Vol. 44 No 161 Monday, 30th June 2025, 12 pages Rs.

70 Registered in Sri Lanka as a Newspaper

Members of SJB and NPP close ranks in Norwood PS

NPP secures post of Chairman, SJB Councillor elected Deputy Head
SJB threatens disciplinary action against its members
Top SJB spokesman Mujibur District, on Friday (27). interests.
Rahuman, MP, yesterday (29) said that “We won't condone such actions of Asked whether the SJB councillors in
his party would take disciplinary action our elected councillors,” lawmaker the Norwood PS had consulted the party
against those who had cooperated with Rahuman said, claiming that the NPP, in leadership, MP Rahuman stressed that
the National People's Power (NPP) at the spite of its vow that it would never the party was not involved in making
election of Chairperson of the Norwood strike deals with others, was making that deal.
Pradeshiya Sabha, in the Nuwara Eliya clandestine arrangements to further its

UNHRC call for releasing

‘military-occupied’ land
Iran on Saturday (28) held a state funeral service for top military commanders and
nuclear scientists killed during the 12-day war with Israel. (courtesy Daily Sabah)

Iran could rebuild nuclear programme

within months – IAEA Chief unfair: Serving officers
'We now have bare minimum of requirement'
Iran could resume uranium enrich- centrifuges spinning and producing

AKD to make statement

ment within months, despite recent US enriched uranium, or less than that,” he
and Israeli airstrikes on its nuclear facili- added, while acknowledging that even the By Shamindra Ferdinando
ties, International Atomic Iranians likely do not yet know
Energy Agency (IAEA) the extent of the damage.

A today on govt.'s
bout 90 percent of land, held
Director General Rafael Grossi According to the IAEA Chief, by the armed forces during
has said. Iran maintains a significant the war in the Northern and
In an interview with CBS industrial capacity. “Iran is a very Eastern provinces, had been
News released on Sunday (29),
Grossi said the strikes on
Iranian nuclear facilities,
including Fordow, Natanz, and
sophisticated country in terms of
nuclear technology, as is obvious.
So you cannot disinvent this. You
cannot undo the knowledge that
released, in stages, since 2010, A
group of military officers told The
Island on condition of anonymity. The Government delegation, led by Deputy
revenue strategy
They were responding to United Defence Minister Maj. Gen. Aruna Jayasekara, Speaker Dr.
Isfahan, inflicted “a very seri- you have or the capacities that Nations High Commissioner for Jagath
ous level of damage,” but some you have.” with UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk at the
Rafael Grossi Human Rights Volker Türk's call Wickramaratne
of the assets are “still stand- Grossi went on to say that con- Defence Ministry (pic courtesy MoD)
for releasing what he called mili- has convened
ing.” cerns about Iran’s nuclear programme tary-occupied land. At the conclu- Parliament at 9.30
“The capacities they [Iran] have are cannot be put to rest through a military occupied land.
sion of his three-day visit last week, am today (30) in
there. They can have, in a matter of solution. The war concluded in May 2009.
the Austrian lawyer reiterated his call terms of Standing
months, I would say, a few cascades of Since then the strength of the armed
for an internationally backed account- Order 16 of the
forces, deployment in the Northern
ability mechanism, the repeal of the Standing Orders of
and Eastern theatres, had been signifi-
Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), an Parliament at the
cantly reduced, sources said, claiming

NPP NL slot remains vacant end to surveillance of human rights

defenders, and the release of military-
that though the request of the
Prime Minister Dr.
Harini
Anura

By Shamindra Ferdinando Amarasuriya. The Speaker has

National People's Power
(NPP) General Secretary, Dr.
Nihal Abeysinghe, has denied
Suriyapperuma succeeded
Mahinda Siriwardena who
retired, following a three-year
UNDP backs campaign for more women in politics issued the Gazette Extraordinary in
this regard. The sitting is scheduled
in line with the requirement for the
that the ruling party is divided stint as the Treasury Chief.
... bid to set up daycare centre within Parliament premises Government to make a statement of
over the successor of National The NPP won 18 out of 29 The United Nations Development revenue strategy consistent with
List MP, Prof. Harshana National List slots at the last Programme (UNDP) has pledged sup- the fiscal strategy statement as
Suriyapperuma, who resigned parliamentary polls. The main port for the campaign of the Women specified under Section 11 of the
on 20 June, to receive appoint- Opposition Samagi Jana Parliamentarians' caucus for more State Finance Management Act, No.
ment as Secretary to the Balawegaya (SJB) secured five, opportunities for women in politics. 44 of 2024. Upon obtaining approval
Treasury. the New Democratic Front two, According to Parliament, UNDP of the Cabinet-of-Ministers, under
National List MP Abeysinghe and the Sri Lanka Podujana Resident Representative in Colombo, subsection (2), the fiscal strategy
said so responding to The statement should be announced by
Dr. Abeysinghe Peramuna, Illankai Thamil Azusa Kubota, recently discussed the
the Minister of Finance at
Island query whether the NPP Arasu Kadchi, Sarvajana issues at hand with the Women
had been unable to reach consensus. Balaya and the Sri Lanka Muslim Parliamentarians' Caucus, pertaining to Parliament on or before the thirti-
Abeysinghe emphasised that unlike Congress receiving one each. the action plan for 2024-2027. eth day of June of each year.
other parties, the NPP hadn't been Parliament consists of 196 elected and UNDP's Kubota stresses a point during a Sources said that during this meet- President Anura Kumara
affected by such issues. “We'll make 29 appointed members. discussion with members of the Women ing, discussions were held regarding Dissanayake holds the Finance port-
the appointment at the appropriate Parliamentarians' Caucus proposed meetings with folio.
time,” he said. (pic courtesy Parliament) recognised political

“A wife’s right to khula is parallel to a husband’s right to talaq”

Muslim women can divorce unilaterally: Telangana High Court
By S VenKaT narayan Pakistan. said.
Our SPeCiAl COrreSPONDeNt Delivering the judgment on June 24, a The bench was hearing an appeal filed
bench of justices Moushumi Bhattacharya by a Muslim man challenging a family
NEW DELHI, June 29: In a significant and BR Madhusudhan Rao noted that khula court’s 2024 order that had refused to
ruling that underscores the autonomy of is a no-fault, non-confrontational mode of nullify a 2020 divorce certificate
Muslim women in India, within personal divorce, initiated solely at the wife’s (khulanama) issued by Sada-E-Haq Sharai
law, the Hyderabad-based Telangana High instance, and once the demand is made, it Council, a non-statutory body comprising
Court has held that a Muslim wife has an takes immediate effect in the private Islamic scholars, muftis and imams, that
absolute and unconditional right to dissolve sphere. mediates marital disputes in line with
her marriage through khula, and that the “Since the wife’s right to demand khula Islamic personal law.
= A daycare centre is to be husband’s consent is not a prerequisite for is absolute and does not have to be The man had contested the divorce
set up within parliamentary predicated on a cause or acceptance of the initiated by his wife after he declined to
its validity.
premises. Khula is a form of divorce under Islamic demand by the husband, the only role of a agree to a khula.
= What about a preschool law, where a woman initiates the dissolution India is home to 200 million Muslims, court of law is to put a judicial stamp on The bench categorically stated that
for the members? of her marriage, typically by relinquishing making the country with the third largest the termination of the marriage, which obtaining a certificate of
her claim to maintenance (mehr). Muslim population, after Indonesia and then becomes binding on both parties,” it divorce from a mufti
 2 Monday 30th June, 2025 The Island News
Indian SC stops Attempt to smuggle in
Kerala cannabis thwarted:
Three arrested
deportation of Three persons were in connection with an
attempt to smuggle in 209kg (wet weight) of
Kerala cannabis in a dinghy over the week-

ex-LTTE cadre
end.
Jaffna-based sources said that the opera-
tion that led to the arrests had been conduct-
ed by the Navy in the sea area off Kovilan,
Karainagar in Jaffna.
Sources said that naval personnel recov-

T
he Supreme Court of India has regarding the status of the long- In 2020, Kumarasamy sought asy- ered 73 packages of Kerala cannabis in 06
issued a stay on the deportation standing deportation order. lum in Switzerland, where many sacks from the dinghy. The gross street value
of Bhaskaran Kumarasamy, a “Considering that the deportation Tamil refugees have resettled. The of the stock of Kerala cannabis held in this
former member of the Liberation order is five years and six months old, Swiss Embassy in New Delhi invited operation is believed to exceed Rs. 47 million.
Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), recog- we would like to be apprised of the him to appear in person for an inter- The suspects were identified as residents
nising the credible threat to his life if status of the deportation. Meanwhile, view — a critical step in the visa of Guru Nagar and Analativu in Jaffna, from
returned to Sri Lanka, Tamil process. However, Tamil Nadu author- 26 to 43 years of age. The suspects, together
Guardian reported on June 27. ities repeatedly denied him permis- with Kerala cannabis and the dinghy were
The ruling is being hailed as a sig- sion to travel to Delhi, even after he
Suspects with the stock of Kerala
handed over to the Kayts Police for onward cannabis recovered by the Navy
nificant intervention in a case that submitted official embassy correspon-
legal action.
has drawn international concern over dence. (pic courtesy SLN)
refugee rights, but contradicts anoth- The Madras High Court initially
er made just a few weeks ago. stayed his deportation in 2020,
While the Viswanathan-Kotiswar
bench of the Supreme Court on June
24 stayed the deportation, last month
acknowledging the serious threat to
his life in Sri Lanka. Yet in a reversal,
the court ruled in 2021 and again in
UN rights chief assures Tamil MPs of continued focus on Sri Lanka
United Nations High Commissioner meeting, Rasamanickam said:
a different bench led by Justice 2024 that Kumarasamy no longer qual-
for Human Rights Volker Türk assured “The High Commissioner told me that
Dipankar Datta refused similar relief ified for refugee protections, citing a
Tamil parliamentarians that the plight he came here directly to ensure that the
to another Eelam Tamil. short 2014 trip he made to Sri Lanka
the Tamil people will not be sidelined at Sri Lankan Tamil issue is not diluted at
Kumarasamy, who fled Sri Lanka in the deportation is stayed,” the bench for medical treatment — an act the
the upcoming UN Human Rights Council the upcoming UN Human Rights Council
2004 during the final years of the stated, posting the matter for further court interpreted as undermining his (UNHRC) session in Geneva, despite the session due to the ongoing problems in
armed conflict, has been fighting hearing on August 4. claim of fear. prominence of ongoing global conflicts. the Middle East and other international
deportation for more than five years. Kumarasamy arrived in Tamil However, the Supreme Court’s The assurance was reportedly given countries.”
On Monday (June 23), a bench com- Nadu with his wife and two young recent intervention suggests a recog- during a closed-door meeting held at a He added that he had raised concerns
prising Justices K.V. Viswanathan daughters in 2004, fleeing the war nition that such reasoning fails to private hotel in Jaffna on Wednesday regarding whether the Sri Lanka issue
and N. Kotiswar Singh stayed the zone of Nallur, Jaffna. His family, capture the lived realities of Tamil night, where Türk met with several Tamil would remain a priority amid pressing
deportation and sought responses including his father, brother, sister-in- refugees. Kumarasamy’s counsel political representatives. Among those global conflicts, including tensions
from both the Union Government and law, and niece, were reportedly killed stressed that returning him to Sri present were Members of Parliament between Iran and Israel, the Russia-
the Tamil Nadu State Government by the Sri Lankan Army, a fate he Lanka would amount to a death sen- Sivagnanam Sritharan, Shanakiyan Ukraine war, and the Israel-Palestine cri-
now fears if tence, especially in light of the Sri Rasamanickam, Selvam sis. According to Rasamanickam, Türk
forcibly Lankan state's long-standing record of Adaikkalanathan, Sri Bhavanandaraja, reaffirmed that Sri Lanka would remain
NOTICE issued by the Order of the District Court, Nugegoda returned. targeting former LTTE members, and former MP Dharmalingam on the agenda and that the Council
in terms of Section 60 (4) of the Civil Procedure Code Though he even years after the war Siddharthan. remained committed to pursuing justice
(Amendment) Act No. 43 of 2024. laid down arms “Don’t deport me… all my family Speaking to the media following the and accountability.
prior to leaving members have been eliminated… I am
H. N. B. Finance PLC (formerly
known as H. N. B. Finance
Limited), having its registered
Sri Lanka, his not a threat to India… If Switzerland Members ... From page 1
office at No. 168, Nawala Road,
life in India has is willing to give me a humanitarian All five elected SJB councillors for the SJB's nominee for the post of
Case Number - M/5370/23
Nugegoda. been marked by visa, I will go there instead of getting voted with the NPP, enabling it to take Deputy Chairman.
PLAINTIFF
Nature - Money continued sur- killed in Sri Lanka,” Kumarasamy’s control of Norwood PS. The NPP nomi- Colombo District MP Rahuman said
Procedure - Ordinary -Vs-
1. Pintheruralalage Anusha Priyadarshani
veillance, legal legal counsel, Muth Raj, pleaded nee received 12 votes against the CWC the SJB councillors had made private
Value - Rs. 4,170,794.09
Fernando, battles, and con- before the court. candidate only seven. The NPP voted arrangements with the NPP.
No. 30/54, St. Jude Road, finement. In Although acquitted of all criminal
02nd Lane, Kattuwa, Negombo.
2019, he was one charges in 2019, Kumarasamy
-New Address-
No. 127, Webada Road, Negombo.
2. Manannaidelage Niluka Dilrukshi
of 19 Sri Lankan remains under administrative deten- Iran could ... From page 1
Fonseka,
Tamil refugees tion. His prolonged incarceration “I think this should be the incentive Tehran claims served as justification for
No. 9, Kurukalawa, Ragama. acquitted of raises concerns over India's handling that we all must have to understand that the Israeli and US strikes. Grossi
3. Kuruppu Arachchige Chanthi Sampath charges related of Tamil refugees — particularly … you are not going to solve this in a responded by saying: “Really, who can
Rodrigo,
No. 68, Dutugemunu Mawatha, to trafficking those with past LTTE affiliations, definitive way, militarily. You are going to believe that this conflict happened
Mahahunupitiya, Negombo. and conspiracy, who continue to face structural suspi- have an agreement,” he said, expressing because of a report of the IAEA? And, by
-New Address-
No. 276/68/G, Guruge Watta, yet he remained cion despite renouncing violence and hope that IAEA inspectors would soon the way, what was in that report was not
Thimbirigaskattuwa. in administra- seeking lawful resettlement. have access to the country’s nuclear sites new.”
DEFENDANTS tive detention at The Supreme Court also noted that
To the above-named First Defendant, again. The comments come after a 12-day
the Kumarasamy may consider applying Iran has barred the inspectors from its conflict between Israel and Iran, during
Take notice that the Plaintiff Company in the above-numbered case has filed action bearing Case
No. M/5370/23 against you, the above-named First Defendant, in the District Court of Nugegoda, Tiruchirappalli for Indian citizenship under the nuclear facilities, accusing the agency of which the US and Israel conducted
seeking the reliefs specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) of the plaint below. Special Camp, Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), if distorting facts in a recent report, which airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
By Order of the Honorable District Judge of the Nugegoda District Court, you, the First Defendant, are
hereby informed that if you have any answer or defence to this case, you should appear personally or
effectively eligible, but reiterated that the focus
through an Attorney-at-Law and file your answer on 12th of September 2025 at 9.00 A.M. at this Court.
Yo u a r e f u r t h e r i n f o r m e d t h a t i f y o u f a i l t o a p p e a r, t h e c a s e b e a r i n g N o .
under prison-
like conditions.
at present must remain on the grave
threat to his safety. UNHRC... From page 1
M/5370/23 will be heard ex-parte against you.
Reliefs sought by the Plaintiff Companv in the Plaint:
relevant UN agencies had been Wickremesinghe and Anura Kumara
informed of the vacation of both public Dissanayake, had released land, includ-
a) For a judgment and decree to be entered in favour of the Plaintiff Company jointly and/or severally
against the Defendants for the sum of Rupees Four Million One Hundred Seventy Thousand
Seven Hundred Ninety Four and Nine Cents (Rs. 4,170,794.09) due to the Plaintiff Company
NPP NL ... From page 1 and private property, following the ing sections in former high security
as at 02nd day of October 2023, together with legal interest calculated thereon from 02nd day Asked whether Prof. Suriyapperuma's successor would defeat of the LTTE, the UN Rights Chief zones, sources said, adding that UN
of October 2023 until the date of the decree, and thereafter legal interest on the total amount
be definitely chosen from their list of National List nomi- had called for releasing land. Colombo could undertake a fact-finding
from the date of the decree until the full settlement of the said sum.
b) Court costs, and nees submitted to the Election Commission last year, Dr. Responding to The Island queries, mission in the Northern and Eastern
(c) Such other and further reliefs as the Honorable Court may deem fit. Abeysinghe said that discussions were underway. sources said that phased withdrawal of Provinces to ascertain the situation.
By Order of the Court, Political sources said that two defeated candidates forces, from occupied land, commenced As the UN had access to war zones
Sgd/illegibly in 2010 during Mahinda Rajapaksa's throughout the conflict, it could easily
Registrar attorney-at-law Upul Kariyapperuma (Matara) and Wimal
District Court - Nugegoda. Katepeaarachchi (Colombo) as well as attorney-at-law tenure as the President, and successive verify the amount of land handed back
Dated this 03rd day of June in the year 2025.
LSSP senior Lal Wijenayake had been Presidents, namely Maithripala to civilians and government institu-
mentioned as the likely candidates. Sirisena, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Ranil tions, sources said.
However, some sources asserted that as
Prof. Suriyapperuma served as Deputy
Minister of Finance and Planning his UNDP backs... From page 1
successor should be a person with an parties and party secretaries to Kaushalya Ariyarathne, Nilanthi
economic background. Wijenayake is enhance women representation in Kottahachchi, Attorney-at-Law,
among the NPP National List nomi- Provincial Councils, and Local Chathuri Gangani, Nilusha Lakmali
nees though not picked last year when Government bodies, the re-establish- Gamage, Thushari Jayasingha,
the appointments were made. ment of the Parliamentary Caucus for Attorney-at-Law, Anushka
NPP sources said that the party Children for the Tenth Parliament, and Thilakarathne, Attorney-at-Law, and
should do what is required to strength- establishing a daycare centre, within Ambika Samivel.
en the government though the public the Parliament premises.
may not always agree with its deci-
sions. The final decision lies with
Saroja Savithri Paulraj, Minister of
Women and Child Affairs chaired the
AKD to make...
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake meeting.
From page 1
who is the leader of the NPP as well as Among those present were Deputy Accordingly, under Standing Order 16
the JVP, both registered political par- Co-Chairpersons of the Caucus, of Parliament, the Speaker has called for
ties. In spite of the JVP being the Chamindranee Kiriella, Attorney-at- a special Parliament sitting while an
major party in the NPP, the 159-mem- Law, and Samanmali Gunasingha, as adjournment debate, related to the gov-
ber parliamentary group is recognized well as the Deputy Committee ernment statement, will be held until
as NPP. Chairperson Hemali Weerasekara. 4:30 p.m.
Members of Parliament Dr.

Muslim ... From page 1

or Dar-ul-Qaza (Islamic tribunal) is “A wife’s right to khula is parallel to a family court’s ruling, clarified that the
not essential to formalise a khula husband’s right to talaq… The husband only exception was that religious
divorce. may negotiate return of the mehr (dower, functionaries such as Muftis do not have
“The opinion given by a Mufti is a mandatory gift or payment a Muslim the legal authority to “certify” a khula
advisory in nature,” the bench said. groom gives to his bride at the time of divorce, even if their role in issuing
“Approaching a Mufti for a marriage), but cannot compel the wife to advisory opinions is not disputed.
khulanama is not compulsory…the continue the marriage,” noted the bench, “The appellant has failed to make out
fatwa given by a Mufti is not legally referencing Quranic verses and multiple a case for interference… save and except
enforceable in a court of law.” judicial precedents, including the to the extent that a Mufti/Religious
According to the judgment, a private Shayara Bano (2017) and Shamim Ara Functionary does not have the authority
khula becomes effective the moment the (2002) rulings by the Supreme Court of to certify a khula divorce,” it held.
wife expresses her intention to dissolve India. Acknowledging the broader concern
the marriage, unless the matter escalates It further observed that neither the raised by the woman’s counsel regarding
to a judicial forum. In such cases, the Quran nor the Hadith prescribes a the uncertain status of many Muslim
family court’s role is limited and mandatory procedure if the husband women post-khula, the judges expressed
procedural. rejects the wife’s demand for khula, hope that courts’ pronouncements will
“The Family Court is simply to thereby making any insistence on his guide stakeholders towards clarity and
ascertain whether the demand of khula consent both theologically and legally justice.
is valid upon an effective attempt to untenable. “We are confident that the law
reconcile the differences between the The wife in the present matter had pronounced by the courts shall be given
parties; or any offer by the wife to return approached the Council and demanded its due weightage by all the stakeholders
the dower. The enquiry should be khula multiple times following failed in easing the plight of Muslim women in
summary in nature without long-drawn reconciliation attempts. She was their respective situations,” the bench
out evidence – adjudication,” the court eventually issued a khulanama by the observed.
said. Council. Her husband, however, filed a The ruling also differentiated khula
The judgment placed khula on equal petition in the family court, seeking to from mubaraat, where both spouses
footing with talaq, the unilateral right declare the certificate invalid. The family mutually agree to end the marriage, and
available to Muslim men to dissolve court dismissed the petition, prompting reinforced that the wife’s right to khula
marriage, stating that both are the present appeal. stands independent and irrevocable once
unconditional modes of divorce. The high court, while upholding the exercised.
 The Island News Monday 30th June, 2025
3
SL Navy apprehends eight
on Sunday with their catch.
The names of the arrested fisher-
men were given as S. Jesu (39) (owner
and driver), N. Annamalai (55), V.
Kalyanaraman (45), S. Syed Ibrahim

Indian fishermen from

(35), N. Muneeswaran (35), U. Selvam
(29), Gandhivel and one other fisher-
man.
It is said that the fishermen were
fishing near Dhanushkodi and

Rameswaram for poaching

Talaimannar during which time, they
were arrested by the Lankan Navy
personnel.
As the news about the arrest
spread in the coastal habitation, the
families expressed concern and
shock. “Only on June 15, the two-
month annual ban period had ended
and our men had just set off into the
sea for work this season. To be pre-
cise, this is the fourth time they have
gone to sea in the last 12 days. The
Sri Lankan Navy had secured our
people on false charge,” a fisherman
in Rameswaram and
Thangachimadam said. The Farakka Barrage is situated on the Ganges in West Bengal's
Fishermen association leader J.R. Murshidabad district
Jesu Raja said the Union government
should strongly take up the issue
with its counterpart and bring about
a permanent solution. “We are tired
After placing the Indus
of agitations and deeply depressed
over the state of affairs,” he added.
Antony, a mechanised boat driver
Water Treaty with
Poaching Indian vessel pictured behind the
in Mandapam said in recent times,
the Sri Lankan government imposed
hefty fines and also ordered impris-
Pakistan in abeyance
Inshore Patrol Craft (IPC) pic courtesy SLN onment under the guise of repeating
BY S VENKAT NARAYAN in Rameswaram, the arrested fisher- the offence. The fishermen in the India now looking to amend Ganges treaty
Our Special cOrreSpOndent men were being taken to the Naval region have been traditionally using
the Palk Straits for fishing.
with Bangladesh
NEW DELHI, June 29: Sri Lankan Port in Talaimannar in Sri Lanka.
Fisheries Department officials said “Such attacks showed us in poor BY S VENKAT NARAYAN nance, and power generation, they added.
Navy personnel arrested eight Indian light. Our debts are rising. If the The 1996 treaty’s aim on sharing the
fishermen from Rameswaram in that on Saturday (June 28), tokens Our Special cOrreSpOndent
were issued to 466 boats. Fishermen governments also remained mute waters at Farakka was to settle differ-
Tamil Nadu, and seized a mechanised spectators, we have no other option ences over entitlement to the river’s
from Verkodu, Mandapam and NEW DELHI, June 29: After placing
trawler on charges of poaching in the but to stay away from work,” he water flows between India and
Rameswaram had ventured into the the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with
wee hours of Sunday (June 29, 2025). added. Pakistan in abeyance in April this year, Bangladesh. These differences emerged
According to information available sea and were set to return to shores after the commissioning of the Farakka
India is now considering various options
to review and amend a landmark treaty barrage in 1975 to divert water from the
with Bangladesh on sharing waters of Ganges to the Hooghly River to maintain
the Ganges, or River Ganga. the Kolkata (Calcutta) port’s navigability.
Under the treaty, the upper riparian

Ex-SLN officer appointed The Ganges Water Sharing Treaty will

expire in 2026, three decades after it was
signed. The pact must be renewed by
mutual consent though New Delhi is
state, India, and lower riparian,
Bangladesh, agreed to share the Ganges
water at Farakka — a dam built on river
Bhagirathi, around 10 km from the

HC to Pakistan looking for a new treaty that reflects its

current development needs, The
Economic Times reported.
The treaty was signed in 1996 during
Bangladesh border.
The Farakka Barrage was built to
divert 40,000 cusecs of water into a feeder
canal for the Kolkata Port Trust. Under
staff followed by refreshments. Sheikh Hasina’s first term as Bangladesh
Prime Minister. It laid out a formula to the current arrangement, 35,000 cusecs of
Following the assumption of duties, water is provided alternately for 10 days
High Commissioner-designate Fred divide how the waters of the Ganges at
Farakka Barrage in West Bengal should each to both countries during the lean
Seneviratne paid a visit to the season — from March 11 to May 11.
be shared during the crucial dry season
International Buddhist Centre in the India is desiring 30,000 to 35,000 cusecs
from January 1 to May 31 every year.
Diplomatic Enclave where he offered People in the know said there is a more during the same period to meet its
flowers. need to rethink the treaty to ensure opti- emerging requirements, people said. The
Prior to the appointment as High mum balance in water sharing between West Bengal government is also under-
Commissioner of Sri Lanka to West Bengal and Bangladesh. India is stood to share the Centre’s stand on the
Pakistan, Fred Seneviratne served as seeking a revision of the treaty as per its issue, and is of the opinion that the cur-
an Advisor to the Commander of the requirements of irrigation, port mainte- rent provisions of the treaty do not meet
its requirements.
Navy on Monitoring and Supervising
all Naval Land
Operations and
Marine Operations,
Formulate/Plans &
Strategies to
Achieve Optimum
Results from Naval
Land Deployments
and Marine
Deployments with
other Armed
Forces.
High Commissioner-designate Fred Seneviratne presents an open copy of High
his Letter of Credence to Chief of State Protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Commissioner-des-
Pakistan Tipu Usman, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Islamabad on ignate Fred
26 June 2025 (pic courtesy FM) Seneviratne joined
the Sri Lanka Navy
Rear Admiral (retd) Fred staff, High Commissioner-designate in 1986 and rose to
Seneviratne, who had been among Fred Seneviratne outlined the the Rank of Rear
those ex-senior military officers on the Government’s vision for strengthening Admiral on 09
National People’s Front (NPP) platform the mission’s activities, reflecting the March 2019 and
has been appointed as Sri Lanka’s High aspirations of the people of Sri Lanka served up to 25
Commissioner in Pakistan. and the mandate entrusted to the August 2020. He
Seneviratne, VSV, USP, psc, MSc (DS) Government. He also highlighted that holds a Master of
assumed duties at the Sri Lanka High both Pakistan and Sri Lanka are strate- Defence Studies
Commission in Islamabad on Thursday, gic partners in South Asia and the rela- Degree from the
26 June 2025. tionship established between two broth- University of
The Foreign Ministry said: “High erly countries is based on mutual trust. Kelaniya, Sri
Commissioner– designate was received His assumption of duties was Lanka.”
and welcomed by the staff of the High marked by the lighting of the oil lamp,
Commission. In his address to the religious rituals and addressing the

Regulations under Import and Export

(Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 approved
Regulations issued under the Import and that has not been iodized, as well as iodized
Export (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 published in edible salt (both powdered and crystal), for
the Extraordinary Gazette No. 2437/04 dated household and industrial use could be import-
May 19th 2025, and presented to Parliament on ed, he said. This was done to overcome the cur-
June 17 2025, were referred to the Committee rent shortage of salt in the domestic
on Public Finance (COPF), discussed and market, the official said.
approval granted according to a statement These matters were discussed during the
issued by M. Jayalath Perera, Director meeting of the Committee on Public Finance
Legislative Services / Director Communication held on 24th June 2025 in Parliament, chaired
(Acting), Parliament. by (Dr.) Harsha de Silva, Hon. Member of
In line with the approval granted raw salt Parliament.

Lion Ayesh de Silva re-elected for

5th term as President
Rtn. Lion Ayesh De Silva, PMAF, Lion Ayesh De Silva was also re-
MAF, was recently honoured with elected as the President of the Lions
the prestigious Best President Award Club of Colombo Ceylon Excellence
at the Lions Clubs International for a record fifth consecutive term.
Annual District Convention. This Under his leadership, the club has
recognition was awarded in appreci- made a significant impact in commu-
ation of his outstanding leadership nity service. Most notably, 3,800
and exceptional contribution to cataract surgeries were successfully
membership growth, having intro- completed by June 2025, providing
duced a remarkable 150 new mem- the gift of sight to thousands in
bers to Lions Clubs International the need.
highest number recorded this year. Ayesh de Silva
 4 Monday 30th June, 2025

The Island
Published by Upali Newspapers (Pvt) Ltd.
Sudan: Foreign interests are
223, Bloemendhal Road, Colombo 13.
011-2497500, 011-2497571, 011-2497572, 011-2497573
Fax: 011-2497543
www.island.lk / E-mail: prabath@unl.upali.lk
deepening a devastating war –
Advertising Dept.

0112497537 - 0112497531 - 0112449287 Fax: 011-2344252

Circulation Dept.
only regional diplomacy can stop them
by John MukuM Mbaku
011-2497568, 011-2497519, 011-2497580 Fax: 011-2334564
Professor, Weber state University
Monday 30th June, 2025

T
he war between the Sudanese
Delays can kill ports Armed Forces and the Rapid
Support Forces has raged since
April 2023. It has turned Sudan into the

S
ri Lanka Customs claims to have eliminated days- site of one of the world’s most cata-
long delays in container clearance and the result- strophic humanitarian and displacement
ant congestion in the Port of Colombo, which is crises.
At least 150,000 people have been
always in the news for the wrong reasons. It has attrib- killed. More than 14 million have been
uted such delays to sudden increases in container vol- displaced, with over three million fleeing
umes; the number of containers handled by the port to neighbouring countries like Chad,
Ethiopia and South Sudan. Once a
averages 1,200 a day, but it goes up to about 2,900 at times. vibrant capital city, Khartoum is now a
Successive governments have not cared to address the “burnt-out shell”.
problem of customs clearance delays all these years and This devastating war, rooted in long-
ensure that the country’s premier port, which also han- standing ethnic, political and economic
tensions, has been compounded by what
dles transshipment container traffic, functions international and regional actors have
smoothly. The challenge before the incumbent govern- done and failed to do. As Amnesty
ment is daunting. The Port of Colombo is not the only International notes, the international
response remains “woefully inadequate”. Sudan war (A file photo)
girl on the beach, so to speak, when it comes to regional
The problem lies in the fact that exter-
transshipment hubs. It is facing stiff competition from tional actors, including the Arab League.
nal involvement has not been neutral.
This would ensure a unified approach to
India’s newly built Adani Vizhinjam International Instead of halting the conflict, many exter-
the conflict, based on the interests of
Transshipment Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Ker- nal players have complicated it. In some
Sudanese people for peace and develop-
cases, international interventions have
ala. At present, Colombo handles about 60 percent of escalated it.
ment.
India’s transshipment container traffic, but it will lose Finally, the AU could have addressed the
More than 10 countries across Africa,
root causes of Sudan’s conflicts, which
some of this business to Adani’s port. Hence the press- the Middle East and Asia have been drawn
include extreme poverty, inequality, politi-
ing need to develop the Port of Colombo and make it into Sudan’s war. This has turned it into
cal exclusion and economic marginalisa-
a proxy conflict that reflects the interests
more attractive to international shipping companies. tion.
of external actors, such as Egypt, Turkey
The African Union could also make use
The Vizhinjam Port is leveraging its lower charges, nat- and Saudi Arabia.
of the insights and knowledge gleaned by
ural deep draft and prime location to attract business. Several actors have taken sides African leaders, like Kenya’s William Ruto
Maps of Sudan and South Sudan.
Besides, port delays are known to pave the way for Saudi Arabia, for instance, backs the and Egypt’s Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who have
Sudanese army. The United Arab Emirates
(Image credit Oxfam)
questionable practices such as the release of containers attempted to mediate, but have failed. The
(UAE) is alleged to support the paramili- AU should also use the political expertise
via the green channel. The corrupt see opportunities in tary Rapid Support Forces. Egypt, citing of elder statesmen, such as Thabo Mbeki,
delays and have their palms greased to fast-track ship- historical ties, backs the army. For their Democracy and the rule of Moussa Faki and Olusegun Obasanjo, to
part, Ethiopia reportedly supports the
ments selectively. paramilitary group, while Eritrea backs
law are key to peaceful help address the conflict and humanitari-
an crisis.
The least that the government can do to enable the the army. Chad has been accused of facili- coexistence and sustain- The United Arab Emirates
Port of Colombo to remain resilient and attract more tating arms shipments to the Rapid
The UAE is alleged to back the paramili-
container traffic is to eliminate its clearance delays Support Forces,via its eastern airports. able development in tary troops in the war. In recent years, the
Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and Iran have
while developing its infrastructure. The development of Sudan. However, establish- UAE has become increasingly involved in
also been linked to diplomatic and military
African conflicts. It has supported various
the Customs handling facilities has not been a top prior- support to Sudan’s army.
These geopolitical entanglements have
ing and sustaining institu- factions to conflicts in the Horn of Africa,
ity for successive governments. This is something the in- the Sahel region and Libya.
cumbent administration will have to give serious made peace nearly impossible, deepening tions that enhance and Its increased involvement in Africa is
the conflict instead of resolving it.
thought to. There is a pressing need for a well-thought- driven by several strategic interests. These
I have studied Africa’s governance fail- support democracy is the include fighting terrorism, securing mar-
out strategy to address port-related issues. Obviously, ures for more than 30 years, from military
elites and coups to state capture and politi- job of the Sudanese peo- itime routes, and expanding its trade and
the task at hand cannot be accomplished overnight, but influence.
cal instability. Based on this, my view is ple. The external commu-
there are measures that can be adopted immediately to that Sudan’s conflict cannot be resolved
In 2009, the UAE helped
Sudan mediate its border conflict with
minimise delays, we are told. A retired Navy Com- without serious international commitment nity can provide the finan- Chad. The UAE supported the ouster of
mander informs us that if a shortage of Customs offi- to neutrality and peace.
Omar al-Bashir in April 2019, as well as
cers is affecting the Colombo Port, the government can The involvement of foreign actors on cial support that Sudan is Sudan’s transitional military council.
opposing sides must be reversed.
swiftly mobilise the Sri Lanka Coast Guard Officers to International involvement must be
likely to need. It can also In 2021, the UAE signed a strategic part-
nership with Sudan to modernise its politi-
assist the Customs in ensuring smooth clearance opera- premised on helping the Sudanese people support the strengthening cal institutions and return the country to
tions; these duly qualified officers have the legal author- develop the capacity to resolve governance
the international community. The UAE has
ity to perform this duty.
problems themselves. of electoral systems, civic stated that it has taken a neutral position
For this to happen, regional diplomacy
In shipping, as well as in any other business, time is must be stepped up. The African Union education and citizen trust in the present conflict. However, on 6th
March, 2025, Sudan brought a case against
money and nobody wants to waste it. Therefore, it is must assert its legitimacy and take the
in public institutions. the UAE to the International Court of
lead in addressing this challenging crisis.
hoped that swift action will be taken to enhance the effi- Justice. It accused the UAE of complicity
It can do this by putting pressure on mem-
ciency of the Port of Colombo, one of the mainstays of in genocide, alleging that the UAE “has
ber states to ensure that any ceasefire
been arming the RSF with the aim of wip-
the country’s ailing economy. agreements are enforced.
ing out the non-Arab Massalit
The East African Community and the civilian protection measures. population of West Darfur.”
Intergovernmental Authority on First, it could have worked closely with
An ambitious goal Development can provide assistance in
securing a peace agreement and ensuring
the UN to deploy a mission to Sudan with
a mandate to protect civilians, monitor
The United States
During his first term, US President
it’s enforced. Members of these continen- Donald Trump spearheaded the Abraham

T
he government is planning to set up a special task human rights (especially the rights of Accords. These agreements were aimed at
tal organisations can encourage external women and girls), assist in the return of
force to rid local councils of corruption, Deputy actors to limit their intervention in Sudan all displaced persons and prevent any fur-
normalising relations between Israel and
several Arab countries, including Sudan.
Minister Eranga Gunasekera has said. The third to activities that promote democratic gov- ther attacks on civilians.
ernance and sustainable development. Subsequently, Sudan was removed from
tier of government has become synonymous with cor- Second, the African Union could have the US list of state sponsors of terrorism.
The African Union sent an expert group to investigate human
ruption and other such illegal practices, and therefore The African Union should play a central
The accords appeared to have brought
rights violations, especially sexual vio- Khartoum closer to Washington. They pro-
the need for such a mechanism cannot be overstated. It role in bringing peace to Sudan. But its lence. The results could have been submit- vided avenues for the type of engagement
is fervently hoped that the government will implement absence has been conspicuous. ted to the union’s Peace and Security that could have placed it in good stead
Despite adopting the “African solutions Council for further action.
its plan expeditiously. There should also be special anti- to African problems” mantra, the African
when Trump returned to the White House
Third, the African Union could have in 2025.
corruption task forces for Parliament and the Provincial Union has neither held Sudan’s warlords worked closely with regional and interna-
Councils. accountable nor put in place adequate Continued on page 7
Unfortunately, the government and the Opposition ac-
cuse each other of having resorted to corrupt practices,
such as financially induced crossovers, to muster work-
ing majorities in the hung councils. The methods they
have employed to seize control of these local government
bodies lack transparency, and this has lent credence to
claims that many councillors have been bought over.
Worse, the Opposition says some independent groups
that have secured representation in the newly elected
local councils have links to drug dealers like Kudu Lal,
who himself was elected to the Colombo Municipal
Council about two decades ago. There are also very seri-
ous allegations against some other councillors elected
from independent groups as well as registered political
parties, and the public has a right to know which side
they actually support—the NPP or the SJB-led Opposi-
tion. Many councillors stand accused of having taken
bribes to switch their allegiances either to the govern-
ment or to the Opposition in the hung councils, and their
electors should be able to see whether they have defected.
Hence the need for open ballots in all contests to elect
heads and deputy heads of the no-majority councils.
If it is true that so many councillors have taken bribes
to change sides, how can they and those who have bribed
them and resorted to other corrupt practices to further
self-interest, be expected to rid the local councils of cor-
ruption? You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear,
can you?
 The Island Opinion Features Monday 30th June, 2025
5

T
by DR UpUL WIjayaWaRDHana

he arrest of a female neurosurgeon working

in Sri Jayewardenepura Hospital with two
accomplices, for fraud, has created a media
Dishonest doctors “Dishonest doctors are
everywhere, though still a mi-
nority. Prosecuting a few will
frenzy about dishonest doctors—not surprisingly! not make any significant
In social media, she is being castigated with the
strongest of words, sometimes in raw filth, and
change, but taking action to
curses that may befit even worse crimes. No one eliminate the root causes
will disagree that she deserves to be castigated, in
addition to being committed to a long prison sen- surely will.”
tence, if even some of the charges are proven. My
words of caution, in no way, are an attempt to de- as she did not need a pacemaker anyway. She had a
fend a member of my chosen profession; in fact, in slow heart rate due to a drug, beta-blocker, which
my past writings, I have vented my frustrations normalised on stopping the medication. The cardi-
over the ignoble acts committed by some members ologist had wanted to do this as a safety precau-
of the noble profession. I am simply trying to point tion!
out that before castigation, perhaps, we should It is not only our chaps who are up to no good. A
pause and consider honouring the long-cherished very famous cardiologist of Sri Lankan origin,
legal principle of ’innocent till proven guilty.’ Fur- who worked for a long time in the USA, brought a
ther, we cannot afford to forget the lessons learnt, team of experts to help us, during the time I
if at all they were, from the ‘Dr Shafi incident’ worked in the Cardiology Unit. He got one of the
This doctor, accused of much worse crimes, was team members to implant a pacemaker, in a pri-
hung and quartered by the media as well as the vate hospital, on a mega-rich businessman in
public inflamed by mass hysteria ignited by some Colombo. This was done on the recommendation of
ill-informed or scheming politicians, to be cleared the businessman’s personal physician, a non-cardi-
of all charges! Attempts at selective justice, due to ologist, who did not consider me clever enough to
politicisation, seems to be an underlying problem. do it, though I had already pioneered by setting up
For more reasons than one, I became surprised the permanent pacemaker service in Sri Lanka!
by a follow-up news report which stated that this Although I initially refused to take over follow-up,
doctor has operated, to place a shunt to relieve the I had no choice because I could not disregard the
increased intracranial pressure, on a patient who pleas of his family members, some of whom were
was brain dead for five days. If she, as the consult- well known to me. Unfortunately, the pacemaker
ant in charge of the patient, has informed the rela- failed prematurely and I was able to get a replace-
tives of the clinical state of being brain dead, it is ment unit, paid for by the implanting team, only
an act of utmost stupidity to then suggest the in- after threats of reporting them to the US authori-
sertion of a shunt. Further, it was reported that ties. I implanted that and it was still functioning
this was detected at the post-mortem examination when I left Sri Lanka.
which is the other reason for my concern. The I sent the explanted unit to the manufacturer, in
pathologist doing the post-mortem examination, view of unexpected failure, and the feedback I got
obviously, has the best look at the brain but, unfor- shocked me. They informed me that it was a unit
tunately by then, it is too late. On the other hand, stroked with a tissue or piece of cotton wool to see free health service. However, even the present ‘so-
given to a Californian University for animal exper-
clinicians who treat during life must go by clinical if it reacts cialist’ government does not seem to be doing any-
imentation after expiration of shelf life, stating
findings aided by investigations like the EEG, * pressure is applied to the forehead and the thing to stop this practice. However, as there are
further that it should never have been implanted
which records the electrical activity of the brain, nose is pinched to see if there is any movement in no established guidelines, it could lead to malprac-
on a human! When I mentioned this to the patient
as well as imaging studies like CT and MRI scans, response tice. Even worse is the possibility that some honest
and stated that I may consider reporting this mal-
which show structural abnormalities. * ice-cold water is inserted into each ear, which clinicians who have no choice but to engage in this
practice to the US authorities, he begged me not to
According to the NHS.UK website, following are would usually cause the eyes to move practice with the best of intentions could be
do so, in spite of having paid a huge sum for the
the criteria for diagnosing brain death: * a thin plastic tube is placed down the wind- wrongly accused! Therefore, it is no surprise that
date-expired pacemaker, which I am sure covered
The person must be unconscious and fail to re- pipe to see if it provokes gagging or coughing medical trade unions are demanding clarity. It is
the cost of hotel stay of the entire team. What a
spond to outside stimulation. * the person is disconnected from the ventilator high time the Health Ministry with other stake-
contrast: the humaneness of the businessman ver-
The person's heartbeat and breathing can only for a short period of time to see if they make any holders drew up guidelines to protect not only the
sus the corruption of some members of my profes-
be maintained using a ventilator. attempt to breathe on their own public but also honest clinicians. At the same time,
sion!
There must be clear evidence that serious brain Admittedly, a pathologist could opine that the steps should be taken to establish reasonable
Dishonest doctors are everywhere, though still
damage has occurred that cannot be cured. extent of injuries to the brain, found in a PM ex- charges for services rendered in the private health
a minority. Prosecuting a few will not make any
Brain death, therefore, is a clinical diagnosis amination, is incompatible with survival but it is sector as, at present, exploitation of an ignorant
significant change, but taking action to eliminate
supported by investigations. It is diagnosed by two beyond my comprehension how the post-mortem public seems to be the norm!
the root causes surely will. This is badly needed as
doctors after doing the following tests to establish examination was able to establish the time of These corrupt practices are nothing new. I am
judging by the stories I hear, unfortunately, mem-
brain stem death, repeated once more for confir- brain death! reminded of a famous cardiologist requesting one
bers of my profession too seem to be increasingly
mation: A related issue that needs addressing is the in- of my well-to-do cousins to meet the representative
following the path of most other Sri Lankans, led
* a torch is shone into both eyes to see if they creasingly common practice of requesting the pur- of a pacemaker company, in his government hospi-
by politicians. Will we be able to see an end to this
react to the light chase of drugs and devices from the private sector tal office, to buy an appropriate pacemaker for his
malignancy?
* the eye, which is usually very sensitive, is as well as getting tests done in private laborato- wife! When my cousin rang me for advice, after lis-
ries, all of which should not happen, ideally, in a tening to the story, I stopped him from doing this

Our railways Intellectual cover-fire

N
etworks of railways were Lanka, provides pedestrian board
first built for the purpose walks to cross the rails enabling
of transporting heavy
by MIHIR bHOLEy
the public to cross the rails
goods to capital cities for sale in quickly and easily. To the con-

I
the local market or for shipment trary, here, Sri Lankan Railways ndia’s foreign policy has once again
abroad. Steel rails and steel spends colossal millions to build come under critical American
wheels are for the business of passenger footbridges that re- scrutiny with Ashley Tellis’ article,
transporting heavy goods for a quire climbing up 40 steps and “India’s Great Power Delusions,” pub-
profit. There is no better example then down another forty steps lished recently in the Foreign Affairs
of this than Russian Railways just to get across the rails to the journal. Tellis, a leading American
where 70 wagons filled with coal great inconvenience to all: and a strategic analyst on South Asia, not only
nuggets weighing a total of more repeat of same effort after a day’s reflects the American mindset but also
than 5,000 tons each trip, are work at the factory or place of directly questions India’s vision of self-
transported, twice a day all the employment, or a day’s shopping reliance and a multipolar world. He con-
way to China! These coal wagons, or a day at school. Fitness fanat- tends that India lacks the capacity to
together with enormously long ics with lots of energy to expend become a true global power and should
trains of oil and gas wagons, en- would delight in this impediment secure its future under America’s
rich the Russian coffers to over- but older people burdened with shadow.
flowing! heavy shopping bags after a day Thus, Tellis writes: “India’s ambitions
Rail networks in Sri Lanka purchasing some essentials, and far exceed its capabilities, and its leaders
were built for the same purpose – some burdened by asthma, find have not yet come to terms with the lim-
to carry goods to the port for sale this just another harassment in a its of their country’s power. India’s quest
or export. Loads of tea, quarried living environment dominated by for strategic autonomy is, in effect, a
rock, graphite, phosphates, tim- car drivers and the powerful but search for an international order that
ber, building materials, rail bal- unsympathetic. does not exist and is unlikely ever to ma-
last, even sheep and cattle were When you see the railway terialise.” But can 21st-century India so PM Modi with other BRICS leaders. (File photo)
transported to where they were rolling stock rumble by it seems easily accept the dominance theory of
India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain
needed. But now, this trade seems out of a museum or rather, it be- any hegemonic power? This question be- Can Israel end the war with- World,” become even more relevant.
to have diminished. As far as I longs in a museum. The rolling comes even more pertinent post India’s
out American approval? How He defines global relationships as
can see it has dried up. Instead, stock I see is at least sixty years bold military action “Operation Sindoor”
“frenemies” ~ a blend of friend and
now railways compete with the old. People are aghast when against jihadi Pakistan which emphati- secure is Israel’s own sover- enemy. Pragmatic Jaishankar believes
bus services for passengers. For trains are delayed or break down, cally underscored its strategic autonomy
eignty in this partnership? Of that in today’s world, there are no perma-
example, the train service be- but this antique rail service is all ~ while the same United States, which
nent friends or enemies, only permanent
tween Nawalapitiya and Kandy. by the will and courtesy of our calls India a strategic partner, renews its late, Donald Trump’s transac- interests. His concept of ‘frenemies’ best
They are even building a double rulers. If not, they would be courtship with the army chief of an un-
tional approach in interna- describes the simultaneous cooperation
track with associated bridges to pleased to provide trains that stable, radicalised Pakistan.
and competition among nations. In
enable passenger trains to travel were modern, quiet and suited to For the transaction-loving Trump, it tional relations, where every today’s global context, this is the reality
even faster and so compete with the needs of Sri Lankans, but may be a smart move, but such an act has
~ no country is a permanent friend or
the buses but doing so at the cost they are not and so, do not. only reaffirmed the belief of the US international decision is enemy. Does the present Indo-US relation
of billions of rupees. Unfortu- In contrast, train services in being an unreliable partner. Tellis’ arti-
cle gives intellectual cover fire to Ameri-
based on immediate gain or also fit into this definition of “frene-
nately, the track creates a knife- China are clean, fast, modern,
mies”? If so, India must recognise that
edge dividing towns into two, and comfortable and provide a beauti- can hegemonic thinking, seeking to loss ~ is becoming detrimen- this partnership is marked more by polit-
making crossing these race ful noise free environment. The prove that India’s multipolar worldview,
tracks even more hazardous for Chinese government has invited as repeatedly articulated by External Af-
tal to global stability. It ical opportunism than strategic equality.
Contrary to Tellis’ critique, one must
pedestrians. Newspapers report a small group of our leaders - all fairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, is im- undermines trust, coopera- also consider how India is emerging on
on the death toll on the roads but politicians -to visit China. What practical. The article repeatedly
what about the deaths of people excellent timing! Here is an im- emphasises India’s social, economic, and tion, and justice. When coun- the global stage. During its G20 presi-
dency, India strongly voiced the concerns
crossing the railways?? portant message: rail travel will technological challenges as barriers to tries like the US overthrow of developing nations. Through the “Vac-
Of course, Russia, being two broaden the mind! its global ambitions. However, this criti-
steps ahead of poor little Sri Priyantha Hettige cism would have been more balanced had democratic governments or cine Maitri” initiative, India supplied
vaccines to over 100 countries during the
Tellis also acknowledged the significant support puppet regimes for Covid-19 pandemic. Innovations like Dig-
role played by Indian Americans in
their own interests, the “rule- ital Public Infrastructure and UPI, now
Trump’s “Make America Great Again”
adopted by several countries,
campaign. based order” becomes a hol-
Similarly, America’s own challenges ~
its devastating gun culture, crumbling low slogan.
public healthcare system, over $34 tril- Continued on page 7
lion in federal debt, unemployment, and
growing discontent over racial and immi-
gration policies among other ~ raise
questions about its credentials as an
ideal global leader. Its abrupt withdrawal
from Afghanistan, instability created in
Iraq and Libya through irrational regime
change, interference in Ukraine, and now
the unilateral role in the Iran-Israel con-
flict; all point to the fact that America’s
talk of a “rule-ba sed order” is often a
mask for its own interests. In such times,
Sri Lanka Railways (Image credit Ada Derana) Jaishankar’s insights in his book, “The
6 Monday 30th June, 2025 The Island Features
Monsoon upwelling
brings cold,
DH Tiger Moth Boeing Statcruiser
nutrient-rich waters to
Southern Sri Lanka
DH 4

Comparative study of
Boeing and Airbus – Part I

Boeing 1 B&W Aircraft in New Zealand

The Boeing Dash 8

The wrtier (R) and his late brother Chira while flying together in SIA

by Capt. G. a. ferNaNdo thus recording Boeing’s first overseas order

gafplane@sltnet.lk for his products.
RCyAF/ SLAF, Air Ceylon, Air Lanka, More success followed in 1918 with a sub-
Singapore Airlines Ltd and SriLankan contract for Boeing to build 25 flying boats for
Airlines. the US Navy. These aircraft were, however,
Types Flown: DH Tiger Moth, DH Dove, HS designed by the Curtiss Aeroplane & Motor
748, Boeing B707, B737, B747, Lockheed L1011, Company, and designated as HS-2L patrol fly-
Airbus A320, A340 and A330 ing boats. Bill Boeing was so impressed with
this design that he improved on it and pro- Boeing B707
duced the C 700 aircraft, to carry mail from new models on an average of two types per

W
ith the tragic accident of Air India Vancouver, Canada, to Seattle. This was the year, supplying demand from the military and
Flight 171 at Ahmedabad on June 12, first international airmail to the USA, on airlines such as Pan Am and TWA.
2025, the focus has fallen on safety March 3, 1919. Remaining with Airco after the war,
and reliability of jet aircraft in general, and Meanwhile, in Britain, another aircraft Geoffrey de Havilland, a prolific and innova-
the Boeing 787 Dreamliner specifically. Other manufacturer, who would achieve worldwide tive engineer, was responsible for more than
aspects of that event aside, there is a prob- 20 new designs, with type numbers from
ably little-known nexus between Air India D.H.1 to D.H.21, although some were
and Boeing aircraft: In 1962 India’s flag- never built. Among the successful types
carrier became not only the world’s first were a D.H.9 converted to carry four pas-
all-jet airline but also the first jet- sengers, and the eight-passenger D.H.18
equipped airline in Asia when it began in 1920. That was also then when
operating a fleet of Boeing 707-420 aircraft Geoffrey de Havilland left Airco to estab-
Today, Boeing and Airbus are the lish his own de Havilland Aircraft
world’s two leading manufacturers of Company.
commercial airplanes. But those compa- The period between the two World
nies’ histories are diverse in terms of by Ifham NIzam “The combination of
Wars came to be known as the ‘Golden monsoon-driven winds
their origins – in Boeing’s case spanning Age’ of aviation on both sides of the
nearly 110 years – and evolution. This arti- The Vampire A striking seasonal and Sri Lanka’s position
Atlantic. In what was a ‘technological in the Indian Ocean
cle seeks to explore those manufacturers’ phenomenon is unfolding
push’ de Havilland sought to make avia- makes this region highly
stories and products in some detail off the southern coast of
tion attractive and affordable to the gen- dynamic during the
Introduction Sri Lanka, as cold, nutri-
eral public for military and civil trans- southwest monsoon,” he
William E. Boeing was born in Detroit, ent-rich waters rise to the
portation within Europe. said. “The upwelled water
Michigan, in 1881, to an Austrian mother, ocean surface, boosting
Boeing, on the other hand, concentrat- brings nutrients to the
Marie Ortmann, and German father, marine productivity in
ed most of its energies on building mili- surface, which promotes
Wilhelm Böing. When his father died in the region.
tary airplanes. With the advent of World phytoplankton growth.
1890, nine-year-old William moved to According to renowned
War II, large numbers of Boeing B-17 This, in turn, supports
Europe with his mother and sister. After oceanographer Professor
Flying Fortress and B-29 Superfortress fish and other marine
the widowed Marie remarried, she Charitha Pattiaratchi
bombers were built. On the other side of life.”
returned to the USA with her son (now from the University of
the Atlantic, de Havilland, too, was The UWA ocean model,
known as William Boeing) and daughter. Western Australia (UWA),
HS 121 Trident involved in the war effort. The D.H.82 developed by Prof.
Having enrolled in Yale University’s this occurrence is a typi-
Tiger Moth became the basic trainer of Pattiaratchi and his team,
Sheffield Scientific School in 1898, William cal feature of the south-
the Royal Air Force, while the twin- shows this phenomenon
Boeing dropped out in 1903 to enter the west monsoon season and
engine D.H.98 Mosquito, constructed in fine detail. Model out-
lumber business in the Pacific Northwest is closely linked to Sri
mostly of wood – thus earning the nick- puts confirm that colder
of Washington state, an industry in Lanka’s unique island
name ‘Wooden Wonder’ – proved formi- waters are being pushed
which his father had made a modest for- geography.
dable in a variety of roles, especially as a eastward from the south-
tune. Not to be outdone, the younger “This feature of a
fighter-bomber. ern tip of the island,
Boeing also prospered on the strength of colder, higher-chlorophyll
After WW II, as in the wake of WW I, forming a distinct fila-
a construction boom, shipping lumber to filament extending to the
both Boeing and de Havilland (DH) suf- ment visible both in SST
the USA’s east coast, via the newly-built east off the southern
fered a drop in business. Despite Boeing maps and chlorophyll
Panama Canal. coast is typical for this
having to discontinue the services of concentration data.
However, in 1914, William and a friend, time of year,” Prof.
more than 70,000 employees, and in keep- He noted that this nat-
Conrad Westervelt, became interested in Pattiaratchi said. “It’s
ing with the agreement dictated by ural oceanographic event
flying machines. A joy flight with an itin- caused by a combination
‘world powers’ on the distribution of lim- holds major implications
erant barnstormer pilot in 1915 inspired SUD Caravelle of ocean currents, wind
ited military orders after the war, the US for local fisheries and
them to build their own airplane. But patterns, and the shape of
company, along with other American biodiversity.
before constructing an aircraft they had the island itself — what
manufacturers, concentrated on building “This is a productive
to learn to fly. So the pair took flying lessons fame, was beginning to make his mark. The we call the Island Mass
large bombers and troop carriers. Meanwhile time for marine ecosys-
at the Glenn L. Martin flying school in Los company he founded in 1920 would be instru- Effect.”
the British focused their attention on small tems in the southern
Angeles, California, and bought their first fly- mental in the formation, much later, of the Satellite imagery for
fighters. waters,” Prof.
ing machine, a Martin seaplane. giant European aerospace conglomerate that the month of June shows
But Boeing was also notable for producing Pattiaratchi said. “If we
Back home in Washington, following a fly- is known today as ‘Airbus Industrie, or sim- a clear drop in sea sur-
the Model 377 Stratocruiser double-decked can link this information
ing accident that necessitated repairs to their ply ‘Airbus’. That British aviation pioneer face temperatures (SST)
intercontinental airliner, a civil version of with fisheries planning,
seaplane, Boeing and Westervelt discovered was Geoffrey de Havilland, who, after work- along the southern coast-
the C-97 Stratofreighter military transport it could help improve
that Martin, the manufacturer, was unable to ing for the Wolseley and Austin motor car line, particularly near
and its airborne refuelling tanker derivative, both sustainability and
supply the spare parts required in a timely companies, designed and built his first air- Dondra and further east.
the KC-97 Stratotanker, all derived from the yields.”
manner. Not content to wait, they decided to craft in 1909 while teaching himself to fly. Alongside this cooling,
basic design of the B-29 bomber. However, he also
start building their own parts. Their original Joining the Royal Aircraft Factory at there is a visible increase
But while nearly all Boeing aircraft manu- emphasised the need for
company, called B & W, consisted essentially Farnborough as a designer, where much of in surface chlorophyll
factured thus far were powered by ‘old-fash- ongoing monitoring.
of a boathouse on the edge of Lake Union, the emphasis was on kites and balloons, de levels, indicating a spike
ioned’ piston-engines, the British had “Satellite observations
near downtown Seattle. But with the advent Havilland succeeded in selling experimental in phytoplankton — the
acquired more experience and some success and ocean modeling pro-
of World War I, Westervelt was mobilised by aircraft of his own design to the factory. But a microscopic plants that
with jet engines. So, in its need to compete vide powerful tools, but
the US Navy and moved out. Left to his own turning point in de Havilland’s fortunes form the base of the
with the Americans in commercial aviation, we also need real-time in-
devices, Boeing hired a highly-recommended occurred when, a year before WWI, he joined marine food web.
in 1942, the British government instituted the situ data from the region
and -qualified Chinese engineer named Wong a company called Airco, where he designed Prof. Pattiaratchi
Brabazon Committee, named after former to fully understand and
Tsu (a.k.a. T. Wong). many types of aircraft for the Great War, explained that this is a
Minister of Aircraft Production, Lord respond to these dynam-
With Wong’s assistance, the first B & W including a bomber named the D.H.4. classic example of
Brabazon, to explore and design new types of ics,” he added.
seaplane, designated Boeing Model 1, was Although dubbed the ‘flaming coffin’ by upwelling, a process
transport aircraft, including jet-propelled air- With monsoon winds
ready to be test-flown by June 1916. There pilots, the D.H.4 was de Havilland’s first where surface winds push
liners. expected to persist in the
were already 21 workers on the payroll, and major success, and by 1917 the company was warm surface waters
Into the Jet age coming weeks, the south-
in July that year the company was incorpo- manufacturing 300 Airco D.H.4s per month. away from the coast,
With experience gained from its successful ern ocean upwelling is
rated as the Pacific Aero Products Company, From a total production figure of 6,295 air- allowing deeper, colder
D.H.100 Vampire fighter jet, which first flew likely to remain active —
with William ‘Bill’ Boeing as its President. craft, nearly 4,900 were built under licence in waters rich in nutrients
in 1943, de Havilland proceeded with develop- silently fuelling life in
Eventually, the Boeing Aircraft Company, the USA, many of which were used on air- to rise and replace them.
ment of what would become the world’s first the Indian Ocean while
as it was later renamed, procured an order mail services in that country. In island settings like Sri
jetliner, the D.H.106 Comet. offering clues to how cli-
from the US Navy for 50 Model C trainer sea- For its part, Boeing in the USA suffered Lanka, the physical pres-
planes. The company even exported two B & setbacks for want of customers after the ence of land disrupts the mate and geography
Continued on Page 7
W seaplanes to the New Zealand government, Great War, but managed to keep producing flow of ocean currents, interact beneath the
enhancing the effect. waves.
 The Island Features Monday 30th June, 2025
7
By AdmirAl
rAvindrA
C WijegunArAtne

M
y former
Personal
Security
Officer (PSO),
Commander
Chathura Gamage,
RSP and five Bars,
injured Officer from
elite Sri Lanka Navy
Special Boat Squadron, has an MSc in
GIS and Remote Sensing from
Peradeniya University, gave me a call
with much delight: “ Sir, it’s working ! I
can see our Jaffna islands growing in
size ! I will send you the Google pic-
tures soon.
I was very happy. A small project we
started in 2011 in the Northern islands,
Karainagar, Eluvativu, Analativu,
Nayanativu (Nagadeepa),
Punkudativu, Kytes and Mangrove forest (Image credit Mongabay)

Mangrove replanting Mangrove project

on Northern Islands some places when replanti-

Mandativu was yielding the desired ng. I told Piyal, “Let’s try
results after 10 years. again”. It failed again. Only
In 2011, we observed the man- six out of hundreds
groves on islands systematically were of saplings survived.
destroyed by some individuals, who did When Piyal was
not care about their ecological value, the Northern Commander in
for illegal income. As there was a 2017, he found, after a care-
shortage of firewood, especially at bak- ful study, what had gone
eries in the Jaffna mainland, the man- wrong. Flooding and
groves were cut for firewood. Mangrove ebbing of the lagoon
wood is ideal for bakeries as this hard- water every six hours dis-
wood gives a lot of charcoal. We would turbed the roots of man-
see bicycles carrying large loads of dry grove saplings, which died
mangrove wood from the islands to the as a result. The solution to
mainland, along causeways. the problem was also found
With the support of the by Piyal. Four-foot-long
Police, the Sri Lanka Navy (who were sticks were erected in the
controlling the security of the lagoon to support the man-
Northern islands) put an end to grove saplings. This method
the illegal trade. Now, the mangroves worked well and now
grow freely and lavishly, increasing the Karainagar lagoon has more
size of the islands, while than 600 fully grown man- Chinnama
providing protection to shellfish breed- grove plants.
ing grounds. You may be aware Chinnama, an
that crabs, shrimps and prawns lay elderly lady who
their eggs in mangrove areas, which harvests crabs in
are not accessible to big fish and other lagoons, was perhaps the
predators. happiest person. Those days
My deputy in the Northern Naval when we were young officers, The Karainagar Navy camp
Area, in 2011, when I was Commander we used to buy fresh prawns
Northern Naval Area, Admiral Piyal and crabs from her during weekends.
De Silva (former Navy Commander and (Admiral Wijegunaratne, WV, RWP
These fresh shellfish go down well and Bar, RSP, VSV, USP, NI (M)
our former Ambassador to with palmyrah toddy.
Afghanistan), had, original, a fresh and (Pakistan), ndc, psn, Bsc (Hons) (War
Mangroves, under Piyal’s supervi- Studies) (Karachi) MPhil (Madras), is
a unique idea of re-planting the man- sion, were growing well and
grove. We started the project formerly the Navy Commander, Chief of
Chinnama’s catch has improved. She Defense Staff, Chairman, Trincomalee
near the Karainagar causeway. A few has become an ardent protector of
hundred mangrove saplings were plant- Petroleum Terminals. Ltd., Managing
mangroves in the Karainagar lagoon, Director Ceylon Petroleum Corporation DH Comet
ed, as per instructions given by experts and the Northern islands were growing
on the subject. After three months, it and High Commissioner to Pakistan.)
in size ! Mangrove forest distribution in North of Sri Lanka
became a failure. We were wrong in

Comparative... from page 6 Intellectual... from page 5

testify to India’s technologi- fuel such conflicts for strategic path for global stability and
With its revolutionary new airplane cleared other new US-built jetliners, such as the Douglas cal prowess. Can these achieve- interests rather than seeking peace. For analysts like Tellis,
for passenger services in May 1952, de Havilland (later McDonnell Douglas) DC-8 and Convair 880 ments be ignored in assessing peace. If the US stands with Is- it may be easy to portray India
was nevertheless still treading uncharted tech- and 990 Coronado. Much later, when Air Lanka India’s capabilities? The world rael today, will it allow Israel to as merely an “incompetent
nological territory by venturing into high-speed, was founded in 1979, its first two airplanes were today is grappling with sys- declare a unilateral ceasefire? ally,” but India’s vision, strat-
high-altitude, pressurised flight. Indeed, as the Boeing 707s, procured from Singapore Airlines. temic crises emanating from re- Can Israel end the war with- egy, and global outlook are far
unchallenged, first-to-market, technological Meanwhile, services to those other African ligious fanaticism on the one out American approval? How broader and more long-term.
leader, the Comet was still not a fully tried and and South Asian destinations with runway and hand to authoritarian regimes, secure is Israel’s own sover- The 21st century India neither
tested product. Unfortunately, that lead didn’t climate limitations, as well as to shorter run- economic greed, and the hege- eignty in this partnership? Of wishes to be anyone’s shadow
last long, because during the first year of Comet ways in the USA, had to wait until airports monic drive for dominance on late, Donald Trump’s transac- nor a partner that dances to an-
service, with Colombo, Ceylon, as one of its des- extended their runways and improved facilities the other. tional approach in interna- other’s tune ~ it aspires to be
tinations, there were three serious crashes. to accommodate the new generation of ‘big jets’. The clash of political and re- tional relations, where every the architect of a self-reliant,
To counter some of the challenges at home, ligious ideologies has created international decision is based multipolar world order.
After preliminary investigation, the type was Boeing built a shorter version of the 707, the 720, such confusion in international on immediate gain or loss ~ is Tellis must appreciate that
cleared to fly again, only for another serious and to operate shorter regional flights from shorter relations that distinguishing becoming detrimental to global global stability is best secured
fatal crash to occur in 1954, following which all runways. As expected, the 720 proved popular right from wrong has become stability. It undermines trust, not through hegemonic domi-
Comets were grounded indefinitely. with many US ‘majors’, such as United Airlines, increasingly difficult. Iran, due cooperation, and justice. When nance or transactional al-
Earlier, the then President of Boeing, William American Airlines, Braniff International to its religious extremism and countries like the US overthrow liances, but through a balanced,
‘Bill’ Allen, and a company designer Maynard Airways, Continental Airlines, Western Airlines, nurturing terrorist groups like democratic governments or value driven multipolar order ~
Pennell, had watched with interest when the etc. Hezbollah, Hamas, and the support puppet regimes for where sovereign nations coop-
Comet prototype was shown off at the 1950 As ‘big-jets’ spread far and wide as the choice Houthis, finds itself isolated their own interests, the “rule- erate as equals, guided by jus-
Farnborough Air of long-distance air- globally. Its obsession with based order” becomes a hollow tice and autonomy rather than
show in 1950. liner for major and erasing Israel from the map has slogan. opportunism or subordination.
Having conceded not-so-major airlines only consolidated the Israel-US In contrast, India has always That’s what India aspires to.
leadership in the all over the world, a alliance further and neutral- supported a system based on
‘jet race’ to de DH Comet need arose for short- ized rest of the world including balance of power, not domi- (This article was published
Havilland and the er-range jet airplanes the Muslim nations in its neigh- nance. India’s approach is nei- recently in the Foreign Affairs
UK, Boeing decided to serve regional and borhood tacitly. ther hegemonic nor journal. The writer is former
to improve on the even domestic routes Whether it is the ongoing reactionary; it is principled, professor at National Institute
de Havilland design in large countries Iran-Israel war or the Ukraine balanced, and rooted in justice of Design, Ahmedabad, an au-
in producing its like the USA and crisis, hegemonic powers often ~ making it the most suitable thor and columnist.)
own, first passen- Canada, as well as
ger jetliner. Europe.
With the ground- Thus were born
ing of the Comets,
Boeing were afford-
airliners such as the
Caravelle twin-jet,
Sudan: Foreign... from page 4

ed some breathing from the Sud

space. Benefitting Aviation conglomer- However, Sudan’s internal ing the war in Sudan, especially What now?
from experience with its B-47 Stratojet, a six- ate in France, the three-engined de Havilland political and economic instability, against children and women. To end Sudan’s war and pre-
engine bomber, and the eight-engine B-52 D.H.121 Trident, later known as the Hawker including the present civil war, The organisation has appealed for vent future ones, international
Stratofortress, Boeing began design and produc- Siddeley 121 Trident (Air Ceylon operated a sin- has complicated the situation. an immediate and lasting cease- and African actors must do more
tion of a four-jet military transport, the proto- gle Trident bought brand-new in 1969), and from The Abraham Accords were a fire while noting that Sudan faces than issue statements. They must
type of which was designated the Model 367-80, the drawing boards of Boeing another hugely significant foreign policy achieve- the “most catastrophic humani- act coherently, collectively and
or ‘Dash 80’ for short. That successful design led successful type, the Boeing 727 tri-jet. ment for Trump. A peaceful, dem- tarian crisis of the 21st century”. with genuine commitment to the
eventually to the Boeing 707 jetliner. In Europe, the British government encour- ocratically governed, and eco- Unfortunately, member coun- Sudanese people’s right to peace,
Following design revisions and lessons aged the consolidation of its many aircraft nomically stable and prosperous tries will democratic governance and sus-
learned from the disastrous de Havilland Comet builders, resulting in the formation, in 1960, of Sudan could serve as the founda- remain preoccupied with helping tainable development.
1 crashes of 1953 and 1954, the much-improved, the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC), with a tion for Trump’s “circle of peace” Ukraine, especially given the Democracy and the rule of law
sleeker Comet 4 emerged in 1958, in time to earn later incarnation of the ‘old’ de Havilland com- in the Middle East. growing uncertainty in are key to peaceful coexistence
the distinction of operating the world’s first pany as one of its components. This company But Trump and his administra- Washington’s relationship with and sustainable development in
trans-Atlantic jetliner service. But the Comet 4 later merged with Sud Aviation in 1962 to design tion are preoccupied with other the authorities in Kyiv. Sudan. However, establishing and
carried a relatively small number of passengers, and produce the supersonic Concorde airliner. domestic and foreign policy prior- The preoccupation and focus of sustaining institutions that
and was designed to operate mainly to remnants Despite the publicity attached to the Concorde ities. During his May 2025 visit to the EU and the US on Gaza, enhance and support democracy
of the already dwindling British Empire with then and even today, it was not the first aircraft Saudi Arabia, Trump did not offi- Ukraine and Iran may, however, is the job of the Sudanese people.
their short runways in ‘hot-high and-humid’ cli- built to fly faster than the speed of sound in pub- cially address the conflict be underestimating the geopoliti- The external community can pro-
matic conditions. lic service. That distinction goes to the Soviet- in Sudan. Instead, he placed cal risks Sudan’s war is generat- vide the financial support that
On the other hand, the Boeing 707 had a larg- built Tupolev Tu-144, an almost lookalike (copy?) emphasis on securing business ing. Sudan is likely to need. It can also
er passenger payload, and soon overtook the of the Concorde that was dubbed ‘Concordski’ in deals and investments. A peaceful and democratically support the strengthening of elec-
Comet on the Atlantic run, proving much more the West. The latter aircraft began operating The European Union governed Sudan can contribute to toral systems, civic education and
popular and even economical to operate than its scheduled passenger and freight services in 1975, The European Union has peace, not just in the region, but citizen trust in public institu-
British competitor. The 707’s success was even followed by Concorde only in 1976. strongly condemned the violence also in many other parts of the tions.
more remarkable in the face of competition from (To be continued) and the atrocities committed dur- world. (The Conversation)
 Monday 30th June, 2025 8

Lanka Credit and Business Finance pays ‘highest Interim Dividend among companies for FY ’25 – ’26’
By Hiran H. Senewiratne Leelananda stated that during the next sive expansion Committees and the liquid asset ratios, Core Capital
two years the company plans to achieve an strategies, he plans dedication of all Requirements and solvency. The company
Lanka Credit and Business Finance PLC asset base of Rs 21 billion, deposit base of to drive the compa- directors backed by has achieved this operational success, part-
announced the highest Interim Dividend 14 billion, Loan Book of Rs 18 billion, core ny in the prevailing the commitment of ly through the implementation of their
payout of 58 percent among listed compa- capital of Rs.4 billion and reach a prof- dynamic financial the corporate man- business expansion strategy to increase
nies for the Financial Year 2025/2026 navi- itability level of Rs 800 million. landscape, creating agement and staff. the branch network to 21 branches, which
gating an economic environment that was He also stated that they are at present value to stakehold- The company will be increased to reach 26 branches by
gradually recovering from a troubled back- progressing to issue a Tier 2 Subordinated ers, customers and continued to uphold the end of this year. This includes opening
ground. Listed Rated Unsecured Redeemable 5 Year employees, whilst financial prudence, branches at Mathugama, Kurunegala,
“This achievement reflects the flexibili- High Yield and with a maximum of Rs 1.5 contributing by maintaining a Jaffna, Vavuniya and Chilaw.
ty of our team and the strength of our billion (an Initial issue of Rs 750,000,000/- towards the growth robust total Capital The increased branch network will
development focused business plans with an option to issue up to Rs 1.5 billion of Sri Lanka’s econ- Adequacy Ratio empower the company to provide customer
Dushmantha K.G. Leelananda, (CAR) which was
despite economic challenges, thus enabling in the event of an over subscription of the omy. friendly financial products and services to
initial issue). The minimum subscription The CEO also Thotawatte, CEO projected to be at 35 the underserved communities in rural
the company to give the highest dividend
payment ratio in the recent past, CEO/ requirement for a qualified investor apply- emphasized that Chairman .42 percent immedi- areas. This involved catering to the finan-
Executive Director of the company K.G. ing for high yield bonds will be 100 bonds this success was ately after the payout of the proposed divi- cial requirements of the agricultural, self-
Leelananda told The Island Financial (LKR 10,000/-) achieved through the able guidance of the dend. employed, SMEs, tourism and women’s
Review The CEO stated that through sustain- chairman of the Board of Directors Adjusting for the proposed dividend, the empowerment sectors, contributing to the
able performance and the ongoing aggres- Dushmantha Thotawatte , Board Sub company will able to maintain prudential economic growth of the country.

CSE and SEC showcase value in equity

investments at Bandarawela Investor Forum
T
he Securities and Exchange Kumarasinghe; Niroshan
Commission of Sri Lanka Wijesundere, Senior Vice President
(SEC), in collaboration with – Marketing, CSE; and Iranga
the Colombo Stock Exchange Fernando. The discussion was mod-
(CSE), recently hosted an Investor erated by Kamal Jayaweera from
Forum at the Hotel Kanmark, the CSE and allowed attendees to Representatives from Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, Colombo Dockyard PLC and
Bandarawela. The forum is part of raise questions, engage directly Celao Capital in Mumbai at the momentous occasion
a continued initiative to promote with the experts, and gain further
investor education, highlighting
the importance of informed deci-
sion-making, and increasing pub-
clarity on the topics discussed.
Following the formal sessions,
participants were invited to engage
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders secures controlling
lic awareness on the opportunities
available in the stock market.
with Investment Advisors from
stock brokerage firms and repre-
stake in Colombo Dockyard with strategic
Catering to the business com-
munity and individual investors
sentatives from Unit Trust
Management Companies, providing guidance from Celao Capital
in the Bandarawela region, the (L-R) Nimal Kumarasinghe, Iranga Fernando, and Niroshan them with the opportunity to seek Celao Capital Pvt Ltd, a Member of RNH Limited and Colombo Dockyard PLC posi-
forum saw the participation of Wijesundere. personalised guidance and explore
Ventures, a boutique consulting and transac- tioning the entity for turnaround and long-
over 90 attendees. The event cre- investment options.
tion advisory firm, is pleased to announce term growth," said Dr. Nirmal De Silva, Jt.
ated a platform for both existing As part of its investor education
Ms. Shanika Ramanayake, Assistant that it has successfully completed advising Managing Director, Celao Capital. “We are
and prospective investors to gain practical campaign, the SEC and CSE will continue to
Manager – Digital Products at CSE, then Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited to thrilled to have played a pivotal role in this
insights into investing and safeguarding host similar forums nationwide. The broader
delivered a session on the features and advan- acquire a controlling stake of Colombo transaction and look forward to seeing how
their financial interests. objective of these initiatives is to empower
tages of the CSE Mobile App, demonstrating Dockyard PLC. This landmark deal marks a this acquisition will enhance operational
The programme commenced with Nimal investors to make informed decisions, partic-
how it enhances accessibility and conven- pivotal moment in the sector and highlights efficiencies and innovation.”
Kumarasinghe, Manager – External Relations ularly in a market environment that contin-
ience for investors. Celao Capital Pvt Ltd’s expertise in navigat- Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited,
at the SEC, who provided an overview of the ues to demonstrate long-term value and
An in-depth analysis of sectoral perform- ing complex transactions. Mumbai, (MDL) is an ISO 9001: 2015, compa-
forum, highlighting its purpose while outlin- resilience. The total return for ASPI for the
ance and market opportunities was presented With this acquisition, Colombo Dockyard ny listed in the Bombay Stock Exchange
ing the role of the SEC and the significance year is 16.38% as at 27th June 2025, while
by Iranga Fernando, Research Analyst at PLC will significantly benefit from a larger (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange
of investor protection. market capitalization also reached a record
Bartleet Religare Securities (Pvt) Ltd, offer- order pipeline, enhanced technological capa- (NSE) in India and is a leading public sector
Following this, Jeewan Chathuranga, high of Rs. 6,327.89 billion earlier this
ing a professional perspective on current bilities, global reach, and the much-needed undertaking often referred to as the
Executive at the CSE Bandarawela Branch, month. In today’s low-interest rate environ-
trends and growth areas within the market. financial backing to take the company to Shipbuilders to the Nation. The company's
introduced the Colombo Stock Exchange, ment, the Colombo Stock Exchange offers a
A panel discussion was then held, offer- greater heights. current portfolio of designs spans a wide
elaborating on the various benefits of invest- compelling opportunity for investors to pur-
ing a dynamic and interactive segment for Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited will range of products for both domestic and
ing in the capital market, especially in the sue long-term growth and diversify their
the participants. The panel included Nimal be acquiring the controlling stake from overseas clients. Since 1960, Mazagon Dock
context of long-term wealth creation. portfolios. (CSE)
Onomichi Dockyard Japan. It is set to has grown rapidly to become the premier
reshape the competitive landscape of the shipbuilding yard in India. The company has
shipbuilding and repair industry in the been recognized as a trusted entity across
Singer Sri Lanka unveils the HONOR 400 series, setting a region. “Our team of seasoned advisors
worked diligently to facilitate this cross-bor-
the world driven by the commitment to serv-
ice excellence and creating significant value
new standard for AI-powered smartphones der deal between Japan, India and Sri Lanka
overcoming various complexities involved in
for all stakeholders.
Celao Capital Pvt Ltd continues to lead
Singer Sri Lanka PLC is trans- Zeng Lexing, Country Manager such significant transactions” said, Dinuk the way in providing exceptional transaction
forming the smartphone landscape for Honor in Sri Lanka, added, "We, Hettiarachchi, Jt. Managing Director of advisory services, with a comprehensive
with the launch of the HONOR 400 through our exclusive partner Celao Capital understanding of market dynamics and
and HONOR 400 Pro, marking a sig- Singer, bring the HONOR 400 series “This acquisition represents a strategic client needs. This successful acquisition is a
nificant step forward in AI-powered to market. This launch represents alignment of resources and capabilities testament to our commitment to achieving
smartphone technology. The newly our shared vision of flagship-level between Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders optimal outcomes for our clients.
unveiled devices offer groundbreak- innovation, especially in AI-powered
ing AI capabilities that elevate cre- imaging and performance, and mak-
ativity, photography, and everyday ing it accessible to every Sri Lankan.
usability, delivering a more intelli-
gent and seamless user experience.
The HONOR 400 series redefines Tharaka Warnakulasuriya, General Manager - Marketing, Singer Sri
With Singer’s extensive retail pres-
ence and reputation for quality, we
are confident that the HONOR 400
Uber brings ‘Uber for
smartphone capabilities with inno- Lanka PLC, Janmesh Anthony, Marketing Director, Singer (Sri Lanka)
vative AI features designed to ele- PLC, Mahesh Wijewardene, Managing Director, Singer Group of
vate the user experience. One of the Companies, Zeng Lexing, Country Manager, Honor Sri Lanka, Vajira
series will redefine user expectations
in the mid-to-premium smartphone
segment.”
teens’ to Sri Lanka
standout features of the device, AI To celebrate the launch, Singer
Image-to-Video, automatically trans-
Tennakon, Chief Operating Officer, Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC, Jagath Safer, reliable teen rides with parental supervision
Perera, Director Operations, Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC, and Ranidu Silva, and HONOR hosted a highly success-
forms static photos into dynamic, ful consumer event at Havelock City Uber, announced the launch of ‘Uber for Key Safety Features
Senior Brand Manager, Singer Sri Lanka PLC
stylized videos, making memories Mall, drawing an enthusiastic crowd teens’ in Sri Lanka — a dedicated product Uber for Teens comes with multiple pro-
more immersive. Its AI to the venue. The highlight of the designed to offer teenagers aged 13 to 17 tections built into every ride:
Enhancement significantly improves image Speaking about the event, Mahesh evening was a live performance by iconic Sri years the freedom to ride inde- Real-time trip tracking:
quality, ensuring stunning photos every time. Wijewardene, Managing Director of Singer Lankan duo Bathiya and Santhush (BnS), pendently, with technology-dri- Guardians receive live notifica-
The AI Portrait Engine delivers studio-quali- Group, stated, "At Singer Sri Lanka, we are which electrified the audience and created a ven safety features that keep par- tions the moment a ride is
ty selfies, perfect for users who prioritize committed to delivering high-quality technol- truly unforgettable atmosphere. The mall was ents and guardians informed requested, with full visibility of
high-resolution personal photography. ogy that enhances everyday life. With filled with excitement as fans packed the every step of the way. the trip’s progress
Additionally, the AI Cutout feature enables Singer’s legacy of delivering cutting-edge ground floor and upper balconies to witness This marks the first time Sri PIN verification: Teens must
users to isolate subjects effortlessly from technology at exceptional value, the HONOR the product reveal and performance, under- Lankan families will have access enter a unique PIN to ensure
images, enhancing creativity and ease of 400 series marks a bold new chapter for Sri scoring the strong public interest in the new to a tailored ride-sharing option they’re getting into the correct
editing. Lankan consumers seeking unparalleled per- HONOR 400 series. for teens, offering parents peace vehicle
formance at a competitive price.” of mind and greater independ- RideCheck: Uber detects unex-
ence to teenagers. pected stops or route deviations
The product combines Uber’s and prompts both rider and driv-

Well known professional, Ajith De Silva elected president best-in-class safety features with
the flexibility modern families need. Every okay.
er to confirm if everything is

Uber for teen ride has safety features includ- Verified driver-partners: Only experi-

At the Annual General

of Colombo MBA Alumni Association
annual appropriation measures so of a productive year. He is well known in the
ing GPS tracking, real-time trip tracking, in-
app emergency button, and RideCheck.
enced, top-rated drivers are eligible to
receive teen trip requests. Drivers are noti-
Parents or guardians initiate the setup by fied that the trip involves a teen and can
Meeting held on the 19th June, at as to be of value to the community. Boardroom and is able to harness talented choose to opt out.
the Galle Face Hotel, Ajith de In addition, they create awareness business leaders’ practitioners and startups inviting their teen to create a specialised
How to book an Uber for Teens ride:
Silva was unanimously elected to in such areas as the environment, for programs of the Association Further the account and can book rides for them. Teens
Parents/guardians with a verified Uber
the Chair of the MBA Alumni governance, accounting and finance theme for the year is Connected to Inspire: can also request rides on their own while
account can invite their teen to join the app
Association. Ravi Jayawardana and new technological advances. Professionalism Powering Progress. Under guardians stay informed through real-time
The teen will need to setup their
CEO, Maliban Group was Chief The professional community partic- this theme he has sufficient license to bring updates, live trip monitoring, and detailed
account, adding their parents as a guardian
Guest and Prof Indika ipates in these events because they together a strong nexus between academia ride summaries.
The teen can start requesting trips
Karunatilleke Vice Chancellor was are fundamentally knowledge shar- and trade and Commerce. Kaushalya Gunaratne, Country
immediately after the account setup and
Guest of Honor. ing exercises bringing the latest information Ajith de Silva an old boy of Seevali Manager - Mobility, Uber Sri Lanka, said, teens can book rides independently too
Ajith De Silva becomes the 28th on the particular subject. Central college Ratnapura obtained his “With Uber for teens, we’re introducing a Parents/guardians will receive notifica-
President of the Association which commits The members of the Association, all alum- Bachelor’s degrade in Physics and mathemat- powerful solution for busy families in Sri tions about trips on their app as well
its membership and all professionals to fur- ni of the University work in high decision- ics from the University of Colombo in 2002, Lanka — one that blends independence for Guardians also have the option to request
ther education and assists the University in making positions in every brand of organiza- the Master of Business in Studies (MBS) teens with transparency and peace of rides on behalf of their teens which
all its outreach programs. The highlight in tion. Thus, they are an integral part of the Management of business administration mind for parents. We’re proud to bring one reflects on the teen’s account Uber for
their calendar is the platform they arrange decision-making process of the country. (MBA) in 2010. He also obtained the post of our most trusted global features to the Teens is now live in the Western Province
for the business community and the highest With the wide experience that Ajith graduate diploma from National University market, reinforcing our commitment to with plans to expand to other major cities
Government officials to analyze the brings into his role, the members are assured of Singapore (NUS). safe, inclusive and innovative mobility.” soon.
 Monday 30th June, 2025 Business News/ Advertorial Page 9

Getting the gaming regulations right;

Advocata calls for independence
in the Gambling Regulatory Bill
Regulators must hold the cards—not the minister
● No Representation from

T
he Advocata Institute urges tion of power departs from inter- late access and monitor harmful
the Government of Sri national best practices and under- the Tourism Sector: effects, particularly those emerg-
Lanka to withdraw and mines the very rationale for a The bill fails to include ex offi- ing from crossborder digital plat-
redraft the proposed Gambling statutory regulator which is to cio representation from the Sri forms who have promotional part-
Regulatory Authority Bill, citing
its most pressing flaw, the exces-
sive and unchecked powers vested
provide impartial, consistent, and
transparent oversight.
Advocata proposes that
Lanka Tourism Development
Authority (SLTDA), despite the
strong link between gaming and
nerships with local sporting
authorities
● Weak Revenue Oversight:
Pan Asia Bank elevates elite banking
in the Minister of Finance, which
compromise the independ-
ence of the regulator and
appointments to the Board should tourism. Hospitality is also not
considered a qualification
to be appointed to the
The Authority lacks any mech-
anism to trace operator revenues
or enforce tax compliance. This
with new Privilege Club in Colombo 07
jeopardize the integrity of board. leaves room for underreporting Pan Asia Bank is to announces the grand elegance, alongside access to exclusive prod-
the industry. ● Lottery Sector and revenue leakage. opening of its brand-new Privilege Club in the ucts, including customized lending solutions,
“The independence of a Exemptions: ● Inadequate Penalties for heart of Colombo 07, a premier space designed investment advisory, and wealth management
regulatory body is nonnego- The draft bill exempts Violations: exclusively to serve the needs of our valued services tailored to the client’s individual
tiable. Without it, we risk creating be subject to approval by the the National and Development Offenses under the draft bill high net worth clientele. financial goals.
a framework that lacks credibility, Constitutional Council, the DGl Lotteries Boards from regulation, are met with fines as low as LKR The Privilege Club reflects Pan Asia Commenting on the launch, Naleen
is vulnerable to political interfer- should be selected through a com- even though lotteries are a 100,000 and imprisonment up to Bank’s deep commitment to providing elite Edirisinghe Director/CEO said, “This new
ence, and cannot deliver on its petitive process like in the private form of gambling. This leaves the two years is grossly inadequate clients with exceptional value, privacy, and club reflects Pan Asia Bank’s unwavering
mandate,” said Sudaraka sector, and rulemaking power state-run lottery industry unregu- for a billion rupee industry. recognition. It embodies the core purpose of commitment to providing exceptional service
Ariyaratne, Research Consultant should lie with the Authority lated, despite concerns over finan- The Gambling Regulatory the Privilege Club: to deliver exclusive bene- and tailored financial solutions for our most
at Advocata. “In its current form, itself mirroring models like Sri cial mismanagement and con- Authority Bill, while timely and fits, nurture lasting relationships with premi- discerning customers. We believe that high
the Bill does not create a regula- Lanka’s Securities and sumer protection. necessary, must be reworked to um customers, and offer tailored financial and net worth individuals deserve more than just
tor. It creates a proxy.” Exchange Commission (SEC Act ● Lack of Provisions for ensure it establishes a truly inde- lifestyle solutions that go beyond conventional banking—they deserve a banking experience
Under the draft law, the No. 19 of 2021). Online Gambling: pendent, empowered, and credible banking. From the moment clients walk that is defined by excellence, privacy, and
Minister holds a sweeping author- While independence is the cor- The bill ignores the growing institution. Advocata calls on the through its doors, they are welcomed into a trust.”
ity to appoint the regulator’s nerstone issue, the draft bill suf- online gambling sector, with no government to reintroduce the space defined by trust, prestige, and comfort.
The Colombo 07 Privilege Club is equipped
Director General (DG) and board fers from other critical policy requirements for patron registra- bill after public consultation and Members of the Privilege Club enjoy the
with state-of-the-art facilities, offering clients
members, issue binding direc- shortcomings: tion or control over foreign oper- expert review to address the dedicated attention of a seasoned Relationship
tives, and singlehandedly make Key Policy Issues in the ated platforms. Advocata recom- structural and regulatory gaps exclusive access to a range of products and
Manager who acts as a trusted advisor, guid-
regulations. Such over centraliza- Current Draft mends explicit provisions to regu- that persist in the current draft. ing them through strategic financial decisions services including wealth management,
with discretion and care. The Club provides investment advisory, and customized lending
priority service in an environment of quiet solutions.

Statement from the Joint Apparel Association

Forum – May 2025 export performance
Sri Lanka’s apparel exports in May 2025
remained relatively flat with a slight dip of
0.63% compared to the same month last
year, totaling US$365.08 million. While ship-
ments to the EU grew by 5.15% and exports
to other markets rose sharply by 11.1%, this
growth was offset by contractions in key
markets. Exports to the USA and UK 6.52% and 3.74% respectively.
declined by 7.59% and 6.81% respectively, Commenting on the performance, a JAAF
reflecting ongoing demand volatility in says, “The industry’s year-to-date perform-
Western consumer markets. ance demonstrates resilience and adaptabil-
Despite the dip in May, cumulative ity, driven by strategic market shifts and
exports for the period January to May 2025 continued investment in value-added prod-
show a strong recovery trajectory, with total ucts. We are encouraged by the momentum,
earnings increasing by 9.8% to reach particularly in emerging and EU markets.”
US$2.02 billion. Exports to the EU (exclud- To sustain this progress, JAAF reiterates

Multi-faith ceremonies held nationwide as ing UK) saw the most significant growth at
15.36%, followed by 13.12% growth in non-
traditional markets. Shipments to the USA
the importance of a stable and predictable
trade policy environment that enables long-
term competitiveness and supports
exporters navigating global headwinds.
part of DFCC Bank’s 70th anniversary and UK also recorded moderate gains of

As part of a series of initiatives commemorating DFCC Bank’s 70th

anniversary, multi-religious observances were held across the country,
Simultaneous observances took place at Ruwanweli mahasaya in
Anuradhapura, Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil in Jaffna, and St.
Sarvodaya Development Finance
beginning with a central ceremony at the Head Office in Colombo.
Religious leaders representing the Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, and
Muslim faiths offered blessings in the presence of the Bank’s
Sebastian’s Church in Negombo. Staff across the Bank’s 138-branch net-
work also joined the Head Office observance via Branch TV, reflecting a
deep sense of unity, purpose, and gratitude.
honours top performers at
Chairman, Board of Directors, senior leadership, and staff.
‘Achievers’ Night 2025’
Seylan Bank honors Mega Rewards
customers at the Wedding Show 2025
Seylan Bank recently honoured some of Fernando from the Kollupitiya Branch quali-
their long-standing MEGA REWARDS cus- fied for a Hotel Package. These customers, hav-
tomers at the country’s largest matrimonial ing met the qualifying MEGA REWARDS crite-
event, the Wedding Show 2025. Standing as the ria, received rewards in recognition of person-
Official Banking Partner for the Wedding al achievements of great significance at the
Show 2025, the event offered the perfect occa- Wedding Show 2025. Delighted by the occasion,
sion for the “Bank with a Heart” to honour eli- the customers vowed to cherish the memory
gible current and savings account holders for dearly.
their long-standing loyalty. Speaking about the event, Asiri
MEGA REWARDS stands as the only Abhayaratne, Assistant General Manager –
rewards scheme by a bank offering definitive Marketing & Sales said, “MEGA REWARDS
rewards in celebration of the precious allows us to celebrate the customers who have In a powerful demonstration of its values- and Honorary President of Lanka Jathika
moments of its customers’ lives, based on the Grandpass Branch and Ms. N. Srikanth remained by our side throughout our journey driven culture and people-first philosophy, Sarvodaya Shramadana Sangammaya Dr.
their account balance. Offered to Seylan from the Kotahena Branch, both of whom as Seylan Bank. As the longest operating loyal- Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC (SDF) Vinya Ariyaratne. The evening served as both
Bank’s eligible current and savings accounts, were honoured for excelling at their Grade 5 ty scheme by a bank since 2007, MEGA hosted its prestigious annual staff awards cer- a celebration of excellence and a bring about
MEGA REWARDS is as a handsome grant for Scholarship Exam. Ms. Wishvanie REWARDS is a means of showing our cus- emony, ‘Achievers’ Night 2025’, on 10th May, the fastest growing finance company in Sri
Weddings, Matrimonial Anniversaries, Piyumanthi’s reward was claimed by her tomers that we value their loyalty. The 2025 at the Imperial Monarch, Colombo, cele- Lanka.
Childbirth, Birthdays, Hospitalisations and father, Mr. D. D. Nishantha, on her behalf. In Wedding Show allowed us a stunning back- brating the exceptional contributions of its Awards were presented across key per-
Surgeries, etc. addition, Ms. T. Puvaneswary from the drop to celebrate a precious moment with our employees from across the island. formance categories, including Best Business
Among the customers recognised for their Kotahena Branch received a reward in the customers, effectively creating a memory we’ll The event brought together over 600 team Development Officer, Best Branch Manager
loyalty were Ms. Wishvanie Piyumanthi from form of her Surgery Claim and Ms. Nishana all share for quite a while.” members, including senior leadership and dis- and Best Region Manager, Best Recovery
tinguished guests such as the Chairman and Officer, Best Regional Recovery Officer, Best
the Board of Directors, Ms. Neetha Ariyaratne Deposit Mobilizer, Best Gold Loan Officer
etc... Select top performers were further
rewarded with foreign exposure tours, under-

AI-driven productivity is the future, declare experts at CIPM HR Conference scoring SDF’s investment in staff develop-
ment and leadership capacity building.
Speaking at the event, Nilantha Jayanetti,
Chief Executive Officer of Sarvodaya
The future of productivity is not just digi- underscore his point, he cited com- where every employee is expected to Development Finance, stated:
tal—it is decisively AI-driven. This was the pelling data from the World Economic work with AI—not just use it as a tool, “Achievers’ Night is more than a celebra-
resounding message from a panel of top indus- Forum, revealing that digitally mature but to partner with it,” he said. tion—it is a reflection of the dedication, pas-
try leaders at the "Discover the Future of organisations outperform their peers Ranawana identified four key sion, and impact our team creates every day.
Productivity Through Digital Transformation" by a staggering 45% in revenue growth. domains where AI is already making a In an industry rapidly transforming through
session, a cornerstone event of the However, Dias was quick to caution measurable impact: digital disruption and consolidation, we
International HR Conference organised by against a one-size-fits-all approach. Personal productivity: Assisting with remain grounded in a singular truth: people
CIPM Sri Lanka on June 3 at the Monarch “Transformation must be contextual,” everything from managing schedules to drive purpose. Our team’s unwavering com-
Imperial. he warned. “LOLC operates in sectors summarising complex reports. mitment is what allows us to serve rural Sri
The discussion, which delved into the com- from finance to plantations to leisure— Work-specific tasks: Powering sophis- Lanka with dignity, relevance, and resilience.”
plexities and opportunities of navigating digi- each with different levels of digital ticated functions like customer analytics The awards night follows a period of signif-
tal transformation, brought together a formi- adoption. You have to understand your and automated proposal generation. icant momentum for the organization. SDF
dable panel of experts. It featured Conrad digital maturity first. Otherwise, you’re Team collaboration: Breaking down recently achieved full membership in the
Dias, Director of LOLC Holdings and just ticking boxes.” organisational silos and enhancing Global Alliance for Banking on Values
Chairman of LOLC Finance; Romesh He highlighted how even seemingly cross-departmental coordination. (GABV)—a global network of financial insti-
Ranawana, Group Chief Analytics and AI traditional sectors like plantations are Enterprise efficiency: Optimising tutions championing transparency, sustain-
Officer at Dialog Axiata; and Prasanth Nair, reaping massive benefits from digitisa- large-scale operations and enabling data- ability, and social equity. The company also
Chief HR Officer of Crompton Greaves tion. “We’re the world’s largest tea pro- posted a strong financial performance in FY
able at $20 a month. If someone tells you capex driven strategic decision-making.
Consumer Electricals. The insightful session ducer under Browns. The next generation 2024/25, demonstrating the viability of a
is a barrier today, that’s outdated thinking.” ‘He offered a stark analogy to illustrate the
was expertly moderated by Oshana Dias, Chief doesn’t want to work the way their parents model that merges commercial success with
He championed a "fail fast" culture, encourag- challenge of adoption. “Imagine giving some-
People Officer at Fortude. did—so we need to bring technology to the community impact.
The Digital Imperative: No Longer an field. Mechanisation, digitisation—it’s not just ing businesses to experiment, learn from their one a $100,000 piano who doesn’t know how to
mistakes quickly, and pivot without fear. play. That’s what many companies are doing Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC, con-
Option an option. It’s a must.” tinues to pioneer a people-centric model of
Kicking off the discussion, Conrad Dias Dias also dismantled the pervasive myth of The Rise of the Personal AI Partner with AI,” he cautioned. “The tool is powerful,
Romesh Ranawana framed the current AI but without training and the right culture, it’s development finance—prioritizing access,
made a powerful case for the urgency of digi- high implementation costs being a barrier. trust, and long-term empowerment.
tal adoption. “Whether you're a country or an “Technology has been both democratised and boom as the second great technological revolu- underused—or misused.” Ranawana stressed
tion in workplace productivity, comparable that, just as they did with the rise of comput- ‘Achievers’ Night 2025’ stood as a testament to
organisation, digital is not optional anymore. demonetised,” he explained. “AI tools that the caliber of its workforce and the values
It’s a national imperative,” he asserted. To once cost thousands of dollars are now avail- only to the personal computing wave of the ers, HR professionals must once again lead the
late 20th century. “We’re entering a phase charge in fostering digital and AI literacy.’ that shape its strategy.
10 Monday 30th June, 2025
The Island SPORTS
'I completely lost it in Paris
- the lesson is learned'
A
\ryna Sabalenka is the world number one and Sabalenka is a long way clear of the field in the
serial Grand Slam finalist who by her own WTA rankings, but she has lost four of her past six
admission can "lose control" of her emotions finals. She has not yet won Wimbledon and starts this
when the biggest prizes in tennis are on the line. year against Canadian qualifier Carson Branstine.
Wimbledon therefore presents Sabalenka not only "Honestly, I'm kind of glad what happened to me at
with an opportunity to chase a fourth Grand Slam title, Paris, because I was able to learn a lot," said
but also the chance to turn a humbling experience into Sabalenka. "I was able to sit back and be open to
a turning point. myself, not just to ignore some things. I really hope it
The 27-year-old has reached the Australian Open will never happen again."
and French Open finals this year but has lost both title She said she would "love to face" Gauff in the
matches, and after falling to defeat by Coco Gauff in Wimbledon final. They are the number one and two
Paris three weeks ago she spoke in unflattering terms seeds so cannot meet until then. Gauff holds a 6-5
about her conqueror that she later acknowledged had advantage in their career head-to-head record.
been "completely unprofessional". "If she's going to be there, I'm happy because I want
Her immediate verdict was that Gauff was able to to get the revenge," Sabalenka added.
win "not because she played incredible" but because of 'Things happen when blood is running hot - it's
Sabalenka's own not easy to
misses from "easy suppress'
balls". Switching
Sabalenka emotional
labelled her own gears is a
performance "just major chal-
a joke" and said of lenge for sport-
Gauff: "Honestly, ing rivals, par-
sometimes it felt ticularly when

Thompson speeds to 9.75 at like she was hit-

ting the ball from
the frame.
Somehow magical-
the stakes are
high.
Novak
Djokovic has

Jamaican Championships ly the ball lands in

the court, and you
are kind of on the
back foot."
become expert
in handling the
biggest occa-
sions, and even
Kishane Thompson at the Jamaican Championships. (World Athletics) The comments in defeat he
were widely seen usually finds

O
lympic silver medallist the past three global champi- Pryce raising the decibel lev- as not giving Gauff Coco Gauff (left) and Aryna Sabalenka (right) turned Centre the right
Kishane Thompson ran onships, overcame some pre- els of an appreciative grand- sufficient credit for Court into a TikTok dance floor. (Getty Images - bbc) words.
a world-leading PB of race discomfort to finish sec- stand crowd with a third- the American's sec- But it was not
9.75 (0.8 m/s) to win the men’s ond in a season’s best of 9.83, place finish in 10.91. ond Grand Slam title - and the second to come at something that necessarily came easily to the 24-time
100m at the Jamaican just 0.02 shy of his PB. 2024 “One thing I knew I had on Sabalenka's expense, after their 2023 US Open final also Grand Slam champion.
Championships in Kingston Diamond League champion my side was experience,” said went Gauff's way. He therefore understands how difficult it might be
on Friday (27). Ackeem Blake finished third Fraser-Pryce, now 38. “I am A statement and a written apology to Gauff fol- for Sabalenka to find composure when the adrenaline
It’s the fastest time in the in a PB of 9.88. grateful for that fighting spir- lowed, and look to have done the trick. If there was has been pumping.
world since 2015 and now ele- The women’s 100m marked it that says it’s never over ever any tension between the pair, it was not evident in "We are all human beings that have difficult emo-
vates Thompson to sixth on the final time multiple world until it’s over, and once I step the lead-up to Wimbledon as they performed a TikTok tions that they have to handle right after they lost a big
the world all-time list. The 24- and Olympic champion on the start line, I am ready. dance together on Centre Court. match," Djokovic said.
year-old had fired warning Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Knowing that I’m not race "I've always been really good with Coco," Sabalenka "Grand Slam finals, for example, as she did against
shots almost two hours earlier would compete inside the sharp and running 10.91 is a said. Coco. Things happen when you're so heightened with
in the semifinals when he national stadium. Two-time big deal. "I didn't really want to offend her. I was just com- emotions, your blood is running hot.
blazed to a world-leading 9.80. world U20 champion Tina “Many people don’t know pletely upset with myself, and emotions got over me. I "It's not always easy to suppress that and put diplo-
“I’m never going to sur- Clayton, who missed out on that Japan is where I started just completely lost it. macy ahead, even though I feel like it's important to
prise myself, because I know the final last year, made my first senior international "I did what I did. I get what I deserve, I believe. It pay respect and acknowledge the success of your oppo-
how capable I am,” said amends this time and was championships,” added was a tough time for me. The lesson is learned. nent that just beat you."
Thompson after retaining his impressive throughout the Fraser-Pryce, who ran in the "This time the emotions took over me. In the finals Sabalenka tapped up Djokovic for pre-tournament
title. “I am very confident; rounds en route to winning heats of the 4x100m for or semi-finals, sometimes I can get over-emotional. I support after a practice session.
even if I break the world the final in a PB of 10.81 Jamaica at the 2007 World would like to improve that. "It's amazing to hear opinions of such a legend,"
record, it wouldn’t surprise (0.1m/s). Championships in Osaka. "I would like to stay to the same mentality I have Sabalenka said. "We were just chatting about stuff that
me because I am that confi- Three-time defending “It’s such a full circle moment during the tournament, because I believe I get over- I'm struggling with a little bit. I'm really thankful for
dent, and I’m working to champion Shericka Jackson for me to be going back to emotional at the last stages of the tournaments the advice he gave me."
achieve all my goals and the came through for second in a Japan.” because I have this desire of winning." (bbc)
accolades.” season’s best of 10.88, with
Oblique Seville, a finalist at sentimental favourite Fraser- (World Athletics)

India were champions of the previous edition of the Asia Cup in 2023. (Getty - cricbuzz)

Amid rising optimism, ACC aims to start

Asia Cup in second week of September
I
s there a breakthrough in the Asia Cup following the terror attack in Pahalgam in April.
imbroglio? It may still be a little premature to Matters escalated further after India launched
draw any definitive conclusions about the conti- Operation Sindoor against Pakistan in May, casting
nental championship, but there is now a greater serious doubts over the tournament's future. There
sense of optimism surrounding the tournament. were also growing calls in India to boycott
This is a marked change from the uncertainty that Pakistan in multilateral events. India, in any case,
had loomed over it due to the tensions between does not engage with Pakistan in bilateral cricket.
India and Pakistan. There was even chatter that India's boycott of
While nothing concrete has been finalised as yet, Pakistan in global events will be discussed in the
indications are that a formal decision could be next ICC meeting.
taken next week. What's more, the Asian Cricket However, the recent turn of events in world
Council (ACC) is hopeful of releasing the schedule cricket is suggestive of the situation heading into a
for the six-team tournament in the first week of different direction. In quick succession, the
July, when it is expected to convene. International Cricket Council (ICC) released the
If all goes according to plan, the ACC is believed schedules for two global events - the Women's ODI
to be targeting a start in the second week of World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, and the
September. More specifically, the tournament - to Women's T20 World Cup in England. India and
be played in the T20 format - is likely to begin on Pakistan are scheduled to face each other in both
September 10. Along with India and Pakistan, the the tournaments - first on October 5 in Colombo,
participating teams will include Afghanistan, Sri and then on June 14 at Edgbaston.
Lanka, Bangladesh, and the UAE. Some sort of pro- Although officials from the BCCI, ACC, or ICC
motional activities for the tournament have have not commented publicly on the matter, it
already begun, in fact. appears that cricketing ties between the arch-rivals
The UAE continues to remain the frontrunner to will continue - at least in the global events. These
host the tournament, although there is also some matches remain the biggest revenue generators for
discussion around staging it in a hybrid format. world cricket - and it's important to note that this
While India is the designated host this time, the applies to global cricket, not necessarily to Indian
ACC had earlier decided that when it is India or cricket. India and the Board of Control for Cricket
Pakistan's turn to host the Asia Cup, the tourna- in India (BCCI) are not exactly reliant on the rev-
ment would be held in a neutral venue - for under- enue from these high-profile encounters, but gov-
standable reasons. erning bodies like the ICC, the ACC, and their
The tournament was plunged into uncertainty member boards heavily are. (Cricbuzz)
 Monday 30th June, 2025
11
Sudoku No. 6044 Simple habits
to boost your
morning

Andy Capp By Reg Henry Scargelli Waking up

S
tarting the day on the right foot
can make all the difference in
your productivity, mood, and
Solution to No. 6043 overall well-being. Whether you are a
student, a working professional, or a
homemaker, establishing a morning
routine that energizes and prepares
No knowledge of arithmetic
you for the day ahead is crucial.
is required to enjoy this. All Experts agree that the way you begin
you need is a logical mind, your morning sets the tone for the
a pencil and an eraser. Try hours to come. Here are some practical
it. Suffer its torture. tips to help you get a good start to the
Discover its ecstasy. It's a
day.
mind game you will solve
with reasoning and logic. After several hours of sleep, your
The rules are very simple. body is naturally dehydrated.
Fill in the grid with numbers
so that every row, every col-
Wizard of Id By Parker and Hart Drinking a glass of water right after
waking up is one of the simplest yet
umn and every small 3x3 most effective ways to jumpstart your
box contains the numbers 1
to 9. Each number has its
metabolism and refresh your body.
allotted place if you look Proper hydration can boost energy lev-
hard enough. No number els, aid digestion, and even improve
should be repeated in any mental alertness. Keep a glass of
row, column or 3x3 box. water on your bedside table so you can
Here's an easy one to try -
drink it as soon as you open your eyes.
See tomorrow's Island for
solution. Physical activity in the morning
need not mean an intense workout.
Even gentle stretching, yoga, or a
brisk walk can stimulate blood flow
and release endorphins — the body’s
natural mood enhancers. Moving your
body early helps reduce stiffness and
KaKuro 5282 prepares your muscles and joints for
the day’s tasks. If time permits, 20 to
Mother Goose & Grimm By Mike 30 minutes of exercise can work won-
ders, but even a short five-minute
stretch routine can significantly
improve your focus and mood.
A nutritious breakfast is essential
for providing energy and focus
throughout the morning. Foods rich in
protein, healthy fats, and fiber are
especially beneficial. Avoid sugary or
highly processed items that may cause
energy crashes later. Some healthy
breakfast ideas include oatmeal topped
with nuts and fruits, eggs with vegeta-
bles, or a smoothie packed with greens
and protein. Planning your breakfast
the night before can save time and
ensure you start your day with whole-
some nourishment.
Mutt & Jeff Taking a few minutes to engage in
mindfulness or meditation can help
calm your mind and reduce stress.
Starting your day with a moment of
Solution 5281 quiet reflection allows you to set posi-
tive intentions and cultivate a sense of
balance. Whether it’s deep breathing
exercises, guided meditation, or sim-
ply sitting in silence, this practice can
enhance your mental clarity and emo-
tional resilience for the challenges
ahead.
Setting clear goals and priorities for
the day helps keep you organized and
focused. Spend a few minutes review-
ing your to-do list or journaling your
main objectives. This habit encourages
purposeful action and reduces the risk
of feeling overwhelmed by tasks.
Knowing what you want to accomplish
Pickles can boost motivation and help you
manage your time effectively.
It is tempting to check emails,
social media, or news updates first
thing in the morning, but this can lead
to distractions and unnecessary stress.
Experts suggest delaying screen time
to allow your mind to wake up natural-
ly. Instead, use the initial moments
after waking for self-care activities
that nourish your body and mind.
Sunlight exposure in the morning
How to play: Fill in the blank squares, using 1 to 9, without repeat- helps regulate your body’s internal
ing any number in any line. The lines must be filled in with num- clock or circadian rhythm, improving
bers that add up to the total in the shaded box at the top or begin- sleep quality and alertness. Try to
ning of each line. A number in the bottom half of the shaded box is spend a few minutes outside or near a
the downward total; in the top half, it’s the horizontal total. window to soak in natural light. Even
a short walk outdoors can enhance
your mood and energy levels.
A good morning starts the night
Daily Island Crossword No. 4778 before. Preparing your clothes, pack-
ing your bag, and planning meals
Across Down Crossword No. 4777 ahead of time can reduce morning
07 Aboriginal (6) 01 Alkali (4) stress and decision fatigue. When you
08 Landing strip for air- 02 Chase away (6) eliminate last-minute rushes, your
planes (6) 03 Prosperous (4-3) morning flows more smoothly, leaving
you calmer and more focused.
09 sharp high-pitched 04 Sediments (5)
Though it may seem trivial, making
cry (especially by a 05 Unjust (6) your bed can give you a small sense of
dog) (4) 06 Amulet (8) accomplishment right at the start of
10 Cabin built with logs 12 Oxide containing just the day. It encourages tidiness and sig-
nals your brain that the day is begin-
(3,5) one atom of oxygen in
ning productively.
11 Exaggerate (7) the molecule (8) Starting your day well doesn’t
13 Choice (5) 14 Small explosive require drastic changes or complicat-
15 Interior (5) bomb thrown by hand ed routines. Small, consistent habits
can have a profound impact on your
17 Award (7) (7)
daily life. By nurturing your body,
20 Elbow grease (8) 16 Misprints (6) mind, and environment from the
21 Inclination (4) 18 Marijuana cigarette moment you wake up, you set yourself
23 Person responsible (6) up for success and satisfaction in all
that you do. Remember, the key is to
for the editorial aspects 19 Cubic decimetre (5)
find a morning routine that works for
of publication (6) 22 Male parent of an you and stick with it. Here's to better
24 Distort (6) animal (4) mornings and brighter days!
 Monday 30th June, 2025

Nissanka shines, Prabath

redeems as Sri Lanka
crush Bangladesh
by Rex Clementine able discipline,
refusing to bite the
bait and instead

S
ri Lanka turned on the style at the
SSC last week, producing a ruth- playing the waiting
less all-round display to flatten game. The score-
Bangladesh by an innings and seal a board ticked, and
crucial World Test Championship win. Bangladesh’s shoul-
The hosts, under pressure after a tame ders drooped.
draw in Galle, bounced back in emphatic When Pathum
fashion to clinch the series 1-0. gets into his bub-
Bangladesh had arrived with their ble, a big knock is
tails up, having scalped Test wins in the on the cards.
Caribbean and Pakistan. But at SSC, it Having already
was Sri Lanka who called the shots — etched his name in
their bowlers sharp, their batters clini- history books with
cal and their intent clear. the only ODI double century by a Sri first innings and under the scanner after
The seamers hit their straps early, Lankan, the Test triple-ton club — fea- Galle, found redemption in style. The
landing body blows with testing lines turing only Sanath Jayasuriya, Kumar left-arm spinner tweaked a few technical
and lengths. The spinners, much Sangakkara, and Mahela Jayawardene bits and came roaring back to claim a
maligned after a lukewarm Galle outing, — may not be too far away. five-wicket haul, silencing the doubters.
found rhythm and bite, operating in Dismissed for 187 in Galle and for 158 All said and done, it was a near-flaw-
long, probing spells. Fielding was a at SSC, undone each time by the second less performance from Sri Lanka. The
mixed bag — at times ragged — but the new ball, the only chink in Pathum’s only sore thumb? Fielding. Debutant
hosts still rolled the visitors over for 247. armour is that late burst. Once he Lahiru Udara had a series to forget —
At the SSC, the pitch flattens out on cracks that code, bowlers around the three dropped catches, misfields aplenty
days two and three — and Sri Lanka world will have sleepless nights. and a stint behind the stumps that did
made hay while the sun shone. The man Bangladesh clawed back briefly when little to inspire confidence. A wicket-
who grabbed the spotlight was Pathum the second new ball knocked over three keeper in domestic cricket, he looked
Nissanka. In a batting masterclass, the wickets in a flash. But Kusal Mendis put out of place both up close and on the
stylish right-hander carved out a sub- the foot back on the pedal. In a gem of a rope. His spot in the XI may be under
lime 158, playing with the poise of a sea- counterattack, he raced to 84, only to the microscope ahead of the next assign-
soned maestro. throw it away with a run-out that had ment.
Those cover drives? Poetry in motion. ‘unnecessary’ written all over it. But Sri Lanka ticked most boxes.
Straight out of the coaching manual. With a 211-run lead in the bag, it was With the quicks firing, spinners spin-
time for the bowlers to turn the screws. ning webs and Pathum Nissanka in red- Pathum Nissanka was unstoppable, hammering big hundreds in Galle and SSC. He was
Against the short-ball barrage with a
leg-side trap, Pathum showed remark- Prabath Jayasuriya, wicketless in the hot form, the signs are encouraging. named Man of the Match at SSC and Player of the Series.

Alcaraz, Sabalenka among

Wimbledon title hopefuls world number one Jannik
Sinner in one of the all-time
great French Open finals in
June, is only 22 years old but
already has five slams.
Djokovic, meanwhile, contin-
ues to pursue an outright-
record 25th major singles title,
having tied Margaret Court
with his 2023 US Open triumph.
The 38-year-old Serb has
been thwarted recently by the
new stars of the men's game,
with Alcaraz and Sinner shar-
ing the past six majors between
them.
Italy's Sinner will hope to
Carlos Alcaraz saved match points before winning this year's French Open bounce back from his Paris
final. (Getty Images - bbc) heartbreak, with Wimbledon
Two-time defending men's Belarusian top seed the only Grand Slam where he
champion Carlos Alcaraz and Sabalenka gets play under way has yet to contest the final.
women's world number one against Canadian Carson A semi-final loss to Djokovic
Aryna Sabalenka will be in Branstine at 13:00 BST. in 2023 represents his best
action when men's and Branstine, 24, got past French SW19 run after his quarter-
women's singles of the Open semi-finalist Lois Boisson final exit last year.
Wimbledon starts on Monday. and former US Open winner His preparations this time
Alcaraz opens play on Bianca Andreescu in qualify- were cut short by a second-
Centre Court. The second seed ing and will be making her round Halle Open loss to the in-
launches his campaign at 13:30 main draw debut in a Grand form Alexander Bublik, who
BST as he faces 38-year-old Slam. could be a threat after his title
Italian Fabio Fognini. Alcaraz will bid for a third triumph there.
That is followed by Briton consecutive Wimbledon title World number four Jack
Boulter's match against after beating Novak Djokovic Draper leads Britain's hopes in
Spanish ninth seed Paula in the past two finals on Centre the men's draw, with Jacob
Badosa before German third Court. Fearnley and Cameron Norrie
seed Alexander Zverev faces Spaniard Alcaraz, who over- also aiming for deep runs on
France's Arthur Rinderknech. turned a two-set deficit to beat home soil.

India team receiving

the trophy from
Mohamed Saleem Al-
Nuaimi, President of
ACBS after they won
the Asian Snooker
Team Championship
at the Moors SC bil-
liard table in
Colombo. They are
flanked by Zuraish
Hashim, Vice
President of BASL
and ACBS and Sajad
770/-
Mowjood, Managing
Director Pyramid
Wilmar Group.

Published by Upali Newspapers (Private) Limited, 223, Bloemendhal Road, Colombo 13 and Printed at 195/187, High Level Road, Homagama on Monday 30th June, 2025