Today marks a significant milestone as the Lake House Media Academy opens its new premises. Several years ago, the Academy began with great promise, and after previously operating in various locations, it has now moved to a permanent home.

This achievement is the result of contributions from many individuals, to whom we extend our heartfelt gratitude, said the Chairman of the Associated Newspaper Ceylon Limited (ANCL) Prof. Harendra Kariyawasam.

He added, “The media landscape today requires informed, insightful journalists who are dedicated to their craft. The Media Academy’s mission is to produce such professionals – educated, trained, and equipped to meet the challenges of modern journalism. We aim to elevate media education to a university-level standard.”

He made these remarks during the inauguration ceremony held yesterday (19).

Prof. Kariyawasam further said: “Although we lack the vast financial resources of private media corporations, with our strong foundation and environment, we are confident in creating something exceptional. This presents a great challenge for the Lake House team, but one we are ready to meet.”

Following the inauguration, blessings were invoked by Chief Sanghanayaka of Southern Province, Most Ven. Ittademaliye Indrasara Thera.

Several Lake House publications, including Mihira, Tharuni, Budusarana, Subasetha, and Sarasaviya, were relocated to the new premises as part of the inauguration. ANCL Editorial Director Sisira Paranathantrie, Finance Director Dr. Sunil Jayantha Navaratne and General Manager Sumith Kothalawala attended the event.

Election Commission (EC) Chairman R. M. A. L. Rathnayake said that they hope to conclude the official releasing and announcing of the 2024 Presidential Election results declaring the winning candidate by September 22.

He said this during the special Election Commission Media Conference held yesterday (19) morning at the Department of Government Information auditorium joined by the members of the Election Commission, Elections Commissioner General Saman Sri Rathnayake and Police Media Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa. A team of Election observers from the European Union who are in the country to observe the Presidential election were also present. Youth aged 18 years plus not having National Identity Cards issued to them yet and are eligible to vote for the first time can produce their temporary National Identity documents with their photographs issued by the Department for Registration of Persons at the respective polling centers as a valid personal identification document which is accepted to cast their vote, Elections Commissioner General Saman Sri Rathnayake said.

The EC Chairman stressed that carrying mobile phones to the polling booths by voters is strictly prohibited and to refrain from taking mobile phones when going to cast their votes which was also affirmed by the Police Media Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa.

The temporary election offices erected for Presidential candidates of all parties in all electoral districts in the country have been instructed to be shutdown and removed by midnight yesterday (19) by the EC. Strict action will be taken on those who violate these rules including arrest by the Police, the EC Chairman said.

The EC Chairman said they hope to begin counting of postal votes in each district from around 4 pm and votes cast on the Election Day from around 7 pm. He said that if a candidate has a clear majority of 50.1 percent of the total votes then that person will be declared the winner of the Presidential election, failing which counting of preferential votes given for the top two candidates who received the highest number of votes will be carried out from the valid vote ballot papers of the other presidential candidates to decide the winning candidate out of the top two. All outdoor election related propaganda and near the polling centers to coerce and influence voters is strictly prohibited and orders are given to the Police to arrest those engaged in such illegal activities.

Police Media Spokesman DIG Thalduwa said that outdoor public screening on giant screens of election results and crowd gathering is strictly banned and for all people to stay indoors and view the election results in private at their homes. He further said that measures have been taken by the police to prevent violence including brawls during public screening of election results and such screens and equipment will be removed and confiscated and the crowds gathered will be dispersed.

Thalduwa said that 63,000 police officers will be deployed for the security of the presidential election and other duties including security for the polling and counting centers and special security will be provided to safeguard the sealed ballot boxes during transportation from polling centers to counting centers in all districts including protection from natural disasters and other dangers. He said that maximum police protection and security will be enforced across the country until post election results. 10,000 civil defense personnel will be deployed to assist the Police and Police Special Task Force (STF) officers will be deployed to conduct Election Day street monitoring mobile trips. DIG Thalduwa said that police have been tasked to use maximum force if any person behaves riotously in the polling centers on the day of the Presidential election including arresting such individuals who break the law.

The Diploma Awarding ceremony of the Lake House Media Academy will take place today at 1 pm at the BMICH premises under the patronage of Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana. 

Lake House Chairman Prof.Harendra Kariyawasam, members of the Board of Directors and senior management will participate in the awards ceremony. 

Prof.Aruna Shantha will deliver the keynote address at this second Diploma awards ceremony organised by the Lake House Media Academy since its establishment in September, 2022.

Over 20 students who have completed Diploma in Mass Communication and Diploma in Digital Journalism will receive their diploma certificate at this ceremony.

The Academy has made arrangements to start Diploma in Mass Communication course in Tamil medium soon.

• Economic Stability Paves the Way for Financial Activities in Port City.
• Commitment to On-going Programs Promises a Brighter Future for the Nation.
• Revising IMF and Foreign Credit Agreements Could Undermine Future Prospects – President.
• Parliament Approves Key Regulations to Kick-start Financial Activities in Port City Yesterday- State Minister for Investment Promotion Dilum Amunugama.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe officially opened “The Mall,” a newly constructed duty-free shopping complex in the Colombo Port City area today (September 5).

This marks the debut of the first urban duty-free shopping mall in the region, featuring a range of stores, restaurants, and various retail outlets. Notable international duty-free retailers, including One World, China Duty Free Group (CDFG), and Flemingo will be operating within the mall, positioning the Colombo Port City as a premier shopping destination.

Following the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and the official opening, the President embarked on an observation tour of the new complex.

In his address at the occasion, President Ranil Wickremesinghe reflected on the rapid development of the port city, noting that two years ago, such progress seemed unlikely. He attributed this turnaround to his government’s efforts in establishing economic stability, supported by the

International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has enabled the Port City’s financial sector to advance.

The President also highlighted that approximately 100 companies are now interested in the Port City, with 74 expected to commence investment activities by the end of the year. He expressed optimism about the future growth and potential of the area.

Addressing the gathering, President Ranil Wickremesinghe further elaborated;

The inauguration of this duty-free centre in the Port City today marks a significant milestone. Our tourism industry has now gained global prominence, attracting visitors who are drawn to this new shopping complex. The development of shopping malls in the Port City is a key part of our strategy to enhance the region’s appeal and provide goods for tourists. This represents the beginning of a new era for the Port City.

Two years ago, the prospect of such development seemed improbable. However, we have made this progress possible through our efforts to establish economic stability, with crucial support from the IMF. Our agreements with the IMF, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and 18 lending countries have been instrumental in advancing this program. Maintaining these agreements without alterations is essential for securing a prosperous future for our country. Any attempts to modify these agreements could jeopardize our on-going progress and future prospects.

Approximately 100 companies are currently directing their attention towards the Port City. Of these, 74 companies are expected to arrive in Sri Lanka by the end of this year. Additionally, a new tourist zone will be established in Colombo Fort, which is anticipated to increase the number of visitors to these areas.

The police headquarters has been relocated, and the Foreign Ministry is moving to a new building. Plans are underway to renovate the Republic Square and construct new buildings in its centre, aiming to develop the area into a tourist zone. The old post office building will also be utilized to advance the tourism industry. The old port and its jetty, as well as the old customs building, will be repurposed for tourism.

The naval headquarters has been relocated to Akuregoda, creating opportunities for new hotel developments in that area. The current President’ House will also be leveraged to expand the tourism sector, with plans to create a robust tourism industry there.

To develop the country, it is essential to attract a larger number of tourists and increase the revenue generated from them. We should take pride in being able to initiate such a shopping complex within two years. Three renowned global companies have already established themselves within a 7,000-square-meter area, with more expected to arrive. We are committed to securing the country’s economic stability and advancing the Port City to become a globally recognized centre.

State Minister for Investment Promotion Dilum Amunugama;

The opening of the duty-free shopping complex in the heart of the city, for the first time in Sri Lankan history, is a significant milestone. I extend my gratitude to everyone involved in making this a reality.

Mr. President, you understand the challenges of this process. Navigating the existing regulations and executing this unprecedented initiative has not been easy. My Chairman, Mr. Dinesh Weerakkody, is well aware of the obstacles faced. We have operated within the current framework, adhering to old laws and regulations.

Special thanks are due to Mr. Dinesh Weerakkody for his relentless efforts, and to the Secretary of our Ministry, Mr. M.M. Nayeemudeen, and my additional Secretaries for their support. I also thank Mr. Revan and the Managing Director for their efforts in making this project successful.

We are now entering a new phase. Yesterday, all necessary regulations for the Colombo Port City, including important banking regulations, were approved by Parliament. Consequently, the Colombo Port City is now fully operational and ready for business.

In a time of crisis, the leadership provided to create the environment necessary for opening such a prestigious shopping complex deserves my heartfelt thanks to the President.

Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Minister Bandula Gunawardena, Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong, Commissioners and Ambassadors, Eastern Province Governor Senthil Thondaman, Prime Minister Secretary Anura Disanayake, Chief Financial Officer of China Harbour Engineering Company Sang Kui Feng, and other distinguished officials and guests were also attend at the event.

The government, citing potential future unrest in the country, announced yesterday that a new policy has been implemented allowing parliamentarians to keep two firearms after they retire from ministerial roles.

Addressing the media, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardana explained that parliamentarians could purchase and retain these firearms after their term as MPs end. He made this statement in response to a journalist's question about the Defence Ministry's announcement regarding additional firearms.

The minister also mentioned that a parliamentarian was tortured and killed by a group of Aragalaya members, noting that the violence following the Aragalaya protests left a negative image of the country.

He added that within 24-hours, the official residences of 72 parliamentarians and the President's library were burned down. He also mentioned a plot to set the Parliament on fire.

Given these circumstances, the government has granted current ministers the privilege of keeping two firearms at home for their safety. Any parliamentarian can request to purchase these firearms.

Although some ministers have obtained firearms for self-defence, Minister Gunawardana said he does not need one for his safety.

The Defence Ministry has also announced its decision to provide MPs with repeater firearms for their safety in addition to the currently issued pistols. The ministry informed the Secretary-General of Parliament that all 225 MPs are eligible to receive these weapons.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the Presidential candidate in the upcoming Presidential Election, recently met with the President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference and Bishop of Kurunegala, Most Rev. Dr. Harold Anthony Perera along with the Secretary General and Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo, Most Reverend Don Anthony Jayakody.

During the discussion, they addressed key issues, including education reforms, the progress of the Easter Sunday investigation, environmental concerns and matters related to the Catholic Church.

President Wickremesinghe also provided an update on the current state of the economy and outlined the government’s upcoming measures to tackle challenges related to the cost of living.

The meeting was also attended by several other members of the Sri Lanka Bishops’ Conference.

The centenary commemoration programme organised on the occasion of the completion of one hundred years of the Makutarama Myanmar Buddhist Temple in Dematagoda, Colombo, was presided over by the Mahanayake Theras and other Maha Sangha and the chief lay guest of the programme was Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana, Minister of Transport, Highways and Mass Media.

After the traditional religious rites were performed by the Maha Sangha, the Minister who commended the commemorative programme on behalf of Sri Lanka said, “My respectful thanks to all of you for inviting me to this special occasion to mark the centenary commemoration of the Makutarama Myanmar Buddhist Temple. This commemoration will mark a special milestone in the history of this temple, which was founded in 1924 by the Most Venerable Vinayalankara Nayake Thera.

“Sri Lanka and Myanmar have many long-standing historical, religious and cultural ties spanning centuries. An ancient Buddhist temple located in Thiriyaya, Trincomalee, the Girihandu Seya is believed to be the first Buddhist stupa in the country and was built by two Burmese traders, Thapassu and Balluka. In this stupa and in the stupa of the Shwedagon Pagoda temple, hair relics of the Buddha brought by these traders are considered to be enshrined. As a result, it is subject to special respect and veneration.

“In 1803, the Amarapura Nikaya was introduced to Sri Lanka from Myanmar and the first Mahanayake Thera of that sect was Mahadaama Rajadhi Rajaguru Welithara Gnanawimala Tissa Mahanayake Thera. At present, chairmanship of the Amarapura Maha Sangha Sabha and the Mahanayake of the Amarapura Maha Nikaya is held by Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maithrimurthy Mahanayaka Thera.

“The Ramanya sect, one of the three main Buddhist sects in Sri Lanka, began in 1880 when Ven. Ambagahawatte Indra Sabhawara Gnanasami Nayake Thera returned to Sri Lanka after receiving his ordination in Burma. Most Venerable Makulewe Wimala Mahanayake Thera is currently holding the position of Supreme Mahanayake of the Sri Lanka Ramanya Maha Nikaya.

“Sri Lanka is one of the few countries that established resident embassies in Myanmar after independence. Myanmar also had an embassy in Colombo.

“It is a matter of appreciation that these relations have remained very strong in good times as well as challenging times in both countries.

“It is a matter of great pleasure to contribute to this event as a unique opportunity of religious connection between the two countries.

“All dignitaries, lay and clergy, who have come to Sri Lanka, are welcomed on behalf of Sri Lanka.

“It is believed that through this religious friendship, the friendly relationship between the two countries is being made even stronger. I believe that the contribution of this temple will be of great help to further strengthen the relationship between Sri Lanka and Myanmar as friendly and brotherly countries.”

Sangharaja of Shwekain Nikaya, Venerable Sitagu Sayardaw Thera, Sangha Mahanayake Kyuk Mei Sayardaw, Venerable Makulewe Wimala Nayaka Thera, Mahanayake of the Sri Lanka Ramanya Maha Nikaya, Kotte Sect Anunayake Ven. Rahula Nayaka Thera of Kollupitiya, the Minister of Culture and Religious Affairs of Myanmar Tin U Lavin, the Myanmar Ambassador to Sri Lanka Dawmarlar Thanh Htike and a large number of lay and clergy were present.

The final Randoli procession of the Annual Esala Perahera took place at the historic Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy yesterday night. President Ranil Wickremesinghe joined the thousands of spectators to witness this significant event.