 41.50 41.80 41.90 41.00 41.10 (0.40) AGSTAR PLC 141,380 8.50 8.50 8.50 8.30 8.30 (0.20) CURRENCY BUYING RATE SELLING RATE
HAYLEYS FIBRE 407 52.00 51.50 53.00 51.50 53.00 1.00 ALUMEX PLC 31,466 8.60 8.70 8.70 8.50 8.60 0.00
HAYLEYS LEISURE 2,000 21.00 21.40 21.50 21.40 21.50 0.50 AMANA LIFE 1,363 33.60 32.50 32.50 32.50 32.50 (1.10) Australian Dollar 213.6751 224.0859
HDFC 1,372 33.50 32.10 34.50 32.10 32.60 (0.90) AMANA TAKAFUL 1,000 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 12.00 0.00 Canadian Dollar 237.3796 248.0097
HELA 210,199 5.70 5.70 5.80 5.60 5.60 (0.10) AMBEON HOLDINGS 1 35.00 33.80 33.80 33.80 35.00 0.00 Chinese Yuan (Renminbi) 44.3934 47.3081
HEMAS HOLDINGS XD 186,711 71.10 70.60 71.50 70.60 70.70 (0.40) AMF CO LTD 59,840 11.90 12.00 12.10 11.60 12.10 0.20 Euro 349.6210 364.0347
Japanese Yen 2.1946 2.2831
HNB 161,588 170.00 170.00 172.00 169.00 170.00 0.00 ASIA SIYAKA XD 45,860 4.20 4.10 4.20 4.00 4.20 0.00
Singapore Dollar 240.5772 251.2087
HNB ASSURANCE 567 52.10 51.70 51.70 51.30 51.60 (0.50) BANSEI RESORTS 2,019 12.40 12.30 12.40 11.00 12.20 (0.20) Sterling Pound 408.1103 423.8298
HNB [HNB.X0000] 25,514 143.00 143.25 147.25 143.25 145.00 2.00 BERUWALA RESORTS 1,019,394 1.20 1.00 1.30 1.00 1.20 0.00 Swiss Franc 368.1564 385.8938
HORANA 4,006 39.00 40.60 40.60 38.70 39.30 0.30 BOGALA GRAPHITE 1,102 49.50 50.00 50.50 49.90 50.40 0.90 US Dollar 322.8933 333.3213
HOTEL SIGIRIYA 95,371 53.80 53.90 58.00 53.90 56.20 2.40 BOGAWANTALAWA 34 38.50 39.10 39.10 36.50 38.50 0.00
HOTELS CORP. 10,225 20.70 20.90 20.90 19.90 20.10 (0.60) BPPL HOLDINGS 45 20.00 20.20 20.20 20.20 20.00 0.00 (2) Approximate exchange rates of GULF Currencies
HUNTERS 14 655.00 650.00 650.00 650.00 655.00 0.00 BROWNS 3,931 102.75 103.75 106.00 103.50 104.25 1.50 based on previous day’s market weighted averagerate
INDUSTRIAL ASPH. 229,081 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.20 0.30 0.00 BROWNS INVSTMNTS 1,671,063 4.90 4.90 5.00 4.80 4.90 0.00 for the US dollar are as follows.
JKH XD 100,703 192.25 190.25 193.00 190.00 191.75 (0.50) C T LAND 4 24.50 25.70 25.70 25.70 24.50 0.00
COUNTRY CURRENCY INDICATIVE RATE
KANDY HOTELS 1,421 8.50 9.00 9.00 8.80 8.80 0.30 C.W.MACKIE 2,057 86.10 86.30 86.30 86.10 86.30 0.20
KAPRUKA 45,667 7.00 7.20 7.70 6.90 7.40 0.40 CALT 264,608 65.70 65.80 65.80 61.60 62.70 (3.00) Bahrain Bahrain Dinar 870.9079
KEGALLE 7,860 118.50 118.50 118.75 118.00 118.50 0.00 CEYLON BEVERAGE 1 1,227.00 1,208.00 1,208.00 1,208.00 1,227.00 0.00 Kuwait Kuwait Dinar 1,062.2616
KELANI CABLES 220 255.50 260.00 260.00 259.00 260.00 4.50 CEYLON TEA BRKRS 40,173 4.40 4.30 4.30 4.30 4.30 (0.10) Oman Oman Rial 851.9394
KELANI TYRES 2,268 63.50 65.00 65.00 64.00 64.00 0.50 CFI 490 59.50 60.00 60.00 60.00 60.00 0.50 Qatar Qatar Riyal 89.9646
KELANI VALLEY 1,493 74.00 73.50 75.00 73.00 73.10 (0.90) CIT 24 100.00 98.20 98.20 98.10 100.00 0.00 Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabian Riyal 87.4286
KINGSBURY 19,440 10.90 11.00 11.50 10.60 10.70 (0.20) CITRUS HIKKADUWA 5,035 5.00 5.10 5.10 5.00 5.00 0.00 UAE UAE Dirham 89.3081
KOTAGALA 101,274 5.70 5.70 5.80 5.60 5.70 0.00 CITRUS WASKADUWA 50,950 2.60 2.60 2.60 2.50 2.60 0.00
(3) The Average Weighted Prime Lending Rate (AWPR)
L O L C HOLDINGS 5,082 366.75 370.25 380.50 370.25 379.00 12.25 COM.CREDIT 108,598 31.80 32.50 32.50 31.50 31.50 (0.30) and the Lowest Prime Rate (LPR) during the week
LAKE HOUSE PRIN. 6 166.00 169.75 169.75 169.75 166.00 0.00 COMMERCIAL DEV. 237 112.00 111.50 112.00 108.75 110.00 (2.00) ended 01-Dec-2023, by all commercial banks were
LANKA ALUMINIUM 14,700 17.10 17.90 17.90 17.10 17.20 0.10 COOP INSURANCE 48,938 2.60 2.60 2.60 2.50 2.50 (0.10) 13.03 percent and 11.00 percent, respectively.
LANKA ASHOK 3 749.50 676.25 676.25 676.25 749.50 0.00 DILMAH CEYLON 53 1,000.00 1,000.00 1,009.00 1,000.00 1,000.00 0.00
LANKA HOSPITALS 15,665 128.75 129.00 130.00 126.25 126.25 (2.50) E - CHANNELLING 131,153 15.70 15.50 16.00 15.50 15.80 0.10 (4) The Average Weighted Deposit Rate (AWDR) of
LANKA IOC 487,652 103.00 103.75 106.25 103.75 106.00 3.00 ELPITIYA 5 82.10 83.80 83.80 83.80 82.10 0.00 commercial banks for the month of November-2023
LANKA REALTY 12,447 10.30 10.40 10.90 10.30 10.30 0.00 EXTERMINATORS 970 8.30 8.30 8.40 7.20 7.90 (0.40) was 12.11 percent.
LANKA TILES 11,472 44.20 44.80 45.00 44.10 44.20 0.00 FC TREASURIES 113,292 27.20 27.20 27.70 26.80 26.90 (0.30)
LANKA VENTURES 3,923 34.00 34.00 39.50 34.00 39.00 5.00 FIRST CAPITAL 59,959 32.10 32.50 32.50 31.40 31.70 (0.40)
LANKA WALLTILE 62,067 45.30 45.90 46.00 45.00 45.10 (0.20) GALADARI 108,670 17.10 17.00 17.00 16.60 16.60 (0.50)
LANKEM DEV. 147,151 19.50 19.90 21.00 19.40 20.80 1.30 HATTON 32,395 28.50 28.50 29.00 28.50 29.00 0.50
LAUGFS GAS [LGL.X0000]
LAXAPANA
LB FINANCE
2,600
167,919
23,843
23.40
14.40
64.80
23.00
14.50
64.60
23.50
15.00
68.50
22.10
14.50
64.00
23.00
15.00
64.10
(0.40)
0.60
(0.70)
HNB FINANCE
HNB FINANCE [HNBF-X-0000]
HVA FOODS
154,125
264
7,532
5.00
4.70
3.90
5.00
4.90
3.90
5.20
4.90
4.00
5.00
4.90
3.90
5.00
4.90
4.00
0.00
0.20
0.10
SriLankan introduces... From Page 11

LION BREWERY XD 1 895.75 923.50 923.50 923.50 895.75 0.00 JANASHAKTHI INS. 6,320 40.00 41.10 42.00 41.10 41.20 1.20 India is the only country with nine cities
LMF 197,616 220.75 221.75 232.00 221.25 230.00 9.25 JETWING SYMPHONY 6,482 9.00 9.00 9.10 8.90 8.90 (0.10) featured in SriLankan Airlines’ network. This
LVL ENERGY 31,401 5.60 5.90 6.10 5.60 5.90 0.30 JOHN KEELLS 61 64.00 64.00 64.00 63.80 64.00 0.00 includes Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi,
MALWATTE 160 59.00 59.00 59.00 59.00 59.00 0.00 KAHAWATTE 11 16.90 17.00 17.00 16.70 16.90 0.00
MALWATTE [MAL.X0000] 1,100 38.00 31.60 37.90 31.60 37.90 (0.10) KEELLS HOTELS 33,158 19.50 19.70 19.70 19.00 19.20 (0.30)
Trivandrum, Chennai, Trichy and Madurai in
MELSTACORP XD 347,327 79.50 80.20 80.50 79.60 80.20 0.70 LANKA CERAMIC 12 99.90 97.00 100.00 97.00 99.90 0.00 addition to Mumbai, to which altogether
MULLERS 6,000 1.10 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 (0.10) LANKEM CEYLON 1,022 62.90 62.00 63.40 61.40 61.80 (1.10) SriLankan operates close to 100 flights every
NAMUNUKULA 1,430 348.75 350.00 352.00 350.00 350.00 1.25 LAUGFS POWER [LPL-X-0000] 1,115 6.60 6.60 6.60 6.50 6.50 (0.10) week.
NAT. DEV. BANK 206,116 69.80 70.90 71.50 69.40 69.50 (0.30) LCB FINANCE PLC 1,032,262 1.80 1.90 1.90 1.70 1.80 0.00
NATIONS TRUST 401,046 107.25 108.75 110.00 107.50 108.25 1.00 LOLC GENERAL INS 28,279 5.90 5.80 6.00 5.70 5.70 (0.20)
Given the geographic and cultural proximi-
NATIONS TRUST [NTB-X-0000] 92 99.80 107.75 107.75 96.00 99.80 0.00 LOTUS HYDRO 15,401 8.60 8.50 8.80 8.50 8.80 0.20 ty of the two countries, most Indians are likely
PAN ASIA 455,182 19.30 19.50 19.80 19.10 19.10 (0.20) MAHAWELI COCONUT 40,316 25.90 25.90 26.80 23.00 24.30 (1.60) to find a welcoming familiarity in Sri Lanka
PANASIAN POWER 15,028 3.20 3.20 3.20 3.10 3.10 (0.10) MAHAWELI REACH 46 12.80 13.30 13.30 13.30 12.80 0.00 not found elsewhere, and SriLankan Airlines is
PEOPLE’S INS 7,501 23.50 23.40 23.50 23.10 23.40 (0.10) MARAWILA RESORTS 663,919 2.70 2.60 2.70 2.60 2.70 0.00
PEOPLES LEASING 161,771 10.60 10.70 10.70 10.50 10.50 (0.10) MASKELIYA 10,095 31.70 32.70 32.70 31.70 31.70 0.00
the best bet for Indians who want to experi-
PGP GLASS 5,432 25.80 25.30 26.00 25.00 25.20 (0.60) MERCHANT BANK 165 4.90 4.90 4.90 4.90 4.90 0.00 ence the best of both worlds onboard. SriLan-
PRINTCARE PLC 1,403 49.00 49.00 49.10 48.70 49.00 0.00 MILLENNIUM HOUSE 48 3.10 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.10 0.00 kan Airlines’ outstanding service in the region
R I L PROPERTY 145,517 5.00 5.00 5.20 5.00 5.10 0.10 MYLAND 166 9.00 8.90 9.00 8.90 8.90 (0.10) was recently recognized at the South Asian
RADIANT GEMS 3,456 76.00 74.10 79.30 71.50 78.50 2.50 NUWARA ELIYA 99 1,750.00 1,748.75 1,750.00 1,748.75 1,750.00 0.00
RENUKA AGRI 101,570 4.10 4.10 4.10 3.90 3.90 (0.20) OVERSEAS REALTY 4,337 15.50 15.50 15.70 15.50 15.60 0.10
Travel Awards (SATA) in Bangalore, India,
RENUKA CITY HOT. 2 344.50 358.75 358.75 358.75 344.50 0.00 PALM GARDEN HOTL 396 41.00 41.00 42.20 40.60 41.10 0.10 where the airline was crowned the Leading
RENUKA FOODS 99 17.00 18.40 18.40 16.90 17.00 0.00 PEGASUS HOTELS 2,011 23.50 22.50 23.40 22.00 22.30 (1.20) International Airline - South Asiaand Leading
RENUKA HOLDINGS 3,806 12.90 12.90 13.50 12.70 12.70 (0.20) PEOPLE’S MERCH 24 4.80 4.80 4.80 4.80 4.80 0.00 Airline Class- Business Class.
 BUSINESS 13
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

Super King Detergent awarded best antigerm and

cleaning product brand of the year at LB Awards
Super King Detergent Com-
pany, a trending newcomer to
the antigerm and cleaning
product industry, was recently
honoured as the best antigerm
and cleaning product brand of
the year at the Lanka Business
Awards 2023.
The event, organised by the
Business World International
Organization (BWIO) was
held at the Taj Samudra Hotel
in Colombo. Managing Direc-
tor of Super King Detergent Managing Director of Super King Detergent Company,
Company, Ramasami Ramasami Siwasankar receiving the award
Siwasankar received the pres- through the adherence to ragama using Super King
tigious award. highest quality standards and Detergent products is a testi-
Founded in 2017, Super their exciting product range. mony to their highest quality
King Detergent Company The National Hospital of Sri standards. Super King prod-
soon became a leading brand Lanka (NHSL) in Colombo ucts have been certified by
in the industry with utmost and National Cancer Institute the Industrial Technology
customer recognition earned (Apeksha Hospital) in Maha- Institute (ITI).

Leeds Colombo Campus to unveil with

many firsts and unique courses soon
Creating a revo- be situated at Duplication Road with all the
lution in the uni- state of the art facilities including smart class-
versity landscape es and NVQ certification and will consist of 4
in Sri Lanka Leeds faculties, Teacher Training, English, Caregiver
Colombo Campus and Fashion & Management Faculty.
with many first and Weliwatta added that the Leeds Colombo
novel courses is set Campus has a team of highly acclaimed pro-
to unveil in 2024. fessors and educationists to offer the highest
In the startup quality courses to the public.
stage Leeds Colom-
bo Campus will
introduce new one
year diploma cours-
es in teacher train-
ing for English GOVERNMENT OF THE DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST MINISTRY OF TRADE, COMMERCE AND
Jaliya Weliwatta medium teachers
which will have
REPUBLIC OF SRI LANKA FOOD SECURITY
international recognition. The diploma will MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT & HIGHWAYS
cover teaching technology, classroom manage-
ment and first aid methodology, child psychol-
ogy, 21st century early childhood education
ROAD DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
and digital technology in education for pri-
mary and secondary teachers. The basic entry INVITATION FOR BIDS
level for these diplomas is GCE -Advanced
Level. School and university leavers too could
join the course.
Contract Name
Construction of Concrete Road for Church Road - Sampalthivu (Section - 01)
CWE CONSTRUCTION AND
ENGINEERING (PVT) LTD.
In addition, there will be English, Caregiv-
ers and Fashion Design & Management and Construction of Concrete Road for Church Road - Sampalthivu (Section - 02)
diploma in strength and conditioning in sports
Construction of Concrete Road for Solayadi Main Road, Uppuveli (Section - 01)
courses with focus in foreign jobs. The Eng-
lish courses will target the corporate sector Construction of Concrete Road for Solayadi Main Road, Uppuveli (Section - 02)
and for those going overseas under unskilled
Construction of Concrete Road for Varothaya Nagar Internal Road (Section - 01)
REGISTRATION OF CONTRACTORS &
labour category and need to have knowledge
of basic practical English. They will be
offered a 100-hour one-month special training
Construction of Concrete Road for Varothaya Nagar Internal Road (Section - 02) SUPPLIERS FOR THE YEAR 2023/2024
course in Basic English. The Corporate sector Construction of Concrete Road for Varothaya Nagar Internal Road (Section - 03)
training course will include leadership training Construction of Concrete Road for Ammankovil Road, Aththimoddai (Section - 01) Applications are invited from local Manufacturers, Contractors, Suppliers
and communication skills. and Importers or Accredited Agents who wish to register with CWE
The Caregiver course will be accredited Construction of Concrete Road for Ananthapuri 3rd & 4th Lane (Section - 01)
Construction & Engineering (Pvt) Ltd. for the supply of following Goods
with the Tertiary and Vocational Education Construction of Concrete Road for Ananthapuri 3rd & 4th Lane (Section - 02)
Commission (TVEC). The Fashion Design & and Services for the year 2023/2024.
Management Course will be offered as per the Construction of Concrete Road for Ananthapuri 3rd & 4th Lane (Section - 03)
requirements of a major retail chain company Suppliers & Services
in Sri Lanka. Bids are hereby invited for above works under the National Competitive Bidding
With the UK based qualification offered by procedure. Interested bidders are requested to refer the RDA and Ministry of � Building Construction / repairs & Renovations
Leeds Colombo Campus , teachers can go for Highways Web Page on www.rda.gov.lk from 05.12.2023 to 14.12.2023. � Electrical Work - Contracts
overseas employment without having to sit for
any other examinations held in foreign coun- � Refrigerators, Deep Freezers & Bottle Coolers, including maintenance
tries, Jaliya Weliwatta, CEO, Director Leeds � Air-conditioning Units including Maintenance
Colombo Campus said. He said they plan to
collaborate with a few universities in the UK
INVITATION FOR REGISTRATION OF � Racking Systems, Counters, etc. (for Supermarkets)
and Australia. Weliwatta said the campus will MAINTENANCE CONTRACTORS FOR � Generators
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE & SERVICES OF � Digital Sign Boards, including installation (Name Boards, Pylon, etc.)
WGSWD&EIP/ACQ/KB/49 � Supermarket equipment
Land Min. Ref. No. PABX SYSTEM IN THE NATIONAL EYE HOSPITAL
� Interior work and carpeting
4/3/10/2019/LRB/250
AT COLOMBO 10
Weras Ganga Storm Water
Drainage and Environment FOR THE YEAR 2024 / 2025 Office Equipment & Other Services
Improvement Project,
� IT related software & equipment
No. 03, Sri Jayawardenapura 1. The Chairman, Department Procurement Committee invites sealed bids
Mawatha, Welikada, Rajagiriya. � Furniture (Steel / Wooden)
from eligible and qualified Applicants for "Registration of Maintenance
� Weighing Scales / Weigh Bridges
NOTICE UNDER SECTION 7 Contractors for Preventive & Corrective Maintenance & Services of
� Labeling Machines
PABX System" in the National Eye Hospital at Colombo 10, for the year
LAND ACQUISITION ACT 2024 / 2025 as described below. � Shopping Baskets Safes
(CHAPTER 460) � Shopping bags
2. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding
The inquiry for ownership and compensations � Hiring of vehicles for Office transport.
(NCB) method.
under Section 9 of the Land Acquisition Act � Stationery for office use.
regarding the lands described below which 3. To be eligible for contract award, the successful bidder shall not have been
have been acquired to the Government is � Engineering and Architectural Consultants,
blacklisted and the bidder shall be incorporated under Companies Act No.
scheduled to be held from 28.12.2023.
For more details, please see the Gazette 7 of 2007. Points to note
No. 2359/58 dated 24.11.2023 of the 4. Interested bidders may obtain further information from The Director,
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
• Contractors & Suppliers who wish to register themselves for the
National Eye Hospital, Colombo 10 on working days between 9.00 a.m. above supply and / or services may do so by obtaining the relevant
Schedule and 2.30 p.m. from the address given below. Application Form from the office of CWE Construction & Engineering
01. Province : Western (Pvt) Ltd. located at the CWE: Secretariat Building, 6th Floor, No.
5. A Complete set of bidding documents in English language may be 27, Vauxhall Street, Colombo 02, by making a non-refundable fee of
02. District : Colombo
03. D/S Division : Kesbewa purchased by interested eligible bidders from the Director, National Eye Rs. 5,000.00 per Application. The method of payments shall be by
04. Location : Within the Urban Hospital, Colombo 10, on working days between 9.30 a.m. and 3.00 p.m. cash deposits to CWE Construction and Engineering (Pvt) Ltd. Bank
Council Limit of up to 26.12.2023 on submission of a written request to the address below of Ceylon Account No. 0073263950
Boralesgamuwa and upon payment of a non-refundable fee of Rs. 1,000.00.
05. Village : Divulpitiya • The Contractor / Supplier shall bring the bank deposit slip along
06. Cadastral Map No. : Sheet No.01 of 6. The bid shall be valid for 49 days period. with a copy of Business Registration Certificate and a request letter
Block No.06 in on working days from 9.30 am. to 2.00 p.m.
7. Bids must be delivered to the address below, at or before 1.30 p.m. on
Cadastral Map
521214 27.12.2023. All bids must accompany a Bid Security issued by a reputable • The Management reserves the right to award the contract and / or
07. Name of the Land : Evelakumbura bank in Sri Lanka, approved by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, amouting place the order with Contractors or Suppliers who have not been
08. Lot Numbers : 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, to LKR 20,000.00, for the validity period of 77 days. Late bids will be registered with CWE Construction and Engineering (Pvt) Ltd. under
11, 12 and 13 rejected. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders' representatives the special circumstances and also to entertain applications for late
who choose to attend at the address below, immediately after the time registration.
Acquiring Officer,
Weras Ganga Storm Water Drainage mentioned above.
& Environment Improvement
Applications would be closed on 31-01-2024
Project, 8. The address referred to above is :
Chairman
Divisional Secretary's Division - CWE Construction & Engineering (Pvt) Ltd,
The Director,
Kesbewa
National Eye Hospital, CWE Secretariat Building,
Weras Ganga Storm Water Drainage & Rev. Baddegama Wimalawansa Thero Mawatha, 6th Floor,
Environment Improvement Project, Colombo 10. No. 27, Vauxhall Street,
No. 03, Sri Jayawardenapura Mawatha, Colombo 02.
Welikada, Rajagiriya. Contact - 0112693911 - 15
Fax - 0112698285 Tel : 0112307831
14.11.2023
 14 BUSINESS T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

NEWS

HNBGI Celebrates Excellence, Efficiency

and Empowerment at Annual Staff Conference
HNB General Insurance
Limited recently concluded
its Annual Staff Conference, a
gala event that recognized and
celebrated the outstanding
contributions of its work-
force.
The conference, themed
“Believe, Achieve, Conquer”
was held at Water’s Edge,
Colombo, brought together
employees, the management
and board of directors to Highlights from the HNBGI Annual Staff Conference
acknowledge and applaud the
achievements of their staff ence also featured a special exceptional efficiency and built on the efforts and hard these awards handed out
across various categories. segment on acknowledging cost-saving measures, with work of our employees. today will Inspire all the The CEO of HNBGI, mitment to excellence. load that goes behind the
The highlight of the event long-standing employees, rec- the presentation of the Lean Hence, I think it is very teams to continue to Improve Sithumina Jayasundara, also Therefore, today is all about successful operation of an
was the presentation of the ognizing their loyalty and Awards. important and equally an and Innovate, solidifying our shared his thoughts on the celebrating and recognizing o rg a n i z a t i o n . e x t r e m e l y
Chairperson’s Award, a one- dedication that has played a Rose Cooray, Chairperson honor to recognize and appre- position as a truly Innovative company’s annual conference our people who contribute proud of this team and I am
time honorary accolade for pivotal role in the company’s of HNBGI, expressed her ciate everyone for their com- general Insurance services and the importance of foster- towards propelling us for- certain with this kind of
excellence that recognizes success over the years. gratitude and admiration for mitment and significant con- provider In the market. Lastly, ing a culture of recognition ward as an organization spirit and passion HNBGI
exceptional individuals who Further, the event shone a the remarkable efforts of the tributions. “HNBGI is a rela- let me congratulate all the and inspiration. driving us towards that goal. will continue to raise the bar
embody the core values and spotlight on individuals and entire team. “It is no secret tively young company with winners, we are Indeed proud “Over the years we have Events like this help high- and set new standards in our
vision of HNBGI. The confer- teams who demonstrated that at HNBGI, our success is great potential so I am certain of your achievements.” been steadfast in our com- light the enormous work- industry.”

Earthfoam shines at Presidential Export Awards

Best exporter in the lifestyle products category
Earthfoam Private Limit-
ed, the leading natural latex-
based mattress, topper, and
pillow manufacturer and
exporter in the country, was
recognised as the ‘Best
Exporter’ in the lifestyle
products category at the Pres-
idential Export Awards -
2022/23.
The Presidential Export
Awards, a prestigious award
ceremony held to recognise
local exporters” outstanding
contribution to the export sec-
tor and country’s economic
development, was recently
held in Colombo under the
patronage of the President
Ranil Wickremesinghe.
Earthfoam Managing
Director Januka Karunasena
received the award. Founded
in 2022 Earthfoam is manu-
facturing mattresses, toppers,
and pillows using 100% natu-
ral rubber, and exporting their
products to all parts of the
world including the United
Earthfoam Managing Director Januka Karunasena
receiving the award
States and Canada. They use
their own recipe and highly
specialised equipment to cre-
ate latex foam that is consist-
ent, comfortable, safe, and
durable.
Natural rubber being the
main raw material (95%),
high quality rubber is para-
mount important to the quali-
ty of Earthfoam. As the exist-
ing supply chain is surround-
ed by various issues, Earth-
foam has spent the last several
years building their own trade
network of over 500 organic
rubber tree farms, the largest
in Sri Lanka. Each of these
rubber tree farms is Global
Organic Latex Standard
(GOLS) certified and elimi-
nates the use of chemicals in
farming, and boosts the biodi-
versity of the forests. Earth-
foam currently sources rubber
form from about 10,000 acres
in the country for both natural
and organic forms. The com-
pany is also the world’s first
Fair for Life certified fair
trade program for rubber con-
centrate and engages in much
needed improvements of tap-
pers wellbeing. Life Insur-
ance covers to tappers, educa-
tion support for kids, projects
on community development,
empowerments worth over Rs
50 million per year benefits
all organic farmers and tap-
pers attached to the program.
Earthfoam owns a state-of-
the-art factory complex in
Horana, and makes sure that
their much-asked-for prod-
ucts do not contain any fillers
or synthetic latex. Over the
past, they have been honoured
with many local and interna-
tional awards and quality cer-
tifications. Global Organic
Textile Standard (GOTS),
Oeko-Tex Standard 100,
GOLS, and Fair for Life are
some of such certifications.
GroupM Sri Lanka creates history, wins 4 top honours
at Campaign Asia Agency of the Year Awards
GroupM, aglobal leader in media
investment management, yet again
marked its influential two-decade
plus presence in Sri Lanka’s media
industry, securing the top honors
across Media & Digital at the highly
coveted Campaign’s Agency of the
Year awards for the year 2023.
The Campaign’s Agency of the
Year awards acknowledges inspira-
tional leadership, managerial excel-
lence, exceptional business perfor-
mance, and overall accomplish- mance resulted in the total of four has won 3 Golds and 2 Silvers in the
ments in the realms of advertising category topping Silver awards, Digital Agency of the Year Category,
and brand communications. Distin- across Media & Digital. This marking a winning streak that is
guished by results meticulously accomplishment is unprecedented, unmatched. In 2023 we raised the
tabulated by PwC, this singular representing the first time in history bar further and created history by
award show stands out as the sole that a Sri Lankan agency group has winning with 2 agency brands in
platform honoring agency excel- achieved such recognition. one year.”
lence across various dimensions of GroupM Sri Lanka Managing A WPP company, GroupM stands
agency operations, encompassing Partner Namalie Herath said, “It is as the holding company overseeing
Client Work, Talent Management, not just an accolade, it is a reflec- agencies Mindshare, Wavemaker,
Culture, Innovation, Business Resil- tion of our commitment to pushing EssenceMediacom, Motivator, and
ience, and more. boundaries, embracing change and m/SIX, boasting a noteworthy two-
GroupM Sri Lanka achieved a consistently delivering excellence in decade plus presence in Sri Lanka’s
historic feat in the key categories of the dynamic landscape of media and media industry.
Rest of South Asia: Digital Agency digital marketing. This historic win In addition to its core agencies,
of The Year and Rest of South Asia: is a stepping stone for even greater GroupM’s specialized units,
Media Agency of The Year. Both of accomplishments, and we are excit- GroupM Digital, GroupM Invest-
GroupM’s agency brands, Mind- ed about the limitless possibilities ment, and GroupM ESP, have

Marlbo Trading Company year-end sale from Dec. 7 to 9

share and Wavemaker, earned a Sil- that lie ahead for GroupM.” expanded their service offerings to
ver award each in both categories GroupM Sri Lanka Vice Presi- remain pertinent to evolving market
which were the highest honours dent, Digital–Shalendra Mendis conditions and consumer prefer-
awarded. This exceptional perfor- said, “In the last 5 years, GroupM ences.

Sithma Associates wins gold at

Marlbo Trading Company, a trusted
distributor of Measuring Instruments,
Machinery & Tools, Energy Equipment,
Industrial Safety Products and Equip-
ment from all over the world, will hold
their much awaited Year-End Sale from
December 7 to 9 at their flagship store in
Abdul Gaffoor Mawatha Kollupitiya.
“This would be the last chance for
customers to purchase equipment before
the new taxes are implemented from
next year,” an official from Marlbo Trad-
ing Company said. The event will once
again be wrapped with several new fea-
tures as well as the industry’s eagerly
awaited trading offer. “Trade-In Offers
and Bundles Offers allow customers to
upgrade equipment and be at par with
modern technology in the world.”
The company taking into considera-
tion the current situation in the country
will also offer a special ‘zero interest free’
scheme for purchases when paying from
Sampath and Commercial bank credit
cards.” In addition to this, Marlbo Trad-
ing Company also offers exclusive dis-
counts of up to 70% for modern prod-
ucts, another feature of the event.
“This to show our commitment to
customers in offering the ‘best of the
best’ in Testing and Measuring Instru-
ments, Industrial Tools & Machinery,
Power and Utility-related Equipments,
Personal Protective Safety Products
& Equipment in the industry at an
affordable price.”
One of the other features would be
‘Live Demonstrations and Knowledge
Sharing sessions’ with Marlbo Trading
Company’s highly trained and knowl-
edgeable technical team allowing cus-
tomers to gain valuable insights into the
functionality and applications of our pre-
mium products.
“We invite engineers to join us for
specialized knowledge-sharing sessions,
where we delve into the intricacies of our
cutting-edge offerings.” In recognition of
the vital role played by engineers in driv-
ing innovation, Marlbo Trading Compa-
ny extends special offers exclusively for
this esteemed community.
“This is our gesture of appreciation for
their dedication and commitment to
excellence.”
This is the first time that such an
exclusive offer is being introduced for
this segment.
More information could be obtained
from www.buymarlbo.com
National Industrial Excellence Awards
Sithma Associates (Pvt) Limited, a
leading printing and packaging ser-
vice provider in the country,
bagged the Gold Award in the Medi-
um Scale Category at the National
Industrial Excellence Awards
2023 organised by the Industrial
Development Board (IDB).
The Award was received by the
Company’s Managing Director
Harendra Ganewatta, Chief Financial
Officer (CFO) Romesh Eashan and
Head of Sales Diluk Prashad, at a
ceremony held at the Nelum Pokuna
Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre
in Colombo under the patronage of
Managing Director Harendra receiving the award
President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
Established in 1995 as a small Associates include those related to books, calendars, and annual reports.
business entity with only two print- packaging, commercial printing, UV Having been honoured with many
ing machines, Sithma Associates printing, hot stamp foiling, laminat- local and international awards
has currently become a company that ing, window patching, die cutting, throughout the past, Sithma Associ-
strives to promote sustainability, and pasting and finishing. ates has secured several standard cer-
while delivering custom solutions They provide packaging solutions tifications, particularly the ISO
to meet the unique requirements of to a wide range of products including 9001:2015.
their clients. liquor, tea, apparel products, cosmet- The Company is also a member of
The Company features an ever- ics, dairy products, pharmaceutical the Forest Stewardship Council
expanding team of over 100 employ- products, and fast-moving consumer (FSC), and is committed to promot-
ees and strategic partnerships encom- goods (FMCG) items, while their ing responsible forestry practices
passing 500+ prestigious brands. printing-related products include and preserving forests for future gen-
The services provided by Sithma magazines, coffee table books, note- erations.

Inauguration of Taxila Colombo Chapter sets stage for new era

College community. The presence
of both the patron and chairman
of Taxila OPA added a touch of
prestige to the proceedings. Lead-
ing the chapter is Chathura Kris-
hantha from the 95 batch,
the creative mind behind the
renowned Bellose brand. Taxila
Secretary - Madhushan Raigamage (Chairperson, JFS Hold- Central College, a century-old
ings Limited), President -Chathura Krishantha, (Chairman - institution, can trace its origins
Bellose Lanka (Private) Limited), Niluka Weerasinghe -Prin- back to the founding of Horana
cipal of Taxila Central College and Patron to Taxila OPA Buddhist English School in 1905.
Under the patronage of Minis-
The much-anticipated inaugu- on November 17 at Monarch ter of Education C. W. W. Kan-
ration of the Taxila Colombo Imperial, serving as a momentous nangara, Taxila Buddhist English
Chapter took place with elegance reunion for the Taxila Central School evolved into Taxila Cen-
tral College on June 6, 1946. The
school takes pride in essential
facilities such as a spacious play-
ground, a well-equipped labora-
tory, a swimming pool, and a
hostel accommodating 200 stu-
dents. Renowned for both its
sporting achievements and aca-
demic excellence, Taxila Central
College has consistently achieved
outstanding results in public
examinations, boasting over a
99% success rate in G.C.E. (O/L)
examinations since 1996. It is
noteworthy to mention that high-
net-worth individuals such as
Dhammika Perera, Dr. Ravi
Liyanage, - Chairman of Raigam
Group, and MDPS Kularathna -
Chairman of MDK Group, count
among the esteemed alumni of the
college. Today, as the school cel-
ebrates 75 years of academic
achievement, it
boasts over 3700 students, an
academic staff of approximately
190, and more than 50 non-aca-
demic personnel. In the midst of
this celebratory atmosphere, a sig-
nificant announcement is the
planning of the first-ever annual
dinner at Monarch Imperial on
July 27, 2024. This event is not
just about festivities but repre-
sents a collective effort to bring
together top-notch talents scat-
tered from Horana to Colombo
and beyond.
The clear goal is to elevate the
school to the next level. It is
believed that the support of a
strong alumni network under-
scores a shared commitment in
advancing the school’s legacy.
As the Taxila community unites
for this groundbreaking event, it
not only celebrates its rich history
but also sets the stage for a future
where the school reaches new
heights with the collective talent
and support of its accomplished
alumni.
Taxila Colombo Chapter invite
all alumni to mark their calendars
and join them at Monarch Impe-
rial on July 27, 2024.
It is noteworthy to mention that
high-net-worth individuals such
as Dhammika Perera, Dr. Ravi
Liyanage - Chairman of Raigam
Group, and MDPS Kularathna -
Chairman of MDK Group, count
among the esteemed alumni of the
college.
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3
SPORTS page 15 DN

Reshan, Sri Lanka’s youngest golf record-holder

SAJEEWA JAYAKODY
At just 15 years old, Reshan
Algama has already etched his
name in golf history, becoming
the youngest golfer to win the Sri
Lanka National Ranking tourna-
ments three times in a single cal-
endar year. Now, the left-handed
golf prodigy sets his sights on the
All India Amateur National Golf
Championship at the Royal Kolka-
ta Golf Club from December 11 to
17, aiming to showcase his skills
on the international stage.
A student preparing for his
Ordinary Level exams at Colombo
International School in May 2024,
Algama dreams of a future as a
professional golfer representing
Sri Lanka in PGA US and Euro-
Reshan Alguama at Royal Colombo Golf Club pean tournaments. His journey in
2023 saw him secure three Nation-
al Ranking Tournament victories,
earning him the prestigious title
of the number one ranked golfer
in Sri Lanka at the remarkable
age of 15.
Algama’s accomplishments
extend beyond national borders.
He achieved the distinction of
becoming the youngest-ever lead-
ing Sri Lankan Amateur, as per
the World Amateur Golf Ranking,
currently holding an impressive
position at 557 globally. His recent
stellar performance in the 14th
Singha Thailand Junior Golf
Championships catapulted him
into the top 500
globally, setting the stage for
even greater achievements.
Hailing from Colombo, Sri
Lanka, Algama is not your typical
teenager. Juggling academics at
the esteemed Colombo Interna-
tional School and a burgeoning
golf career, he embarked on his
golf journey at the tender age of 4.
Algama’s commitment to excel-
lence in both academics and
sports sets him apart as a young
prodigy with a passion for achiev-
ing greatness.
The influence of Algama’s fami-
ly, particularly his coach Jehan de
Saram, who has guided him since
the age of seven, and Sri Lankan
professional player Anura Rohana,
has been instrumental in shaping
his technique and instilling disci-
pline and focus. Grateful for the
unwavering support from the Sri
Lanka Golf Union and the Royal
Colombo Golf Club, Algama rec-
ognizes the importance of his
home course in honing his skills.
Acknowledging the significant
role played by uncles and aunties,
some living overseas, who have
provided essential support,
Algama remains grounded despite
his meteoric rise. His recent vic-
tory in the Sri Lanka Amateur
Ranking tournament at the age of
15, beating senior amateurs, and
two more wins in 2023 mark his-
toric moments in his burgeoning
career.
As Algama prepares for the All
India Amateur National Golf
Championship, with over 120
players from around the world, the
global golfing community eagerly
anticipates witnessing his next
chapter. Following this interna-
tional challenge, Algama will par-
ticipate in the Sri Lanka Junior
Open, a competition he won
effortlessly in his age category last
year.
In conclusion, Reshan Algama
stands as a testament to the power
of dedication, hard work, and a
supportive community. At just 15,
he has not only become one of the
youngest Sri Lankan National
Players but has also left an indeli-
ble mark on the global golfing
stage. As he continues to pursue
his dream of becoming a profes-
sional golfer, Reshan Algama
emerges as a rising star, repre-
senting not only his country but
also the promise of a bright future
for the sport.

AIS dominates Sri Lanka’s rowing

Veteran cricket commentator Premasara to be felicitated
DHAMMIKA RATNAWEERA
Premasara Epasinghe is a
veteran cricket commenta-
tor and senior journalist
considered as an ionic radio
personality in Sri Lanka
The 86 year old veteran
was a cricketer ,teacher ,
Administrator attached to
cricket and Banker well as
leading cricket commenta-
tor.
late Tony Greg the very
popular cricketer and com-
mentator said Premasara
Epasinghe has’ a golden
voice ‘and his ability to
describe the action in the
middle is exceptional .His
contributions to Sunday
Observer and Daily News
as well as Dinamina were
valuable.
The renowned commen-
tator Premasara Epasinghe
will be felicitated at Nalan-
da College’s Malalsekera
Hall on Wednesday, Decem-
ber 6, at 3 pm and all past
test ,one day cricketers,old
boys of Nalanda ,cricket
administrators will grace
this event which is organ-
ised by Nalanda Past Crick-
eters Association headed
by Nihal Pathirage.
Premasara Epasinghe
and his wife Swarna Sama-
raratne live in their home at
Nugegoda they have a son
Bhagya the former
S.Thomas Mt Lavinia open-
er in 1989 and University of
Colombo in the 1990s. He
is currently a Director of
Finance in Canberra, Aus-
tralia. His daughter Apsara
Gunasekera was a Squash
player but Premasara and
his wife Swarna are living
in the country and Pre-
masara is keenly following
Sri Lanka cricket ..He
always believes school
cricket is the platform for
National cricket .
He represented his
school Nalanda at cricket,
thereafter the University,
and his Alma Mater Nalan-
da as a teacher, Master-in-
Charge of cricket, and held
administrative posts in the
Sri Lanka Schools Cricket
Association and Sri Lanka
Cricket
Epasinghe’s more than
50 -year-old experience as a
radio cricket commentator
who has seen many emerg-
ing cricketers, expressed
his views on the present
day school cricket set up
which cannot be classed on
the same level as what it
was some years ago.When
he was at school he was a
wicket keeper batsman
after leaving school he
played for University of Sri
Jayawardenepura and later
joined Bank of Ceylon and
Sampath Bank.
“I personally feel that you
have to pay more emphasis
on youth cricket. If you are
thinking of the future of Sri
Lanka cricket you will have
to fetch them young The
best age is by about 11
years . In the good old days,
may be in the 1980’s we had
these under 11 tourna-
ments and the Masters-in-
Charge and the Coach
instilled discipline, fair play
and guided them on how to
play the game. Today in
limited overs cricket they
try to stop scoring runs
Golden Voice of Sri Lanka Premasara Epasinghe with his
family members
rather than taking wickets
and trying to win by hook
or crook.
Epasinghe said I am the
one who spotted the late
Anura Ranasinghe who was
a fine cricketer. He was
playing cricket at the Kiru-
lapone Park, while I was
going to the ‘pola’ on a
Sunday. He had the natural
instinct. I didn’t know that
he was attending Nalanda
where I was teaching. I got
him down and trained him.
His natural talent was
amazing and I did not want
to correct his batting style.
Then I consulted my coach
the late . Gerry Gooneratne
to have a look at this boy.
He said: ‘Epa’, this is a
future champion and one
advice I could give you is
do not try to meddle with
this boy’s natural ability
and try to build his natural
talent.
In 1969 a Sri Lanka
Under 19 team went on
tour to India under Anan-
dian Mithra Wettimuny
and fared extremely well,
winning the unofficial Test
series and impressed eve-
ryone. Epasinghe was a
member of the Selection
Committee at that time,
and the others were P.M.
Jayatilleke (Chairman,
Thurstan), Edmund Dissa-
nayake (Wesley), Orville
Abeynaike (S. Thomas’),
Angelo Rayer (St.
Joseph’s), A.D. Karunana-
nda (Ananda) and John de
Saram (Royal, Colombo).
The selectors did an excel-
lent job in finding the right
combination. In fact that
was a tour which provided
the base for Sri Lanka
gaining full Test status. It
was an amazing tour for
the youngsters which pro-
duced the first two Test
captains Bandula War-
napura and Duleep Men-
dis.There was no favourit-
ism, I suggested only the
names of Nalandians Ban-
dula Warnapura and Leslie
Narangoda.
The other members of
squad in Asian Junior C’ship quest
the team were Mithra Wet-
timuny (Captain, Ananda), SAJEEWA JAYAKODY and surprising the entire Asian rowing
Asitha Jayaweera (Royal - In the run-up to the upcoming Asian community.
Vice. Captain). Ananda Junior Rowing Championship, Sri Lan- Not stopping at one victory, Shaylon
Jayatilleke (Ananda), Jag- ka’s rowing squad is in the limelight, and his schoolmate Rovynia Wijesekara
ath Fernando (Royal), J. featuring a standout presence from the achieved another milestone by clinching
Thalaysingham (Royal), Asian International School (AIS). Among a bronze medal in the Mixed Double
Bandula Warnapura and the 11 rowers set to represent Sri Lanka Scull category during a competition ear-
Leslie Narangoda (Nalan- in Thailand from December 14 to 18, five lier this year along Thailand’s coastal
da), Rory Inman (St. skilled athletes hail from AIS, marking belt.
Peter’s), Wendel Kelaart, the school’s pioneering role as the first The AIS rowing team, a formidable
Manik de S. Wijeratne (St. international institution to introduce force, includes two female rowers, Nethu-
Joseph’s), Duleep Mendis rowing in Sri Lanka. ki Senanayake and Rovinya Wijesekera,
(St. Sebastian’s), Ajith de Adding to the significance, both the along with three male oarsmen, Shaylon
Silva (Dharmasoka), Pri- boys’ and girls’ teams for Sri Lanka will Gunaratna, Venuk Panduwawala, and
yantha Jayasekera (Prince be led by AIS rowers. Shaylon Gunaratne Shivendra Goonewardene. Together,
of Wales) Diyanesh Raja- will captain the boys’ team, while Rovynia they are poised to row with pride for
ratnam (Thurstan) and Wijesekera takes charge of the girls’ their nation in this mega event featuring
Ajith Mendis. . ., Nalanda team. 12 strong rowing nations, including pow-
has produced dozens of Shaylon Gunaratne is making waves in erhouses like China, Japan, Indonesia,
cricketers because it had a Sri Lanka’s sports scene, earning a gold Iran, and India.
good base, especially jun- medal in the Single Scull category at the Experts attribute this surge in rowing
ior cricket where they have Asian Coastal Rowing Championship. excellence to the influence of Sri Lanka’s
been champions through- Facing tough competition from countries National Coach, Spanish Pedro Lopez,
out. But today, I feel sorry like Indonesia and India, Shaylon dis- and Assistant Coach Shanaka Kariya-
as a Nalandian, because I played exceptional stamina, staging a wasam, alongside the dedicated coaching
very rarely see a boy com- remarkable comeback to secure the gold team at AIS led by Sanjeewa Guruge.
ing through from Nalanda.
. Mahela Jayawardene
came from Nalanda to rep-
resent the country. He was
extraordinary talented.
Prior to that it was Roshan
Mahanama and Asanka
Gurusinha and Kumar
Dharmasrna the three ded-
icated cricketers produced
by Nalanda . Arjuna Rana-
tunga who won the World
Cup in 1996 was coached
by people like Lionel and
Nelson Mendis. They were
top class coaches and strict
disciplinarians. . said
Epasinghe .
Premasara Epasinghe
should be role model for all
Sinhala cricket commenta-
AIS Rowing Team with school Principal Harshana Perera (third from left). Others from
tors and no one can match
left: Nethuki Senanayake, Shaylon Gunaratne, Venuk Panduwawala, Shivendra Goone-
him.
wardene, and Rovynia Wijesekera.

Welikanda Central bowled out for one run
Welikanda Central College
bowled out for one run in their
second innings by Sewanapitiya
Maha Vidyalaya in their first
round fixture of the Under 13
division three inter schools
cricket tournament.
Sathsara Wijesinghe, right
arm medium paceman of Sewa-
napitiya Maha Vidyalaya
claimed 12 wickets for 9 runs in
the match against Welikanda
Central College.
Hirun Matheesha (300*) and
Damsilu Ranasinghe (100*) of
Gonagala Maha Vidyalaya made
an unbroken 433 runs stand for
their fourth wicket against
Neluwa MMV. Hirun Mathee-
sha scored unbeaten 300 runs
in 100 balls with 27 boundaries
and 27 sixes.
Sri Sumangalodaya SS open-
er Dumindu Chenath scored
unbeaten 200 runs in 92 balls
with 24 boundaries and 12 sixes
Matara Thomians emerge victorious
NUWAN KODIKARA and
against Siri Abaya- (10.2) (Sathsara Sumangalodaya SS won by GANDARA GROUPS the host school of this year’s
thissa Maha Vidya- Wijesinghe 6/1) innings and 242 runs) football match and under the
laya Wathugedara. Sewanapitiya Siri Abayathissa MV: 28 Matara St. Thomas College guidance of Rahul Principal
Gonagala Maha MV: 103/8 d (22.4) (Dumindu Chenath 4/1, won the 19th “Battle of the Samitha Kurukulasuriya and
Vidyalaya beat Nelu- (32) (Ashel Buddhima Lakshan 2/2, Menul Golden Pennants” football St. Thomas Principal P. A.
wa MMV by innings Ethnan 25, Sandiya 2/11) and 21 (15.1) match between Matara St. Weerakkodi the match turn out
and 361 runs and Deneth Vidusara (Buddhima Lakshan 5/5, Thomas College and Matara to be a big success.
Sewanapitiya Maha 2/17, Mihindu Dumindu Chenath 2/6) Rahula College with 4-2 penalty Champion Thomian team
Vidyalaya Welikan- Hasakelum 2/18) Sri Sumangalodaya SS: shoot out. was coached by Gayantika
da Central College l At Aluthwa- 291/3 d (27) (Dumindu In the match held at the Mat- Ranasinghe and their foreign
by innings and 89 la (Gonagala Chenath 200 n.o., Buddhima ara Uyanwatta Football Stadi- coach was Prince Bodu and
runs. Maha Vidyalaya Lakshan 23, Menul Sandiya 20) um last (01), both sides could Rahula team was coached by A.
Kalahe Sri won by innings irun Matheesha 300 n.o., Dam- not score any goals at the end of B. Veerappuli.
Sumangalodaya Sec- Hirun Matheesha and 361 runs) silu Ranasinghe 100 n.o.) the full time and it was decided The St. Thomas team was
ondary School beat Neluwa MMV: l At Rathgama (Mahinda to choose the winners of the led by TD Damru Vatsilu and Here the Champion Matara St.
Siri Abayathissa Maha Vidya- 21 (11) (Hirun Matheesha 5/5, College Galle (B) won by match by penalty kicks. Accord- the Rahul College team by KP Thomas skipper receiving the
laya by innings and 242 runs Dinujaya Wickaramasinghe innings and 108 runs) ingly, Matara St. Thomas Col- Ravidu Sameera. champion trophy.
and Mahinda College Galle (B) 3/0) and 68 (25.5) (Omiru Nawandagala MV: 47 lege managed to win the
beat Nawandagala Maha Vidya- Methsara 33 n.o., Dinujaya (Emal Pamudu 23, Bhakshara match with 4-2 goals.
laya by innngs and 108 runs. Wickramasinghe 4/25, Dulnith Jayarathna 6/5, Manuja Lokuge The Golden Pennants
l At Sewanapitiya (Sewan- Dimitha 3/2) 3/18) and 17 (18.3) (Bhakshara football match, which
apitiya Maha Vidyalaya won by Gonagala MV: 450/2 d (30) Jayarathna 3/5, Manuja Lokuge was started in 2002, did
innings and 89 runs) (Hirun Matheesha 300 n.o., 2/1, Sithun Santhula 2/0) not take place in 2019,
Welikanda CC: 13 (11.2) Damsilu Ranasinghe 100 n.o.) Mahinda College (B): 172/3 2020 and 2021 due to the
(Sathsara Wijesinghe 6/8, d (21) (Lakira Senash 58, Nim- Covid-19.
Samarathna Bandara 3/5) and 1 l At Kalahe (Kalahe Sri nada Dahan 56 n.o.,). (YK) Rahula College was

Kingswood has a proud rugby history

HAFIZ
MARIKAR
Kingswood College takes
pride for being the first school
to play rugby, when they were
known as Kandy Boys High
School and has a proud histo-
ry. It was a product of Trinity
College Kandy L E. Blaze who
introduced rugby in 1891 to
this school. , Kingswoodains
gave up the game after a few
years when a player died after
being injured off a kick. There
was no rugby till 1968, where
they came out with an under
17 team, due to the efforts of
their teacher Winston Hoole
who was the POG at that time.
1968 and 1969 Under 17 cap-
tains were Deepal Jayasinghe/
M.A.S. Ismail (1968) and,
Kamal Maimon, W. Jayasekara
1969
Since 1980, Kingswood has
been doing well in rugby and
won the Tyrell Muttiah trophy
in the same year emerged the
Schools ‘B’ division champi-
ons. That was the start of their
uplift and the man who guided
them was Z.M. Zarook. Then
in 1981,Kingswood were pro-
moted to the‘A’ division and
ended up fourth in the Grati-
aen Cup . In 1987, they had an
excellent season, winning nine
out of ten matches and also
entered the R. Premadasa
Knock-out tournament and
went down to Trinity College
by 11 points to 6 after leading
5-3 at lemons. in the quarter
final
In 1986, too they had a suc-
cessful season winning nine
out of 14 matches and drawing
one game. One of the best
years in their rugby for the
Randles Hills boys, was the
year they remained unbeaten
in 1988 in seven matches and
won the Schools Rugby Sevens
In the recent past, Kingswood
has been on top and in the year
2000, won the President’s Tro-
phy for the first time under the
captaincy of Chamara Vithan-
age.beating the Thomians30-26
Then in 2003, 2004 and 2005
they won the President’s Tro-
phy. They also emerged Singer
A division League champions
in 2008, Seven of their players
were picked to play for the Sri
Lanka Youth Team in 2005.
Some ruggerites who have
brought honour and fame to
the school are Owen Mottau
who was one ofthe finest full
backs Sri Lanka had at that
time. He played for Dimbula
ACC for several years and for
the country, then Iqbal Jumar
played for CR & FC both of
them earned a name in rugby,
but never played for the school.
Later players of the calibre of
Lalith Wijeratne, Tissa
Wijeratne,Jerome Gray,, Par-
akrama Samaraweera, ,Dun-
stan de Silva, T.M.N. Sherif-
deen, Roy Amith, Palitha
Wijesuriya,Ananda Kasthuri-
archchi, Jeewa Galgamuwa,
Senaka Bandara, Amjad and
mohamed Buksh,Chamara
Vithanage, Ibrahim brothers
Raja, Ronnie, Rizvi, Nilufer,
Dev Anand,Nalaka Weerak-
kody, , Fazil Marija, Tilina
Weerasinghe, R. Raheem,
R . S a m a rat u n ga , S.
Weerasinghe,N. Ranasighe, T
de Silva, L. Premawansa,
L.M.Wahab, Chamara de Silva,
Sameera Wijesinghe, I.B. Gala-
goda, Eranda.Weerakkody,
Navin Wijeratne, Roshan
Weeraratne,Gayan Weeraratne,
Riza Raffaideen,gave their
best At present their key game
is with Wesley College for the
L E.Blaze trophy which was
presented by the famous King-
swoodian Roy de Silva.
 T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3 page
16

Sports Editor : 011 242 9223 e mail : sports.dailynews@lakehouse.lk

Under 19 Asia Cup gives vital exposure for our team, says Mubarak
DHAMMIKA RATNAWEERA
Asia Cup Under 19 cricket tourna-
ment which will be held from Decem-
ber 8 to 17 in Dubai gives vital expo-
sure for Sri Lanka under 19 team and
we are confident to take up this chal-
lenge, said Sri Lanka under 19 head
coach Jehan Mubarak in an exclusive
interview with Daily News yesterday.
After the successful Pakistan under
19 tour our players continued their
preparation to focus on the next under
19 World Cup which is now shifted to
South Africa in January/February.
However our team led by Sineth Jaya-
wardena is having good team spirit
ready to play the Asia Cup in Dubai
said former Sri Lankan player Jehan
Mubarak who was a member of the
National under 19 team in 2000.
We got a chance to play against West
Indies against Pakistan and an under
19 quadrangular tournament in Abu
dhabi with Bangladesh, Afghanistan
and UAE and all these match series
gave much needed exposure for Sri
Lanka under 19 cricketers. Without
changing our team we used to give this
match experience with more than 20
International matches and that is an
advantage,said head coach Mubarak.
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) gave all infra-
structure facilities for under 19 players
and I must thank the Junior selection
Sri Lanka under 19 skipper Sineth
Jayawardena
committee headed by Ranjith Madu-
rusinghe who gave excellent support
to pick the best team for us. My sup-
porting staff members Assistant coach
Sampath Perera, fast bowling coach
Chamila Gamage, spin coach Sachith
Pathirana, Fielding coach Gayan Wije-
koon, Physiotherapist Ajantha Watthe-
gama and Trainer Buddhika Herath
are backing this young side and play-
ers all are determined to come up with
our support while team Manager Jay-
antha Seneviratne guides us added
Mubarak.
Asia cup comprises eight teams and
we are in same group with Japan, UAE
and Bangladesh while other group has
Sri Lanka under 19 cricket Manager Jayantha Seneviratne, coaching consultant
Mahela Jayawardena abd head coach Jehan Mubarak discussion at training session
India the defending champion, Paki-
stan, Afghanistan and Nepal. Our first
task is to get two victories to enter the
semi finals but we want to take match
by match. My players have confidence
after winning the ODI series against
Pakistan in Pakistan. That was very
tough tour but our players fought back
strongly to win the series and skipper
Sineth Jayawardena gave good leader-
ship throughout the series. We have to
play the Asia Cup in Dubai Academy
ground 1 and 2 while final will be held
at Dubai Main Cricket Stadium on
December 17. Every match give good
exposure for the players and we have
good all round side with batting, bowl-
ing (both spin and fast bowling) and
fielding are of a high standard . We
have top order batting including inform
opener Pulindu Perera while all round-
er Dinura Kalupahana, spin all rounder
Malsha Tharupathi are experienced
players while Duvindu Ranatunga who
did not play West Indies and Pakistan
series due to injury once again back to
the side. Garuka Sanketh the left arm
paceman also in good form while all
our players are fit said Jehan. Two
reserve players Janith Fernando and
Supun Waduge will go on this tour as
travel reserves and if any player gets
injured they will replace them, added
Jehan. We never underestimate any
team says skipper Sineth. Meanwhile
Sri Lanka under 19 skipper Sineth
Jayawardena said he is very confident
to play this Asia Cup and want to pro-
duce best performance before the
World Cup. We never underestimate
any opponent and go to make plans
match by match. We used to see Videos
to get knowledge about opponent
teams and my supporting staff gave
good encouragement to us said Sineth
who is also the Royal College skipper.
We have to play first match against
Japan on December 9 followed by
December 11 against UAE and last
league round match against Bangla-
desh on December 13.
We are having good team spirit and
that is good strength while inclusion of
new spin coach Sachith Pathirana and
other coaches good. As a skipper I
haven’t any pressure while apart from
my batting I always focus on my bowl-
ing and hope to win the Asia Cup and
that'll give more exposure for the next
World Cup, said Sineth.
Jehan Mubarak (Head coach), Sam-
path Perera(Assit coach), Chamila
Gamage (Fast bowling coach), Sachith
Pathirana (Spin coach), Gayan Wije-
koon (Fielding coach) Ajantha Watteg-
ma (Physiotherapist), Buddhika Her-
ath (Trainer) Jayantha Seneviratne
(Manager)
ACC U19 Asia Cup 2023
Full Schedule
December 8: India vs Afghanistan ICC
Academy Ground, Dubai,
December 8: Pakistan vs Nepal at ICC
Academy Ground No 2, Dubai
December 9: Bangladesh vs UAE, at ICC
Academy Ground, Dubai
December 9: Sri Lanka vs Japan at ICC
Academy Ground No 2, Dubai
December 10: India Vs Pakistan, at ICC
Academy Ground, Dubai
December 10: Afghanistan vs Nepal at
ICC Academy Ground No 2, Dubai
December 11: Bangladesh vs Japan at
ICC Academy Ground No 2, Dubai
December 11: Sri Lanka vs UAE, at ICC
Academy Ground, Dubai
December 12: Pakistan vs Afghanistan,
at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai
December 12: India vs Nepal- at ICC
Academy Ground No 2, Dubai
December 13: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka,
at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai
December 13: UAE vs Japan, at ICC
Academy Ground No 2, Dubai
December 15: TBC vs TBC, 1st Semi Final-
at Dubai International Cricket Stadium,
Dubai
December 15: TBC vs TBC, 2nd Semi
Final-at ICC Academy Ground, Dubai
Sunday,
December 17: Winner of 1st Semi Final vs
Winner of 2nd Semi Final- at Dubai Inter-
national Cricket Stadium, Dubai

Sri Lanka eyes extra slot in World Aquatic C'ship
SAJEEWA JAYAKODY
Sri Lanka is set to send a team of
swimmers to the World Aquatic
Championship, but there's a bit of
a problem in the selection process.
Initially, they were eligible to send
two female and two male swim-
mers. However, two female swim-
mers have the same FINA points.
Ganga Seneviratne, with the
highest FINA points of 696 in the
100m backstroke, is already select-
ed. Now, for the second female
slot, both Hiruki de Silva and Anne
Venturi, who trains in the USA,
have the same FINA points. Sri
instead of the origi-
nally allocated two.
On the male side,
Matthew Abeysing-
he has already quali-
fied with the highest
FINA points of 800
in the 100m free-
style. Akalanka Pei-
ris, with the second-
highest FINA points
Hiruki de Silva Anne Venturi
in 50m backstroke,
Lanka Aquatic Sports Union is also a potential
(SLASU) is considering request- candidate. However, SLASU is fac-
ing World Aquatics for permission ing a dilemma as only one male
to send three female swimmers swimmer will be eligible for the
next Olympic Games in Paris
2024, and the 50m backstroke is
not an Olympic event. Kyle Abey-
singhe has the third-highest FINA
points among male swimmers.
While Matthew Abeysinghe and
Ganga Seneviratne are already
qualified. The final selection for
the remaining two swimmers (one
male and one female) is pending.
SLASU is awaiting a decision from
the world governing body before
confirming the complete team for
the 2024 World Aquatic Champi-
onship, scheduled from February 2
to 18, 2024, in Doha.
Dr. Maiya heads National
Sports Council
DHAMMIKA RATNAWEERA
We will do our best to
promote Sri Lanka Sports
and this is not a new post for
me and very keen to take up
this challenge said newly
appointed Chairman of the
National Sports Council Dr.
Maiya Gunasekara the veter-
an General Surgeon who
was a National Ruggerite in
1970’s. The former Royal
Ruggerite later became
Rugby Union President and
former Boxing Association
President Rt General Jagath
Jayasuriya are also included
in the 15 member National
Sports Council.
General Shavendra Silva
remains as Chairman of the
National Selection Committee.
Both the National Sports
Council and National Selec-
tion Committee are officially
appointed by the Sports Minis-
Dr. Maiya Gunasekara ter according to the powers of
(Chairman NSC) the Sports Act (1973 No 25).

Suwan Perera at the helm of NCC

also held the National National Sports Council:
Serbia's Medjedovic Sports Council Chairman post earlier and Dr. Maiya Gunasekara (Chairman),
he is also a member of the National Selec- I.U.Wickramasuriya(Secretary), Sriyani

wins Next Gen ATP title

Serbia's Hamad Medjedovic became the
sixth winner of the Next Gen ATP Finals
after a five-set win over France's Arthur
Fils. The 20-year-old world number 111
recovered from letting two match points
slip in the fourth set before winning 3-4(6-
8) 4-1 4-2 3-4(9-11) 4-1.
The tournament is the season-ending
event for the top-ranked male players aged
21 and under. The event has a best-of-five
format with four games winning a set.
Former champions include current top 10
players Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner and
Suwan Perera and Nilesh De Silva were unani-
mously elected President and Secretary of the
Nondescripts Cricket Club (NCC) at the 134th
Annual General Meeting held at the club premises
last Thursday .
Following are the Office bearers who were elect-
ed uncontested at the Annual General Meeting.
NCC Office bearers 2023/24
President - Suwan Perera, Vice Presidents -
Marlon Fernandopulle, Lalith Ganlath, Peter Jas-
inghe, General Secretary - Nilesh De Silva, Asst.
General Secretary - Anuruddha Hikkaduwage,
Treasurer - Pujitha Walpitagamage, Asst. Treasur-
er - Nilantha Weerasinghe, Cricket Secretary -
Farveez Maharoof, Bar Secretary - Hemantha
Rodrigo, Swimming Secretary - Ranjan Paiva,
Tennis Secretary - Rajkumar Kuvadas, Billiards
Secretary - Krishan Senarathna, Badminton / Gym
Secretary - Rohan Ratnayake, Social / Pavilion
Secretary- Rajiv Meewakkala, Asst. Social / Pavil-
ion Secretary - Riyad Riffai, Ground Secretary -
Thilina K Siriwardena, Committee Members - Pin-
siri Fernando, Julian Bolling, Neomal Perera,
Nominated Past Presidents - Gladwyn Anandappa,
Lucky Fernandez, Immediate Past President -
Marlon Ranasinghe. (D.R)
tion Committee. Kulawansa, Rt. Major General Rajitha
I have to meet all 15 members of the Ampemohotti, Prof Arjuna de Silva, Senior
National Sports Council and want to take a Lawyer Panduka Keerthinanda, Ana
collective decision to build up sports and I Punchihewa, Malik Cader, Dr. S.V.D Nanay-
have no personal agenda, " said Dr. Maiya akkara, Hafeez Marso, Sidath Wettimuny,
Gunasekara. Apart from Dr. Maiya former Rt. General Jagath Jayasooriya, Anuradha
Commonwealth Games silver medalist and Illeperuma, Prof. Rear Admiral Shemal
Olympian Sriyani Kulawansa and former Fernando (Sports Director General) and
Paralympic Committee Chairman Rt. Major Kamal Deshapriya.
General Rajitha Ampemohotti retain their National Selection Committee: Gener-
posts in the National Sports Council while al Shavendra Silva (Chairman) Arjun Fer-
Prof. Arjuna de Silva former Sri Lanka nando (Secretary), Dr Maiya Gunasekara,
Cricket President Ana Punchihewa, Former Suresh Subramaniam(NOC Chairman) and
Sri Lanka opener Sidath Wettimuny and Nalinda Ilangakoon.

Lanka Paralympics in landmark deal with Asian giants Badminton

Stefanos Tsitsipas.
This season, Medjedovic reached tour-
level semi-finals in Gstaad and Astana and

Nationals
won three ATP Challenger Tour events.
He is the lowest-ranked champion in tour- SAJEEWA JAYAKODY invite Sri Lankan para athletes to para athletics, para badminton, para
nament history but converted his third The Sri Lanka Paralympic Com- participate in competitions in their archery, and para shooting.

match point to get past his 19-year-old
opponent, ranked 36 in the world.
"I can't believe I have won this title but
it's going to give me a lot of confidence for
2024," he said.
"Arthur is an amazing player - he's top 40
for a reason - so I'm really happy.
"It was tough after the first set. I changed
my clothes and recovered and started to
play good again. I didn't play good when I
had match points in the fourth set. I wasn't
relaxed, I was very stiff. BBC
mittee has taken a significant step
forward by signing Memorandum of
Understandings (MoUs) with three
Asian countries-Iran, Korea, and
Japan—to boost para games devel-
opment in Sri Lanka, as announced
by the Sri Lanka Paralympic Com-
mittee yesterday.
Under this MoUs, these three
Sri Lanka Paralympic Com- nations have committed to support-
mittee President Col. Dee- ing the development of para sports
pal Herath in Sri Lanka. They have agreed to
respective countries, providing all
necessary facilities and offering
training to Sri Lanka's Paralympic
coaches.
As part of the agreement, Sri
Lanka will receive equipment, high-
performance training for athletes
and coaching sessions for para
coaches within the country. The
MoUs also specifies that Japan,
Korea, and Iran will facilitate four
para games in Sri Lanka, covering
continues at
These agreements were formal-
ized during the recent Asian Par-
alympic Committee Annual Gen-
eral Meeting, which took place
from November 24 to 29 in
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The meet-
three venues
ing brought together 46 Paralym-
pic Committee Presidents from
countries across the region, mark-
ing a collaborative effort to
enhance para sports development
in Asia.

The 'Ball Blaster 2023' Soccer final on December 10

Rohan De Silva SLB President addressing at
the Nationals opening ceremony

Zahira College Colombo under-20 football team
M.H.YAKEEM
Zahira College Colombo to meet
Alighar National School Eravur
Batticaloa in the final of " The Ball
Blaster 2023 " under 20 division
one All Island Schools Football
Tournament on 10 December at
the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium
Colombo, with the decider of the
third and fourth place commenc-
ing at 1 pm and the final at 3 pm.
The tournament is sponsored by
srilankansportstv and organised
and conducted by the Sri-Lanka
Schools Football Association,
under the guidance and supervi-
sion of the Ministry of Education.
Zahira College Colombo entered
Alighar National School Eravur under-20 soccer team
to the final of "The Ball Blaster
2023 " by beating Zahira College
Gampola by 6 goals to nil in the
quarter final and Darussalam Col-
lege Colombo by 3 goals to 2 in
the semi final. Alighar National
School Eravur Batticalao qualify-
ing to the final by beating St.
Henry's College Jaffna by 5 goals
to nil in the quarter final and St.
Joseph's College Colombo by 2
goals to nil in the semi final.
DHAMMIKA RATNAWEERA
Over 1000 shuttlers will vie for honours
at the 71st National Badminton Champion-
ship which started yesterday. It will run
until December 10 at three venues Sri
Lanka Badminton Headquarters courts at
Maitland Place, Mercantile Badminton
Association courts at Colombo 7 and D.S
Senanayake College Colombo courts.
The preliminary rounds kicked off yester-
day following the opening ceremony while
Sri Lanka Badminton President Rohan de
Silva was the chief guest. The Round of 16
match-ups and Quarterfinals will take place
On December 8, followed by the semi-finals
and additional Quarterfinal next day. All the
finals are reserved for Sunday, December 10,
concluding with the closing ceremony.

Printed and Published by The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd., at No. 35, D.R.Wijewardene Mawatha, Colombo 10, on Tuesday, December 5, 2023
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3 ADVERTISER'S SUPPLEMENT page 17 DN

ComBank heralds the festive season

with launch of annual card promo
More than 3,500 retail outlets to offer discounts of up to 50% on specified days or periods till 31st December
Festive shopping is set to make the collection of offers more inclusive
begin in earnest with the and a larger number of customers will be able
to experience the excitement of the season.
Commercial Bank of Ceylon
launching its much-anticipated Concurrent with the seasonal card
promotion, Commercial Bank has also
annual seasonal card launched a Gift Bonanza that offers exciting
promotion for Credit and Debit prizes including an iPhone 15 ProforCredit
Card holders with a monthly spend of more
cardholders. than Rs 50,000 on their cards.The promotion

Commercial Bank Cards are the fastest growing Credit

Cards in Sri Lanka and enjoy market leadership in Credit
and Debit Card cumulative point-of-sale usage. The Bank
offers a variety of Credit Cards in the Silver, Gold and
Platinum tiers of Visa, Mastercard and UnionPay; LankaPay
JCB branded Credit Cards in the Platinum, Gold and Classic
tiers and Visa Signature, World Mastercard, Visa Infinite,
UnionPay Asia Prestige Platinum and UnionPay Asia
Prestige Diamond Cards in the premium segment.

run till the end of 2023, and will also present

The Bank has announced it has once again
partnered with more than 450 merchants to
offer discounts of up to 50% at 3,500 plus
outlets across the country on specified days or
periods from mid-November to 31st December
2023.
These discounts will be offered by 180
merchant partners retailing clothing and
fashion accessories, 54 lifestyle products
partners, 26 partners retailing shoes and
leatherware, 25 hotel partners, 15 jewellery
partners, 15 healthcare partners, 12 salon, spa
and cosmetics partners, seven supermarket
partners, six automobile partners, four watches
and accessories partners, four dining partners,
four education services partners and two
bookshops, the Bank said.
Additionally, 85 online vendor partners will
offer discounts to ComBank Credit and Debit
cardholders during the promotion period.
Another 15 participating merchant partners
will offer easy payment plans of upto 60
months on white goods purchased before the
end of the year.
Commenting on the promotion, the Head of
Commercial Bank’s Card Centre Nishantha
De Silva said: “Our seasonal card promotion
offers something for everybody, and it’s not
just shopping. The diverse range of partnering
merchants enables cardholders to enjoy hotel
stays and self-care days, dine out, and even
pay for educational programmes and invest in
home makeovers, and save via the discounts
offered.”
The card offers this season offer an exciting
mix of retailers and big names in fashion,
cosmetics, renowned names in hospitality and
healthcare partners as well. The Bank said that
the offers in supermarkets, bookshops,
automobile partners and education partners
bill wipeouts for 10 winners, luxury hotel
stays for two winners, and star-class hotel
dining for two winners.
Commercial Bank Cards are the fastest
growing Credit Cards in Sri Lanka and enjoy
market leadership in Credit and Debit Card
cumulative point-of-sale usage. The Bank
offers a variety of Credit Cards in the Silver,
Gold and Platinum tiers of Visa, Mastercard
and UnionPay; LankaPay JCB branded Credit
Cards in the Platinum, Gold and Classic tiers
and Visa Signature, World Mastercard, Visa
Infinite, UnionPay Asia Prestige Platinum and
UnionPay Asia Prestige Diamond Cards in the
premium segment. The Cards are equipped
with ‘Tap ’n Go’ NFC technology and are
backed by a strong NFC Point-of-Sale (POS)
network.
Commercial Bank Credit and Debit Cards
offer year-round promotions covering a wide
variety of services. Commercial Bank was the
first bank to offer loyalty rewards for both
Credit and Debit Card holders under its Max
Loyalty Rewards Points scheme. The Bank
was also a pioneer in extending promotional
discount offers which were traditionally only
offered for Credit Cards to its Debit Cards.
Sri Lanka’s first 100% carbon neutral bank
and the first Sri Lankan bank to be listed
among the Top 1000 Banks of the World,
Commercial Bank operates a network of 271
branches and 957 automated machines in Sri
Lanka. Commercial Bank is the largest lender
to Sri Lanka’s SME sector and is a leader in
digital innovation in the country’s Banking
sector. The Bank’s overseas operations
encompass Bangladesh, where the Bank
operates 20 outlets; Myanmar, where it has a
Microfinance company in Nay Pyi Taw; and
the Maldives, where the Bank has a fully-
fledged Tier I Bank with a majority stake.
DN page 18 ADVERTISER'S SUPPLEMENT T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

Experience the Ultimate Festive Season

Shopping at NOLIMIT
The One-Stop Shopping Destination
N
OLIMIT Sri Lanka stands as the leading
fashion chain, with branches spread across
the country that offers shoppers to indulge in
an unparalleled fashion shopping spree. Our pride
lies in presenting a comprehensive and Versatile
collection, catering to every wardrobe choice.
Whether it's Men's, Women’s, or Kids' attire,
discover a fashion statement that authentically
represents your individuality, attitude, and vibrancy.
This festive season, NOLIMIT brings a global
shopping experience to your doorstep, offering
limitless fashion possibilities.

Embark on numerous joyous festivities with family, friends, and loved ones, dressed
in an ensemble that ensures you look your best, day or night. Complement your attire
with our exclusive accessories for an added touch of allure. The NOLIMIT private label
brings forth something special for everyone, enabling you to express your distinctive
style this festive season. Our diverse range includes MBRK for Smart Casual,
DEEDAT Premium Casual Wear, HUF & DEE Elegant Range for Casual to Party
Wear, Dr. Jones’s stylish and vibrant casual wear and Fia Maria’s Cute and graceful
casual wear for Kids, Moreover, our Gift Cards stand as the ultimate gifting option this
Festive Season. Everything you desire is conveniently available under one roof.
NOLIMIT is providing thrilling Discounts up to 30% on your favorite credit cards
from 2nd to 28th December 2023. This festive Season, making our sensational seasonal
varieties even more accessible. Enjoy our facilities, including ample parking, spacious
outlets, friendly and dedicated customer service staff, and an array of exclusive local
fashion brands that meet global standards. Stay in the loop with our latest Seasonal
Updates! Explore our Social Media pages and website to discover thrilling deals and
promotions. Visit NOLIMIT to embrace the splendour of the season and create
enduring memories to cherish forever.
T u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 5 , 2 0 2 3 adVerTIser's supplemenT page 19 DN

HNB illuminates the holiday season

with special card offers

Gauthami Niranjan,
Head of Cards,HNB

In electronics, Toyota Lanka, Accmart Motors, and U & H Wheel

Service offer up to 50% off on HNB credit cards with up to 6
months of 0% instalments. Seize exclusive opportunities in other
sectors with HNB cards, including healthcare, insurance, education,
and travel, with up to 6 months of 0% instalments. Experience the
magic of the season with HNB's exclusive offers- a celebration of
joy, savings, and seamless transactions.

 Partners with 300+ merchants island-wide

 Offers convenient easy payment plans

Sri Lanka’s largest private sector retail bank HNB PLC, is spreading
happiness this season to its credit and debit cardholders, with attractive
discounts of up to 75% off at over 300 merchants island-wide across
multiple categories including fashion, lifestyle, dining, supermarkets,
travel and online shopping from November 12, 2023 to December 31,
2023.
With an objective to offer the greatest value to its cardholders, HNB
Cards’ #Happyisnow campaign is now in full force, promising an
unmatched choice and value for money for all HNB credit and debit
cardholders.
“This Christmas, we are proud to extend a generous array of credit
and debit card offers- a thoughtful gift to our customers during this
festive season. Our goal is to make every moment of the holidays
memorable, and these exclusive deals exemplify our commitment to
enhancing the joy of the season. As we embark on this festive journey,
HNB invites you to experience the magic of seamless transactions and
significant savings. Wishing you a joyful and prosperous holiday
season!” HNB Head of Cards,Gauthami Niranjan said.

The bank partnered with leading supermarkets to offer customers

special discounts to cardholders for the festive season. This includes a
20% discount on credit cards from Cargills for over 300 dairy items
every Monday for bills over Rs. 2,500, and fresh fruits, vegetables and
seafood at a discount of 25% every Tuesday and Wednesday for bills
exceeding Rs. 4,000 at Keells. Similarly debit and credit cardholders
are entitled to discounts of 5% and 10% off on bills over Rs. 3,000
every Thursday from 4 pm to 8pm at LAUGFS Super.
Through this partnership, cardholders can enjoy 25% off on credit
cards and 10% off on debit cards for bills over LKR 7,500 from 3 pm
to 8 pm at all GLOMARK outlets and Glomark.lk during the day on
select Fridays, and a 30% discount on Credit Cards for selected fresh
fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood for bills over LKR 4,000 every
Saturday and Sunday from ArpicoSuper Centres.
HNB's collaboration with PickMe Market and PickMe Food brings
additional perks, including a LKR 500 discount on essentials delivery
for orders above LKR 4,000 and a LKR 400 discount on food orders
exceeding LKR 2,000. Further, a 52% discount on selected items is
offered at Buyabans.com, while Mysoftlogic.lk presents up to 75% off
on selected items and along with the same for Singer.lk, with up to 24
months 0% easy payment plans.
Wishque.com, Kapruka.com, Takas.lk, Daraz.lk, Wasi.lk, Catchme.
lk, Lovetubuy.lk, and WOW are among the online platforms where
HNB cardholders can enjoy discounts of up to 30% and up to 6 months
0% easy payment plans with select merchants.
In the realm of stationery, Promateworld.com offers an extra
discount of up to 10% on both credit and debit cards, while www.atlas.
lk/myshop presents a 25% discount on credit cards and a 20% discount
on debit cards for stationary items, valid until December 31st, 2023.

Moreover, renowned electronics brands such as Singer, Abans,

Softlogic, Damro, Singhagiri, Dinapala Group, Hunters & Company,
Quantum Fitness, and Seetha Holdings offer discounts of up to 75%
on credit cards and up to 24 months 0% easy payment plans with select
merchants, whileVision Care, Wickramarachchi Opticians, and Arpico
Furniture present discounts of up to 15%, 30%, and 15% on credit
cards, respectively, with up to 6 months 0% easy payment plans.

Leading jewellery store including Zam Gems, Raja Jewellers,

Arthur De Silva Jewellery, Pure Gold by Tiesh, Fior Drissage
Jewellers, and Mallika Hemachandra Jewellers, entice HNB Credit
cardholders with discounts of up to 70% on selected items and up to 6
months 0% easy payment plans. Moreover, enjoy up to 6 months 0%
instalments at various renowned jewelers, including Vogue Jewellers,
Swarnamahal Jewellers, Pl.Mtt. Muthukaruppan Chettiar Jewellers,
Lalitha Jewellers, Colombo Jewellery, Devi Jewellers, Ashadi
Jewellers, Diamond Dreams, and more, until December 31st, 2023.
HNB has also joined Pizza Hut to offer a free Medium Pizza with a
Large Pizza purchase using credit cardson every third Wednesday of
the month throughout Till Dec 2023, while Taco Bell extends a
tempting Buy One Get One Free offer on A La Carte items when
paying with credit cards on every second Tuesday of the month
throughout till Dec 2023.
For a diverse culinary experience, renowned restaurants including
Cinnamon Red, The Kingsbury Hotel, Waters Edge, Movenpick,
Galle Face Hotels, Jade, The Mango Tree, PappaRich, Burger King,
Popeyes, Baskin Robbins, Delifrance, Crystal Jade, Subway, Maharaja
Palace, Mama Louie's Pizza, Indian Summer, The Brick Lane
Coffeehouse, The Four Leafed Clover, Darley Rd. Pub, Legacy, and
more offer up to 20%off onHNB credit cards.
Additionally, enjoy a 15% discount at Junior Kuppanna, Sugar
Bistro, Sugar Beach, The Tuna & The Crab, and more, only with HNB
credit and debit cards .
HNB cardholders can also enjoy attractive discounts at Aitken
Spence Hotels, The Water Garden - Sigiriya, The Blue Water -
Wadduwa, Tribe Yala, Victoria Golf Club - Digana, Joe's Resorts,
Oak Ray Hotels, Pegasus Reef, and more.
Moreover, HNB also partnered with leading fashion retailers
offering up to 30% off credit cards and up to 10% off debit cards on
selected days in November and December.
 DN page 20 adVerTIser's supplemenT T u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 5 , 2 0 2 3

Ring in the Season with

People’s Bank’s unrivalled Card offers
T
he Pride of the Nation,
People’s Bank has
enhanced the spirit of this
December season by offering a
multitude of savings and easy
payment schemes on People’s
Cards to provide an unrivalled
Christmas experience to all its
customers and to reward them
for their continued loyalty to the
bank,.
People’s Credit Cardholders
can now enjoy significant
discounts of up to 75% at leading
hotels and resorts, restaurants,
supermarkets, automobile service
centers, hospitals, online stores,
fitness centers, as well as at
various stores that provide a wide
selection of lifestyle products
such as books, clothes, shoes,
leather products, household items,
electronics, and jewelry.
Additionally, they can take
advantage of interest-free easy
payment installment plans of up
to 24 months at selected
merchants.
Nilmini Premalal - Deputy
General Manager (Payment,
Process Management & Quality
Assurance), People’s Bank,
speaking about savings during
this festive season said, “We at
People’s Bank are always looking
at ways to make seasonal
celebrations special for our valued
customers. We understand that
each of our customers may have
varied requirements when it
comes to offers, so our team has
gone the extra mile to bring more
value and quality to complement
their lifestyles.” She further
added, customers who hold People’s Bank themselves to selected offers until 15th
VISA/Master Classic, Gold, Platinum, January 2024 at over 3500 outlets island wide.
Signature, Infinite and Master World cards are
eligible for these seasonal offers and can avail widely accepted and recognized among outlets
Payments to People’s Credit Cards can be
conveniently made around the clock through the
wide network of 747 People’s Bank branches and
service centers island-wide, People’s Wave and
People’s Pay mobile banking apps, People’s Web
online banking facility, and over 280 Self-Banking
Units (SBUs).
Nilmini Premalal - Deputy General Manager
(Payment, Process Management &
Quality Assurance), People’s Bank,
While People’s Credit/ Debit Cards are
across Sri Lanka, customers can also use
them across the world at over 30 million
outlets, enhancing convenience for those
who travel internationally. All People’s
Cards provide complete security for
cardholders by adhering to internationally
accepted security standards that ensure
the privacy of customer data. People’s
Bank also offers travel insurance
coverage on its People’s Bank VISA/
Master Platinum and VISA Signature,
Infinite / Master World cards for the
cardholder and their immediate family
members. Further, People’s Bank’s Visa
Signature, Infinite and, Master World
cardholders can avail themselves of the
complimentary airport Lounge Key
access membership, which enables the
cardholder to access over 1,300 airport
lounges in over 148 countries.
People’s Cards offer unmatched
benefits and enhanced convenience not
only during the holiday seasons but
throughout the year. Payments to
People’s Credit Cards can be conveniently
made around the clock through the wide
network of 747 People’s Bank branches
and service centers island-wide, People’s
Wave and People’s Pay mobile banking
apps, People’s Web online banking
facility, and over 280 Self-Banking Units
(SBUs). Bank branch or service centre and apply for a Licensed Commercial Bank with Sri Lanka’s
If you are already a People’s Bank People’s, Credit Card. Further information on largest banking footprint composed of 747
Cardholder, you can easily enjoy all these People’s Credit card offers can be obtained by branches and service centers. With a history
offers by taking your card to any of the contacting People’s Bank hotline via 1961 or spanning over 62 years, the Bank serves over
merchants offering these discounts. If you’re by visiting www.peoplesbank.lk. 14.7 million customers, which is by far the
an individual who wants to enjoy these largest for any financial services provider in
amazing deals, you can visit any People’s People’s Bank is the country’s Premiere the country.

Enjoy Christmas with this

gluten-free millet cake recipe
This cake is simple and the addition of
seasonal fruits is done to adjust the dryness
caused by high fibre in millets. Read more
for the step-by-step process.
If you ever get a chance to read the
labels of gluten-free cakes available in the
market, you wouldn’t be pleased and
probably won’t buy them. Instead, you can
learn the art of cooking and baking with
millets and choosing ones that are best-
suited for you, and bake your favourite
cakes without any nasties.
This cake recipe is simple and the
addition of seasonal fruits is done to adjust
the dryness caused by high fibre in millets.
Read more for the step-by-step process.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1/4 cup coconut sugar + 1/4 cup palm
jaggery
• 1/4 cup cold pressed sesame oil
• 1 cup ragi flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 cup choco chips
• 1/4 cup pistachios powder with rose
petals
• 1/4 cup strawberry chunks
• 1/2 cup almond milk to mix in
• Mishri powder to make the snowfall
effect (optional)
Method:
1. Preheat the oven at 170-degree Celsius.
2. In a deep bowl, mix bananas, sugar
and oil. I have used a hand blender to
whip it all together.
3. Add sieved ragi flour along with
choco chips, baking powder, baking
soda and strawberry chunks.
4. The consistency will get thicker here.
Add almond milk in batches, keep
mixing till you get the dropping
consistency of the batter.
5. Transfer the batter in a well-greased
mould and decorate with nuts and seeds
powder.
6. Bake for 25 minutes and continue till
the skewer comes out clean.
7. You can decorate it further with
mishri powder for the snow effect or
can choose to enjoy it warm when
freshly baked. Enjoy it with your loved
ones.
Please note: Instead of baking powder
and baking soda, you can use sourdough
discard and make it healthier. Remember,
do not overbake.
Indian Express
T u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 5 , 2 0 2 3 adVerTIser's supplemenT page 21 DN
 DN page 22
HNB Assurance Group completes impressive
third quarter with 21% growth in GWP
H
NB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its
wholly owned subsidiary HNB
General Insurance Limited (HNBGI)
ended the third quarter with the Group
figures indicating a Profit After Tax (PAT)
of Rs. 583 Mn. In terms of Gross Written
Premium (GWP), the Group recorded Rs.
13.6 Bn growing by an impressive 21%
compared to the previous year. HNBA
exhibited exceptional growth during the
period by achieving a growth rate twice
that of the industry average, while HNB
General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) also
demonstrated a robust performance,
growing at a staggering five times the
industry average.
“I’m extremely delighted by the outstanding perfor-
mance exhibited by HNB Assurance Group during the
third quarter. Our consistent growth is a clear indication
that HNB Assurance as a group is in the forefront of pro-
viding exceptional services and adapting to the ever-
changing demands of our clientele”, stated, Rose Cooray,
Chairperson of HNBA and HNBGI.
“Amidst the slow recovery of Sri Lanka's economy fol-
lowing a period of significant challenges, both HNB
Assurance and HNB General Insurance undertook strate-
gic measures to fortify their operations, which involved
equipping themselves with enhanced capabilities, innova-
tive strategies and resilient frameworks to navigate the
economic fluctuations and effectively cater to the market.
In terms of the performance the group GWP grew by 21%
compared to the same period last year. While the Group
Assets surpassed the Rs. 48 Bn mark to reach Rs. 48.42 Bn
with a growth of 18%. Over the last 10 months, the total
equity along with the life fund notably surged, reaching a
significant milestone of Rs. 9.1Bn and Rs. 30 Bn, repre-
ADVERTISER'S SUPPLEMENT
senting a remarkable increase of 17% and 24% respec-
tively.” stated Cooray. She further noted, "The consistent
progress achieved quarter by quarter can be attributed to
the clear vision both companies possess regarding their
vision and strategic trajectory for the upcoming years. It is
truly remarkable to see the commitment of the teams
towards our long-term objectives which has also helped us
to be creative and make effective decisions. On behalf of
the board, I express my gratitude to the leadership, man-
agement and teams for their efforts."
Reflecting on the Company's performance during the
third quarter, Lasitha Wimalaratne, CEO of HNBA,
expressed his delight with the progress made during the
last nine months. “Our strategic focus of enhancing and
improving our distribution channels has yielded tremen-
dous results, notably reflected in our impressive 19%
growth in GWP to reach Rs. 7.8 Bn, which is almost dou-
ble the growth rate of the industry and the highest amongst
the top tier players, also, the 26% increase in new business
premiums compared to the previous year. In addition to
our steady and sustainable growth, winning the 'Best Dis-
tribution Initiative' award, recognized by Insurance Asia,
was extremely heartening as it validated our efforts and
well-rounded strategy.” Eager to venture into the final
quarter and witness its unfolding, Wimalaratne empha-
sized the significance of maintaining this momentum.
“While we are happy about the progress made, I believe
it's crucial to sustain it and finish the year on a high. Our
team is motivated just to do that and with the surplus trans-
fer from the life fund yet to take place, our collective aim
is to close the year strong, ensuring substantial benefits for
our shareholders."
HNBGI saw its GWP reach Rs. 5.9Bn growing by 24%
over the same period last year. Sharing his thoughts on the
company’s performance, Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of
HNB General Insurance, stated, “We have been investing
heavily in revamping our core systems and building a solid
digital platform, setting us up for the future. These changes
are all about making things better for our customers and
equipping ourselves for the long run. I’m extremely
delighted to see these efforts paying off as we have seen a
steady growth in our GWP of 24% when compared to last
year, which in comparison to the current industry growth
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3
Lasitha Wimalaratne – CEO HNBA Sithumina Jayasundara – CEO HNBGI
rate reflects a 5-time increase. Diving further into the num- rating of 'A-' (lka) by Fitch Ratings Lanka for 'National
bers, our Non-Motor sector saw a 58% growth compared Insurer Financial Strength Rating'. Following the introduc-
to the industry's 12%, while our Motor portfolio grew by tion of the segregation rules by the Insurance Regulator,
6% despite the industry’s negative growth of 1.3%. I must HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) was created
convey my sincere appreciation to all the sales and other and commenced its operations in January 2015; HNBGI
support teams for their efforts and hard work, ensuring that continues to specialize in motor, non-motor and Takaful
we continue to make remarkable progress as an organiza- insurance solutions and is a fully owned subsidiary of
tion. Additionally,we were also recognized as the 'Most HNB Assurance PLC. HNB General Insurance has been
Customer-Centric General Insurance Brand' in the country, assigned a 'National Insurer Financial Strength Rating' of
which is extremely big for us because it shows our com- 'A-' (lka) by Fitch Ratings Lanka Limited. HNBA is rated
mitment to putting customers first. Further, we were recog- within the Top 100 brands and Top 100 companies in Sri
nized with a Bronze Award at the CNCI Achiever Awards Lanka by LMD and HNB Assurance has won international
2023, which is yet another validation of our efforts and awards for Brand Excellence, Digital Marketing and HR
innovation within the industry.” Excellence including the Great Place To Work® Certifica-
HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) is one of the fastest tion, and won many awards for its Annual Reports at
growing Insurance Companies in Sri Lanka with a network award ceremonies organized by the Institute of Chartered
of 64 branches. HNBA is a Life Insurance company with a Accountants of Sri Lanka.
Logo appearance with relevant background colou
White
Black - 100
Christmas tree arrives in Black - 50
St Peter’s Square
T
he 28-meter tall spruce comes from the Christmas tree will take place in St Peter’s Square,
the area of Macra, in the Piedmont on Saturday 9 December, at 5 p.m. The ceremony will
region of Italy. This year’s tree will be be presided over by Cardinal Fernando Vérgez Alzaga,
president of the Governorate of the Vatican CityMagenta
State. - 100
officially inaugurated with a lighting In the morning, the delegations from Rieti andYellow
Macra -100
ceremony on December 9. will be received in audience by Pope Francis for the
official presentation of the gifts.
Workers in St Peter’s Square began the process of Vatican News
raising and decorating the Vatican’s
Christmas tree on Thursday morning.
This year’s tree, a 28-meter spruce
from the upper Maira Valley in the
Piedmontese municipality of Macra,
left for Rome on Tuesday aboard a Cyan - 100
special transport provided by the Vib- Magenta - 20
erti company. Yellow - 100
Black - 10
Wood to be used for toys
“In Piedmont, trees are important”,
said Alberto Cirio, the President of the
Piedmont Region. He explained, “We
do not cut them down haphazardly. Cyan - 100
This fir tree had to be felled because Magenta - 75
the fire brigade had found that it was
at risk of collapse, after 56 years of life. The felling was
already planned and had been authorized by the
Region”.
Moreover, he said, the wood from the tree will not go
to waste after the festivities: “When Christmas is over,
the tree will not go to waste, but will be sent to a com- Supplement Coordinated by
pany that will turn it into toys for children [in need]”. Nuwan Sameera
The toys will be distributed through Caritas. Advertising Manager Daily News
The inauguration of the Christmas tree Chrisholi Fernando
Advertising Sales Excutive
The tree will be decorated with lights and a canopy
of over 7,000 dried edelweiss, donated by a Piedmon- Gayani Vittoria
tese nursery, which will give the effect of snow on the Marketing Excutive
branches.
The traditional inauguration of the Nativity scene, Designed by :- Darshani Ranawaka
which this year comes from Rieti, and the lighting of Chathupabodha Wijayalath
T u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 5 , 2 0 2 3
Why do Filipinos celebrate
Christmas for four months?
The Philippines, which is a mainly Catholic country, is known
as the only one that ushers in festivities from September
Dubai resident Vana Sprott has started
dusting off an unassembled fake pine tree to
usher in a four-month-long Christmas
tradition. “As soon as the 'ber months' hit,
it's the start of the Christmas season for
us,” she tells The National, referring to the
last four months of the year, which end with
“ber”.
Sprott, who has been in Dubai for almost
seven years, is just one of the millions of
Filipinos in and outside the South-East
Rome's traditional
Christmas tree lights up
with sustainability
08/12/2022
Rome – This Christmas, the Food and
Agriculture Organization of the United
Nations (FAO) is joining forces once again
with the city of Rome to promote actions
that citizens and visitors of all ages can
undertake during the holiday season to
create a sustainable and inclusive
community, where no one is left behind.
FAO Director-General QU Dongyu, the
Mayor of Rome, Roberto Gualtieri and the
Chief Executive Officer of the Acea utility
company, Fabrizio Palermo, launched the
campaign at the official Christmas tree
unveiling ceremony held today in the central
Piazza Venezia.
This year for the first time the lights on
Rome’s Christmas tree are generated by
solar power in line with the campaign’s
messages relating to energy conservation
and responsible consumption. The system
allows a reduction of CO2 emissions of
17.55 kg/day which, for the entire duration
of the lighting of the tree, are equivalent to
526 kg of CO2.
As part of the campaign, FAO, together
with the city of Rome and the Italian
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International
Cooperation, are inviting citizens and
visitors to play their part in addressing a
range of challenges at a time when in many
parts of the world, people, especially the
adVerTIser's supplemenT page 23 DN
the only one that celebrates
Christmas for an extended
period.
Mariah Carey, the singer
behind the holiday hit All I
Want for Christmas is You,
acknowledged it in a recent
post on X, formerly known
as Twitter.
“I’ll allow it for my Filipino
lambs, though,” she wrote in
response to news that her Catholicism and the many religious “allow us to fully immerse in the spirit of
Christmas song received traditions the country practises during the Christmas, which is all about being grateful,
316,000 streams on Spotify season. being kind, getting together with friends
last Friday. Christmas has become a crucial occasion and family and ending the year on a positive
Families typically start by for Filipinos who work overseas, which the note”.
putting up Christmas lights, government said number about 1.8 million Belle Briones, also a Dubai resident, says:
and gradually build up the in a 2021 census. “Good things happen during Christmas, so
decorations closer to Many of these migrant workers, including if we can have it for longer, why not?”
December 25. a significant portion from the UAE, would Briones says the community aspect of the
People selling handmade use their annual leave over Christmas to celebration is most notable. The Christmas
parols or ornamental reunite with their families. season creates a “warm and cheerful
lanterns swell in numbers on This grand homecoming could offer an atmosphere at home, but also within
the streets, and carolers start explanation for the months-long anticipation neighbourhoods”.
going door to door as early of the holiday, said Filipino sociologist For some Filipinos abroad, the “ber”
as November. Clifford Sorita in a 2018 report by NPR. months are a poignant reminder of the
There have been many He said the “ber” months provide a distance they have to travel to provide a
suggestions as to why this is “psychological time clock” for Filipinos, good life for their families at home.
the case. Filipinos' penchant who are expecting a busy Christmas
for Christmas is rooted in calendar with family and friends.
Asian country who start yuletide Sprott SAYS the extended festivities
celebrations as early as September.
“We would start putting up the Christmas
tree and other decorations, playing
Christmas music and thinking about the
parties we are going to host and attend,”
she says of her family in the Philippines.
“Some may think it's silly, but we do it
anyway. It's unique and heartwarming, and
it ultimately brings us joy.”
The mainly Catholic country is known as
most vulnerable, have been suffering the
effects of higher costs for energy, food and
other primary goods.
“This holiday season, we are calling on
all people living in Rome and beyond to
join us and unite in solidarity, and with
passion, as a community to help build a
peaceful and sustainable world where no
one is left behind,” the FAO Director-
General said. “FAO is proud to be hosted
by a city that shares our vision and is
deeply grateful to the Government of Italy
for the close collaboration as we work
together to accomplish FAO's mandate for
a better future," he added.
A time of hope
At the foot of the Christmas tree, large
parcels or gift boxes each carry QR codes
which, when scanned, download the Web
App “Christmas in Rome”, providing tips
on how to achieve a lifestyle in line with
the 17 Sustainable Development Goals,
and help build a world where everyone
counts and no one is left behind. Here
adults and children can find concrete
actions to avoid waste, respect the planet
and achieve sustainability including during
traditional festive season meals, and in the
exchange of gifts in solidarity with those
who are less fortunate. It also stresses the
need for peace and dialogue. FAO
 DN page 24 ADVERTISER'S SUPPLEMENT T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

SampathCards Unveils Festive Delights through

Exclusive Offers and More for a Season of Savings
A
s the holiday season
approaches, Sampath Bank
continues its tradition of
bringing joy and value to its
customers through the much-anticipated
SampathCards festive offerings. In this
exclusive Q and A session with Shiran
Kossinna – AGM Card Centre, Sampath
Bank, discover the deals and benefits
that set Sampath Cards apart in the
realm of Credit and Debit Cards. From
discounts across a myriad of categories
to a commitment to simplicity and
responsible banking, SampathCards
aims to enhance not just financial
transactions but also the overall lifestyle
of its Cardholders. Explore how
Sampath Bank addresses economic
challenges, providing strategic solutions
and exclusive plans to make this festive
season memorable and financially
responsible for Sri Lankans.
Shiran Kossinna – AGM Card Centre
Each year, SampathCards are renowned
for offering enticing deals to their
customers. What is in store for this
year?
At SampathCards, we take pride in
presenting our Cardholders with an array of
exciting seasonal offers every year. It's not
just about discounts; it's about creating
opportunities for our Cardholders to save
while indulging in their aspirations. This
December season, we're extending
exclusive discounts of up to 50% across
diverse categories such as Retail and
Fashion, Super Market, Books, Gifts,
Watches, Wellness, Jewellery, Eyewear,
Hearing Aids, Baby and Kids, Footwear,
Education, Auto Care, Dining, Healthcare,
Online, Electronics and Furniture,
Homecare, Travel and Hotel Stays.
Why should one opt for a Sampath Card?
What sets it apart from the rest?
Choosing a SampathCard is not just a
financial decision; it's a commitment to a
responsible and rewarding banking experience.
We believe in simplicity, which is why Sampath
Cardholders face a maximum of only four
charges. Our Cards also come with the added
benefit of no fuel surcharge, exclusive year-
round deals with leading merchant partners,
the best loyalty rewards for spending, and the
flexibility to choose between Visa, Mastercard,
or American Express.
What extra benefits will customers gain
from obtaining a Sampath Card?
SampathCards go beyond being a mere
payment method; they offer a lifestyle
enhancement. By simplifying regular
spending, our Cards provide value additions
that seamlessly integrate with the Sri Lankan
way of life. From economic benefits to loyalty
rewards, SampathCards aims to uplift the
standard of living for our Cardholders.
With the current economic conditions in
Sri Lanka and rising taxes, Sri Lankans
have scaled back their use of Credit
Cards. What solution has Sampath Bank
devised to address this situation?
Understanding the challenges our
Cardholders face, SampathCards has
implemented strategic measures to alleviate
financial burdens. We've introduced easy
payment plans with 0% interest for education,
medical and hospital expenses and insurance,
offering relief in managing essential
payments. Additionally, our weekly
supermarket offers at leading partners
contribute to easing the financial strain
during these times.
In terms of your customer base, what
measures are in place for this festive
season to assist them in managing their
expenses for seasonal shopping?
The festive season is a time of joy, and at
SampathCards, we aim to make it memorable
for our customers while encouraging
financially responsible choices. Our exclusive
offers and discounts cater to a wide range of
customer interests and preferences. By
understanding our customers' evolving
lifestyles, we've curated offers that align with
their desires, ensuring they can celebrate the
season responsibly.

Christmas traditions
around the world
United Kingdom

Christmas crackers are a big part of the

For the millions of Americans who celebrate
the Christian holiday of Christmas, the holiday
is synonymous with traditions of everything
from baking and decorating Christmas cookies
to trimming a Christmas tree with heirloom
ornaments. Americans go on marathon
shopping trips, both in store and online to find
that perfect gift while listening to Christmas
carols. Stockings are hung and people enjoy
Christmas parades, concerts and the classic
Christmas films with a glass of eggnog or mug
of hot cocoa. Around the world, Christmas
traditions vary, but sharing a joyous spirit is a
common theme.
Australia
For Australians, living Down Under in the
Southern Hemisphere means that Christmas
falls during the summer season. On Christmas
day, many families will celebrate with a
lunchtime barbie to grill, and then head to the
beach. Father Christmas, as Santa is known to
Australian kids, is even known to make an
appearance at the beach, sometimes even
arriving by surfboard instead of his signature
sleigh. Another Australian tradition is "Carols
by Candlelight", which takes place in cities
and towns across Australia, where groups of
people gather and sing Christmas songs,
holding candles. The biggest celebrations in
Melbourne and Sydney are even televised.
December 24 will steal any broomsticks
they see to fly on.
A sweeter Norwegian tradition is the
serving of "riskrem," a chilled rice pudding
with berry sauce, for dessert. Families will
place a single blanched almond inside the rice
pudding, and whoever finds it will get a small
prize, and is also said to have good luck.
The Philippines
The Philippines has the longest and most
lavish Christmas season in the world, with
holiday light displays, masses and festivals
held from September through January. Special
Christmas lanterns called 'parols' made of
bamboo and paper are hung around towns and
villages, with some places even holding
contests for the most beautiful Christmas
decorations. It is tradition for families to come
together on Christmas Eve for a big, festive
meal. Traditional Christmas treats include
puto bumbong, or bamboo tubes stuffed with
purple rice, butter, sugar and coconut. Colorful
fruits and rice cakes called 'bibingka' are also
popular.
to Quartz, the Senegalese people celebrate
Muslim and Christian holidays together, as
holidays are seen as an opportunity to share
festivities with a communal spirit. Pères Noel,
or Father Christmas as Santa is known in
Senegal, is even known to appear at
supermarkets in Dakar.
British Christmas celebration. And these
aren't the crispy flat rounds on the table
beside the cheese. The BBC describes the
Christmas cracker as a "three-chambered
cardboard tube, wrapped in brightly colored
paper that is twisted to connect the two outer
chambers to the middle." Inside this candy
shaped vessel's middle chamber is a prize of a
small toy, a joke or a riddle, and a paper
crown. A cardboard strip with a tiny explosive
charge on it runs along the inside of the
cracker, so when two people tug at either end,
a "crack" sound is heard, and the cracker
breaks into two pieces. Whoever is holding
the side that's still attached to the middle
chamber wins the prize. The reason Christmas
crackers have crowns is traced back to the
ancient Romans, who wore decorative
headgear to celebrate Saturnalia, a festival
around the winter solstice.
If you're celebrating Christmas this year, try
adding a new tradition. Along with wearing
your ugly Christmas sweater, bring a box of
Christmas crackers to add a pop of surprise to
your family party, try passing out apples, and
remember to hide your broomsticks! (CNN)

Senegal

Although a Muslim-majority country,

Christmas is celebrated by Christians and
Muslims in Senegal. The capital city, Dakar, is
decorated with Christmas trees and traditional
masks covered in Christmas lights. According

Merry Christmas 2023: Why is Christmas

Celebrated on the 25th of December?
Christmas is around the corner and we all are
looking forward to celebrating it with utmost joy
and happiness in the company of our friends, family,
and loved ones. Everything about the festival,
whether it's the delightful presents, sumptuous
food, or the fancy lightings, appeal to people of all
age groups. Interestingly, Christmas is one of the
very few festivals that is always celebrated on a fixed
date, i.e. December 25. Ever thought why is it so?
When the date of celebrating several festivals relies
on various factors, why is Christmas always observed
on December 25?
Christmas, the holiday commemorating the birth
of Jesus Christ, is celebrated by a majority of
Christians on December 25 in the Gregorian
calendar. But early Christians did not celebrate his
birth, and no one knows on which date Jesus was
born.
There are at least three possible reasons why
Christmas is celebrated on December 25.
The Roman Christian historian Sextus Julius
Africanus dated Jesus’ conception to March 25,
which, after nine months in his mother’s womb,
would result in a December 25 birth.
In the 3rd century, the Roman Empire, which at
the time had not adopted Christianity, celebrated
the rebirth of the Unconquered Sun Sol Invictus on
December 25th. This holiday not only marked the
return of longer days after the winter solstice but
also followed the popular Roman festival called the
Saturnalia, during which people feasted and
exchanged gifts. The church in Rome began formally
celebrating Christmas on December 25 in 336,
during the reign of the emperor Constantine. As
Constantine had made Christianity the effective
religion of the empire, some have speculated that
choosing this date had the political motive of
weakening the established pagan celebrations. Also,
after Constantine made Christianity the effective
religion of the empire, pagan customs would often
be baptized and made Christian. This made it
simpler for the people to adopt the new religion as
they could be Christian and still celebrate all the
festivals they did before.
When the Christian church became much larger
and more influential, religious and political leaders
wanted to make the Christian holidays more popular
while still allowing for the traditional celebrations
people already enjoyed. Thus, combining Christmas
and the winter solstice was the solution. As
Christianity spread across the globe, so did the
Christian holidays, including Christmas. From there,
it became celebrated in a wide variety of ways as
different cultures adapted it to their specific needs.
T u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 5 , 2 0 2 3 adVerTIser's supplemenT page 25 DN

Celebrate An
English Christmas
at Galadari
with live music featuring Rhapsody and
Roger Menezes from the Jetliners. Get
ready to have Lunch with Santa on
Christmas Day followed by a lavish
Christmas Dinner Buffet at the Coffee Shop
with live music by Kismet.
Rejoice in the dawning of the New Year
with a mouthwatering international dinner
buffet at the Coffee Shop and get ready to
dance the night away to the sounds of
Kismet and Effex DJs.
If you want a classy New Year’s Eve, you
must be at the California Grill for an elegant
six course sit down dinner. Greet in the
New Year to the music of Rhapsody and
Roger Menezes.
As we say adieu to 2023 come to the
Galadari Colombo and be a part of the
seasonal vibes on offer. Make your memories
last and cheer in 2024 in the best place to
celebrate in the city.

W
ith the festive
season just around
the corner, the
Galadari Colombo is
gearing towards celebrating
an English style Christmas.
The Christmas trees take on
the customary red and
green, and the rest of the
décor follow in theme Await a fabulous Goodies Hut from 14th
adding a festive December onwards filled with traditional
Christmas Goodies the ideal gifts for friends
celebrational ambience all and family this season. Christmas High Tea
is on 23rd December and on 24th December
around. enjoy a sensational Christmas Eve Dinner
DN page 26 adVerTIser's supplemenT T u e s d ay, d e c e m b e r 5 , 2 0 2 3

Celebrate
Christmas in
Rome 2023 :
Christmas Feasts,
Concerts, Tours
and more!

T
he city of Rome nativity scenes,
going to popular
takes its churches is a good
idea.
celebrations Here are the
locations for the best
seriously, and that nativity scenes:
• St Peter's Square
includes Christmas time. • Church of Santa
Maria in Ara Coeli
Every holiday season, the • Basilica Papale di
Santa Maria
city beckons tourists with Maggiore
its plethora of things to
• Basilica of Saints
Cosmas and Damian
do on Christmas in Rome. 3. Admire the
Explore your options
places. This tradition is followed throughout Christmas Trees
Rome, but there’s a few you simply cannot
during Christmas in Rome miss.
The most popular locations for Christmas
Andrew’s Church of Scotland, Via Venti
Settembre
with the fun-filled ways Mass are:
• Pantheon
• Christmas Concert at the Auditorium of
Ponte Sant'Angelo in Rome
Romans express their • St Peter's Basilica
• All Saints' Anglican Church 7. Gaze at the Christmas Lights
Christmas cheer! • Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore The first Christmas lights are put up around
early December, right from the Immaculate
2. Check Out Nativity Scenes Conception, so by Christmas, all the streets of
Why Spend Christmas in Rome?
Yet another cultural gem of Rome on Rome reflect a blindingly bright spirit of the
• As the month of December is right smack
Christmas, the nativity scenes (or the Presepe) holiday season.
in the middle of the off-season for tourists,
can be seen all throughout the city - even in Spot the most beautiful Christmas lights at:
most of the city's attractions and events will
most shop displays. To gaze at some notable • Piazza di Spagna
be free of the bustling crowds of tourists.
• Via dei Condotti
• Piazza Venezia
• Via del Corso

8. Go Ice Skating
A festive activity that warms you up in the
midst of the chill of the Roman winter, ice
skating in one of the city’s many rinks has
recently become a tourist favorite, especially
on Christmas. So strap your skates in and

Some of the most awe-inspiring Christmas

trees can be found standing tall in the middle
of popular public spaces, with glittering lights
and decorations abound. After all, there’s
nothing like seeing a majestic Christmas tree
to get you in the Christmas spirit!
Locate the best Christmas trees in Rome at:
• Colosseum
• St Peter's Square
• Piazza Venezia
• Imperial Forums

4. Explore the Christmas Markets

The usual markets in Rome get a whole new
• Many of the attractions in Rome are decked festive makeover, come Christmas time.
up especially for the holiday season while
offering Christmas-exclusive events and
activities.
• Christmas in Rome is a haven for those
who are more inclined towards the more
traditional, cultural aspects of the holiday • Seafood at Hotel Hassler prepare for some graceful festive gliding!
season. • Limoncello from Carrefour The best ice rinks on Christmas are:
• The weather is quite pleasant during winter
• Castel Sant'Angelo
in Rome, as the occurrence of snowfall is 6. Head to a Christmas Concert • Piazzale Ankara
rare, and the slight chill in the air adds a Fans of classical music will love Christmas • Auditorium Parco della Musica
festive atmosphere to your travel. in Rome, as almost all the stages in auditoriums • Galleria Porta di Roma
and churches are taken up by choirs and
performers putting on their renditions of
Top 9 Things to do on classic holiday music.
9. Experience a Hassle-Free Tour
As December is the low season for tourism
Christmas in Rome The best Christmas concerts in Rome are: in Rome, you can make the best of it by
• The Three Tenors in Rome at St Paul's experiencing fewer crowds, queues - and of
1. Attend Christmas Mass Within the Walls Church, Via Nazionale course, the opportunity to take some of the
The Christmas Mass is one of the most • Baroque Christmas Concert at Capuchin best tours in Rome during a quieter (and more
significant events during the holiday in Rome, Crypt, Via Vittorio Veneto festive) time. Rome Tickets
and one that’s typically free to attend in most • Rome Opera Christmas Concerts at St

Expect to purchase Christmas-exclusive

goods, Christmas ornaments, vintage goods
and antiques, candy coal, crafts, and more!
Find Rome's best Christmas markets at:
• Piazza Navona
• Piazza Mazzini
• Cinecittà World
• Borghese Gardens

5. Relish Christmas Food

As Christmas anywhere is incomplete
without a hearty meal to fill you up, don’t
forget to sample the season’s offerings in
Rome by heading to eateries frequented by
locals and Christmas markets!
Know about Roman Christmas food and
where you can find it:
• Pandoro at Pasticceria Gruè
• Panettone at Eataly
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3 ADVERTISER'S SUPPLEMENT page 27 DN

Amazing savings up to 75% for Pan Asia credit/

debit Cardholders this festive season
T he end of each year is a Pan Asia Bank’s cardholders can enjoy these
discounts over 200 leading merchants, local
much-anticipated season and international lifestyle brands across all the
categories making it affordable to buy gifts for
with hope, excitement, and loved ones. enjoy well earned family getaways
plans for a wonder holiday
by all. Gearing up to fulfil
the hopes and dreams of its
credit/debit card customers,
this year too, Pan Asia Bank
–The Truly Sri Lankan bank,
has a range of exciting
offers for its credit/debit
cardholders for the
upcoming festive season.
Accordingly, Pan Asia Bank
credit/debit card customers
can enjoy the season of
giving and sharing, with
at several leading hotels in Sri Lanka or dining
fantastic discounts of up to out with loved ones at leading hotels and
75% on all kind of shopping restaurants.
The Bank currently offers three different
from Clothing and Credit Cards catering to three distinctive
segments, namely, Pan Asia World
Accessories, Hotels and MasterCard®, Pan Asia Black MasterCard®
and Pan Asia Gold MasterCard®.
Restaurants and Lifestyle Prospective customers wanting to benefit
from the amazing seasonal promotion can
with every swipe of their contact www.pabcbank.com or call (011)
Pan Asia Bank credit/debit 4667222 to get their own Pan Asia Bank credit
card and dive into the wonderful seasonal
card. offers.

Printed and Published by The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd., at No. 35, D.R.Wijewardene Mawatha, Colombo 10, on Tuesday, December 5, 2023
DN page 28 ADVERTISEMENTS T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

TENDER AND OTHER ADVERTISEMENTS

Wherever you are..,
Anuradhapura Municipal The best way to Fulfil
Council your Future Dreams...
Gather with,

It is kindly informed that the Draft Budget

Document of the Anuradhapura Municipal
Council prepared for the year 2024 in terms Marriage Proposals
Decades of Trusted Service

of the Section 212(b) (Chapter 252) of the

Municipal Councils Ordinance will be displaced
at the Front Office of the Anuradhapura
Municipal Council for 07 days commencing
from 06.12.2023 for the inspection by the
general public. Green Light for Online Transfer
Lake House Branch

W.M.R. Wijesinghe, Acc. No. 000000377

E-mail -
Municipal Commissioner, classified@lakehouse.lk
Municipal Council, 077 7 270 067
Anuradhapura. 077 7 278 948/ 011 2 429 347
011 2 429 383 | 011 2 429 342/ 343

INVITATION FOR BIDS

OFFICE OF THE REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF
HEALTH SERVICES - PUTTALAM
SUPPLY OF MEDICAL GAS - 2024
01. Quotations are invited from 06th December 2023 up to 2.30 p.m. on 20th
December 2023 for the Supply of Medical Gas for the entire period of the
year 2024 to Base Hospitals under the Office of the Regional Director of
Health Services, Puttalam.
02. The cost of the bid documents with other details is Rs. 5,000.00. A Bid
Security of Rs. 250,000.00 in cash or Rs. 500,000.00 as a Bank Guarantee
should be provided when submitting bids. You can obtain applications by
calling over at this office during office hours on working days of the week
from 9.00 a.m. on 06th December 2023 to 2.30 p.m. on 19th December
2023.

03. Bid Forms and all other relevant documents should be prepared in two
copies, enclosed in envelope sealed and marked Supply of Medical Gas -
2024 on the top of left-hand corner of the envelope and sent by Registered
Post to be received before 2.30 p.m. on 20th December 2023 or could be
inserted into the Bid Box kept in the Accountant's Room of this office.

04. Bids will be opened immediately after closing of accepting of Bids. Bidder
or his/her authorized representative could be present on this occasion. The
Procurement Committee has the right of the final decision regarding this
matter.
Chairman
Regional Procurement Board
Office of the Regional Director of Health Services
Puttalam
032-2247261 / 032-2248855

PEOPLE'S BANK INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB)

MINISTRY OF SPORTS &
YOUTH AFFAIRS
TENDER NOTICE SUGATHADASA NATIONAL SPORTS
Sealed tenders are invited from reputed suppliers,
COMPLEX AUTHORITY
manufacturers to supplying of following items.
Last Date &
Supply of Swimming Pool Chemicals - 2024
Value of the Date & Time
Tender No. Description of the Item Qty. Bid Bond
Time of
of Closing 1. The Chairman, Procurement Committee, Sugathadasa National Sports Complex
Issuing Authority now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for “Supply
(Rs.) Tender
Documents of Swimming Pool Chemicals - 2024”.
P/086/2023 Vanity bag 40,000 360,000.00 2. Bidding will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding procedure.
P/087/2023 Ladies lunch bag 5,000 50,000.00 18.12.2023 19.12.2023 3. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information from Procurement
at at Officer, Sugathadasa National Sports Complex Authority,P.O. Box 2211, Arthur De
P/088/2023 Water bottle with a cover 3,000 50,000.00 2.00 p.m 2.00 p.m Silva Mawatha, Colombo-13 and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address :
Sugathadasa National Sports Complex Authority,P.O. Box 2211, Arthur De Silva
P/089/2023 Stoned necklace 2,500 375,000.00 Mawatha,Colombo-13 between 09.00 hrs and 15.00 hrs on any working day from
2023.12.06 to 2023.12.27
1. Tender document could be obtained upon payment of Rs. 5,000/- for each tender as a non- refundable 4. Eligible bidder shall be a registered business entity operating in Sri Lanka and with
Tender fee from the under mentioned office between 9.00 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. from 05.12.2023 until the experience on supplying of swimming pool chemicals at least for three (03) years
last date as indicated above on working days of the Bank. successfully up to now.
2. Perfected tender documents should be accompanied by a Bank Guarantee/ Bid Bond from a 5. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English language may be purchased
Commercial Bank acceptable to the People’s Bank for the value mentioned above, valid for a minimum by interested bidders on submission of a written application to the address :
period of 180 calendar days from the date of opening the tender. Bank Drafts/ Pay Orders in lieu of Bank Sugathadasa National Sports Complex Authority,P.O. Box 2211, Arthur De Silva
Guarantee / Bid Bond are also acceptable with validity at 180 calendar days from the date of opening Mawatha,Colombo-13 between 09.00 hrs and 14.30 hrs on any working day
of the tender. Cheques drawn by the tenderer will not be accepted. A cash deposit in the form of any type from 2023.12.06 to 2023.12.27 and upon payment of a non-refundable fee of Rs.
of account at People’s Bank together with simple letter of set off can be accepted in lieu of bid bond. 2,500.00. (with VAT). The method of payment will be by cash.
3. The selected supplier/s will be required to complete the deliveries within 30 days after issuance of 6. Bids must be delivered to the address : Sugathadasa National Sports Complex
Purchase Orders. Authority,P.O. Box 2211, Arthur De Silva Mawatha,Colombo-13 at or before 14.00
hrs. on 2023.12.28. Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened in the presence
4. Sealed tenders may be sent by registered post or deposited in the tender box kept at this Department of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend in person or on line at the
at No. 30/101, Kew Road, Colombo 02. Tenders will be opened at 2.00 p.m. on the above mentioned dates. address : Administration Building, Outdoor Stadium, Sugathadasa National Sports
Tenders received after 2.00 p.m. will be rejected and returned unopened. Complex Authority, P.O. Box 2211, Arthur De Silva Mawatha, Colombo-13.
5. Samples should be submitted on or before the above mentioned closing date. 7. All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of Sri Lanka Rupees One
6. The Bank reserves to itself the right of rejecting any or all bids or cancelling the whole tender and the Hundred Thousand (Rs.100,000.00) obtained from a commercial bank operating
right of accepting any portion of a tender without assigning any reasons. in Sri Lanka authorized by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.

7. Further details could be obtained from Chief Manager (Supplies), People’s Bank, Supplies Department, 8. The Validity Period of the bid security shall be from 2023.12.28 to 2024 .04.15
on the telephone Nos. given below. (107 Days from the date of bid opening)
9. Bids valid from 2023.12.28 to 2024.03.13 (77 days from the date of bid
Chief Manager (Supplies) opening).
People’s Bank, Supplies Dept,
Chairman
No. 30/101, Kew Road,
Procurement Committee
Colombo 02.
Sugathadasa National Sports Complex Authority
Tele. No. : 2439577/8, 2307326 P.O. Box 2211,
Fax No. : 2439576 Arthur De Silva Mawatha,
Web : www.peoplesbank.lk Colombo-13.
E mail : supplies@peoplesbank.lk
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3 ADVERTISEMENTS page 29 DN

TENDER AND OTHER ADVERTISEMENTS

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) Procurement Notice
Provincial Ministry of Health, Indigenous Medicine,
Social Welfare, Probation and Childcare Services,
MAIN DISTRIBUTION BOARD FOR RADIOLOGY Environment and Provincial Council Affairs
UNIT AT BASE HOSPITAL KALMUNAI (NORTH) North Central Province
1. Bids are invited by the Chairman, Ministry Procurement Committee of the Provincial Ministry
BID NO: KL/BH/PL/2023-02 of Health, Indigenous Medicine, Social Welfare, Probation and Childcare Services, Environment
1. The Chairman, Regional Procurement Committee, Base Hospital Kalmunai (North) on behalf of Health and Provincial Council Affairs for the selection of qualified suppliers for obtaining the following
Department invites sealed bids from the contractors, who are eligible and qualified for bidding as described supplies and services half yearly for year 2024 to the North Central Provincial Department of
in the following schedule.
Probation and Childcare Services and the following Child Development Centres controlled by
the North Central Provincial Department of Probation and Childcare Services.
Minimum Non
Procurement Bid Security
Contract Name grade of Basic cost refundable
Code No. (from Bank) A. Saliyapura Yeheli Counseling Centre
Registration fee
B. Saliyapura Women’s Detention Centre
Main Distribution Board
KL/BH/PL/ EM-4 (EI- LV)
2023/02
for Radiology Unit at Base
or above.
2.69 M 1,000/= 30,000/= C. Saliyapura Kshema Suraksha Children’s Protection Centre
Hospital Kalmunai (North)
D. Anuradhapura Avanthidevi Girls' Child Development Centre

2. Bidding will be conducted through open bidding procedure. E. Madatugama Certified School
3. Procurement documents could be purchased from the planning unit, during normal working hours at Base F. Anuradhapura Boys' Child Detention Centre
Hospital, Kalmunai (North) from 06.12.2023 to 11.12.2023 on payment of nonrefundable fee as
specified in the schedule. G. Anuradhapura Abhaya Receiving Centre
4. Procurement documents may be inspected free of charge at the above office. H. Hingurakgoda Bosath Girls' Child Development Centre
5. Bids must be accompanied by the Bid Security stated in the schedule and shall be valid up to 91 days from
the date of submission of bid. Value of the
Non
6. Deadline of submission of bids shall be 3.30 pm on 18.12.2023 Procurement Bid Security
Details regarding Supplies and Services Refundable
7. Sealed bids will be received in the Director office at Base Hospital Kalmunai (North) before closing time. No. valid for 119
Bid Fee
Days
8. Bid supporting Documents, certified copies should be annexed with the bids.
9. bids will be opened immediately at 3.30 pm on 18.12.2023 at the above-mentioned address and bidders Supply of Dry Food Items (Cereals) PD/04/2024/01/1 Rs. 61,400.00 Rs. 2,500.00
or their authorized representatives are requested to be present at the time of opening of bids. Supply of Raw Food Items (41) PD/04/2024/02/1 Rs. 132,600.00 Rs. 2,500.00
10. Procurement Committee only has the power to take the final decision regarding this tender procedure.
Supply of Vegetables PD/04/2024/03/1 Rs. 48,500.00 Rs. 2,500.00
11. For further details or clarifications please contact, Planning Unit, Base Hospital Kalmunai (North)
Telephone No: 0672229261,0672224601. Supply of Fruits and Desserts PD/04/2024/04/1 Rs. 36,700.00 Rs. 2,500.00

Dr. R. Muraleeswaran Supply of Fish, Chicken, Eggs, Soya Meat

PD/04/2024/05/1 Rs. 102,900.00 Rs. 2,500.00
Director and Dry Fish
Base Hospital Supply of kinds of Drugs and Consumable
Kalmunai (North) PD/04/2024/06/1 Rs. 61,800.00 Rs. 2,500.00
Items

2. Bids will be conducted through National Competitive Bidding procedure.

3. Bidders submitting bids for above supplies should have fulfilled at least one (01) year’s
experience for each of the above supplies.
4. Interested bidders may obtain further details from the North Central Provincial Department
of Probation and Childcare Services by calling on Tel. Nos. 025-2222570 / 025-4928619 and
the bid documents may be inspected free of charge during office hours between 9.30 a.m.
and 3.30 p.m.
5. Bid documents prepared in Sinhala language may be obtained between 09.30 a.m. and 3.30
p.m. on working days of the week from 05.12.2023 until 27.12.2023 on submission of the
receipt obtained upon payment of the non-refundable fee mentioned in the table above for
each item to the Commissioner of North Central Provincial Department of Probation and
Childcare Services.
6. All bids should be accompanied either by a unconditional bid security obtained in favour of
Commissioner of North Central Provincial Department of Probation and Childcare Services
valid for 119 days until 28.04.2024 obtained from a commercial bank approved by the Central
Bank of Sri Lanka as mentioned in the table above or the receipt obtained upon payment in
cash to the equivalent amount in favour of “Commissioner of North Central Provincial
Department of Probation and Childcare Services".
7. All the bids should be valid for 91 days up to 27.03.2024 from the date of opening of bids.
8. A pre-bid meeting will be held at 10.00 a.m. on 18.12.2023 at the North Central Provincial
Ministry of Health, Indigenous Medicine, Social Welfare, Probation and Childcare Services,
Environment and Provincial Council Affairs, Third Floor, Provincial Council Administrative
Building Complex, Anuradhapura and the bidders may attend this meeting.
9. Bids for each procurement should be prepared in duplicate inserted in two separate covers
marked as “Original” and “Duplicate”, sealed and both covers should be reinserted in a single
cover, sealed mentioning “Supply of Food Items to the Central Provincial Department of
Probation and Childcare Services half yearly for year 2024” on the left hand top corner of
the envelope and may either be sent by registered post addressed to “Secretary / Chairman,
Ministry Procurement Committee, Provincial Ministry of Health, Indigenous Medicine,
Social Welfare, Probation and Childcare Services, Environment and Provincial
Council Affairs, Third Floor, Provincial Council Administrative Building Complex,
Anuradhapura” or deposited in the Bid Box kept in this Ministry to receive before 10.00
a.m. on 28.12.2023. Late bids will be rejected. Bids relevant to all supplies and services will
be opened immediately after closing of bids. The relevant bidder or one of his authorized
representatives may be present at the time of opening of bids. All bids would be referred to
the Technical Evaluation Committee for their recommendation.
10. All the bidders are subjected to the rules and regulations mentioned in the procurement
documents and the decision of the Ministry Procurement Committee is final.

Secretary/Chairman
Ministry Procurement Committee
Provincial Ministry of Health, Indigenous Medicine, Social Welfare,
Probation and Childcare Services, Environment and Provincial Council Affairs,
Third Floor,
Provincial Council Administrative Building Complex,
Anuradhapura.
05.12.2023
DN page 30 ADVERTISEMENTS T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

NOTICE
Incorporation as a Private Company with
limited liability having completed with the
requirements of the Companies Act No. 7 of
2007 on 23rd November 2023.
Name of Company : BESTBUYLAPTOP.LK
(PRIVATE) LIMITED
Company Number : PV 00289163
Registered Address : No.19/5, Farm Road,
Mattakkuliya,
Colombo 15.
Director / Shareholder
INVITATION FOR REGISTRATION OF
MAINTENANCE CONTRACTORS FOR
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE & SERVICES OF
CENTRAL AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM IN THE
NATIONAL EYE HOSPITAL, COLOMBO 10,
FOR THE YEAR 2024
1. The Chairman, Department Procurement Committee invites sealed bids
from eligible and qualified Applicants for "Registration of Maintenance
Contractors for Preventive & Corrective Maintenance & Services of
Central Air-conditioning System" at National Eye Hospital, Colombo
10, for the year 2024 as described below.
2. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding
(NCB) method.
3. To be eligible for contract award, the successful bidder shall not have been
blacklisted and the bidder shall be incorporated under Companies Act No.
7 of 2007.
4. Interested bidders may obtain further information from The Director,
National Eye Hospital, Colombo 10 on working days between 9.00 a.m.
and 2.30 p.m.
5. A Complete set of bidding documents in English language may be
purchased by interested eligible bidders from the Director, National Eye
Hospital, Colombo 10, on working days between 9.30 a.m. and 3.00 p.m.
up to 26.12.2023 on submission of a written request to the address below
and upon payment of a nonrefundable fee of Rs. 1,500.00.
6. The bid shall be valid for a period of 49 days.
7. Bids must be delivered to the address below, at or before 10.30 a.m. on
27.12.2023. All bids must accompany a bid security issued by a reputable
bank in Sri Lanka, approved by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, amouting
to LKR 50,000.00, for the validity period of 77 days. Late bids will be
rejected. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders' representatives
who choose to attend, at the address below, immediately after the time
mentioned above.
8. The address referred to above is :
The Director,
National Eye Hospital,
Rev. Baddegama Wimalawansa Thero Mawatha,
Colombo 10.
Contact - 0112693911
Fax - 0112698285
MINISTRY OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC STABILIZATION AND NATIONAL POLICIES
Registration of Maintenance Contractors
for Year 2024
National Institute of Infectious Diseases,
I.D.H., Angoda
Breaking
Applications are invited up to 2.00 p.m. on 28.12.2023 from boundaries
contractors registered with ICTAD in Grade C 10 or above
for building construction, maintenance and repairs for year
2024 for the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, I.D.H.,
Angoda. Application forms will be issued after proving the The Country’s
largest
qualifications upon payment of a non-refundable fee of recruitment
Rs. 1,000.00. Applications obtained from the Office of the database
Accountant may be perfected and may either be sent by
registered post or deposited in the Tender Box. Applications
will be opened immediately after closing of applications
For
and the bidder or his representative may be present at the jobseekers
time of opening of applications.
Chairman
Regional Procurement Committee
National Institute of Infectious Diseases www.observerjobs.lk
I.D.H., Angoda
Y¯}‹YMv Rv£l³£¹|x
fkj;njhopy; mikr;R
Ministry of Agriculture
( / tptrhag;gphpT / Agriculture Division)
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
Ministry of Agriculture
Agriculture Sector Modernization Project
IDA Credit No: 5873 LK
PROCUREMENT NOTICE
v Rehabilitation of Existing Building as the Cluster Processing Center of Kolikuttu Banana in
Mullaitivu District (Udaiyaarkattu). LK-MOA-PMU-366004-CW-RFB
v Rehabilitation of Padiththa Magalir Thidda Road at Mirusuvil North (Chavakachcheri Pradeshiya
Sabha) LK-MOA-PMU-145408-CW-RFB
1. The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka has received a Credit from the International Development Association
(IDA) in various currencies equivalent to US$ 58.630 Million towards the cost of the Agriculture Sector Modernization
Project of the Ministry of Agriculture, and it intends to apply portion of the proceeds of this credit to eligible payments
under the Contract for the following works as described in the table below.
2. Chairman, Provincial Project Procurement Committee on behalf of the ASM Project, Ministry of Agriculture, now
invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the following works as described in the table below.

Estimated
Bid Non
Cost Bid
Contract Contract Required Security Refundable
Description of Works Excluding Security
No. Period Grade Amount Fee
VAT (Rs.) Validity
(Rs.) (Rs.)
(Mn.)
STATE ENGINEERING CORPORATION OF SRI LANKA Rehabilitation of
LK- Existing Building
Procurement Notice MOA- as the Cluster
4
C5 or
Above in
01st
PMU- Processing Center of 28.6 428,850.00 April 5,000.00
Months Buildings
366004- Kolikuttu Banana in 2024
Sale of Vehicles (Removed from use), Scrap Vehicles, CW-RFB Mullaitivu District
(Udaiyaarkattu)
Plant & Machinery at NEMO Rehabilitation of
LK-
Padiththa Magalir
MOA- C5 or 01st
Tender No: SDSQ / 2023/S-2/V/P/M /03 Thidda Road at 4
PMU- 26.7 Above in 400,050.00 April 5,000.00
Mirusuvil North Months
145408- Highways 2024
1. The Chairman Department Procurement Committee on behalf of the State Engineering (Chavakachcheri
CW-RFB
Corporation of Sri Lanka now invites sealed bids from bidders for the Sale of Vehicles Pradeshiya Sabha)
(Removed from use), Scrap Vehicles, Plant & Machinery at NEMO.
3. Bidders are allowed to quote for the above work with Bid Security and Bid validity date as mentioned in the Bid
2. Each tenderer should submit a Bid bond (Unconditional Bank guarantee/ Bid deposit) document. One bidder is allowed to quote only one bid for each contract. To be eligible for contract award, the
amounting to 10% of the total value of item quoted & valid up to 19.03.2024. successful bidder shall not have been blacklisted and shall have been registered in the field of respective construction
for the grade mentioned in the table above with the Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA).
3. Tender application can be obtained from the Supply Division in the 5th Floor between 9.00 hrs 4. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedure approved by the World Bank.
and 15.00 hrs from 05.12.2023 to 18.12.2023 paying non-refundable fee of Rs. 1,000.00 to
the Finance Division at 7th Floor of the State Engineering Corporation Head Office. 5. Qualification requirements are indicated in Section 4 of the Bidding document. Additional details are provided in the
Schedule (Section 5) of the bidding document.
4. The Two copies must be placed in separate sealed envelopes and marked "Original"
6. Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information from Provincial Deputy Project Director, Agriculture Sector
and "Duplicate". Both envelopes should be in one securely sealed cover and forwarded Modernization Project, 340, Point Pedro Road, Anaipanthi, Jaffna, Northern Province (T.P: 021 221 6358) and inspect
by registered post addressed to Chairman, Department Procurement Committee, State the bidding documents at the same place on any working day from 04th December 2023 to 18th December 2023 from
Engineering Corporation of Sri Lanka, 130, W.A.D. Ramanayaka Mawatha, Colombo - 02 9:00 hrs to 14:30 hrs.
or placed in the official tender box provided for this purpose at Ground Floor of the SEC Head 7. Pre-Bid meeting will be held on 11th December 2023 at 10.00 a.m. at Provincial Deputy Project Direcrtor, Northern
Office building at above address before 2.00 p.m. on 19.12.2023. Province, Agriculture Sector Modernization Project, No. 340, Point Pedro Road, Anaipanthi, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. There
will be a site visit to the proposed project site, after the pre-bid meeting.
5. The Items could be inspected from 9.00 hrs to 15.00 hrs on working days (Monday to Friday)
at Anuradhapura, Kolonnawa, Mahiyanganaya, Tangalle, Kurunegala, Ekala and Peliyagoda 8. Bid shall be valid up to 04th March 2024.
Yards by prior appointment through Telephone No. 071 8574834 after purchasing tender 9. Bid shall be accompanied by a Bid Security as per the information given in the Table.
document.
10. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English language may be purchased by interested bidders on submission of
6. For more information, contact Chief Procurement Officer of the Sate Engineering Corporation a written application to the Provincial Deputy Project Director, Northern Province, Agriculture Sector Modernization
of Sri Lanka through Telephone Number 011- 2451151. Project, No: 340, Point Pedro Road, Jaffna, Sri Lanka from 04th December 2023 to 18th December 2023 from 9:00 hrs
to 14:30 hrs. upon payment of a non-refundable fee as mentioned in the above Table, within the below mentioned
7. The Procurement Committee reserves the right to accept/reject any portion or all of the offers period. The method of payment should be by cash.
received.
11. Closing date of the bid is 18th December 2023, 14.30 hrs.
Chairman, 12. Bid must be delivered to the Provincial Deputy Project Director, Northern Province, Agriculture Sector Modernization
Departmental Procurement Committee, Project, No. 340, Point Pedro Road, Anaipanthi, Jaffna, Sri Lanka at or before 14.30 hrs on the bid closing date as
mentioned above.
State Engineering Corporation of Sri Lanka,
No. 130, W.A.D. Ramanayake Mawatha, 13. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will not be accepted. Bids will be opened immediately after bid
closing, in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend one person at the above-mentioned
Colombo 02. address.
2023.12.05 14. Complete bids should be separately forwarded in two copies as the original and the duplicate. The original and the
duplicate should be enclosed separately and marked as the ‘original’ and ‘duplicate’ respectively in sealed envelopes.
Both envelopes enclosed in a sealed single envelope and marked contract number and name of the contract on top
left-hand corner of the envelope.

Chairman,
Project Procurement Committee,
Provincial Deputy Project Director,
Northern Province,
Agriculture Sector Modernization Project,
No. 340, Point Pedro Road, Anaipanthi,
Jaffna, Sri Lanka. 02nd December 2023
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3 ADVERTISEMENTS page 31 DN

Ministry of Agriculture & Plantation Industries

Vacancies
Coconut Research Institute
Applications are invited from citizens of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka for the following posts of the Coconut Research Institute.
OR
1. Post of Senior Manager (Estates) b) A M.Phil./M.Sc. (Two-year research degree) with ten (10) 8. Post of Assistant Estates Superintendent
years satisfactory service as a Research Officer in the AR
Professional Qualifications and Experience: I category Professional Qualifications
O External : Note : Research publications relevant to the respective discipline will be an O External : Degree in Agriculture/Plantation Management from a recognized
added qualification. University.
Professional Qualifications : Degree in Agriculture / Plantation
Management a recognized university with a postgraduate degree in a O Age : Should be not less than 30 years and not more than 45 years on the closing O Internal : Two - Year Diploma in the relevant field and minimum of five (5)
relevant discipline date of applications. The upper age limit will not apply to internal candidates. years satisfactory service as a Field Officer in Management Assistant
O Salary Category : AR 2 Category Grade II.
AND
O Salary Scale : Rs.76,200/-10x2,000/-96,200/- Note : Preference will be given to the candidates with experience in the
O Experience : Minimum of fifteen (15) years experience in managerial level Starting Salary Point : Rs. 76,200/-[As per Circular MSD No – 2/2016(I)]
O management of coconut lands and labour management.
in a coconut plantation not less than 100 Ha in Manager Category in a Other Benefits : Following monthly allowances are paid in addition to the
government / semi government organization or a reputed company.
O
O Age : Should be not less than 22 years and not more than 45 years on the
basic salary. closing date of applications. The upper age limit will not apply to internal
O Internal : Professional Qualifications : Degree in Agriculture / Plantation i. Cost of living Allowance - Rs.7,800/- candidates.
Management from a recognized university ii. Professional allowance O Salary Category : MA 3
AND iii. Communication allowance O Salary Scale : Rs. 32,200/-10x445/- 11x660/- 10x730/-5x750/-
O Experience : Five (05) years satisfactory service in grade I of the
iv. Tea Allowance 54,960/-
Manager category as Manager (Estates) Starting Salary Point : Rs. 32,200/- ( As per Circular MSD No – 2/2016)
5. Post of Senior Technology Transfer Officer
O

O Age : Should be not less than 35 years and not more than 55 years on the O Other Benefits : Following monthly allowances are paid in addition
closing date of applications. The upper age limit will not apply to internal to the basic salary
candidates. Professional Qualifications i. Cost of Living Allowance - Rs.7,800/-
O Salary Category : HM 1-1 ii. Tea Allowance
O External : a) A four-year special degree with a first class or second class
O Salary Scale : Rs.80,295 /-15x2,270/-114,345 /-
upper in Science or Agriculture from a recognized University
O

O
Starting Salary Point
Other Benefits
: Rs. 80,295.00 – [As per Circular MSD No – 2/2016(I)]
:
with appropriate subject combinations 9. Post of Technician (Audio/Visual)
OR
Following monthly allowances are paid in addition to the basic salary. b) A four-year special degree with a second class lower in Professional Qualifications and Experience:
i. Transport Allowance – Rs. 50,000/- Science or Agriculture from a recognized University with O External : GCE (O/L) with passes in at least six (6) subjects with four (4)
ii. Fuel Allowance appropriate subject combinations and a minimum of one credit passes including Mathematics and Language (Sinhala/Tamil), &
iii. Cost of Living Allowance - Rs.7,800/- year postgraduate degree in the relevant field. English in one sitting and GCE (A/L) with three (3) passes in one sitting in
iv. Professional Allowance OR relevant subject combination and a two-year Diploma in a relevant field not
v. Communication Allowance c) A degree in Science or Agriculture with appropriate subject below the N.V.Q. Level 5 from a recognized institution.
vi. Tea Allowance combinations and a two- year postgraduate research AND
degree in the relevant field.
2. Post of Accountant AND
One year post qualifying experience in handling Audio - Visual Aid and
AV productions
A PhD degree in the relevant field with a minimum of eight
O Age : Should be not less than 22 years and not more than 45 years on the
Professional Qualifications and Experience: (8) years experience in Technology Transfer after obtaining
closing date of applications. The upper age limit will not apply to internal
O External : the 1st degree candidates
O Internal : A PhD with a minimum of eight (8) years satisfactory service as a
Professional Qualifications : Intermediate level certificate of the Salary category : MA 2-2
Technology Transfer Officer in the AR I category O
Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (ICASL) OR Intermediate Salary Scale : Rs. 30,310/- 10x300/- 7x350/- 4x600/-20x710/-
OR O
level qualification of Chartered Institute of Management Accountants 52,360/-
A M.Phil./M.Sc. (Two-year research degree) with ten (10) years
(CIMA) OR Intermediate level qualification of Association of Certified and Starting Salary Point : Rs. 30,310.00 - (As per Circular MSD No – 2/2016)
satisfactory service as a Technology Transfer Officer in the AR I category O
Corporate Accountants (ACCA) OR Honors Degree (four-year) in O Other Benefits : Following monthly allowances are paid in addition
Management or Commerce. Note : Publications relevant to the respective discipline will be an added
to the basic salary.
qualification.
AND i. Cost of Living Allowance - Rs. 7,800/-
O Age : Should be not less than 30 years and not more than 45 years on the
O Experience : Minimum of three (3) years post qualifying experience in ii. Tea Allowance
closing date of application. The upper age limit will not apply to internal
Accounting / Auditing and Finance Management in a Government
candidates.
Department /Corporation / Board or a reputed Mercantile Establishment
after obtaining above qualifications. O Salary Category : AR 2 10. Post of Lab & Field Assistant
O Salary Scale : Rs.76,200/-10x2,000/-96,200/-
O Internal : Minimum of five (5) years satisfactory relevant experience in Professional Qualifications and Experience:
O Starting Salary Point : Rs. 76,200/-[As per Circular MSD No – 2/2016(I)]
grade I of Junior Manager Category External : GCE (O/L) with six subjects in one sitting with four credit passes
O Other Benefits : Following monthly allowances are paid in addition O
Note : Exposure to computerized accounting environment is a distinct to the basic salary. including Language (Sinhala/ Tamil), English and Science / Agriculture and
advantage. GCE (A/L) in Science with three passes in one sitting
i. Cost of living Allowance - Rs.7,800/-
O Age : Should be not less than 22 years and not more than 45 years on the ii. Professional Allowance Note : Working experience in a laboratory in a Government Department
closing date of Applications. The upper age limit will not apply to internal iii. Communication Allowance Corporation, Statutory Board or a reputed mercantile establishment will be
candidates. iv. Tea Allowance a distinct advantage
O Salary Category : MM 1-2 O Internal : Employees of the categories of primary level skilled, primary level
O

O
Salary Scale
Starting Salary Point
:
:
Rs.54,550/-10x1,375/-15x1,910/-96,950/-
Rs. 54,550.00 – (As per Circular MSD No – 2/2016)
6. Post of Technology Transfer Officer semi -skilled, primary level unskilled who possess the following qualifications
are eligible to apply.
O Other Benefits : Following monthly allowances are paid in addition Professional Qualifications: GCE (O/L) with six subjects in one sitting with four credit passes
to the basic salary. including Language (Sinhala/Tamil), English and Science / Agriculture
External : A four-year special degree with a first class or second class
i. Cost of Living Allowance - Rs.7,800/-
O
AND
upper in Science or Agriculture from a recognized University
ii. Professional Allowance Minimum of five years service in a permanent post under the above
OR
iii. Communication Allowance employed category.
A four-year special degree with a second class lower in Science or
iv. Tea Allowance Service Requirements : -
Agriculture from a recognized University with a minimum of one year
postgraduate degree in the relevant field. 1. Selected candidates should engage in field work in Coconut lands in
3. Network Administrator OR the remote areas.
A degree in Science or Agriculture and a two-year postgraduate 2. Preference will be given to the persons who have valid Motorcycle
Professional Qualifications & Experience : research degree in the relevant discipline. driving license.
O External : A bachelor’s degree in computer science from a recognized O Age : Should be not less than 22 years and not more than 45 years on the O Age : Should be not less than 18 years and not more than 45 years on the
university with a minimum of three (3) years post qualifying experience in closing date of application. The upper age limit will not apply to internal closing date of applications. The upper age limit will not apply to internal
wide area network systems. candidates. candidates.
Note : Experience in database management, web application development O Salary Category : AR 1 O Salary Category : MA 1-2
and sound knowledge of standard software packages will be an added O Salary Scale : Rs. 53,150/-10x1,375/-15x1,910/-95,550/- O Salary Scale : Rs. 27,910/- 10x300/- 7x350/- 12x600/- 12x710/-
qualification. O Starting Salary Point : Rs. 53,150.00 - [As per Circular MSD No – 49,080/-
2/2016(I)] O Starting Salary Point : Rs. 27,910.00/ - (As per Circular MSD No – 2/2016)
O Age : Should be not less than 22 years and not more than 45 years on the
Other Benefits : Following monthly allowances are paid in addition O Other Benefits : Following monthly allowances are paid in addition
closing date of applications. The upper age limit will not apply to internal O

to the basic salary. to the basic salary.

candidates.
i. Cost of living Allowance - Rs.7,800/- i. Cost of Living Allowance - Rs.7,800/-
O Salary Category : MM 1-2 ii. Tea Allowance
ii. Professional Allowance
O Salary Scale : Rs. 54,550/-10x1,375/-15x1,910/-96,950/-
iii. Communication Allowance General Conditions :
O Starting Salary Point : Rs. 54,550/- - (As per Circular MSD No – 2/2016)
iv. Tea Allowance 1. Applicant should be a citizen of Sri Lanka.
O Other Benefits : Following monthly allowances are paid in addition
to the basic salary. 2. Applicant should have good physical & mental fitness.
i. Cost of living Allowance - Rs.7,800/- 7. Post of Estates Superintendent 3. Applicant should be willing to serve in any part of Sri Lanka.
ii. Professional Allowance General Benefits :
iii. Communication Allowance Professional Qualifications and Experience: 1. Gratuity will be paid in accordance with the Gratuity Act. No.12 of 1983 and
iv. Tea Allowance MSD Circular No. 2/2016 on 25.04.2016.
O External : Degree in Agriculture/Plantation Management with at least one
2. Contributory Medical Aid Scheme
4. Post of Senior Research Officer
(01) year post-qualifying experience in the management of estates not less
3. Provident Fund and Employees Trust Fund. The candidates will be required
than 50 Ha
to contribute 10% and the Board will contribute 15% for PF and 3% for ETF of
O Internal : A degree with five (5) years satisfactory relevant experience as an the Salary
Professional Qualifications Assistant Estates Superintendent 4. Other fringe Benefits applicable to employees of the Coconut Research Institute.
O External : a) A four-year special degree with a first class or second class OR
upper in Science or Agriculture from a recognized University Five (5) years satisfactory service as a Field Officer [Management Applicants should forward their signed applications with copies of birth certificate,
with appropriate subject combinations Assistant (tech category)]Grade I education certificates, other relevant certificates, two testimonials (one from Grama
Niladhari) together with names, addresses and telephone numbers of two non-related
OR Note : Preference will be given to the candidates with experience in the
referees, under registered post to reach the Chairman, Coconut Research Board,
b) A four-year special degree with a second class lower in management of coconut lands and labour management
Lunuwila, 61150, on or before 22.12.2023.
Science or Agriculture from a recognized University with O Age : Should be not less than 22 years and not more than 45 years on the Late applications will be rejected.
appropriate subject combinations and a minimum of one closing date of applications. The upper age limit will not apply to internal
year postgraduate degree in the relevant field. candidates. Applications from officers in Government Departments/ Corporations/ Statutory
Boards should be forwarded through their respective Heads. A copy may be sent
OR O Salary category : JM 1-2 directly.
c) A degree in Science or Agriculture with appropriate subject O Salary Scale : Rs. 43,355/-10x755/-18x1,135/-71,335/-
Please mark the post applied for on the top left-hand corner of the envelope.
combinations and a two- year postgraduate research O Starting Salary Point : Rs. 43,355/- (As per Circular MSD No – 2/2016)
degree in the relevant field. O Other Benefits : Following monthly allowances are paid in addition Please note that the Application without copies of the relevant certificate will be
rejected.
AND to the basic salary
CANVASSING WILL BE A DISQUALIFICATION.
A PhD degree in the relevant field with a minimum of eight i. Cost of Living Allowance - Rs. 7,800/-
(8) years research experience after obtaining the 1st ii. Communication Allowance This advertisements is published in the CRI Web site (www.cri.gov.lk)
degree iii. Furnished official residence with a labourer will be provided free of Chairman,
O Internal : a) A PhD with a minimum of eight (8) years satisfactory charge. Coconut Research Board,
service as a Research Officer in AR I category iv. Station Allowance ( Rs.4000.00 – Rs.12000.00 )
Lunuwila.
v. Tea Allowance
DN page 32 ADVERTISEMENTS T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 5 , 2 0 2 3

OCEAN UNIVERSITY OF SRI LANKA

REGISTRATION OF SUPPLIERS AND CONTRACTORS FOR THE YEAR 2024
1. Applications are hereby invited from 05.12.2023 until 28.12.2023 from eligible and qualified Suppliers/
Service Providers and Contractors for the supply of undermentioned categories of goods and services for the
Year 2024 to the Ocean University of Sri Lanka and affiliated Seven (7) Regional Centers (Jaffna/
Trincomalee/ Batticaloa/ Galle/ Tangalle/ Negombo/Panadura)
2. Separate self- prepared application should be forwarded for the registration as per the specimen given below.
Accordingly,
* Applications may be submitted for the under-mentioned supplies and services and non-refundable
registration fee of Rupees 1000/= will be charged for each item.
* Registration fees may be deposited to Peoples Bank / Mutwal Branch A/c No: 214-1-001-6-3629909 via
any Peoples Bank branch in Sri Lanka. Please contact Senior Assistant Director (Procurement),Ocean
University of Sri Lanka for more details.
(Tele. 011-4346991/011-4346993/011-7112655)
3. Application accompanied with Bank deposit slip should be deposited in the tender box located at the office
of the Ocean University of Sri Lanka, Crow Island, Mattakkuliya, Colombo-15 to be received at or before
2.30 p.m. on 28th December, 2023. The top left-hand corner of the envelope enclosing the application should
be marked the caption “Registration of Suppliers and Contractors 2024”.
4. The Certificate relevant to the value of the contract applied for should be sent along with the
application. A written statement should be submitted in proof of being successful Contractors.
Contractors registered at ICTAD need not submit the Worth Certificate. However, the Registration
Certificate should be valid up to 31.12.2024.

Item
Supplies and Services
Supply of Services
Number 50 Security Services
Supply of Equipment 51 Cleaning and Janitory services
1 Office Furniture/Lecture Hall Furniture/Library Furniture (Wooden/Steel and other) 52 Creation/Development of websites and Re-creating
2 UPS/Printers/ Photocopiers /Fax machines/Scanners/Multi Media Equipment/Projectors/ Roneo/Finger print 53 Supply of skill Labour sub contract work (Masons, Carpenters, Plumbing & Drainage work etc.)
Machines etc., 54 Internal pre-fabricated Aluminium portioning and repairs of building
3 Computers/Computer Peripherals/Laptops/Note books/Tabs 55 Electric Wiring/Computer and Network cabling
4 Air Conditioners and Accessories/Generators/Electric Fans/Refrigerators/Television etc. 56 Water Dispensers and water filling
5 Camera and Audio-Visual Equipment/Workstations/C.C.T. V Camera 57 Photographers

6 Network Accessories/ Spares for Computer/ Storage Media /Anti-Virus Software 58 Hiring of vehicles and Transport services

7 Sports Goods /Fitness equipment 59 Repairs of Fishing Vessels & Engines

8 Fire Protection equipment (Fire Extinguisher/Fire Alarm Systems etc.) 60 Refilling of Fire Extinguishers
61 Photographers
Supply of Office Consumables/Printing & Advertising 62 Production of Audio/Video Documentary
09 All kinds of office and general Stationery 63 Pest Controlling
10 Printer/Photocopy Toners, Ink Cartridges, Ribbons/Master rolls/ID printing plastic cards 64 Language Translators (English to Tamil, Japanese, Chinese & other Foreign Languages)
11 Supply of Name Boards/Notice Boards/Rubber Stamps, Date stamps/Plaques & Medals 65 Consultancy Service (Civil Engineering Work)
12 All types of Designing & Printing works (Newsletters/Annual reports/Magazines/Envelops/Forms Annual Work- For Contractors
compliments(diaries/calendars), Brochures, Posters, Banners etc.,)
13 Supply of Sanitary chemicals/ Toilet cleaning liquid/Disinfectants etc. Value of Contract Registration Fee - Rs.

Supply of Training Equipment/Lab/Work shop Equipment 1 Civil Construction works up to Rs. 500,000/= 1000/=
14 Navigational Equipment with Radio Communication Equipment (GPS/Radar)
2 Works between Rs. 500,000/= & Rs. 2,000,000/= 1500/=
15 Life Saving Equipment & Tools including Service, repair and maintenance
16 All Kinds of Tools & Equipment for Gas Arc Welding 3 Works between Rs. 2,000,000/= & Rs.10,000,000/= 2000/=
17 All Kinds of Tools & Machinery Related to Lathe Work
18 Fiberglass Raw Materials & Boat Building Materials
19 Marine Paint, Manila, Polypropylene & Nylon Ropes & Fishing Gear Conditions of Registration of Suppliers
1. Ocean University of Sri Lanka retains the right to call quotations and purchase goods/services from sources outside
20 Spare Parts for Marine Craft, Marine Engines
the registered list whenever such needs arise.
21 Scuba Diving Equipment
2. Contractors should submit applications separately for each category of supplies and services and should make
22 Laboratory Equipment, Chemicals & Glassware payments separately each item.
23 Marine Engine Practical models (Out/In Board) 3. Suppliers should provide at least a 45 days credit period from the day supplies are made.
24 Fishing & Marine Electronic Training Tools/Equipment/Machine 4. No advance payments will be made to suppliers.
25 Fishing gear 5. Payments will be affected only after confirmation of the goods supplied, to be in line with the specifications relevant
26 All spare parts required for aquariums to goods/services supplied.
6. Late submission of applications will be rejected.
Supply of Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Equipment
27 All types of Test Kits relating to Aquaculture and water testing SPECIMEN APPLICATION
28 Different Kinds of Water pumps and accessories/Water meters
OCEAN UNIVERSITY OF SRI LANKA
Book Publishers Application for Registration as a Supplier /Service /Contractor Provider
29 Books, Magazines, Journals, Periodicals, and videos related to Fisheries Science/ Aquaculture/ Marine For the Year - 2024
Engineering/ Ocean Sciences/ Maritime Transport and Logistics/ Coastal Resources Management and Scuba
diving, Lifesaving, Marine safety, Inboard and Outboard engines etc., 1. Name of the Supplier/ Contractor Institution : …………………….....................................………………….
2. Address of the Supplier/ Contractor Institution: …………………......................................………………….
3. Telephone No.
Supply of Vehicle Spare Parts /Services & Repairs i. Permanent Tel No.:…….................................................…………………………………………………….
30 Tyres, Tubes and Batteries ii. Mobile No. ……………….................................................…………………………………………………..
31 Spare Parts for all kinds of motor vehicles. 4. Email Address : ………………….........................................…………………………………………………….
5. Fax No. : ……………………………...................................................................................................…………
32 Service of Vehicles (within 15 km) 6. Business Registration Number& Date : …….......................................…………………………………………
33 Auto Electrical Repairs & Services 7. Nature of Business : …….........................................…………………………………………………………….
34 Tinkering & Painting / Wheel Alignments & Adjustments 8. Category of Goods / Services for Registration:

35 Upholstery Work (Vehicle Seat Cushions, Seat Covers, Rubber Carpets etc., )
Item No Description of Goods/Services Supplied
36 Repairs of Silencers, Radiators, Air Conditioners
37 Motor Vehicle repairing Garages (20 km)

Equipment Repairs & Maintenance

38 Repairs/Maintenance of Equipment (Fax/Photocopy/Printers/Air conditioners etc.,)
39 Repairs, Servicing & Maintenance of Air Conditioners 9. Period Provided for Credit Facility : …….....................................………………………………………………
40 Repairs of Office Furniture (Wooden/Steel) 10. Banker’s Names and Account Numbers : …..................................…………………………………………….
41 Repairs of Laboratory equipment …………………….......................................................................................................…………….....................
11. VAT No. (If available) : ……......................................…………………………………………………………...
Building Materials and Sanitaryware 12. ICTAD Registration No:(If applicable)………......................................………………………………………..
42 All kinds of Building Materials/Sanitary accessories Field of Registration : ……...............................…………………………………………………………
43 All kinds of Plumbing /Hardware items /Paints, Thinner and materials for painting Expiry Date : ……………...…………….. Grade: ……............................................………………
44 Electrical equipment,fittings and accessories 13. Charges for registering as a Supplier/Contractor- Rs …….........................................................……………..
45 All kinds of Timber materials Enclosed herewith deposit slip/s …………..........… ................…as the payment mentioned above.

I wish to state that all details submitted herein are true and accurate and that I agree to abide by conditions imposed
Textile and Leather Products
by the Chairman, Procurement Committee, Ocean University of Sri Lanka for providing Goods/Services and
46 Uniform Materials (Gents and Ladies) executing contracts and therefore kindly request from you be registered as a supplier/contractor.
47 Curtain Materials (Clothes, Vertical Blinds, Wooden Blinds)
Applicants Name :………………………………………
48 Mattress and Mattress covers Applicants Signature and official stamp :…………………………………....…
49 Cloaks and Convocation Garlands Date :……………………………………….

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Printed and Published by The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd., at No. 35, D.R.Wijewardene Mawatha, Colombo 10, on Tuesday, December 5, 2023