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.

Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana clarified the Government’s stance on the ongoing criticism against the proposed massive pay increase for public sector employees during a special media briefing held at the Department of Government Information yesterday (18).

Dr. Gunawardhana emphasised that all public sector employees will receive an allowance of Rs. 25,000 per month for three years. He also highlighted that even the lowest-paid employees will receive a minimum monthly salary of Rs. 55,000 or more.

He explained that the salary increment proposal, approved by the Cabinet, is based on the provisions of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and will remain unchanged for three years. “Regardless of which Government is in power, the policies proposed by the IMF must be implemented. The proposal to increase salaries was presented for budget approval, and it has already received Cabinet approval. However, certain media outlets have not accurately reported this information,” he noted.

As the Cabinet Spokesperson, Dr. Gunawardhana said he has to correct any misinformation regarding the Government’s decisions on the Cost of Living and salary increases. He also emphasised the importance of maintaining confidentiality regarding Cabinet Papers, noting that they are only shared with Ministry Secretaries. “I act as the Cabinet Spokesperson, and in that capacity, I must clarify any incorrect information that is being spread,” he stated.

Dr. Gunawardhana further explained that a significant misunderstanding has arisen, with many media outlets focusing only on the Rs. 25,000 monthly allowance increase without mentioning the fundamental salary increase. “There was a proposal to increase the basic salary, which has not been adjusted for a long time, by 24% to 35%. When this is combined with the Rs. 25,000 allowance, the lowest grade public sector employees will receive a minimum monthly salary of Rs. 55,000 or more starting from January 2025,” he said.

The Minister also discussed the role of the IMF in providing financial support for the budget during 2025, 2026, and 2027. He stressed that these salary increments and financial provisions are tied to the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility agreement, which must be adhered to by any future Government. “The IMF agreement, which has been signed, outlines that regardless of who holds power, the financial management responsibilities must be followed according to the plan set forth by the IMF,” Dr. Gunawardhana explained.

He added that, if the budget estimates are not properly prepared, Government employees might not receive their salaries, pensions, or other payments. “Without the necessary financial provisions, these payments could be halted,” he warned.

The Minister emphasised that public administration and politics are two different things. He pointed out that the Finance Ministry, under the guidance of the Treasury, is currently preparing the budget estimates, and these must be correctly aligned with the Cabinet-approved proposals. “The budget document must be prepared in accordance with the IMF’s extensive financial management agreement, which includes restrictions on printing money and borrowing freely as in the past,” he explained.

Dr. Gunawardhana stressed that after 2048, Sri Lanka aims to achieve a higher standard of living, with a per capita income exceeding US$ 20,000. He noted that several important laws have been passed to ensure the country reaches this goal, including anti-corruption legislation and financial management laws that future Governments must adhere to.

He concluded by highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting these laws. “Regardless of which party or political ideology one belongs to, everyone who loves this country must speak out to prevent it from falling into the same abyss it faced after gaining independence. We must ensure that the laws passed by Parliament are respected and followed,” he urged.

He specifically mentioned five key laws that are now integral to Sri Lanka’s economic framework. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka Act prohibits the arbitrary printing of money and ensures the independence of the Central Bank. The Public Debt Management Act restricts the Government’s ability to borrow excessively and mandates proper debt management practices. The Fiscal Management (Responsibility) Act enforces strict guidelines for fiscal management, ensuring that the budget is prepared responsibly and sustainably. The Economic Transformation Act sets the direction for the country’s economic policies, and the Anti-Corruption Act is crucial for maintaining the integrity of public administration and ensuring that economic resources are used effectively.

Dr. Gunawardhana invited all political leaders to join in discussions about the important laws and policies that will guide Sri Lanka’s future, emphasising that these discussions are crucial for the country’s stability.

The Election Commission announced on Friday (9) that it is focusing on social media, particularly TikTok and Instagram, during the election period. 

Deputy Election Commissioner (Electoral Dispute Resolution) Piyumi Atigala highlighted that numerous complaints related to social media have been received. Consequently, special attention is being given to these platforms during the election period.

“We are specifically targeting Instagram and TikTok. We are in direct contact with these companies and they have expressed their willingness to assist us beyond usual conventions if they do not comply with our regulations and orders,” she said.

A discussion on security measures for the nomination day of the 2024 Presidential Election was also held at the Election Commission. The meeting was attended by senior Police officers from the Colombo District and officials from the Election Commission.

Additionally, a workshop on enforcing election laws and media guidelines took place at the Department of Government Information on Friday (9).

Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhna said that national programmes to strengthen the country economically have been passed into law for the first time, in accordance with international standards.

The Minister said this during a press conference in Kandy on Tuesday evening after observing the development activities taking place in the Kandy city including the construction of the Getambe flyover with the help of the Hungarian government. Hungary government representatives were also present.

The Minister said that the Central Bank Act has suspended the printing of money for price stabilisation and the Debt Control Act passed by the Parliament means that no government can borrow at exorbitant rates of interest.

He emphasised that since the Public Financial Management Act has been passed, the economic policies cannot be changed at will and accordingly the preparation of the Budget is done by the contributions of experts representing the Budget Committee.

The Minister also said that the process of catching the corrupt in the country will be strengthened by the Anti-Corruption Act passed by Parliament.

He said further that recently, Sri Lanka has signed several crucial agreements and has entered into an agreement with the International Monetary Fund on the Comprehensive Loan Agreement. He also emphasised that agreements signed with the Paris Equity Group, China and India regarding debt repayment are in place.

“In order to develop the city of Kandy as a green city, the representatives of the World Bank have come to the country and expressed their interest in providing 200 electric buses under loan basis. Now Sri Lanka is able to discuss this too,” he said.

The Minister said that a promise has been made to the world that by 2032 Sri Lanka’s indebtedness will be reduced to 95 percent as a percentage of GDP.

“Currently, that figure is 128 percent. Under no circumstances can the government’s gross financial requirement exceed 13 percent of the GDP. Loan installments, interest payments cannot exceed 4.5 percent. A surplus of 2.3 percent should be maintained in the primary account when preparing the Budget every year,” he said.

He said that it is not possible to create any deficit in the account balance by carrying out imports and exports at will. “It is not possible to increase the balance of payments deficit by more than one percent of the Gross Domestic Product in a year. The growth rate should be maintained more than five percent every year,” he said.

The Minister said that unemployment should be kept below five percent. Female labour participation should be increased to 40 percent. “By implementing these laws in accordance with international agreements, a programme should be implemented in the country to become a developed country with a per capita income of US$ 20,000 by 2048,” he said.

Investment Promotion State Minister Dilum Amunugama, Transport and Highways Ministry Secretary Ranjith Rubasinghe, and Marton Laszlo, Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka –Hungary (CEO – Betonutepito) were present.