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Service 1990

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PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES

COVID-19 CASES IN

THE WORLD

TOTAL CASES

17,300,954DEATHS

672,369RECOVERD

10,789,545

CASES DEATHSUSA 4,590,809 154,364 BRAZIL 2,556,207 90,212INDIA 1,632,422 35,712RUSSIA 834,499 13,802 S. AFRICA 471,123 7,497470

DEATHS

11RECOVERED

2,333

ACTIVE CASES TOTAL CASES

2,814 � Quarantine Unit

0112 112 705

� Epidemiology Unit 0112 695 112

� Govt. coronavirus hotline 0113071073

Health Promotion

Bureau 1999

For verified information on the coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any of the following authorities

THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 7.30 P.M. ON 30 JULY 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

epaper.themorning.lkepaper.aruna.lk

www.themorning.lkwww.aruna.lk

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www.themorning.lkwww.aruna.lk

FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2020

IRD RECORDS LARGE NUMBER OF CHEQUE RETURNS

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA

Cheques totalling a value of around Rs. 3 billion that have been given to the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), have been returned from 2016 till date due to various reasons, IRD Commissioner General Nadun Guruge said.

He told The Morning that the cheques have been returned mainly due to insufficient funds in payees’ accounts. According to him, a total

of 2,600 cheques have been returned within the first six months of this year and the IRD had successfully collected around 2,900 cheques.

When asked about the actions the Department took to collect that money, the Commissioner General said he was giving targets to officials as a measure to collect those taxes.

“In some cases, the cheques are being returned when the wrong PINs were mentioned, and the Department, by correcting or giving new PINs, has collected most of those cheques,” Guruge added.

Cheques worth Rs. 3 b returned

TRANSPORTING HAZARDOUS WASTE

The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has issued a conditional order on the case filed by the Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) against the dumping of hazardous waste from a factory at the Seethawaka Industrial Estate in Avissawella, into the sea near the Madampitiya Pumping Station.

The Magistrate's Court on Monday (27) had issued a conditional order in this regard.

The Court had accepted that the gully bowser containing the chemical waste was dangerous to human life and issued an order from the High Court.

The gully bowser is to be kept in police custody until it is released.

A press release issued by the CEJ stated that about 10-12 gully bowsers carrying hazardous waste were to be smuggled into the sea near the Madampitiya Pumping Station

on 11 July 2020. The contents of five of these gully bowsers have already been dumped into the sea.

During the investigation, officers of the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA), the Special Task Force (STF), the Police, and the Environmental Police detained the remaining gully bowsers and kept those in police custody.

Contd. on page 2

Court issues conditional order

The Inland Revenue Services Union staged a protest in front of the Inland Revenue Department in Colombo yesterday (30) demanding immediate payment of the Inland Revenue incentive

PHOTO ESHAN DASANAYAKA

Demanding their dues

VOTING RIGHTS OF PEOPLE IN QUARANTINE

REGULATING NON-BANKING FINANCIAL SECTOR

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA

The Central Bank (CB) is in the process of formulating amendments to the Finance Leasing Act in accordance

with the recommendations of the committee appointed to look into the non-banking financial sector.

“We have already begun preparing amendments that are to be made to

the Finance Leasing Act in line with the committee’s recommendations,” Central Bank Director – Legal & Compliance Sirikumara Kudagama told The Morning.

In addition, he said that awareness programmes were also being prepared to educate authorities such as the Police as well as journalists.

“Awareness programmes for the

Police on the legislation are already being carried out. Some dates have also been scheduled to educate journalists on the sensitivities of the subject.”

CB to amend Finance Leasing laws

INQUIRIES ON PRISON OFFICERS

BY SARAH HANNAN

Recent investigations into prison officers allegedly aiding inmates to conduct contraband operations within prison premises prompted a record number of transfers within the Prison Department where officers under investigation are to be transferred to other prisons.

Contd. on page 2

Officers will be transferred: Commissioner

More than 40,000 Sri Lankans have registered to be repatriated in the coming weeks, The Morning learnt.

Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment Media Spokesman R.K.K.M.P. Randeniya said there was a

large number of expatriates waiting to return.

“I think the number is 40,000-plus, as far as I know. The most recent numbers would be with the task force in charge of the matter,” he said.

Contd. on page 2

Over 40,000 registered for repatriation

REPATRIATION OF SRI LANKANS

Former CID Director

SSP Shani Abeysekara

F o r m e r C r i m i n a l Investigation Department (CID) Director SSP Shani Abeysekara has withdrawn his fundamental rights (FR) petition challenging the decision taken by the National Police Commission (NPC) to suspend and transfer him following the 2019 presidential election.

Contd. on page 2

Shani withdraws petition

FR ON SUSPENSION AND TRANSFER

PUBLIC SECTOR

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa assured that all forms of corruption, malpractices, and irregularities in the Government will be eliminated and that an efficient public service will be established in the country to serve all citizens.

Contd. on page 2

Corruption will be eradicated: President

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) yesterday (30) urged the Election Commission (EC) to strictly adhere to the guidelines issued by the health authorities while facilitating people in quarantine centres on 5 August to vote at the general election.

GMOA Vice President Dr. Sagara Kannangara told The Morning that the Health

Ministry has already issued guidelines and the EC should strictly follow those.

"If the EC is following those guidelines, we don't have any issue with regard to letting those

who are in quarantine centres vote, as those people also

have the right to vote," Dr. Kannangara said.

He also noted that strict measures should be followed during voting, transporting ballot boxes, and even when counting those votes.

Contd. on page 2

EC urged to strictly follow guidelines

GMOA Vice President Dr. Sagara Kannangara

Two officials from the Kelaniya and Kolonnawa District Secretariats have been arrested while transporting 250 g of crystal methamphetamine, also known as “ice”.

The Police said that the car in which the suspects were transporting the drugs has also been taken into custody. The arrests were made in the Pattiya Junction area in Peliyagoda.

Police arrest DS officials

TRANSPORTING NARCOTICS

EDUCATION MINISTRY DECIDES

POLICE VIOLATING POLLS LAWS

DENGUE ANTIGEN, FBC TESTS

SL MIGRANT WORKERS

Nearly 10,000 Sri Lankans working in the Middle East and other countries have lost their jobs, according to Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment Deputy General Manager and Spokesperson Mangala Randeniya.

Meanwhile, the Bureau stated that it is ready to provide all the necessary facilities to repatriate migrant workers who wish to return to Sri Lanka.

Contd. on page 2

Thousands lose jobs

Disciplinary action will be taken against police officers who act contrary to election laws and regulations, Police Elections Secretariat Head Senior DIG Priyantha Weerasuriya said.

The DIG pointed out that all police stations have been informed of the laws and regulations pertaining to the forthcoming parliamentary election.

Contd. on page 2

Disciplinary action will be pushed: Police

CAA sets maximum priceThe Consumer Affairs Authority

(CAA), through an extraordinary gazette, published the maximum price of laboratory tests for the dengue antigen and full blood count (FBC).

Accordingly, with effect from 29

July 2020, the maximum price for the NS1 antigen test for dengue with report generation would be Rs. 1,200, while the maximum price for the FBC test with report generation is marked at Rs. 400.

Contd. on page 2

The Ministry of Education has decided to add 15 extra minutes to the time duration given for students to answer the first question paper of the Grade Five Scholarship examination this year.

The time set to answer the first question paper will be extended from

the current 45 minutes to an hour.Speaking at a press conference

on Wednesday (29), Minister of Education Dullas

Alahapperuma said this measure was taken to provide relief for students who were unable to attend school for over four months

due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

Relief for Grade 5 scholarship exam

Minister Dullas Alahapperuma Contd. on page 2

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has issued a 10-point guideline to help the public elect responsible and suitable candidates to Parliament on 5 August at the general election.

The Association said it was essential to elect candidates who focus on policies pertaining to the health sector and the economic development of the country. 1. A person who will stand against

international trade agreements or otherwise, being signed without formulating national policies for the relevant fields.

2. A person who would advocate traditional food culture and food habits that will ensure better health of the citizens.

3. A person who would stand for free health and free education whilst protecting the quality of medical

education.4. A person who in principle is against

narcotics, alcohol, and smoking.5. A person whom you could trust to use

public funds for the better benefit of the citizens.

6. A person who will stand against the agendas of pharmaceutical mafia, imported milk powder companies, and agrochemical and other multinational company

mafias.7. A person who could work in unison with professionals while respecting their professional opinion and be sensitive to public opinion.8. A person who could actively contribute to updating health-related acts, circulars, and ordinances that are old and obsolete, which in turn would benefit the entire society.

9. A disciplined person who can adhere to the Covid-19 health guidelines while campaigning for the elections.

10. A person who will stand against the Anti-Establishment Campaign that’s directed towards destabilising the country.

(NewsWire)

Electing suitable parliamentarians

the morningFriday , July 31, 2020

2

NEWS

Cartoon of the day

REOPENING SCHOOLS

Contd. from page 1

The Ministry of Education has decided to resume academic activities at all government schools from 10 August, following government-imposed holidays due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

However, only Grades 5, 10, 11, 12, and 13 will be allowed to attend school on all five weekdays. Grades 1, 2, and 3 will have school for only one day per week. It has also been decided that schools will be reopened according to the number of students in the school. Schools with less than 200 students may reopen for all grades from 10 August.

Primary schools with over 200 students will reopen as follows:

y Grades 1 and 5 – Monday y Grades 2 and 5 – Tuesday y Grades 3 and 5 – Wednesday y Grades 4 and 5 – Thursday, Friday y Secondary schools with over 200 students will reopen as follows:

y Grades 6, 10, 11, 12, and 13 – Monday y Grades 7, 10, 11, 12, and 13 – Tuesday

y Grades 8, 10, 11, 12, and 13 – Wednesday

y Grades 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13 – Thursday, Friday.

However, the time duration for a school day for Grades 6, 7, 8, and 9 will be from 7 a.m. till 1.30 p.m., while it will be from 7.30 a.m. till 3.30 p.m. for Grades 10, 11, 12, and 13.

Meanwhile, heads of schools have been informed not to open school canteens until health officials confirm that the prevailing situation is under control.

New schedule from 10 August

Police have seized a Hawk-eagle suspected to have been used by underworld criminal gang leader ‘Angoda Lokka’ for drug trafficking.

Two suspects have also been arrested with an air rifle and bullets, police said.

The bird was discovered by officer of Athurugiriya Police while it was found inside a cage at a residence located on Kanatta Road

in Nawalamulla, Meegoda.The discovery was made based

on information received by Western

Province intelligence officers. Authorities claim that they

suspect that the bird, which is able to carry a considerable weight using its talons, had been used in drug trafficking activities.

Meanwhile the two arrested suspects are believed to be close associates of ‘Angoda Lokka’.

An air rifle and 10 air rifle bullets found in their possession was also taken into custody by police.

Angoda Lokka’s hawk-eagle in custodyETI Finance

Ltd. Directors Jeewaka Edirisinghe, Nalaka Edirisinghe, Deepa Edirisinghe, and Asanka Edirisinghe were questioned at the Criminal Investigation Department for eight hours yesterday (30) over alleged financial fraud

ETI bigwigs grilled

GMOA ISSUES 10 GUIDELINES

Thousands...Randeniya stated that about

40,000 Sri Lankan workers have already applied to return to the island.

CAA sets...The gazette was issued and

signed by CAA Chairman (Retd.) Maj. Gen. Shantha Dissanayake, under gazette No. 2186/17 Order No. 67 of 29 July 2020.

– Sarah Hannan

Court...The Colombo Municipal Council

(CMC) had informed the relevant authorities that only sewage effluent is allowed to be discharged from the Madampitiya Pumping Station and no oil, grease, acid, or any other such effluent is allowed to be discharged into the sea from that site.

Accordingly, this waste has been disposed of and is going to be disposed of without any license.

The CEJ filed a case under Case No. 37475/4/20 in the Colombo Magistrate’s Court under Sections 98 (1) (a) and (e) of the Criminal Procedure Code, stating the disposal was done in a manner harmful to the health of the public.

It said that this hazardous waste was dumped into the sea without any recommendations and there was a public outcry as the rest was to be dumped.

Shani...The petition, filed with the

Supreme Court, was taken up before a three-judge bench consisting Justices Sisira de Abrew, L.T.B. Dehideniya, and Preethi Padman Surasena yesterday (30).

The attorney representing the former CID Director told the court that his client did not wish to proceed with the FR petition in question, as another FR petition concerning the matter had already been filed with the Supreme Court.

Accepting the request for the withdrawal, the Supreme Court bench ordered to revoke the FR petition. Earlier this month, the former CID Director had filed an FR petition citing the Defence Secretary, Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Chairman and members of the Election Commission, Chairman and members of the NPC, and the Attorney General (AG) as its respondents.

The petitioner alleged that following the presidential election last year, he was removed from the directorship of the CID without a valid reason and transferred on 21 November to serve as the Personal

Assistant to the Southern DIG.SSP Abeysekara also noted that

he was stripped of the special security detail given to him due to threats to his life.

After the recordings of the controversial telephone conversations of former State Minister Ranjan Ramanayake came to light, he was suspended from his duties on 7 January this year, SSP Abeysekara had further said.

The petitioner claimed that the NPC’s decision to suspend and transfer him was entirely unlawful, while pointing out that a formal disciplinary inquiry was not conducted in this regard despite him being suspended for months.

Relief for...The Ministry has also decided

to reduce the number of questions the students have to answer in the second question paper.

As such, students will only have to answer three questions as opposed to the previous four questions from the second paper.

The Grade Five Scholarship examination for the year 2020 is scheduled to be held on 11 October.

Over 40,000...In addition, he said that some

16,000-odd had already been brought down.

“As of Tuesday (28), I’m aware

that 16,000 Sri Lankans have been repatriated,” he said.

Earlier this week, Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd. (AASL) Chairman Maj. Gen. (Retd.) G.A. Chandrasiri told The Morning two flights were to bring back Sri Lankans from Dubai.

“Two flights, on the 31st and 1st, will be bringing Lankans from Dubai back to Sri Lanka,” Chandrasiri said.

– Skandha Gunasekara

Disciplinary...All police officers have been

instructed to enforce the law irrespective of status, and action will be taken against those who act in contrary, he added.

Senior DIG Weerasuriya said that 317 persons have been arrested so far in connection with the general election.

Officers...When The Morning contacted

Prisons Commissioner General Thushara Upuldeniya for clarification, he noted: “We routinely transfer prison officers every five years. However, the recent transfers are a result of the disciplinary action that is being taken against officers found to be aiding the inmates to avail them of various facilities.

“These officers are under investigation and once the investigation is completed, they will be transferred to a different prison institution.”

According to Upuldeniya, ongoing investigations to rid the prison system of corruption had revealed that several officers in the Welikada and Negombo Prisons had allegedly formed alliances with the inmates serving sentences for trafficking contraband and supposedly operating their drug mafias within the safety of the Prison Department, thereby posing challenges for the Department.

He also added that special investigations are also being carried out in other prison institutions to assess whether such activities are being carried out at present.

Corruption...He made these remarks during

the election tour in Kalutara last Wednesday (29) in support of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) candidates contesting the forthcoming general election.

President Rajapaksa commenced

his election tour by attending the public gathering organised by candidate Mahinda Samarasinghe at the Keselwatta Pradeshiya Sabha Playground in Panadura, the President’s Media Division (PMD) stated.

Accordingly, the Government has initiated building an economic system to end the import-based trade system in the country and to give priority to local productions. The President has advised the crowd to enter into the agricultural and manufacturing industries in order to reap the full benefits offered in these sectors.

“It is time to incorporate modern technology to strengthen the farming economy. For this purpose, the Government has banned the importation of agri produce into the country. Job appointments for 150,000 underprivileged individuals and graduates will be given following the general election. These measures and

opportunities will aid the country in its development curve.”

The President also participated in a public rally at the Panadura Municipal Grounds organised by candidate Jagath Angage. He exchanged pleasantries with the crowd and inquired into further facilities they require in their respective district.

During a public rally in the Korosduwa Playground in Panadura, organised by former State Minister Jayantha Samaraweera, President Rajapaksa assured the locals that the issue of drinking water shortage would be resolved.

During his tour, students who will sit for their Advanced Level (A/L) examination in 2021 urged the President to pay his attention to the difficulties they had faced as the studies were disrupted due to the Covid-19 pandemic this year and the Easter Sunday attacks last year.

President Rajapaksa then took note of the requirement to renovate

the Kalutara Nursing School. In response to another request for renovation of buildings of Panadura Central College, he instructed Samaraweera to attend the matter.

Former State Minister Rohitha Abeygunawardena was also present at these gatherings.

EC urged...Dr. Kannangara further stressed

that people would not be allowed to go and vote in their respective polling stations but would rather be voting in a separate station where their centres are situated.

Earlier, the EC had said a separate mobile station would be set up to allow them to cast their vote on 31 July. However, this decision has now been revoked, and the Commission is to take the final decision on the same at its next commission meeting.

– Maheesha Mudugamuwa

businessthe morningFriday , July 31, 2020

3

Daraz, Sri Lanka’s largest online marketplace platform, has partnered with Sri Lanka Post to enable easy returning of packages to all its customers, through the extensive post office network.

Accordingly, if a Daraz customer needs to return a package, it can be handed over to the nearest post office, thus minimising the time taken to process order returns and increasing accessibility across the country. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the partnership was signed by Sri Lanka Post Post Master General Ranjith Ariyaratne and Daraz Sri Lanka Managing Director Rakhil Fernando at the Sri Lanka Post Headquarters.

Six-hundred-and-fifty post offices under Sri Lanka Post have been registered as Daraz

return drop-off locations under the first phase. The facility will be extended to the remaining 2,500-3,000 post offices in the future. Customers can return packages weighing up to 3 kg at any of the 650 post offices, in which the Daraz return flyer will be available.

Following the return policy, customers should fill out customer details and the tracking number of the order, while ensuring that all items are included and packed in the original condition. Neither Daraz nor the postal services will accept packages that do

not adhere to this policy, they said. Sri Lanka Post will then deliver the packages to the Daraz Sorting Centre within 48 hours.

Sharing his views on the partnership, Daraz Sri Lanka Managing Director Rakhil Fernando stated: “Ensuring customer convenience as well as providing a quick delivery and return service is essential to our business. Partnering with Sri Lanka Post, that has an expansive reach across the island, gives us the advantage of enhancing the experience of Daraz users, while customers benefit with convenience. As a leader in the e-commerce industry in Sri Lanka, Daraz is ready to explore opportunities with the state-regulated authorities to improve services for the general public.”

If you want to stay updated with the latest news, follow Daraz Sri Lanka’s official blog.

Daraz partners Sri Lanka Post for package returns

From left: Daraz Sri Lanka Managing Director Rakhil Fernando and Sri Lanka Post Post Master General Ranjith Ariyaratne at the signing of the MoU

DFCC Bank has introduced a DFCC Winner savings account which offers the highest interest rate for a normal savings account in Sri Lanka.

Customers can open a DFCC Winner account by depositing Rs. 2,500 and avail themselves to a 5% interest rate for savings (AER [annual equivalent rate] 5.12%) on account balances for a minimum deposit of Rs. 2,500. Any individual over the age of 18 can apply online or visit a DFCC branch nearest to them.

Going a step further to offer its customers multiple additional benefits, DFCC Winner account holders will also be entitled to the use of the bank’s well-

known online banking facilities, estatements, SMS alerts, a chip-based payWave-enabled debit card for secure transactions, and the bank’s highly acclaimed DFCC Virtual Wallet.

“The combination of all the above features will enable the account holder to track their savings and transactions with even greater ease. The nature of DFCC’s contemporary customers who have busy lifestyles will greatly appreciate the value-addition propositions that the DFCC Winner account provides, together with its high interest rates,” DFCC said.

Speaking on behalf of the bank, CEO Lakshman Silva

commented with regard to the DFCC Winner savings account.

As a financial institution which genuinely seeks to see their customers move forward toward greater financial independence, I would like to encourage all existing and potential customers to open a Winner savings account with DFCC Bank so that they can enjoy an unmatched interest rate coupled with the warm customer service that we are reputed for. I am positive that the DFCC Winner savings account will assist our customers in excelling their dreams and make them a winner, further proving that DFCC Bank is indeed a ‘Bank for Everyone’.”

DFCC now offers highest savings interest rate in SL

Seylan Bank has partnered with Arpico Supercentres, Arpico Superstores, and Arpico Daily to offer its credit cardholders exclusive discounts when purchasing daily essentials. Seylan credit cardholders

can enjoy 30% savings at Arpico Daily for bills over Rs. 1,000 and 25% savings at Arpico Supercentres and Arpico Superstores for bills over Rs. 2,500 on all their fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, and seafood purchases. The offer is valid

from Monday to Friday until 31 August 2020. Seylan Bank has enabled all Visa credit and debit cards with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, making transactions contactless, convenient, and hassle free.

Seylan credit cards partner Arpico SupermarketsCustomers from across

Emirates’ network can now travel to Dubai as the city has reopened for business and leisure visitors with new air travel protocols that safeguard the health and safety of visitors and communities. From 1 August, passengers will be required to have a Covid-19-negative test certificate that is valid 96

hours before their departure; this excludes children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability. All travellers to Dubai, including passengers connecting to any of Emirates’ 67 destinations in August, are required to complete a health declaration form and present it to staff at check-in.

Last week, Emirates became

the first airline to offer its passengers free cover for Covid-19 medical expenses and quarantine costs, in a unique assurance when they fly to any destination. This cover is offered by Emirates free of cost to its customers regardless of class of travel or destination. It is immediately effective for customers flying on Emirates until 31

October 2020 (first flight to be completed on or before 31 October 2020), and is valid for 31 days from the moment they fly the first sector of their journey. This means Emirates customers can continue to benefit from the added assurance of this cover, even if they travel onwards to another city after arriving at their Emirates destination.

New guidelines for those travelling to Dubai and beyond

In today’s business environment, many companies are adapting to the “new normal” of remote operations to minimise disruption. In Asia Pacific, finance teams are presented with a new challenge – closing their books remotely for the first time.

To address these challenges, companies are given the nudge to try out different methods to make remote working effective and smooth – from regular check-ins with their employees to hearing out and adopting to their needs. This helps ensure companies create a more conducive environment to gain the trust of their employees during these times.

How are companies in Asia Pacific responding to the current times?

Some companies across the

region are performing better than others, while a few are even taking on new methods to enable their businesses to continue to run smoothly as they start working remotely.

With finance being an integral aspect and part to the survival of businesses, having a secure virtual private network (VPN) capacity and access licenses are increasingly important now more than ever. Some companies are also re-evaluating their IT infrastructure to ensure they have the right remote management tools in place to face any challenges that may arise.

The pros and cons of working remotely

Flexibility, transparency, and autonomy are three key aspects that employees should adopt as they start reaching out to their fellow colleagues virtually. Moreover, finance teams that use

cloud software in managing their processes have the upper hand in this playing field, as their teams have easy access to one set of shared data, integrated workflows, and to up-to-date technology. This guarantees employees face the least disruption in order to maintain operational excellence.

One such example is Asia Commercial Bank, one of the largest retail banks in Vietnam, which deployed Oracle Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Cloud to streamline all its finance, procurement, and project expense management processes. This cloud solution has enabled the bank to accelerate its month-end close and reporting cycles by 50%. Moving to the cloud also meant it no longer had to manage these applications in its own data centre, which minimised the need for any staff to be on premise. This enabled employees to continue working

from the comfort of their home without any operational disruption.

Why are some companies outperforming others at working remotely?

Finance teams that currently depend on cloud computing technology to automate accruals, adjustments, and internal transactions could see a more promising close than those that are still using on-premise technology on virtual private networks or manually enter their data into spreadsheets. A reason for this is because companies with cloud computing technology dashboards display all the activities at one glance, providing everyone with a real-time view of the status of all vital components such as completion metrics and aged open items, ensuring finance teams are kept up to date with accurate information.

Hindalco Industries Ltd., a flagship aluminium and copper manufacturing company, used to face many challenges when it came to collecting data from various locations and then filing financial reports on a real-time basis. Closing books quickly with accuracy and quality is of prime importance that companies should strive for in these times. Hindalco adopted Oracle Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) Cloud and streamlined their financial management and regulatory reports by utilising the power of data and smart automation in a cost-effective manner.

Another case in point is the Inland Revenue Authority in New Zealand which adopted Oracle EPM Cloud to run all the projects smoothly and save time. Its budgets were previously managed in spreadsheets that

needed employees to manually update, however, with this new cloud solution, all the information is displayed in one place, which is now a single source of truth.

Building business resilience

With companies adopting different measures to maintain its business processes and close their financial quarters remotely, it’s clear that some are performing better than others. As their technological capabilities are being put to the test, companies that remain dynamic and adaptable may just be able to strengthen their processes working towards a more resilient future.

(The writer is the Senior Vice President of Cloud Applications [SaaS], Japan and Asia Pacific,

Oracle Corporation. This article is published in Sri Lanka exclusively

in The Morning Business)

How are finance teams closing their books remotely?By Adrian

Johnston

Dialog Axiata PLC has commenced immediate civil work for the expansion and provision of all equipment to establish a fully functional Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Homagama Base Hospital. Funded entirely by Dialog Axiata, this is the second component of the pledged Rs. 200 million towards urgently required ICU capacity development in hospitals selected by the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.

The civil work and critical ICU development at the Homagama Base Hospital will establish a fully functional ICU complex to accommodate 10 new beds, complete with state-of-the-art medical equipment, advancing the hospital’s capability to treat critical patients. One of the 18 designated hospitals to treat Covid-19 patients, the Homagama Base Hospital treats more than 400,000 patients annually. This initiative follows the launch of the new fully functional

ICU complex at the Negombo District General Hospital.

Homagama Base Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr. Janitha Hettiarachchi stated: “With a two ICU bed capacity and a growing catchment population, the Homagama Base Hospital’s biggest hurdle in transforming to a Covid-19 treatment centre was the absence of a fully functional ICU. We are extremely grateful for the contribution from Dialog.

The establishment of a fully functional ICU doesn’t limit treatment to Covid-19 patients, and will help us accommodate

more patients and surgeries whilst also being able to focus our efforts on the specialisation of intensive care.”

Commenting, Dialog Axiata PLC Group Chief Executive Supun Weerasinghe said: “Following the conclusion of the ICU development at the Negombo District General Hospital, Dialog commenced the project to deliver a fully functional ICU at the Homagama Base Hospital. Our teams are working tirelessly with the Ministry of Health to carry forth these efforts and establish a fully fledged ICU in the weeks to come.”

Dialog begins 10-bed ICU project at Homagama Base Hospital

Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) signed an agreement with the Sri Lanka Port Authority (SLPA) to provide communication services to SLPA. The agreement between the two companies was signed at the SLPA premises in Colombo by Chairman Gen. Daya Ratnayake and Managing Director W.S. Weeraman on behalf of SLPA and CEO Kiththi Perera and Chief Enterprise and Wholesale Officer Janaka Abeysinghe for SLT.

Under the agreement, SLT will provide a voice solution, which can facilitate all the main operational points of SLPA with reliability and trust.

SLPA Chairman Gen. Daya Ratnayake commented on the partnership stating: “It is imperative that such an agreement be reached with current communication needs. A reliable supplier to ensure the

stability of a communication network is essential for the continued operation of the global supply chain. It is commendable that SLT has agreed to meet that requirement of SLPA.”

SLT CEO Kiththi Perera

said: “As the exclusive telecommunication service provider, we are honoured to have been partnered with SLPA and I believe that this is a great opportunity for SLT to work with SLPA in developing their key communication infrastructure – primarily voice and data services powered by the SLT fibre and digitalisation programme in achieving a Smart Port. We are excited about this landmark partnership and look forward to providing SLT’s unmatched smart solutions to ensure the highest experience to SLPA employees, customers, and partners.”

SLT to provide communication services to Sri Lanka Port Authority

From left: SLT Chief Enterprise and Wholesale Officer Janaka Abeysinghe, SLT CEO Kiththi Perera, SLPA Chairman Gen. Daya Ratnayake, and SLPA MD W.S. Weeraman

the morningFriday , July 31, 2020

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brunch

Employees of Ceylinco Life and their families kept 990 kg of potentially toxic electronic waste from harming the planet, thanks to an “E-waste Collection Day” initiative of the company’s Green Club which saw abandoned and malfunctioning electronic equipment being responsibly recycled. Among the discarded devices collected from Ceylinco Life offices and homes of employees, were electronic equipment such as printers, personal computers and parts, laptops, networking equipment, scanners, mobile phones, CDs, DVDs, floppy disks, UPS units, video cameras, calculators, facsimile machines and telephones, video games, electronic components, and multiple types of batteries including lead, nickel, and cadmium batteries and telecommunication and server batteries.

In all, 800-plus pieces of electronic waste were amassed on the day and dispatched to a reputed company specialising in the recycling and disposal of e-waste, the company said. This works out to approximately 11,123 lbs of carbon emission being prevented from entering the atmosphere and is equivalent to saving 369 trees or recycling 12,990 plastic bottles, the company said. Commenting on the event, Ceylinco Life Green Club President Tilan Wijesinghe said: “It is astounding how much e-waste can accumulate in homes and offices over the years. The

success of our first ‘E-waste Collection Day’ was encouraging and helped create environmental awareness on an aspect that is often ignored. There is wider understanding now about how harmful the toxins in e-waste are to the environment.”

The Green Club of Ceylinco Life was formed earlier this year by a group of volunteers with the objective of creating an understanding about the environment and environmental challenges among all employees, developing the necessary skills and expertise to address the challenges faced by the environment, creating a culture that takes responsible action related to the environment, and encouraging employee participation in activities to create a ripple effect in their families and communities towards forming sustainable societies.

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE

My Sister’s Kitchen, which was first launched about six years back, has since been wildly popular for its flavourful recipes rooted in traditional Jaffna culture. We spoke to Thushara Innasithamby, the talent behind My Sister’s Kitchen, about her reason for opening up a homegrown food business, despite having a professional background in banking having worked as a banker for 15 years, and how since launching this venture has grown from strength to strength.

Thushara shared that the main reason she decided to start this venture up was primarily because, while there were many places that served up dishes from the North, there was never anything that was truly authentic. She was aware of this gap in the market for real authentic Jaffna cuisine that is prepared in the traditional way, just like your mother or grandmother would have prepared it. “You couldn’t get those classic flavours we all love, it was not easily available,” she said.

This is what inspired her to start My Sister’s Kitchen where she prepares authentic traditionally prepared Jaffna food. She said that she is best known for her genuine Jaffna dishes which have been included in the menu, reminiscent of Chillalei area in Jaffna. However, some dishes which have been made following recipes that she developed herself are available for anyone to try as well, if they wish to give some Jaffna-inspired dishes a try.

My Sister's Kitchen at present is only available for home delivery. Thushara shared that the reason she employs only her own personal delivery is because the food she prepares cannot include pre-prepared items that can be put together to make an instant meal to be sent out when an order comes in.

The meals are prepared then and there with totally fresh ingredients. There is no situation where she reaches into her freezer for ingredients; they are all bought

fresh. Therefore, she is unable to be part of either Uber Eats, PickMe Food, or other delivery services. She added that for her homemade dishes, she requires prior notice of 24 hours.

The reason as to why she currently does not have an outlet or formal restaurant is because it is very expensive to launch a restaurant and since investors are needed, it requires time and attention and they’re not quite there yet, Thushara shared.

Thushara is currently occupied full time with My Sisters Kitchen. She said that despite the difficulties and doing 100% of the cooking herself, cooking is her passion and she is happy to share her Jaffna heritage with people who enjoy the cuisine, which is one of the main reasons she has created an environment where your meal from My Sister's Kitchen is pretty much what you would get if

your mom or grandma prepared a warm and comforting meal at home.

She shared that they cater for events and can prepare a maximum of 300 packs, but they do require prior notice of at least three to four days.

During the pandemic Thushara shared that they were drastically

affected during the pandemic, especially considering how she was unable to secure a curfew pass in order to make her deliveries. “There are those who depend on my food, there are those who do not have any help at home; some elderly folks who have been dependent on my meals for years were unable to get access to it,” she said, adding that the lockdown completely affected her one and only revenue stream as a sole owner of a homegrown business.

She stated that in attempting to get herself

a curfew pass she went through all the right avenues. She stood in a queue at the police station and she shared that it was not a pleasant experience. “The amount of mockery I had to endure as a woman at these police stations,” she expressed, adding that in the end it was all in vain as she . She expressed how disheartening it is for small businesses owners when they do not have the right connections, they cannot stay afloat. “There was one customer who had acquired a pass for themselves just so they could come and pick up food from me and that customers' meals were the only sales I was able to make” she said. Thushara shared that there is no consideration for small scale entrepreneurs, and the government should look into proving some form of monetary assistance for these homegrown business owners. She also added that now that the curfew has been lifted, things have been picking up however with many people losing their jobs and their salaries being cut they’ve all turned to homemade food businesses which has saturated the market and there is stiff competition out there now. However they can all benefit she said if they are to create a community and help one another, “there are some foods that I do not make, like baked goods I do not do in which case if get an inquiry I will direct them to some home bakers whom are known to me” she said. If they all were to create a community which assisted one another there really need not be so much competition and everyone’s business can grow.

To browse through the menu and services do check My Sister's Kitchen out on:

BY PUJANEE GALAPPATHTHI

Today, 31 July marks the 27th death anniversary of Sri Lanka’s beloved artist and poet George Keyt. Often depicting modern nude portrayals of local village life or stories from Hindu and Buddhist mythologies, Keyt was known for his vibrant and elaborate designs and the never so subtle cubist touch in his work. His work, mostly including a rich blend of Henri Matisse’s calligraphic lines and Buddhist and Hindu cultural elements, are presently held in the collections of the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London and the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in New Delhi.

Over the years, Keyt has been described as so many things – an innovator, a genius, and even Sri Lanka’s M.F. Husain. However, in our conversation with Nalini Abeywardene, a family friend of the sensational artist, he was described as a character from a Dickens novel. This certainly speaks volumes of his unreal personality and astonishing ways.

While being grateful for his genius inventive vision, we decided to pay homage to the loving and caring family man he was. For this, we spoke to Abeywardene to share some of her sweet memories with him.

“My fondest memories of Uncle George are from my childhood. Himself, his Menike, and his two sons Prem and Sachin were frequent visitors from Kandy to our home in Galle Fort during the school holidays in the 60s. They were fascinated by the sea. Keyt was my father’s very good friend, going back to his university days in Kandy. My brother and I as kids were enamored by Uncle George and his stories, anecdotes, and criticisms. He and my father, who was a lawyer and also a patron of the arts, used to talk well past midnight about poetry, literature, art, Greek myths, history, etc. Unlike today, we were lucky to have heard these discussions in our drawing room.”

Abeywardene reminisced very vividly about Keyt’s 80th birthday in 1981 at her

home in Galle. The only visitors apart from the “birthday boy”, as she put it, were Kusum, his new Indian wife, Anne, and Martin Russell, her parents Cyril and Chandra Abeywardene, her brother Ravi, and herself.

“He cut the birthday cake with great precision into eight equal pieces as her brother played Happy Birthday on the piano. Then the birthday boy requested Clementine to be played. Martin Russell has described this incident in one of his many articles on Keyt.”

With his work showcased internationally, including the collections of the NGMA in New Delhi and the V&A in London, Keyt had been a very important figure in modern art and a brilliant role model for young artists and muralists. Speaking of his artistic vision, artist Yashodhara Pathanjali told us that there is no way to talk about or be involved in Sri Lankan art without referencing or paying homage to Keyt.

“His own works and his influence on his peers and future artists is vast. Personally, I have to say that I am very sad that some of

his best and most special works are missing from our canon – in particular, his stained glass window creation named ‘Mother Lanka’.”

Born on 17 April 1901 in Sri Lanka, Keyt studied at Trinity College in Kandy, where he developed a keen eye for literature and art. His earliest work – including the Udawattakele, the lush forest reserve in Kandy, and Sangharaja Pirivena, and a prominent temple in Kandy – have been classified as close observations of the natural surroundings. His use of broadened, almond-shaped eyes and heavy lines are defining features of his work.

In 1939, he moved to India, where he studied the local culture. After returning to Sri Lanka, Keyt was a part of the Colombo '43 group, whose tenets attempted to merge western trends into their own cultural sphere. During the late 80s, the artist and some of his admirers set up the George Keyt Foundation. The artist died on 31 July 1993 in Colombo, leaving his legacy as one of the most distinguished modern painters from Sri Lanka.

“Keyt was a wonderful artist; although I did not have the privilege of knowing him personally, his body of work speaks volumes. He was one of a kind and made an immense contribution to modern Sri Lankan art,” said Mike Antonize from the George Keyt Foundation.

As we reminisce about the wonderful person and the brilliant artist he was, Keyt forever will be remembered for his amassed personality and sharp mind. Sharing her thoughts with us, Abeywardene exclaimed that while the George Keyt she knew and loved was simply a family man, a loving father, and a good friend, it was only when she grew up that she started to admire and appreciate this “Picasso of the East” and thus considers herself lucky to have known him so intimately.

While we wish we have had the opportunity to associate such an engrossing personality, we would like to take this opportunity to appreciate the immense contribution Keyt has made towards modern Sri Lankan art and the mark he has made by taking our cultural heritage to the international platform.

Ceylinco Life’s Green Club collects 990 kg of e-waste for safe disposal

Ceylinco Life Chairman R. Renganathan (centre), Managing Director/CEO Thushara Ranasinghe (second from left), and members of the Green Club that initiated the project

Yasodhara Pathanjali

My Sister’s KitchenServing

up authentic

Jaffna food

Call 0773017515 for orders or more information

facebook/mysisterskitchen

www.mysisterskitchen.lk

Thushara Innasithamby

In memory of the Picasso of the East

sportsthe morning

Friday , July 31, 20205

Lasantha Wijesuriya led the first unbeaten rugby side of Kandy Sports Club (KSC) way back in 1994. The same Wijesuriya retained his position as the Rugby Chairman for yet another year at the KSC Annual General Meeting (AGM) held last Saturday (25) here in Kandy.

Kapila Silva is to continue as KSC Manager for the 13th year. Fazil Marija, who needs no introduction in local rugby, is retained too with much hope as the Head Coach, with his assistant being Viraj Prasanna.

The KSC Committee elected for 2020-21:

President: Mahesh Weerasinghe; Vice Presidents: Lasantha Wijesuriya and Janaka Pathirane; Secretary: Sujeewa Liyanage; Treasurer: Anizal Laphir; Other Secretaries: Pavilion – Upali Silva, Bar – Araft Abdeen, Grounds – A.R.A. Rasheed, and Social Events – Anuradha Ranasinghe; League Consultant: M.M. Jeffery; Committee: Sanjeewa Tennakoon, Anton Nanayakkara, Shayam Siddik, Channa Jayatillake, Milroy Mendis,

Anura Welikala, Fazil Marija, Sanjeewa Marasinghe, Melar Selven, Asoka Jayasena, and Saliya Kumara.

OriginsKSC was founded 146 years ago in 1874

as the Kandy Athletic, Boating, Cricket,

Football and Dancing Club. In 1888, its name was changed to Kandy Sports Club as the club also started playing rugby,

hockey, and polo. Until 1939, their home ground was the

Bogambara Stadium. Later, Nittawela became KSC’s home ground.

Impeccable recordEasily the most successful rugby club in

the country, KSC enjoys the impeccable record of 18 league titles in the last 20 years; a record since the present format of the tournament was introduced in 1950. Adding to it, they enjoyed a continuous nine-year winning streak in the league from 2000-09.

During the 18 years of 1996 to 2012, KSC did not lose the Clifford Cup, which they have won 20 times. With regard to the annual Knockout Tournament, KSC won every single year, from 1997 to 2009, except for the year of 1998.

Journey will begin after pandemicFrom 1992 onwards, it was former

United National Party (UNP) stalwart Malik Samarawickrema who performed yeoman service for KSC after joining its management, being invited by Nimala Malagamuwa and the present writer.

The other unforgettable personality for KSC is its long-time President, late Dr. Sarath Kapuwatha. Following the Covid-19 pandemic and when sports comes to full flow in a “new normal”, KSC is ready to continue its remarkable journey, particularly in local rugby.

KSC ready to roar!by Hafiz Marikar

KANDY MUSINGS

z Lasantha Wijesuriya reappointed as Chairman

KSC Chairman Lasantha Wijesuriya KSC Manager Kapila Silva KSC Head Coach Fazil Marija

Willey too wily for the Irish

ODI cricket returned yesterday (30) amid Covid-19. The three-match series England is

playing against Ireland began at Southampton sans spectators and, with that, the International

Cricket Council World Cup 2023 qualifying too kicked off. But alas, England’s David Willey took four quick wickets to reduce the Irishmen, who were sent in first, to five for 28!

Illyas’ SLR reign confirmedThe Election Committee of Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) on Wednesday (29) confirmed its committee for 2020-22 headed by Rizly Illyas. All names are uncontested. With that fizzles out the “dispute” brewing at least in the media between the present body and the outgoing one, headed by Lasitha Gunaratne.

Did Infantino cheat?Yesterday (30) began the criminal proceedings in Switzerland against FIFA President Gianni Infantino. What is probed are the dubious discussions held between Infantino and Swiss Attorney General Michael Lauber in 2016 and 2017, allegedly on sensitive investigations taking place on FIFA and Infantino himself.

BY REVATHA S. SILVA

Since Independence, there have been a couple of elite families of Senanayakes, Bandaranaikes, Jayewardenes, and Wijewardenes who governed Sri Lanka. It was up to sociologist Kumari Jayawardena to research and conclude that those families wrested control of the political leverage to become ‘Nobodies to Somebodies’.

Over 50 years after Independence, our cricket administration reflects something similar. Clearly after the 1990s, when Sri Lanka became world champions, the cricket board has not been a sport-governing body. It is more a haven for a certain social class to gain recognition, power, and wealth.

The circus resumed on Wednesday

See if it’s not true! Since 1997, seven key men have rotationally run the show. Thilanga Sumathipala, Jayantha Dharmadasa, Upali Dharmadasa, Mohan de Silva, Shammi Silva, Kangadaran Mathivanan, and Nishantha Ranatunga – they run cricket for a while, then allegations pile up, a burst takes place, then Sidath Wettimuny et al come into the picture and execute a clean-up. A short while later the cycle starts again, and again, and again…for over 20 years.

They have led the way, once united and next time divided, emanating faction within faction, making today’s friend the arch enemy the next day. The circus has continued unabated. With Mathivanan, who has an unblemished record as an

administrator, resigning as Vice President of Shammi Silva of the (formerly) Sumathipala Camp on Wednesday (29), only hours before, Jayantha Dharmadasa of the then anti-Sumathipala faction replacing “Mathi” and coming to the fold of his old enemies. This is all but mind-boggling if not

disgusting for the beholder.That’s the way of the usual SLC power

circus.

We reported about changing SLC ‘power lines’

The Sunday Morning Sports issue of 19

April 2020 reported thus: “As the game is undergoing an unprecedented slide and is expected to suffer further in the post-Covid-19 atmosphere due to possible lack of international tours, the heavyweights of the two historically envious camps of local cricket administration, led by Thilanga

Sumathipala and Jayantha Dharmadasa, are planning to switch sides with over a year to go for the cricket board election, The Sunday Morning Sports reliably learnt.

“Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) incumbent President Shammi Silva, who has been regarded as one of the closest allies of the Sumathipala Camp, has held discussions with Dharmadasa last week, informed sources revealed to The Sunday Morning Sports, while Nishantha Ranatunga, the live-wire of the former Dharmadasa administration, has had initial talks with the Sumathipalas – as the island is engulfed by the coronavirus pandemic – in a bid to get their support for the next SLC election scheduled for early 2021.”

ShamefulAs we said in our issue Thursday (30),

Dharmadasa is none other than the same candidate who lost against Silva in the race for Presidency in February last year at the previous SLC Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Now he obliges to be Silva’s Vice President, in place of Mathivanan, who in fact contested from the team that he led 15 months ago; it is nothing but unfathomable. But that too is the usual shameful way the SLC operates.

Sumathipala ‘did a Mathi’ in 2016

In September 2016, Dharmadasa did the same thing that Mathivanan did on Wednesday by tendering his resignation from SLC’s Vice Presidency, complaining about similar ill-treatment dished out to him by the then SLC ex-co, headed by Thilanga Sumathipala (see letters attached).

If one is to switch sides the way undesirable politicos, like Vasantha Senanayake or Vijith Vijithamuni Soysa did some time ago, you cannot expect any kind of respect from the cricket fraternity, either here or abroad.

Three power centres and their future

The future of Sri Lanka’s cricket administration is highly unpredictable now. Anything can happen before the next AGM slated for early 2021.

The Shammi Silva party, which has already split with his former boss Sumathipala, is gaining the upper hand in a possible election. And with Dharmadasa’s “cross-over”, his arms have been strengthened!

Sumathipala’s prospects will decide badly on his winning or losing in the 5 August parliamentary polls from the Moratuwa electorate in the Colombo District.

And, on the other hand, Nishantha Ranatunga who is the closest of the lot to the Rajapaksas of the present Government will not keep silent for long.

Whatever may happen, the fans will be excited and left in disgust at times about all this. But their only hope is for the Sri Lankan cricket team to win.

Now showing SLC circus!

The Sunday Morning revelation on 19 April 2020 about the creation of fresh power lines within the SLC political front

z Shameless ‘same faces’ play musical chairs at Maitland Place

Jayantha Dharmadasa's 2016 letter of resignation as SLC Vice President, addressed to its President then, Thilanga Sumathipala