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Human Rights Council 36th session

Opening Statement regarding Sri Lanka by Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein,United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights

(ohchr.org) - “.... In Sri Lanka, I urge theGovernment to swiftly operationalize theOffice of Missing Persons and to movefaster on other essential confidencebuilding measures, such as release of landoccupied by the military, and resolvinglong-pending cases registered under thePrevention of Terrorism Act. I repeat myrequest for that Act to be replaced with anew law in line with international humanrights standards. In the North, protests byvictims indicate their growing frustrationover the slow pace of reforms. I encouragethe Government to act on its commitmentin Resolution 30/1 to establish transitionaljustice mechanisms, and to establish aclear timeline and benchmarks for theimplementation of these and othercommitments.This should not be viewed by theGovernment as a box-ticking exercise toplacate the Council, but as an essential

undertaking to address the rights of all itspeople. The absence of credible action inSri Lanka to ensure accountability foralleged violations of international humanrights law and international humanitarianlaw makes the exercise of universaljurisdiction even more necessary.....”

Gazette tooperationalise

Office on MissingPersons

President Maithripala Sirisena, in hiscapacity as the Minister of NationalIntegration and Reconciliation, signed agazette notification to operationalise theOffice on Missing Persons, the Ministry ofNational Integration and Reconciliationrevealed.

In a statement, the ministry said: “TheOffice of the Missing Persons(establishment, administration anddischarge of functions) Act No. 14 of 2016and amended by Act No. 9 of 2017 comesinto implementation and operation witheffect from 15 September as the Presidenthas placed his signature for the GazetteNotification.”“Accordingly, the OMP will be establishedand its functions, duties and mandate willcome into operation with effect from 15September,” the statement read.This initiative comes one week after thePresident spoke to family members of themissing.“The operationalisation of the OMP marksanother significant step taken forward in SriLanka’s path to reconciliation by the GoodGovernance Government,” said Secretaryto the Ministry of National Integration andReconciliation, V. Sivagnanasothy.

SLC looks to get de Silva, Jayawardene on board(DailyNews.lk) - Aravinda de Silva, RoshanMahanama, Brendon Kuruppu, GraemeLabrooy, perhaps even Mahela Jayawardene -these are the names Sri Lanka Cricket isattempting to align itself with as the boardlooks to arrest the decline of the national team.Even more crucially for SLC, getting formerplayers with good reputations on board mayalso help turn around its ailing publicreputation. The board is now not only widely

believed to be detrimental to the developmentof cricket, it is also seen as one of the mosttoxic governing bodies in the country.Whether these former players are willing tobecome associated with SLC given its presentstate remains to be seen.But as far as some board officials areconcerned, they have several vacancies to fill,and would like for these men to be installed inthose positions. SEE P29

pro.d2photography@yahoo.co.uk I (+44) 07861474432 I Dilan Dissanayaka

SRI LANKA ISLAMIC (UK) ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES 45 YEARSSERVING THE COMMUNITY 1972 – 2017(see pages 18/19)

President Jazal Marzook with his Exco team from left to right: Jezri Mohideen (Chair, Building Subcommittee), Sadat Sadiq (Assistant Secretary), Azhar Salahudeen(Secretary), Alan Wahab (Vice President), Jazal Marzook (President), Ishreen Bradley (Chair, Charity Subcommittee), Latiff Abdeen, Fazly Wahab (Treasurer), Rafat

Hashim (Chair, Religious Events), Khalid Malhar (Assistant Treasurer)

MadawalaHemananda

launchesnew book

See page 25

BY PANCHAMEE HEWAVISSENTI(ceylontoday.lk) At least three persons have diedof HIV AIDS and three more have been diagnosedwith the disease in the Northern Province duringthe current year, a senior medical official saidyesterday.Dr. Thanrani Gurubaran, of the Venereal DiseasesPrevention Unit (VDPU), at the Jaffna TeachingHospital, said that the deaths could not have beenprevented since the victims were in seriousconditions."They had been affected with the disease for overten years and had not been treated. Many of themwere not aware that they were affected by thedisease. Those patients who were admitted tohospital could not be saved as their conditionswere very serious", Dr. Gurubaran said.She added that among the affected were threewomen. She further said that 4 HIV patients were

reported from Jaffna while the remaining two werefrom the Mullaithivu and Mannar districts.Dr. Gurubaran also warned that there could be alarger number of AIDS carriers in the region whomay not be aware of their true condition."We are not aware of the exact number of partnersthe victims had engaged in sexual relationshipswith. Therefore there may be unidentified carriersof the disease in the region", Gurubaran added.She added that no children with HIV were found inthe Province so far and stressed the importance ofproviding sexual education to minors in order toprevent them from engaging in unprotected sex.

ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 02

Founded 150 years ago, the Baha’i Faith is theyoungest of the world’s independent religions. Thevision of Baha’i Faith is a world where all races,creeds, and colors have blended into a singleuniversal society. In just over 100 years, theBaha’i Faith embraced people from more than2,100 ethnic, racial and tribal groups.The Baha’is believe that the most important ofthese needs in this era is the realization of theoneness of humanity.Baha’is do not follow rituals, rites or sermons-buthave temples known as the ‘Baha’i house ofworship’ in every continent. The Baha’i house ofworship is sometimes referred to by the name ofmašriqu-l-an Arabic phrase meaning “dawning-place of the remembrances of God.”These houses of worship have become magnetsfor those from every faith and people with no faith,as a place to reflect, meditate and pray.The Baha’is believe that every time amanifestation of God appears, a fuller measure ofinspiration for the next stage awakening andprogress of humanity is released into the world.Human beings are said to be messengers of God.In the past, the sun of truth has shone throughNoah, Abraham, Krishna, Moses, Zoroaster,Buddha, Jesus Christ and Muhammed. Baha’isbelieve that all the prophets of the past are inequal rank in purpose.They are all divine gardeners helping the growthof the blessed tree of God.The Baha’i doctrine states that both Baha’u’llahand The Bab are considered to be manifestationsof God, where the ‘bab’ (gate) mission, which wasto last only six years, was to prepare the way forthe coming of a manifestation of God who wouldusher in the age of peace and justice promised inall the world’s religions: Bahá’u’lláh.Baha’isbelieve that Baha’u’llah has appeared for thecurrent cycle of humanity and has provided thebasis for the establishment of a new spiritual andtemporal order.Therefore, they believe that Baha’u’llah is thepromised one.In Sri-Lanka, the Baha’i Faith emerged in 1949 asan independent world religion. Since that time,growing numbers throughout the country,

representing various, ethnic, racial, religiousbackgrounds and cultures have been findinginspiration and guidance in the teachings of theBaha’i Faith.Members of the Baha’i community are workingtogether with their neighbors and friends topromote and contribute to the well-being andprogress of society.On the October 21 and 22 this year, the Baha’isolar calendar places the bicentennialanniversaries of the birth of Baha’u’llah and thebirth of the bab.Over five million Baha’is in nearly 100,000localities worldwide are preparing for majorupcoming celebrations.The global festivities involving people ofthousands of ethnic backgrounds is demonstrativeof a key message of Baha’u’llah’s life andteachings: that a special time has arrived for theentire human race as it gradually moves from astage of collective adolescence to one of maturityand wholeness.In addition, the Baha’is worldwide are lookingforward to stunning new houses of worships beingbuilt.These temples are being built in Chile, Cambodia,Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Congo,Kenya, India (in Bihar Sharif, in addition to the onealready in New Delhi), Papua New Guinea, andVanuatu.Embracing ideals that combine service andworship, Baha’is are engaged in a worldwideeffort at community-building that, with no sectarianor congregational aspiration, aims to contribute toa pattern of collective life on earth that is informedby the uplifting teachings of Baha’u’llah and thebab—teachings that reinforce and amplify theteachings of all the world’s great religions.The Baha’is are traditionally open to people fromall communities and systems of beliefs. As such,the upcoming celebrations too are going to beopen for all people who wish to participate.Dinesh Thilakarathne,Secretary,The Spiritual Assembly of the Baha’i Faith inLanka

Bicentenary celebration of the birthof Baha’u’llah

NIMAL WIJAYATUNGA(dailynews.lk) A 70-year-old trader inMatuwagala along Eheliyagod -Idangoda Road nearly 10 kilometres offEheliyagoda town, has a rare collectionof 100-year-old colourful importedlozenges.According to M. G. S. K. Melegoda, whois a former ANCL newspaper agent inMatuwagala, says his precious collectionof lozenges contained in 72 small-sizedbottles, was presented to him by hisfather prior to his death.“My father was a grocer and theselozenges were presented to him by afriend who was a lozenges dealer prior toWorld War II,” Melegoda said.He added that several lozenges and toffeemanufacturers had offered him large sums ofmoney for his precious collection, but he had

refused to sell them.“My father preserved this collection for us. So, it ismy duty to protect this for our future generations,"he said.

Rare collector

Ruzaik Farook(dailynews.lk) Al Bahajathul Ibraheemiyyah ArabicCollege Fort Galle established in 1892 celebratesits 125 years of existence this year.It is one of the oldest Islamic Arabic Institutions inSri Lanka.The BIA College was founded by Marhooma O. L.M. Macan Markar and had its beginnings at theGalle Fort Zaviya. As a devoted Mureeda of theShazuliya Order, she realized the urgent need foran institution of higher Islamic learning to cater tothe needs of the local Muslim scholars, so thatthey could enlighten the Muslim Community intheir Islamic devotions after their graduation. Shespent her time and wealth on the College to see itgrow and mature to a formidable centre of Islamiclearning.The Muslim community is deeply indebted to the

family of Macan Markar for continuing to upholdthe best tradition and good intentions of thefounder of the College despite various obstaclesthat arose from time to time.The BIA College over the period of 125 years, hasproduced many scholars in the field of IslamicStudies who have successfully served the countryand Islam as Ulemas, Katheebs, Arabic Orators,Principals of Arabic Colleges, Khaleefas, Lecturersetc. The contribution of the College towards theadvancement of Islamic Studies in Sri Lanka isnotable.The administration of the BIA College following thedemise of Marhooma O.L.M. Macan Markarbecame the responsibility of successivegenerations of members of the Macan Markarfamily who became the Trustees of this prestigiousIslamic educational institution.

This year, the BIA College felicitates andcongratulates the nine Bahjis who will receivethe meritorious Certificates of Honour and jointhe illustrious band of over 400 Bahjis whohave passed out from this institution.The Convocation Ceremony of the College willbe held on September 9 at 4 pm at the BIACollege premises. Sheikh Mohamed Abdulla AlFassy bin Sheikh Ajward Abdulla Al FassySheik Ush Sujjadah will be the Chief Guest.Governor of the Southern ProvinceHemakumara Nanayakkara will be the Guestof Honour.

BIA College celebrates 125th anniversary

A. B. Abdul Gafoor(dailynews.lk) Wild elephants have invaded thevillages of Nintavur, Karaitivu, Mavadippalli,Sainthamaruthu and Sammanthurai, residents ofthe areas complain. Residents are in fear andunable to chase them away as they visit after duskin massive numbers. The elephants invade anddestroy the paddy cultivation, domestic crops,houses, boundary walls, coconut gardens and

stocks of paddy stored in the houses, theresidents said.They added that they had to stay in jungles duringnights and their children are unable to concentrateon their studies due to the fear of wild elephants.People urge authorities to take immediate actionto protect them from the invasion of wildelephants.

Wild elephants causing fear in Ampara

CORRECTIONLast week it was stated that Sir WinstonChurchill went to Eton.In fact he went to Harrow school.

Help to a motherA helpless poor mother seeks financial help toundergo surgery to correct her hip bone atNawaloka hospital as there is a long waiting atGovt. hospitals. She has fallen down andbroken her hipbone. She needs immediatesurgery to crrect otherwise her bones will bestuck to wrong place and cannot be correctedThe surgery will cost Rs 350,000. The onlydaughter has raised Rs 70,000 and they need further Rs 280,000. Please contactdaughter.Address : No : 350 , Sumedha mawatha ,Ganemulla , Srilanka Name : Shiromi WasanaEmail: shiromiwasana03@gmail.comContact number : 0094787980467

(ceylontoday.lk) A total of 5,834 persons,belonging to 1,401 families, have been affected byfloods triggered-off by the recent heavy showers,the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) saidyesterday (10).

According to the recent statistics of the DMC, allthe affected persons are residents of theGampaha District.According to the DMC, two houses have beencompletely damaged and another 8 partially due to

the inclement weather.Furthermore, another 368individuals have been re-locatedto four safe locations as aprecautionary measure, the DMCsaid. Meanwhile, the Departmentof Meteorology said that showeryconditions are expected toenhance from today to 14September. There is a possibilitythat the Western, Southern,Sabaragamuwa, Central andNorth-Western Provinces willexperience showers orthundershowers, the Departmentstated. (MD)

HIV cases on the rise in Jaffna Three die,three in critical condition

5,834 persons affected by floods – DMC

ISSUE 1345 NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017 PAGE 03

ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 04

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(dailynews.lk) Madam, where are your mangoes?is the autobiography of Desmond de Silva. QCand his life in the law, from the arrest of CharlesTaylor for war crimes in Sierra Leone, todefending household names such as John Terry,via murder, celebrity and spy trials.Born in Ceylon during World War II, de Silva wenton to become one of the most distinguished andhigh-profile jury advocates of his generation. Thismemoir provides an authoritative account of someof his most remarkable cases, covering over halfa century of practice in the courts of England, theCommonwealth and as Chief Prosecutor of aninternational criminal court that in 2012 brought tojustice the first Head of State since theNuremberg trials in 1946. It is also a revealingportrait of Britain's post-war social, political andcultural landscape and a testament to theunparalleled importance of the rule of law insociety. De Silva's own reminiscences arecomplemented by a series of stories relating tohis most colourful cases by the EveningStandard's veteran court correspondent PaulCheston. The book will be released in London onSeptember 20. A special signing ceremony by himof his books will be held at the Vijitha YapaBookshop at Crescat Boulevard, Colombo 3 at 11a.m. on Friday September 8

Madam, Where Are Your Mangoes?by Desmond de Silva, QCreleased here on Friday

Appeal for kidneydonor

(dailynews.lk) W. A. Anton Gamini Silva, 44, aresident of No. 85, Elabadawatte, HendalaWattala, has been diagnosed with renalfailure. Consultant Nephrologist Dr. SurjithSomiah has recommended an urgent kidneytransplant for him.He appeals for an O positive donor. He couldbe contacted on 0779655301.

(sundaytimes.lk) Get ready to mark yourcalendar as Model Shop in associationwith Siyatha TV and Kiss FM presentsthe grand finale of the Miss World SriLanka pageant on Monday, September18. This year marks the fifth edition ofthe pageant and with over 500applications received, the organisers atModel Shop had the mammoth task ofselecting the top 20 who will vie for thecrown.With the aim of making their contestantsto be on par with those at The MissWorld International pageant, theorganisers have ensured a strict regimenfor the 20 young hopefuls who haveundergone two months of rigoroustraining in fitness, catwalk modelling,posture, fashion, communication andpersonality grooming – moulding wellrounded young ladies the country can beproud of.The build-up to the final show isheightened by the several mini pageants.Although dubbed “mini pageants” theseare shows that can stand on their own.Director of the Model Shop andacclaimed silver screen star SangeethaWeeraratne states “we have the end goal inmind” this being preparing all the girls for theultimate international event. Although each yearthe organizers strive to maintain the set highstandards of the pageant, this year’s minipageants are designed to help boost the

confidence of the contestants and prepare themfor the final show. Each mini pageant is set on adifferent day in front of a diverse audience, thusgiving the girls a chance to get over any nervesand prepare themselves for the big day.The final Mini Pageant is said to be apresentation of issues that each contestant has

taken under theirwing aptly titled“Beauty of Purpose”and will take placeon September 15.“The organizers andcontestants areusing the pageant togive a voice for thepeople who need it,”Sangeetha says.Over the years thesebeauties have beenambassadors forlocal and universalproblems mainly inrelation to women,children and familiesand this year MissSri Lanka for MissWorld will highlightthat talent goesbeyond looks,” sheexplains, adding“The girls aren’t justbeautiful faces buthave a strongerpurpose.”The Siyatha MissWorld Sri Lanka willbe held onSeptember 18 at theGrand Ballroom ofthe Colombo Hilton.

Model Shop director and actress SangeethaWeeraratne with two guests at one of the many

mini pageants

Come Sept 18, who will be the lucky winner? The contestants strike a pose

A mini pageant: Dances of Sri Lanka held at Jetwing Amaloh at Matara

20 girls all set for grand finale of theMiss World Sri Lanka pageant

(ceylontoday.lk) The State Literary AwardsCeremony, an occasion to give due accolade tothe literati who enrich the field of literature in SriLanka with their creations, was held under thepatronage of President Maithripala Sirisena at theNelum Pokuna Theatre on 8th September.Ariya Rajakaruna, NeervaiPonnaiyan and JeanArasanayagam were presentedwith "Sahityaratna" life time awardfor their invaluable service towardsthe advancement of the literaturefield of Sri Lanka in Sinhala, Tamiland English languages, by thePresident.Many authors received awards atthis ceremony for their greatcontribution for the advancementof the literature in the year 2016.The Director of the Department ofCultural Affairs Anusha Gokula

Fernando presented the special literature volumepublished in parallel to the State Literary Awardsand the books which won the state literary awards,to the President.(Government News Portal)

State Literary Awards Ceremonyunder President’s patronage

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Sri Lanka to exportcannabis from first

plantation

Colombo (AFP) - Sri Lanka is to launch itsfirst official cannabis plantation to supply thetraditional medicine market and export to theUnited States, the health minister saidWednesday.Rajitha Senaratne said the 100-acre (40-hectare) cannabis farm, which could producemore than 25 tonnes a year and would beunder military protection, would ensure aregular high quality supply."Many ayurvedic doctors have complainedthat they don't get good quality cannabis fortheir preparations," Senaratne told reporters."Good cannabis is a vital ingredient in thepreparation of traditional medicine."He said the traditional herbal medicinemarket currently depends on handouts fromcourts which seize illegally grown orsmuggled drugs."By the time our native doctors get thiscannabis, it is about four to five years old andit has lost its effectiveness," Senaratne said.He said the government expected to exportthe surplus from its proposed farm at Ingiriya,60 kilometres (37 miles) southeast ofColombo."I am told there is a high demand in the USand several other countries. Cannabis isused by the pharmaceutical industry in themanufacture of tranquilisers and painkillers."Smoking and possessing cannabis is illegalin Sri Lanka.

(AFP Photo/Saeed KHAN)

ISSUE 1345 NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017 PAGE 05

ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 06

Crimes Accidents&Prison hospital

admission

Father of threecommits suicide

President’s brotherremanded over hit-

and-run mishap

(dailynews.lk) Prisons inmates seekingmedicalcare henceforth must obtain consent ofthree doctors before they can be transferred tothe prison hospital for treatment.

(dailynews.lk) A father of three has committedsuicide while receiving treatment at theAnuradhapura Teaching Hospital.The deceased fifty-seven-year-old, namedK.A.W. Fernando has jumped off the sixth floorof the Hospital.He was a resident of Mihindupura,Anuradhapura.The Police said that he was admitted to theHospital on September 9 to be treated for astomach ache.The cause of the suicide is yet to be revealed.Anuradhapura Police is investigating.

(island.lk) A brother of President MaithripalaSirisena wasremanded tillSeptember 11 inconnection with ahit-and-runmishap, whichkilled a motorcyclist and thepillion rider atPolonnaruwayesterday.Police said thatGamaralalageNanasiriPagnaratneSirisenasurrendered to thepolice a few hourslater and allegedlyadmitted that hewas behind the wheel of the Land Cruiser jeepat the time of the accident.He was later produced before PolonnaruwaActing Magistrate Ruwan Kumara Mapa andremanded.Police said the accident occurred atEthumalpitiya on the Polonnaruwa-Hingurakgoda road around 1.10 am yesterday.The victims were identified as two brothers L. M.

J. M.Buddadasa (59)and L. M. J. M.Jayaratne (44),the father ofthree children.They wereresidents ofYatiyapatana,Kaudulla inHingurakgoda.Police said theelder brotherwas a kidney

patient who had undergone dialysis at thePolonnaruwa hospital.With the treatment completed at 12.50 am, theother brother was taking him home on hismotorcycle when the mishap happened.The two victims who were in a critical conditionsuccumbed to their injuries in hospital. Policeinvestigations are continuing.

Amila Prabath Wanasinghe

Motor cyclist and pillion rider killed atPolonnaruwa

by Karunaratne Gamage

Lakmal SooriyagodaTHREE YEAR Rigorous Imprisonmentfined Rs.2 million each

Lalith Weeratunge to file appeal

(dailynews.lk) Former Secretary to the PresidentLalith Weeratunge and formerTelecommunications Regulatory Commission(TRC) Director General Anusha Pelpita wereyesterday found guilty of misappropriating Rs.600million of funds belonging to TRC in thecontroversial Sil Redi (fabrics used bydevotees to observe Sil) distribution caseand were sentenced to three-years-Rigorous Imprisonment by the ColomboHigh Court.While handing out a lengthy judgment,High Court Judge Gihan Kulatungamaintained that the prosecutors haveproven the accused’s guilty beyond areasonable doubt.The High Court Judge further maintainedthat the accused had committed thisoffence dishonestly with the intention ofgaining undue advantage to a particularcandidate during the 2015 - PresidentialElection.While observing a political motivationhad led the accused to commit thisoffence, Lalith Weeratunge and AnushaPalpita were ordered to pay acompensation of Rs.50 million each tothe TRC in lieu of losses incurredcontrary to the Telecommunication Act.Each of the accused were further ordered to pay afine of two million rupees and in default of thepayment of fine they will have to serve additionalone year imprisonment.This is the first time, a High Court delivered ajudgment regarding an indictment filed by AttorneyGeneral pursuant to the investigation carried outby FCID.The Attorney General had filed indictmentsagainst former Secretary to the President LalithWeeratunge and former TelecommunicationsRegulatory Commission (TRC) Director GeneralAnusha Palpita under three counts, in connectionwith a criminal misappropriation of Rs.600 millionbelonging to the TRC funds during the 2015-Presidential Election campaign.They were found guilty of all charges.

The Attorney General had filed indictmentsagainst the two accused on three counts ofcommitting a criminal misappropriation fundsamounting to Rs.600 million at TRC whilespending for a ‘Sil Redi’ distribution programme incontravention of the Telecommunication Act, No.25 of 1991 Act during the period of October 30,2014 to January 5, 2015.

The prosecutors alleged that the funds referred tohad been remitted to a bank account maintainedby Secretary to the President.On a previous occasion, the Attorney Generaldecided to drop charges which had been filedunder Public Property Act against the twoaccused.In his judgment, the High Court Judge observedthat on December 5, 2014 a sum of Rs.600 millionhad been remitted to a bank account maintainedby former Secretary to the President through theintervention of Anusha Pelpita, without obtainingBoard of Directors’ approval (TRC).‘Evidence given by a secretary attached to theTRC had proved that the Board of Directors’approval was not obtained regarding thistransaction. It has been revealed that thistransaction had been done through a methodcalled ‘circulation’ in which no written approval

was given to remit concerned funds,’ the HighCourt judge added.While observing that he cannot agree with thedefence contention that the Sil Redi distributionprogramme was a long-time process, the HighCourt Judge maintained that this programme hadbeen initiated with the intention of gaining undueadvantage to a particular candidate in an urgentmanner.According to the defence contention, distributionof Sil Redi comes under the expenditure ofPresident. The defence was of the view that dueto non-sufficient funds at the President’sexpenditure, they were tended to seek financialassistance from TRC. The court is of the viewthat they should have sought funds through asupplementary estimate to meet financialrequirements without following irregular andillegal process.The accused were charged under Section 386 ofthe Penal Code for dishonestly misappropriatinga sum of Rs. 600 million.Former Election Commissioner Mahin daDeshapriya, former President’s coordinatingSecretary (Religious Affairs) Ven. VatinapahaSomananda Thera are among the persons whohad been named as the witnesses. DeputySolicitor General Thusith Mudalige appeared forthe prosecution. President’s Counsel KalingaIndatissa with counsel Kanchana Rathwatte andNiroshan Siriwardena appeared for the accused.

President’s Counsel Kalinga Indatissa appearingon behalf of former Secretary to the PresidentLalith Weeratunge and formerTelecommunications Regulatory Commission(TRC) Director General Anusha Palpita who wereconvicted of misappropriating Rs. 600 million infunds belonging to the TRC over the ControversialSil Redi distribution case yesterday informed thatthe defence is expecting to file an appeal in theCourt of Appeal challenging the judgment ofColombo High Court to convict his clients.The Defence Counsel yesterday sought a date topay off the fine and pavement imposed againstthe accused. Accordingly, the High Court setSeptember 20 to pay off the fine andcompensation.

Distribution of Sil Redi during 2015 Presidential election: GUILTY

Former Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunge and formerTelecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) DirectorGeneral Anusha Pelpita seen leaving the Colombo High Cour.

Picture by Thushara Fernando

Picture & Text by A.B.Abdul Gafoor(dailynews.lk) A mother of one died when the

motorcycle she was travelling on collided with aTipper truck on Kalmunai- Akkaraipattu road at

Nintavur on Thursday.The deceased wasidentified as Priya ofAddappallam,Nintavur.She and her five-year-oldchild were on the pillion ofthe motorcycle that herhusband was riding whenthe accident happened.The 5 year-old child andthe husband were criticallyinjured and admitted to theKalmunai Ashraff MemorialBase hospital.

Mother dies in truck, motorcycle collision Tipper runs overbicycle, killing sixty-

year-old man(dailynews.lk) A tipper ran over a bicycle, killing asixty-year-old man on the spot on the Dambulla-Kurunegala road in Polgolla, Gorakalla earlier.The tipper driver has fled from the scene.The deceased named DewrunnahalageWimelaratne is a resident of Ambanpola,Malisipura.

Keheliya released onbail over pendingcorruption case

(sundaytimes.lk) Former Minister of Mass Media,MP Keheliya Rambukwella and former Director-General of the State Printing Corporation,Jayampathi Bandara have been granted bail byColombo Magistrate today over pendingcorruption cases filed against them.The both individuals are charged by Commissionto Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption(CIABC) for violation of the Bribery Act fortransfering state funds from State PrintingCorporation to pay off mobile bill. ChiefMagistrate, Justice Lal Ranasinghe Bandaragranted personal bail worth Rs. 500,000 to eachof the suspects.

Man sentenced todeath for killing wife

Ariyapala Wanshathilaka(dailynews.lk) An accused who killed his wifewith a mamoty was sentenced to death onSeptember 8 by Provincial High Court JudgeKurunegala Menaka Wijesundara.The accused, Tikiri Appulage MahindaJayaratna, was found guilty of killing his wife,Yapa Mudiyansalage Ramini Disanayake ofIbbagamuwa, on March 12, 2007.

Motorcycle-cabcollision kills two

Kapila Somaratne(dailynews.lk) A mother and son were killedwhen the motorcycle they were travelling oncollided head-on with a cab, recently. Theincident took place on the Horana-Matugamaroad. The victims were identified as T. ThamaraPushperrani, 47 and her son T. P. RangikaHaslanka, 4.

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ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 08

(dailynews.lk) A jeep transporting vegetables and fruitswith a beehive built attached to a pipe supporting thespare wheel in the rear of the vehicle was spotted at theDambulla Dedicated Economic Centre recently.The jeep owner, Lionel Bandara, said bees had built thehive three months ago while the vehicle was parked athis house.The bees in the hive had co-existed with him ever sincewherever he travelled in his vehicle and he had notattempted to remove the beehive since they caused noharm to passers-by despite the hustle and bustle of theEconomic Centre.

Extraordinary co-existence

The Kingsbury high tea monthly fashion show featuring avibrant collection by ‘Kadapatha’ was held on recently at The

Gourmet Station. The collection featured some fabulousdesigns from the label ideal for any occasion. The event

received a good turn out as the high tea buffet at TheKingsbury delivered great flavours and variety.

Pictures by Sarath Peiries

Popular Film Actress(asianmirror.lk) A film and teledrama actress hasdisclosed her alleged relationship with SLFP GeneralSecretary and Agriculture Minister DumindaDissanayake.Actress MadushaRamasinghe, a vocalsupporter of PresidentMaithripala Sirisena beforethe last Parliamentaryelection, announced, in aFacebook post, that she wasin a relationship with theSLFP General Secretary.The actress, however, laterswitched her allegiance and later became a supporterof former President Mahinda Rajapaksa's camp.She said, in the same Facebook post, that the political

differences between the two did not affect her feelingsfor him.The actress described her relationship with thepolitician as "pristine and intimate".

She said Dissanayake wasbeing unfairly attacked overthe building, which hisministry rented for astaggering monthly rate, fromfilm actress Sabeetha Perera.Ramasinghe reiterated thatDissanayake had no reasonto steal public money and she

would not hesitate to endorse his integrity as apolitician.Dissanayake, a close ally of President Sirisena, is yetto respond to Ramasinghe's controversial statement.

(asianmirror.lk) President MaithripalaSirisena’s oldest daughter ChathurikaSirisena has written a biography of herfather. The book tells the story of thearduous journey of a man with smallroots to the position of President of anation. The book that is published bySarasavi will be launched at aceremony at the BMICH onSeptember 15.‘My Father, the President’ will be soldin the Sinhalese language, at Rs. 700

'My Father, The President'

Government To Push‘Sign Language Bill’ ToPositively Affect Deaf

Population In Sri Lanka(asianmirror.lk)SocialEmpowerment,Welfare andKandyanHeritageMinister S. B.Dissanayakehas proposed a‘Sign LanguageBill’ for thebenefit of thedeaf populationof Sri Lanka.The Cabinet ofMinisters

yesterday approved the Billthat will positively affect asmany as 389,677 deafpopulation in Sri Lanka.Earlier this year SocialEmpowerment Minister S. B.Dissanayake said Sri Lankawas in dire need of signlanguage interpreters as therewere only 5 interpreters in thecountry at present.He said the education of deafpersons in the country waslow compared to the blind andother disabilities and hadasked the Cabinet to approvethe recruitment of 50 signlanguage interpreters to helpbridge the gap.

President declares 81more national heroes

(ft.lk) President Maithripala Sirisena yesterdaydeclared 81 Sinhalese leaders who were previouslylabelled as traitors by the British for their role in the1818 Uva-Wellessa uprising as national heroes.Forty-nine of these were sentenced to death by theBritish after they were court martialled for theirinvolvement in the national freedom struggle in1818 and 32 others were deported to the island ofMauritius for the same reason.The President made the declaration by a gazettenotification this week declaring them war heroes forpatriotically fighting for the cause of an independentSri Lanka.In December last year, the President declared 19Sinhala leaders including S. Keppitipola, the lateDesave of Ouva who rebelled against the British, asheroes.

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(dailynews.lk) The Inland Revenue Bill waspassed with a majority of 65 votes in Parliament. Ithas incorporated over 100 Amendments.The Bill replaces the Inland Revenue Act No 10 of2006. Following a division called by theOpposition, 90 MPs voted in favour whereas 25MPs voted against.109 MPs were absent at the time of voting thatwas taken using newly installed electronic votingsystem. The UNP, SLFP members in the

Government ranks voted in favour, whereas theJVP and JO voted against. The TNA MPs were notin the chamber when the final vote was taken.Prior to that, the second reading of the Bill waspassed with a majority of 59 votes. The Billreceived 100 votes for and 41 against, while 83members were absent at the time of the voting.The UNP, SLFP members in the Governmentranks and TNA voted in favour, whereas the JVPand JO voted against.

A.B.Abdul Gafoor(dailynews.lk) The Eastern Provincial (EP) Councilunanimously passed a proposal brought by itsOpposition Leader M.S.Uthumalebbe urging theSri Lankan Government to take steps to stop thegenocide of Muslims in Myanmar by drawing theattention of organisation like the UN towards themassacre.He brought the proposal atthe 83rd Council meetingheld on Thursday inTrincomalee."The Sri LankanGovernment has to urgethe United Nations and theGovernment of Myanmar tostop killing Muslims inMyanmar," Uthumalebbesaid."The Myanmar Army killinnocent children andwomen.They are not allowed tosettle in Bangladesh. All thecountries witness the

genocide taking place in Mynmar at present, butno one take any action to stop the mayhem,"Uthumalebbe said. "UN has many branches toaddress humanitarian issues in other countries.They sent relief and support teams when a countryfaces disasters.But they do not say a word against the genocide ofMuslims," Uthumalebbe said.

Asela Kuruluwansa and ThilakaPushpakumara

(dailynews.lk) Northern Province ChiefMinister C.V. Vigneshwaran said people inthe South had a wrong impression about himand his group. He said he has no need todivide the country.He stated this when he called on the MostVen. Thibbotuwawe Sri SiddharthaSumangala Mahanayake Thera of theMalwatte Chapter at the Malwatte Viharayain Kandy to receive his blessings.He said a three Judge Bench of theSupreme Court has ruled that federalism didnot lead to a division of the country.“Therefore, criticism levelled against him andhis group saying federalism would lead todivision of the country is a baselessallegation,” the Northen Province ChiefMinister said.Vigneshwaran who invited the Malwatte ChiefPrelate to visit the North on an inspection tour ofcommunity life, as done by the Asgiriya ChiefPrelate, said there were 89,000 widows in theNorth who should be ensured a stable life stylethrough a concerted programme of action.“There was a large number of destitute childrenand rehabilitated youth in the North and no onehad volunteered so far to offer them employmentavenues,”Vigneshwaran said.He said Southern fishermen were engaged infishing in Northern waters with Army assistanceand this had caused a problem to Northernfishermen.He said 18 Brigades with 15,0000 personnel werestationed in the North and he had requested thePresident Maithripala Sirisena to shuffle them toother parts of the country without restricting them

to the North. He said the Armed Forces stilloccupied 85,000 acres of land of which only 1500acres had been restored to the people despitecontrary propaganda carried out through themedia.The Malwatte Chief Prelate said the request towithdraw the Army from the North at once wasunacceptable. It should be done systematically astime progressed. If there were any problems theyshould be settled through discussions with thegovernment.Most Ven. Thibbotuwawe Sri SiddharthaSumangala Mahanayake Thera said Armyoccupied territory was now being systematicallyrestored to the people and added that politiciansusually tried to attain party and private gains ratherthan acting according to the people’s needs.The Malwatte Chief Prelate also quipped that

attending to people’sproblems was muchmore urgent thanbuilding highways.The memorandumformulated by theNorthern TamilsPeoples Council wasalso handed over tothe Malwatte ChiefPrelate to beforwarded to thegovernment for itsconsideration.Provincial AgricultureMinister KandiahShivanesan andProvincial Women’sAffairs MinisterAnandi Shashidaranwere also present onthe occasion.

The Most Ven. Tibbotuwawe Sri Siddhartha SumangalaMahanayake Thera of the Malwatte Chapter presenting a

“Buddha statue” as a memento to Northern Province ChiefMinister C.V. Vigneshwaran when the latter called on him at

his temple in Kandy and received his blessings recently.Picture by Udeni Rajapaksa

Stop genocide against Muslimsin Myanmar: EP

Inland Revenue Bill passed with majority

Vigneshwaran says he is misunderstoodby the Southerners

By Damith Wickremasekara(sundaytimes.lk) The proposed agreement withIndia on the privatisation of the Mattala RajapaksaInternational Airport will include a clause that theairport will not be used for any military purposes, asenior official said. Transport and Civil AviationMinistry Secretary Nihal Somaweera told theSunday Times that besides prohibiting the use ofthe airport for military purposes, the air trafficcontrol tower would also be controlled by Sri

Lanka.The two conditions would be part of the agreementexpected to be finalised before December. SriLanka included a similar clause in the ConcessionAgreement for the Hambantota Port with aChinese company in July. A project committee anda negotiating committee are finalising theagreement to privatise the loss making airportwhich came into operation in March 2013.

By S. Rubatheesan(sundaytimes.lk) Changes to the proposed 20thAmendment may delay the holding of elections toprovincial councils by up to a year, a Cabinetminister said. The changes, the Sunday Timeslearns, are designed to obtain the support of theTamil National Alliance (TNA). The alliance hasagreed to support the 20th Amendment if theNorthern Provincial Council is allowed its full termuntil September 2018.Local Government and Provincial CouncilsMinister Faiszer Musthapha told the Sunday Timesthat originally it was intended to give the power to

parliament to determine the date for polls for allprovincial councils on one single day but now thatpower is vested with Elections Commission (EC).“Accordingly, the EC will call for polls one yearafter the law comes into operation.”The minister said new amendments would bemoved in Parliament during the committee stagedebate later this month, taking into considerationthe suggestions made by the Attorney General tothe Supreme Court. The courts is currently hearing13 petitions filed by parliamentarians and civilsociety organisations challenging theconstitutionality of the Amendment.

20A: Govt backs TNA demand

Mattala deal with India: No military operations

(ceylontoday.lk) A commemoration of the 21stdeath anniversary of Jaffna school girl KrishanthyKumaraswamy, who was brutally gang-raped andmurdered by security personnel in 1996, was heldyesterday (7) at Chemmani in Jaffna, organized byNorthern Provincial Councillor M.K Sivajilingam.Mrs. Kirubainathan, wife of Kirubainathan who wasalso murdered in the incident first lit the oil lamp tocommence the commemoration event, followingwhich, Northern Chief Minister C.V. Wigneswaran,Ananthy Sasitharan and other ProvincialCouncillors lit lamps paying tribute andremembered the dead.Students chosen from low income families weregifted with 21 bicycles and further 63 studentswere gifted stationery at the event. Kirubainathan'swife distributed the donations to the students atthe event, yesterday.On 7 September 1996, Advanced Level StudentKrishanthy was abducted, gang-raped andmurdered when returning home from school aftersitting the Advanced level chemistry paper. Mother

RasammahKumaraswamy,brother PranavanKumaraswamyand neighbourKirubainathan whowent in search ofKrishanthy werealso strangled todeath. Six securitypersonnel directlyinvolved in thecrime weresentenced todeath in theprosecution.The AmnestyInternational andother human rights organizations including Womenfor Peace launched a campaign to pressure thegovernment to arrest and prosecute the securitypersonnel involved in the incident. (MT)

Jaffna commemorates Murderedschool girl Krishanthy

‘Eliya’ comes to light(ceylontoday.lk) A civil society group named 'Eliya'(Light), headed by former Defence SecretaryGotabaya Rajapaksa, is to be formedtoday (6) at 5:00 p.m. at Golden RoseHotel Boralesgamuwa.Sources said this group is to be formedwith the sole intention of...... preventingthe breaking up of the country into nineparts through the enactment of a so-called new Constitution by the current regime. Theopening ceremony is slated to be graced byformer President Mahinda Rajapaksa, JointOpposition (JO) MPs, artistes, professionals of

various fields etc.Among those scheduled to speak at the event are

Ven. Medagoda Abhayatissa Thera,former Defence Secretary GotabayaRajapaksa, PC Manohara de Silva, RearAdmiral Sarath Weerasekera, MajorGeneral Kamal Gunaratne, formerCentral Bank Governor Ajith Cabraal,Former Sri Lanka Permanent

Representative to the UN Thamara Kunanayagam,former Sri Lanka envoy to France Dr. DayanJayatilleka and Specialist Dr. Seetha Arambepola.

(dailymirror.lk) The joint opposition (JO) yesterdaysaid the government was attempting to commit afinancial fraud not second to the ‘Bond scam’ byhanding over the construction of the CentralExpressway to a consortium of two Japanesecompanies.Addressing a news briefing, Sri Lanka PodujanaPeramuna (SLPP) Chairman Professor G.L. Peirissaid the initial preparations were made to obtainfunds for the construction of the Expressway fromthe Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).“Since the JICA is a firm of the JapaneseGovernment, there will be no commissions.Therefore, the Mitsui Bank entered into the deal.Meanwhile, the government is trying its best to handover the construction work of the highway to FujitaCorporation,” he said.

He said a Technical Evaluation Committeeappointed had ruled that the Fujita Corporationlacks adequate financial and technical knowledge tocarry out the highway constructions.“The Committee said Fujita has no financial poweras it had not undertaken a single project worth morethan USD 600 million within the last five years.Then, the government roped in another companycalled Taisei Corporation which has technical skills.However, instead of rejecting Fujita, the governmentforced Taisei to establish a consortium with Fujita toconstruct the highway,” Prof. Peiris said.He said the Technical Committee had estimated theconstructions of the Expressway could be carriedout with Rs. 123 billion but the government expectsto give Rs. 132.5 billion to the Corporations. (LahiruPothmulla)

Robbery on Central Expresswaynot second to Bond scam: JO

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SLFP will use the 'hand' symbol(dailynews.lk) UPFA General Secretary MahindaAmaraweera yesterday said SLFP will not contestan election under any other symbolthan the “hand”. He added that hebelieved that the unity governmentwould have achieved its purpose by2020.Amaraweera added that the SLFP wasdetermined to form an SLFP-led UPFAgovernment after 2020.The two major parties which signedthe MoU to govern together came toan end last month but the two partieshave agreed to go it together until December 31.“By that time, we would have saved Sri Lanka

from international investigations, we haveremoved the EU ban on fisheries, won GSP plus

back, able to bring democracy and thebiggest victory would be to change theelectoral system,” explainedAmaraweera. UNP General SecretaryKabir Hashim, however, has statedthat his party looked forward tocontinuing the partnership beyond2020.“We are happy that he looks upon usin such a favourable light but we wantour own government now,” said the

UPFA General Secretary in response to his UNPcounterpart.

A.B.Abdul Gafoor(dailynews.lk) Sri Lanka Muslim Congress Leaderand City planning and Water Supply Minister hasappointed Nizam Kariyapper, President Counseland former Kalmunai Municipal Council Mayor asthe new Secretary to the party.A letter has been officially sent to the ElectionsCommissioner naming Nizam Kariyapper as theSecretary to the party. Kariyapper was appointedas the deputy secretary at the last delegatesConference of the party held recently whileMansoor A Cader was appointed as the Secretary.According to sources, Mansoor A Cader is

proposed to be appointed asthe deputy Secretary to theparty. His deputy Secretarypost has to appointed by thehigh command of the party.SLMC removed the GeneralSecretary post from itsconstitution recently. HasenAli, former State Minister ofHealth, Nutrition andIndigenous Medicine was thelast General Secretary toSLMC.

Nizam Kariyapper appointednew SLMC Secretary

(dailynews.lk) Former Northern Province HealthMinister P. Sathyalingam said there was no truth tospeculation that some ex-LTTE cadres atrehabilitation centres were injected with poisonleading to their deaths.When questioned by a fellow member of theNorthern PC on Thursday about the outcome of aninvestigation carried out by a special teamappointed during Sathyalingam’s time as healthminister of the NCP, the former minister hadreplied that the special team had concluded theirprobe and they had found out the allegations werecompletely false.

Earlier media reports citing certain Tamil politiciansin the north alleged that some LTTE cadres atrehabilitation centres were injected with poisonleading to their deaths.The government has vehemently rejected theseclaims vehemently, with Defence State MinisterRuwan Wijewardene rejecting them as “false andbaseless allegations.” Sathyalingam had said thatthe team had examined a large number of ex-LTTE cadres who were rehabilitated at thegovernment run centres and they had not found asingle instance of poison being used on them.

Poisoning of ex-LTTE cadres;a canard: Sathyalingam

President sacksDeputy Minister

Arundika Fernando(sundaytimes.lk) Deputy Minister of TourismDevelopment and Christian Religious AffairsArundika Fernando has been sacked from hisposition with immediate effect, the President'sMedia Division (PMD) announced a shortwhile ago.No reason has been given for PresidentMaithripala Sirisena's decision to sack MrFernando, who is an MP representing theUnited People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA)from the Puttalam District.

Sabaragamuwa PCalso approves 20A

(sundaytimes.lk) The SabaragamuwaProvincial Council (PC) has passed theproposed 20th Amendment to the Constitutiontoday. The amendment, which included newlyadded amendments, received 29 votes infavor and eight against.The Eastern and Western PCs also approvedthe proposed 20th Amendment after votesconducted.

(sundaytimes.lk) Citing the geographical andstrategic location of Sri Lanka, a Senatecommittee has opposed Trump Administration'sproposal of a drastic 92 per cent cut in Americanaid to the island nation, Outlook India reported."Given the geostrategic importance of the country,the Committee does not support the President'sbudget request for Sri Lanka, which proposed a 92per cent reduction in assistance from the priorfiscal year," the Senate Appropriations Committeesaid in a report passing the annual Stateappropriations bill for the fiscal year 2018,beginning October 1.The appropriations bill, which landed on the

Senate floor yesterday for consideration, seeksUSD 43 million for Sri Lanka. This includes USD35 million as economic support fund, USD 6.8million for non-proliferation and anti-terrorism andUSD 500,000 in foreign military financing and anequal amount for training of military personnel."The Committee recognises and supports theefforts of the Government of Sri Lanka to advancedemocracy and the rule of law, and encouragesfurther steps to address the underlying causes ofthe armed conflict by promoting justice andreconciliation," the Senate Committee said in itsreport.

A British MP from Northern Ireland’s DemocraticUnionist Party (DUP), one of ten that is keepingPrime Minister Theresa May’s Government inpower, is at the centre of a controversy once againover old accusations that he accepted holidays inSri Lanka in 2013.The Daily Telegraph newspaper reported that heaccepted holidays worth £100,000 “from a countryhe is now helping to secure a post-Brexit tradedeal.” However, Ian Paisley Jr. denied theaccusations and declared that he would go beforethe Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards tostate his case.He has also charged that the newspaper’s accountwas defamatory. According to the Daily Telegraphreport on Thursday, “Ian Paisley Jr, one of theDemocratic Unionist Party’s most prominent MPs,accepted two all-expenses-paid trips from the SriLankan government .”

The DailyTelegraph reportstates that MrPaisley took hiswife and fourchildren to SriLanka and flewbusiness class,stayed in the“finest hotels”and wereprovided with achauffeur-drivenMercedes, allpaid for by theSri Lankangovernment.

Mr Paisley with Sri Lanka HighCommissioner Amari

Wijewardene in Westminster afterdiscussing a post-Brexit trade

with Sri Lanka

Paisley’s Post-Brexit trade talksirk SL (Tamil) diaspora

US lawmakers oppose 92 per cent cutin aid to Sri Lanka

By Lalin Fernandopulle(sundayobserver.lk) The Catholic Church onceagain reiterated its stance last week that it wouldnot condone abortion under any circumstances.A cleric from the Archdiocese of Colombo said,the Church is opposed to any move that permitsabortion and added that it would continue to lobbyagainst legalizing abortion in the country.“Life begins from the moment of conception.Therefore, no one has the right to decide on thelife of another,” he said.However, it is estimated that around 600 illegalabortions take place daily in the country. Abortionis currently illegal in the country except to savethe life of the mother.Medical experts are of the view that in the case ofa rape where the victim has no protection, if thereare abnormalities in the foetus and is at the risk ofhaving still births, abortion should be permitted.The Catholic Bishops Conference condemns themove to legalize abortion calling on the

authorities to withdraw laws permitting abortionsunder any circumstance.Catholic Bishops Conference General Secretary,Rt. Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis said one could notsafeguard one’s right at the expense of violatingthe rights of another.Christian Affairs Minister, John Amaratungaduring a media briefing last week said, neither thePresident nor the Prime Minister would condonesuch a move and added that he wouldvehemently oppose any move to legalizeabortion.However, the Minister said, there is nothing thatcould be done to stop illegal abortions that takesplace on a large scale daily, in the country.“I am totally against legalizing abortion and willoppose it when it is taken up in Cabinet,” theMinister said.Pope Francis in an exhortation last year,condemned abortion, euthanasia and same sexmarriage.

Catholic Church opposed to abortion

The European Union (EU) today asserted that theGovernment must give answers to the families of thosereported missing.An EU monitoring mission for GSP Plus met therelatives of the disappeared in Kilinochchi on 200th dayof their protest. “Govt needs to urgently tell relatives thefate of their loved ones. 5 of the mothers have died sincethe protest started without closure,” the EU office inColombo tweeted. In May this year the EuropeanCommission decided to grant GSP plus to Sri Lankagiving Sri Lanka access to the EU market under thespecial scheme. However, as is the case for all countriesbenefitting from GSP Plus, the removal of customsduties for Sri Lanka is accompanied by rigorousmonitoring. (Colombo Gazette)

EU tells Government to give familiesof missing answers

China has insisted there is no hidden agenda in itsrelationship with Sri Lanka.A statement by the Chinese Embassy in Colomboquoted the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka YiXianliang as saying as a true friend of Sri Lanka,China offered assistance to SriLanka without any conditions.“China always attaches greatimportance to the efforts of SriLankan Government to improvepeople’s living standards,” hesaid.Ambassador Yi also emphasizedthat China’s cooperation with SriLanka has no hidden agenda andaims to seek a win-win situation.“Some other country’s allegation on China-SriLanka cooperation in Port area (Hambantota port)is baseless and incorrect. China welcomes anyinterested third party to participate the cooperation

and make joint efforts to build Sri Lanka into theregional hub,” he said.President Maithripala Sirisena and the ChineseAmbassador recently participated in thegroundbreaking ceremony to construct an

agricultural economic center inKaduruwela, Polonnaruwa fundedby the Chinese.President Sirisena said theAgricultural Economic Centrewould be built at a cost of Rs.50.2 million under the assistanceof the Chinese Government.The new center will comprise of amain commercial complex and an

agricultural complex including stalls, children’splay area, cafeterias, banking facilities andsanitary facilities.China is also funding a well-drilling project inWelikanda, Polonnaruwa. (Colombo Gazette)

China insists no hidden agenda in relationshipwith Sri Lanka

The Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth,justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence Pablo de Greiffconfirmed he will visit Sri Lanka inOctober.Pablo de Greiff told the UNHuman Rights Council during theongoing 36th session that SriLanka has invited him for anofficial visit to the country from 10to 23 October 2017.“I am delighted to announce thatthe Government of the Democratic Socialist

Republic of Sri Lanka has invited me for an officialvisit to the country from 10 to 23 October 2017. I

hope that other countries to which Ihave requested visits, includingCambodia, Guatemala, Indonesia,Nepal, to mention some, wouldfollow suit,” he said.The Special Rapporteur ismandated to conduct official visitsto States to provide technicalassistance and advisory services toGovernments upon request.

(Colombo Gazette)

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(ft.lk) A delegation of The Honourable Societyof the Inner Temple (‘The Inner Temple’)addressed the members of the Bar Associationand the Medical Association of Sri Lanka on 4September at the Dr. H.W. Jayewardene QCAuditorium (BASL Auditorium).The delegation comprised Treasurer of theInner Temple David Pittaway QC accompaniedby his wife, Jill Pittaway, and Senior Bencher ofthe Inner Temple, Julia Dias QC. Therespected panel of speakers was chaired by K.Kanag-Isvaran P.C. and the session wasmoderated by Avindra Rodrigo, Attorney-at-Law, who themselves have been called to theBar of England and Wales by the Honourable

Societies of Lincoln’s Inn and Grey’s Inn,respectively.The speakers were welcomed by BASLPresident U.R de Silva P.C. and were formallyintroduced by Kanag-Isavran P.C., who, duringhis introduction, also paid tribute to Dias QC’sfather and other family members who are nostrangers to the legal profession in Sri Lanka.The first speaker, Pittaway QC highlightedseveral important aspects of clinical negligenceduring his presentation whilst sharing hisexperience in a real life medical negligencecase tried and determined in the UK. The floorwas then opened to the audience of bothmedical and legal practitioners for questions on

clinical negligence.Dias’s presentation onchallenges to theenforcement ofarbitration awards andthe appointment ofarbitrators followedthereafter. Shehighlighted thegrounds for refusal ofenforcement orrecognition under theNew York Conventionwhich is also reflectedin the Sri LankanArbitration Act.

The Inner Temple addressesthe Bar Association of Sri Lanka

Local govt. electionsnext year

20th Amendment

By Chathuri Dissanayake(ft.lk) The Election Commissionwill agree upon one of threepossible dates in January nextyear to hold the LocalGovernment Elections, ElectionCommission Chairman MahindaDeshapriya said. Thecommission, following extensive consultationwith relevant parties, decided that electionscannot be held this year due to a number offactors including national examinations beingheld in December, Deshapriya said whilespeaking at a ceremony yesterday to sign aMemorandum of Understanding with the AsianNetwork for Free Elections (ANFREL) to hostthe 4th Asian Electoral Stakeholders Forum(AESF IV) in Colombo.

(colombogazette.com) The Western and EasternProvincial Councils approved the proposed 20thAmendment to the Constitution. The WesternProvincial Council approved the proposed 20thAmendment with 45 members voting for and 28against. The proposal was passed at theEastern Provincial Council with 24 voting for and7 against it. (Colombo Gazette)

WeerasumanaWeerawansa removed

(asianmirror.lk)WeerasumanaWeerawansa hasbeen removed fromhis post as SportMinister of theSouthern ProvincialCouncil (SPC).SPC Chief MinisterShan Wijeyalal deSilva has assumedthe position ofSports Minister in hisplace.

Arundika Fernando(asianmirror.lk) A day after his removal from office,former Deputy Minister of Tourism Developmentand Christian Affairs MP Arundika Fernando metwith President Maithripala Sirisena for aclandestine meeting this morning.Details of the meeting were kept a close secret butPresident’s Media Director Chaminda Sirimalwatteaccompanied the former junior minister to thePresident’s office, after which, reports saidFernando departed with the President in his car toan official function.

(sundayobserver.lk) The Kingsbury hasstamped Sri Lanka on the global hospitalitymap. The World Luxury Restaurant Awardshas bestowed The Kingsbury’s restaurantswith: Regional Winner: South West Asiabest Luxury Seafood Restaurant 2017 -The Ocean, Regional Winner: South WestAsia best Eclectic/International CuisineRestaurant 2017 - Harbour Court, CountryWinner: Sri Lanka best Luxury HotelRestaurant 2017 - Harbour Court.Envisioning higher standards of culinaryservices and experiences through healthycompetition, the World Luxury RestaurantAwards is an organization that is wellrenowned in global hospitality. This year’s awardswere held in Hanoi, Vietnam, where the crème dela crème of the food and beverage fraternityattended the glamorous event. Setting the basisfor service industry standards around the globe,the World Luxury Restaurant Awards provides truerecognition to luxury restaurants in their relevantcategories during its annual voting phase.“These accolades are testimony to our high

standards at The Kingsbury,” said GeneralManager of The Kingsbury, Alexandre Diaz-Albo.At the helm of The Kingsbury’s culinaryachievements is Director Culinary Services ChefKithsiri de Silva who opined, “I would like toattribute these achievements to the unwaveringcommitment, we as a team, exercise inmaintaining international standards in terms ofquality, innovation and service excellence to raiseSri Lanka’s position in the world of culinary”.

ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 14

(sundaytimes.lk) Chartered Engineer MalithMendis has been appointed CountryRepresentative of the Institution of Civil EngineersUK, joining his illustrious predecessors, well-known Dr. A.N.S. Kulasinghe and Prof. DayanthaWijeyesekera in this position.Mr. Mendis is a civil engineer with more than 35years’ experience, a Fellow of the ICE and a

Fellow of the Institution ofEngineers Sri Lanka. He is theChairman of Mendis CobainConsultants, former CEO of LankaHydraulic Institute, formerPresident of the Association ofConsulting Engineers Sri Lankaand is the Country Representative

for the DisputeResolution BoardFoundation.UK’s Institution of CivilEngineers (ICE) is aprofessionalmembership body thatgovernments andindustry listen to whileproviding support to its90,000 civil engineermembers worldwide.The local Chapter ofICE, the Sri LankaAssociation of theInstitution of CivilEngineers (SLAICE) isthe focal point ofactivity amongstmembers living in SriLanka.

COLOURFUL SETTING FOR FESTIVITIES(sundayobserver.lk) A groom’s procession to thebeat of the drum across manicured lawns shadedby palms. A colourful Poruwa ceremony in thedecorated ballroom. A fire ceremony on the beachwith the Indian Ocean setting a perfect backdrop.At Anantara Kalutara Resort you will discover thattraditional ceremonies to elegant receptions, existto bring your dream wedding to life.Kalutara’s rich heritage sets the scene for acharismatic wedding - and an alluring destinationfor your guests. Anantara Kalutara Resort’s privateriver and lagoon frontage provides a naturalexclusivity, combined with the newly openedBallroom, make the resort theperfect choice for weddings inSri Lanka.Only a 60-minute drive fromdowntown Colombo, AnantaraKalutara Resort offers anaturally exclusive setting forfestivities. Originally designedby Sri Lankan icon architectGeoffrey Bawa, renownedacross the globe for hisTropical Modernist style,Anantara Kalutara features 141guest rooms, suites and poolvillas, the award-winningAnantara Spa, an on-site water

sports centre, and a selection of dining optionsfrom East and West. Large wedding parties canalso take advantage of the 103 guest roomsavailable at the adjacent AVANI Kalutara Resort.Enjoy an array of sophisticated settings for youronce-in-a-lifetime celebrations. An outdoor terraceoverlooking the lagoon and manicured lawn areaprovide the perfect setting for al frescoceremonies. The impressive 630 sqm Ballroomboasts panoramic views of the Indian Ocean andKalu Ganga, and can accommodate 400 guestsfor a cocktail reception and 350 for formalbanquets. - PR

Assistant Director Food & Beverage Iyantha Abeysinghe (on left)and Director Culinary Services Chef Kithsiri de Silva

KINGSBURY WINS MULTIPLE GLOBAL AWARDS

By Sujith Konara(nation.lk) President Maithripala Sirisena openedthe first super luxury hotel with residential units inNuwara Eliya last Saturday on (26th) which is theonly star-class luxury hotel built outside Colombo.This type of hotel projects is the latest concept inhotel industry with residential units attached whichtends to boost the local tourist industry.The local and foreign tourists visiting Nuwara Eliyawith families can enjoy all the amenities in thishotel complex. The hotel has sixty-four luxuryresidential units with servant quarters.The hotel is branded as the Araliya Green CityNuwara Eliya. It consists of 192 rooms in totoincluding 40 deluxe rooms and 33 normal roomsand a gym and all other amenities. This hotelfurther enhances beauty to the landscape of theNuwara Eliya town. The Araliya Green City Hoteloverlooks the Victoria Park and borders the GolfCourse and the Buddhist temple in the NuwaraEliya town.The hotel has many facilities including conferencehalls which other super class hotels lack. Theserene environs in the hotel are a real boon to the

visitors.The hotel is a big boost to the tourist industry. Itprovides direct employment to 350 and 500indirect employment to local youths. The hotelcomplex spreads over two and half acres and risesto seven storeys and includes a super marketingcomplex.This hotel property is owned by Dudley Sirisena,the owner of the Polonnaruwa Sudu Araliya Hotel.“There are two ways to earn foreign exchange tothis country. One is inland tourism and the other isbeach tourism. Those resources are not exploitedto the full potential. Many invested in hotel industryin the Eastern coast. But none has taken anyinterest outside it. I turned to the tourism industrywith a view to develop it. I am the trailblazer toinvest in a super luxury hotel in the central hills.But of the late, many have started to build touristhotels in the central hill. It is a welcome trend.“We earned our foreign exchange from ourtraditional export crops such as tea, rubber andcoconut. But now market for them is bleak due todeclining oil prices.“I decided to contribute my best effort to develop

the tourismindustry to matchwith the newtrends,” DudleySirisena thusexplained hisvision.The exclusivefeature in his hotelis the warm waterswimming pool. Itis definitely a novelexperience toforeign touristsvisiting Sri Lanka.All the wood usedin the hotelexclusively fromthe local timbermarket and the ground floor is designed givingprominence to local woodwork. The hotel hasfacilities to hold weddings or any other type offunctions. This new luxury hotel is, no doubt, ajewel in the crown of Nuwara Eliya tourist hotspot.

This super luxury hotel in the cool clime definitelywill bring prosperity to this misty city and it willtrickle down to low income strata of the localcommunity.(Translated by Ananda Elkaduwa)

President opens super luxury hotel in Nuwara Eliya

(dailynews.lk) Twenty five year old, DamithWijayathunga, the eldest son in a family of threeboys, who hails from Matale, represented SriLanka, at the ‘Man of the World 2017' pageant inthe Philippines recently. It was the first edition ofthe pageant.He studied at St.Thomas College, Matale, and theScience College, Matale. He is asportsman and has played cricketand athletics, specialising in the100-200 meters. He graduated inComputer Science He enjoys,hiking , orienteering , rock climbing, watching movies and going to thegym. He graduated in ComputerScience from National School ofBusiness Management.Damith, won the title of Mister SriLanka and represented Sri Lankafor the ‘Man of the World 2017’.The contestants visited manybeautiful and cultural places in thePhilippines. Damith’s favourite place is NegrosOriental Dumaguete. He says it is one of the mostbeautiful islands he had ever seen.

He made many friends there but the ones whowere closest to him were Mr Vietnam, Mr Gibraltar,Mr Cape Verde, Mr Algeria, Mr Nepal, Mr Zambiaand Mr China. He says that the pageant was verytiring, but an experience he will always treasureand one every young person should experience, atleast once

He wishes to thank his family, hisNational Director Brian Kerkoven,Sameera Weerasinghe, who alsoguided him, Hiran Wijesekera forthe amazing national costume,which although it did not win, wasrecognised by so many peoplearound the world as spectacular,Lakshman Guruge of PettahTailors who sponsored his formalwear, EKKO & Clubhouse Vivaldi,who sponsored his casual wear,Kamil Hewavitharana for his helpwith his wardrobe and generalguidance. Special thanks also

goes to Sanka media team, Heahan Don , AmalMahesh and all the friends and fellow Sri Lankanswho supported him in one way or another.

Damith shines at ‘Man of the World 2017’

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(ft.lk) The first-ever Sri Lankan to be appointed asthe President of Toastmasters International,Arunasalam Balraj, was given a warm welcomeupon his return to the country on Sunday at theBandaranaike International Airport following thehistoric development.Toastmasters International (TMI) is a world leaderin communication and leadership development.The organisation has a membership of 360,000across 16,500 clubs in 142 countries that make upa global network ofmeeting locations.District 82 ofToastmastersInternational comprises240 Toastmasters clubs,with 6,500 membersspread across TamilNadu, India and SriLanka. The Toastmastersmovement in Sri Lanka,which commenced itsjourney in 1983 with oneclub, has madesignificant strides locallyand internationally.At the recently concluded International Conventionheld in Vancouver, Canada, distinguished

Toastmaster Balraj was elected InternationalPresident, becoming the first Sri Lankan residing inSri Lanka and the first South Asian to lead theorganisation.A dedicated Toastmaster for 28 years, Balraj is aproduct of Trinity College, Kandy. He has heldnumerous offices from the club level to theinternational level. The roles he has served ininclude International Director 2011-2013, SecondVice President 2014-2015, First Vice-President2015-2016 and President Elect 2016-2017.

Balraj is considered the architect of the first Districtbetween India and Sri Lanka. Working selflesslytowards growing this movement exponentially, hisefforts have provided people from all walks of lifewith an opportunity to ignite their confidence toface the world and its challenges.Balraj firmly believes in a ‘People First’ attitude. Heexplains: “My journey to the pinnacle of thismovement today as International President is notby chance. It was possible thanks to the belief that

the members have placed in me.” Inturn, Balraj is passionate aboutguiding others to find their ownpersonal vision.Balraj states: “Toastmasters is not justan organisation or a movement, it is alearning laboratory.”He adds: “This learning laboratoryprovides members a platform for self-discovery. With the help of acontinuous, structured program,members discover their strengths bylearning at their own pace.”Toastmasters International has aproven track record of helping

members eliminate their fear of public speaking.The program is specially designed to groomindividuals into effective leaders.

The growth of the Toastmasters movement isvery evident in Sri Lanka’s corporate world.Many top companies across the island -realising the need for employees to expressthemselves with clarity - have encouraged in-house corporate Toastmasters Clubs. Balrajsays: “We are proud that leading organisationshave embraced ourprogram as a platformfor learning anddevelopment. Severalheads of HR also viewparticipation in theprogram as a KeyPerformance Indicatorof an employee’ssuccess.”ToastmastersInternational hascontinuously evolvedwith the needs of its

members and is all set tolaunch a brand newsyllabus entitled‘Pathways’. As a programthat is relevant to ourchanging world, Pathwayswill provide members withan opportunity to identifythe skills they wish toenhance themselves and

learn from more than 300 competencies. Thesecompetencies range from speaking to aninternational audience to delivering an effectivepresentation at a company or board meeting.Balraj is a strong advocate of the belief thatleadership training for individuals should start atthe grassroots level in schools.“The children of today are the future leaders oftomorrow, and they will influence the direction ofthis country. I am proud to state that, in my tenureas International President, we have launched aYouth Leadership Program targeting 1,000schoolchildren. This is a 10-week course aimed atgrooming confident young communicators andleaders from various parts of Sri Lanka. We hope

to introduce the same model in other countries aswell.”To felicitate Balraj’s appointment as theInternational President of Toastmasters, District 82- along with his home clubs of ColomboToastmasters, Ralph Toastmasters, SmedleyToastmasters and Pinnacle AdvancedToastmasters – has organised a felicitationceremony on 16 September at Hotel Galadari. Theevent will be graced by over 500 Toastmasters ofSri Lanka as well as International Toastmasters, inaddition to respected Government officials,diplomats and senior corporate representatives.

Pix by Indraratne Balasuriya

Warm welcome for first Lankan President of Toastmasters International

(sundaytimes.lk) Persaudaraan, the Revised andUpgraded Edition, is an anthropological tomewritten by Tuan. M. Zameer Careem, a Sri LankanMalay medical student who has in this enlargededition provided an insight into the unique way oflife of Malays, an ethnic minority living in Sri Lanka.Tuan M. Zameer Careem already has a number ofpublications on Malays of Sri Lanka, and this is hislatest.The title of the book conveys the thrust of thewriter’s argument: Sri Lanka’s diverse communityhas helped create multicultural Sri Lanka and therich, vibrant and complex Malay entity has furtherenriched the nation’s multicultural mosaic.

The origin of Malays in Sri Lanka can be traced totwo different entities, the first set of Malays cameto Ceylon during Dutch colonialism from Celebes,Java and Sumatera, currently part of theIndonesian archipelago and the second group,mainly soldiers and mercenaries arrived on theLankan shores during British rule from currentMalaysia. This book takes a diachronic andsynchronic approach discussing the existence ofSri Lankan Malays through colonial influences ofthe Portuguese, British and Dutch in 21 chapters.In the preface, the writer contextualizes theseMalays in Sri Lanka and their relationship with theirancestors’ land. Malays in early Sri Lanka have

been discussed inchapter one whichfocuses on theirdistribution mainly inthe coastal area of theisland. It is followed bythe discussion on theirsocio-economicactivities andinvolvement in thepolitics of Sri Lanka.As indicated by theauthor, this editionreally is a new book,with more than 50percent of the contents,consisting of newresearch material and Ido agree with theauthor’s claim that SriLankan Malays standout with three

extraordinary elements, cuisine, the Creole versionof Malay language and the quintessential Malaycostumes and jewellery (p.38).The writer elaborately discusses the earlier historyand achievement of the Malays in Sri Lanka fromchapter three to chapter eleven. They showed theirloyalty to the local kings, served and even diedtogether with the locals against colonialism. Theloyalty to the Kandyan court shows that the Malaysdespite their Malay/ Indonesian origin managed togain the trust of the local Nayaka Kings. Beingloyal to the masters whether it was to the Kandyancourt or the colonial government, the Malays havealways played a pivotal role in the security andbureaucracy of the nation. There were caseswhere the British colonial government badlytreated the Ceylonesewhich the author hasdiscussed in detail insome of the chapters onBritish Colonialism.He has described howBritain destroyed Ceylonthrough looting,expropriation, bloodybattles and outright theftbut he has seized everyopportunity to praise themartial prowess of theCeylon Rifle Regiment.The Malays in the Britishera continuously showedtheir strength and capabilities and managed togain recognition especially through the muchacclaimed Rifle Regiment.Other achievements of the Malays are discussed

in chapter five on Honours and Service (p. 78-86).The book also narrates some of the misconductcarried out by Malays such as treachery,immorality, etc and the stories have been

unravelled in the chapter followingBritish rule.As this book is interwovensynchronically with many aspects,few personalities who havecontributed to the Malay presence inthe history of Sri Lanka like MalayRoyals and Malay Military Chiefs arealso indicated in the book.The author shows that while SriLankan Malays have accepted andadopted some of the local culturalpractices they have their distinctiveMalay rituals that date back severalcenturies. The culture of the Malaydiaspora in Sri Lanka is discussed inchapters like Exiled Royalty and

Fashion, Sri Lankan Malay Culture and TypicalMalay Wedding and Rituals.

(Contd: on P28)

Malays as part of Sri Lanka’s multicultural mosaic and a wider diaspora

The medical student cum author speakingat the book launch on Wednesday.

Pix by Amila Gamage

ISSUE 1345 NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017 PAGE 17

Ishreen Bradley with thanks for contributions fromAzahim Mohamed, Alan (Ahamed Hussein)Wahab and Mohamed SaleemForty five years is a long time for any associationto exist in the UK. The Sri Lanka Islamic (UK)Association formed on 19 November 1972 is theoldest Sri Lankan association in this country. Onthat date, a few committed Sri Lankan Muslimsliving in the UK gathered at the home of MrsShams Cassim to start creating a future for theirchildren where Sri Lankan and Islamic traditionscould continue to thrive - as well as provide socialgatherings and a voice for Sri Lankan Muslimsliving in the UK.Many informal meetings were held with over 30families gathering at the home of the late MrsShams Cassim (spearheaded by Nizar Cassim)prior to the birth of the present Sri Lanka Islamic(UK) Association fondly known as the “SLIA”.The dedication of the SLIA's founding memberswas such that they opened up their homes to thecommunity during the 1970s and 80s planningand hosting religious, social, sports and culturalevents. As our younger generations have grownup in the UK and our community has becomemore affluent, our interests have expanded toinclude more charitable and educational aspects.Since its inception, the SLIA's religious activities,library of resources and the regular newsletterhave played a key part in connecting and informingSri Lankans living in the UK about the SLIA'sactivities consistent with its mission: to promotecharitable, social, cultural, sports and educationalactivities that achieve unity and strengthenrelationships in line with our religious and culturalvalues for the benefit of our members and thecommunities we engage with.Our first Librarian and Editor of the Newsletter wasMarhoom Sabir Ismail. The Newsletter hassubsequently been edited by Amin Ismail,Mohamed Saleem, Ishreen Bradley, FathimaSulaiman and Manjula Ossman. Mohamed Saleemhas also supported us in brining thesecommunications into the current era with awebsite, Facebook page and regular textmessages to communicate urgent news to thecommunity. Our online presence is now beingprogressed by our youngest committee member,Khalid Malhar. Our legacy and track record hasbeen preserved by the excellent photographstaken of our events by Past President Amin Ismailover the past 45 years.

The SLIA's first President, M T M Zahir set thestage for a strong foundation of religious activities,with the religious highlights being the two Eidcelebrations where our members have theopportunity of meeting each other, sharing a mealand praying together. These events are also aforum for our children to develop and display theirknowledge of religion and culture. Typically, over300 of our members attend each of our Eidfunctions.Since its inception, SLIA has celebrated Meelad

Un Nabi in honour of our beloved Prophet everyyear and maintained our religious traditions fromour homeland, including the conducting of spiritualDhikr and Halara on a regular basis. PastPresidents Arooz Liawdeen, Iqbal Ossman andHilardeen Ossman continue to be key players in

ensuring these activities are enriching for thecommunity.We are proud members of the Union of MuslimOrganisation UK, Muslim Council of Britain, SriLanka Muslim Organisation UK (Cosmos) and theIslamic Council of Europe.The SLIA has also held religious classes toeducate our children and adults on recitation ofThe Holy Quran, learning the Arabic language andunderstanding the formal and more subtle aspectsof the Islamic faith…initially in the residences of

members the family homes of our stalwarts: T SCassim, A M Hammard, M T M Zahir and MuinMarikar. As the class sizes increased, a need forlarger premises was necessary we moved toAlperton High school then Welldon School to caterfor the increasing demand. With the arrival ofmore Sri Lankan's into the UK in the 1980s, itbecame important to have our own premises. Asuitable premises was identified by Mr LatheefAbdeen during the Presidency of Mr ThalaathIsmail and fully operational as a community centreby the Presidency of Mr Ishaq Thahir.

SLIA was the first Sri Lankan association to haveits own premises in the UK. Many fund raisingprojects were undertaken to collect funds for thepurchase of a building.The Crescent Fair held in 1978 and the screeningof Sinhala film “Sarungala”, screened in 1979 weremajor fund raisers. Many Members contributed amonthly sum of £1.00 per month which launchedthe building fund and donations were received bymany well wishers. After the Building waspurchased Mr Farook Zavahir and Mushin Hamzahelped The SLIA with further donations. The SLIAalso, received funds from the Embassy of TheKingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Community ofMuslim affairs (a charitable Saudi Arabianorganisation based in the UK) and Dr ShaykhShamsaddin Al Fassi.As a result of these efforts, SLIA under its charityIslamic Cultural Home UK trust was successful inpurchasing a property outright in Hanwell that hassupported the community since 15 January 1994.

Past Presidents Farook Saleem andNizam Ismail were elected as thePermanent Trustees of the SLICHtrust. Much of the work required tomove us from finding a suitablepremises to having the legal andlogistical infrastructure wasestablished by the transitioncommittees from 1991 to 1995, andwe have to thank Past Presidents:Nakeem Jabbar, Ishack Thahir,Nissther Annis and Feisal Musaferfor their contribution to this cause.The centre used to house the libraryand held many SLIA activities. As aresult of continuing growth of theAssociation, this facility is no longerlarge enough to house our activitiesand is being rented to raise fundsfor expansion. A new extension isunder consideration by the presentCommittee.

Social events also, play a major rolein the life of the SLIA. Jovial andenjoyable trips have been organisedfor the community, starting with thelegendary annual day trips to theBlackpool lights initiated by oursecond President Mr Nizam Ismail.It was on the way back from thesetrips that our appetite for sportbegan to shine as Past PresidentsTS Cassim and Thalaath Ismailwould set up ad-hoc sports meets to

keep us youngsters active.In the early 1990s, under the Presidency ofThalaath Ismail, an initiative was started to engagethe younger members of the SLIA to ensure thelegacy of the founding fathers continued into thenext generation. The President asked his daughterIshreen Bradley to establish a forum for exploringand progressing interest with the (then) youngergeneration. The younger members met at Moorishrestaurant Mosaic in Old Street to discuss andexplore where they would like to take the SLIA.The key focus for younger members at the timewere sports and social activities and resulted in anindoor sports meet and a short break in CentreParcs organised by Haleem Ossman and IshreenBradley. The succession from the founding fathersto the next generation was formally recognised bythe first Executive Committee that comprised fullyof second generation Sri Lankan Muslim living inthe UK in 2001 under the Presidency of AlthafZahir son of our first SLIA President.More recently the SLIA has organised trips abroadto Morocco and even a Hajj trip to Mecca.

We have had a successful sports calendar with

Religious Activities - Our Core Foundation:

SLIA Premises

Social Events To Add A Bit OfSpice

Showing our Prowess in Sports

(Contd: on P19)

ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 18

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SRI LANKA ISLAMIC (UK) ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES 45 YEARS SERVINGTHE COMMUNITY 1972 - 2017

President Jazal Marzook with his Exco team from left to right: Jezri Mohideen (Chair, Building Subcommittee), Sadat Sadiq (AssistantSecretary), Azhar Salahudeen (Secretary), Alan Wahab (Vice President), Jazal Marzook (President), Ishreen Bradley (Chair, Charity

Subcommittee), Latiff Abdeen, Fazly Wahab (Treasurer), Rafat Hashim (Chair, Religious Events), Khalid Malhar (Assistant Treasurer)

Shakyh Nazim our spiritual guide

Religious - Past Presidents with Imam Farooki

Religious - Shaykh Shamsaddin al Fassi our sponsorand spiritual guide

Hockey dribble at the Sports meet

Younger Members evening at Mosaic Restaurant

Younger Members determining future activities

SLIAfrom P18annual sports meets outdoor and indoor, and asuccessful cricket team. SLIA's cricket team wasrepresented in the major cricket league for anumber of years and captained by cricketmasters: Tuan Faleel, Nakeem Jabbar and Fazly

Wahab among others. More recently our nextgeneration of talent has shown up in the guise ofthe junior Faleel boys and Imran Ismail, whereour SLIA team triumphed over 'The Hoppers' (aKent based team that coaches young sportstalent in underprivileged parts of Eastern SriLanka). A number of sports meets involvemulticultural events and attract sponsorship fromregional funders, including several run inpartnership with Women Engaged in BuildingBridges an organisation set up to increaseunderstanding between different communitiesliving in the UK. We have continued to activelyparticipate in multicultural sports activities withthe unique and first ever Sri Lankan interculturalsports event Serenity - initiated by our very ownHaleem Ossman and Alan Wahab.

SLIA is keen to maintain awareness of ourmembers' cultural heritage and we provideevents to educate our children on our Sri Lankanculture. At a recent event, our childrenentertained us with Singhalese songs, dress anda beautiful rendition of the Sri Lankan National

Anthem. In return they and the 100+ audiencewere treated to good traditional Sri Lankan foodfrom all cultures and faiths.Our commitment is to work closely with the UKSri Lankan High Commission in sharing ourculture more widely. A landmark event in thisregard was our collaboration at the opening ofthe Sri Lankan exhibition and Festival of Sri

Lanka at The Commonwealth Institute in London,July 1981. We worked together to provide ourdelicious Muslim food as well as choreographand perform traditional Sri Lankan dances for ourthen President Premadasa, Her Majesty TheQueen and His Royal Highness, Prince Philip.We were delighted to have the opportunity of

shaking hands with such nobility asthey took the time to personally meeteach of us.More recently, with many tragediesfacing our motherland, our culturaleducation efforts have taken acharitable bent and we are looking tocreate projects that enable our

children to spend theirsummer vacationsgiving their time to theunderprivileged in SriLanka while learning ata grass roots levelwhat life can be like inour country. Thisenables our youngstersto develop themselvesand make a differencein a way that they get awider culturaleducation.

Since its inception theSLIA has been involvedwith many charitableprojects. As thecommunity has grownin strength andsuccess, themembership has takena more focusedapproach to charitableservices with ouryounger generationsseeing this as a corefunction of the SLIA.To this end, we workalongside a number ofdifferent charities,including Muslim Aidand VOSD (VolunteerOrganisation for SocialDevelopment) todeliver capacitybuilding and rescuecontributions todeservingcommunities. Our 40thbirthday, under thePresidency of Gazali

Hammard was celebrated inpartnership with Muslim Aid and asignificant contribution provided totheir good works.SLIA's aim is to work closely with theSri Lanka High Commission inensuring the best application of funds

raised for ourcharitableactivities to support SriLanka.The Tsunami which hit SriLanka on Boxing Day2004 brought all SriLankan organisations inthe UK together underthe banner “Sri LankaMuslim Tsunami Relief”.Then SLIA PresidentAzahim Mohamed waselected the Chairman ofSLMTR, which collectedand distributedsubstantial funds to allthe affected areas in SriLanka.The SLIA has played ahuge part in assistingwhen major calamitiesunfold in our country. Twoscholarships wereestablished with theCeylon MuslimScholarship fundsfollowing the recent floodsthat effected large parts ofSri Lanka, including theKolonnawa district. Wehave also helped withrehousing a family thatwas made homeless bythis calamity.Each year the SLIAprovides funds fromgenerous donations

received for the Ramadan appeal to distributefood parcels to householders worthy of Sadaqaand Zakat (both forms of Islamic charity). Todate, we have focused this effort in Hambantotafor the Tsunami Village and in Mullaithivu for theNeeravipitty Village. The SLIA is also, involved inhousing support projects in Mullaithivu and otherareas, providing necessary amenities, waterwells, drinking water and toilet facilities to needyvillagers.Many charitable events are organised and run byfemale members of SLIA to support deservingcauses within and outside Sri Lanka. Forexample, the sponsored walk in Regents Parkand the Book writing competition in collaborationwith Muslim Aid both held in the first half of thisyear, enabled our association to contribute over£17,000 to help with medical aid in Syria. Thesevaluable projects have been led by anenthusiastic and efficient cohort of femalemembers, including: Manjua Ossman, AyeshaIbrahim, Zuleikha Cassim, Shahra MohamedSaleem and Yumna Mohideen.

As we reach our 45th birthday in the Presidencyof Jazal Marzook and his Executive Committee,we are thrilled to be heralded by all Sri Lankancommunities in the UK and abroad as a strongwell-established Sri Lankan Association. As weMuslims say, “Masha Allah”! It is the unity andsupport that we receive that makes this possibleand that has made us a beacon in society. Thegenerous contribution, participation and successof our members continues to fuel our pride indelivering on our vision, which is to connect ourmembers with their Sri Lankan heritage

Cultural and Educational Activities toConnect us with Our Heritage

Charitable Projects toFeed the Soul

In Conclusion

ISSUE 1345 NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017 PAGE 19

Interfaith Sportsmeet 2010

Inter-cultural Cricket Match

Inter-cultural Cricket MatchPresidents Sri Lanka Islamic UK Association from top left

to bottom right: M T M Zahir, 1972 1976; Nizam Ismail,1976 1979; M S M Farook,1979 1981; T S Cassim, 1981

1983; A M Hammard, 1983 1985; Amin Ismail, 1985 1987;Azahim Mohamed, 1987 1989 & 2004 2006; Thalaath

Ismail, 1989 1991; Nakeem Jabbar, 1991 1993; IshackThahir, 1993 -1995 & 2003 2004; Nissther Annis, 19951997; M Feisal Musafer, 1997 -1999 & 2006 2008; Iqbal

Ossman, 1999 2001; Arooz Liyawdeen, 2001 2003; AlthafZahir , 2008 2010; Hilar Deen Ossman, 2010 2012; Gazali

Hammard, 2012 2013; Mohamed Saleem, 2013 2014;Haleem Ossman, 2014 2016; Jazal Marzook, 2016 To date

SLIA trip to Morocco 2014

SLIA trip to Morocco

Past President Farook Saleem Handing overSinhala translation of Quran

SLIA Children's Festival at Harrow Civic Centre 2008

Women of SLIA

ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 20

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By Joshua Surendraraj

Pix by M.A Pushpakumara

(sundaytimes.lk) The beauty of a particular songsometimes resonates in the fact that it stirs acertain memory. To many, that tunewould take them back to their schooldays. S.Thomas’ College, Mt. Laviniahas always had a rich tradition of musicand over the years, they’ve certainly lefttheir mark in the music industry. As theylook to celebrate a century since thecollege moved to Mt. Lavinia, thespecial events committee of the schoolpresents ‘Musical Perpetua’ onSeptember 19 at the Bishop’s Collegeauditorium, starting at 7.30pm.The concert will feature performancesby both the past and present studentsof the school. Some of the renownednames include the De Lanerollebrothers, Dyan Fernando, Joy De Alwis,

Niran De Mel and Gananath Dassanayake. Thisweek we take a closer look at the school’s CantoPerpetua Choir and Western band, set to perform

at the show.Canto Perpetua, whichtranslates into ‘SingingForever,’ consists ofThomian choristers fromgrade two till the AdvancedLevel section. They aredirected under the watchfuleye of Mr. Vinod Senadeerawho is a well-known figure inthe field of performing artsand an old Thomian himself.The choir made their debutperformance at “Music’sAlways There” in 2008,together with Nuovo Vitae, aprofessional group of pastThomian choristers. The

same year, they also puttogether ‘Mistletoe Magic,which was a Christmas

concert.Since then theyhave also played amajor role at manymusical events andhave also beeninvolved in manystage productions,such as “Nickelby” in2009 and “Gaudete”in 2010. CantoPerpetua hasperformed atconcerts, such as“Rally RoundChristmas 2009” and“Mistletoe Magic2012”.They look to bringan exceptional

performance, this timetoo.The Thomian Western Music Band has a slightlyolder history in comparison with the CantoPerpetua choir. They made their debut at the OldBoys’ Day back in 1970 as a marching band. Sincethen, they went through many changes and at onepoint, converted into a performing ensemble.Over the years, the Western Band has organisedmany concerts. The first of many was in 1985,under the guidance of Ms. Rani Perera. This showcelebrated its 15th anniversary. They alsoshowcased another instrumental concert back in1994. After many years of silence, the ensemblecame back strong with “Music of the Night” in 2008and 2010. These concerts were organized on alarge scale and also featured performances frommany leading schools in Colombo. Manilal

Weerakoon, a prominent musician himself andformer conductor and principal horn player of theSymphony Orchestra of Sri Lanka, has been theprincipal instructor of the band for many years.Overall ‘Musical Perpetua’ looks to bring a fusionof both the past and present. The beauty of theshow lies in the fact that it’s cemented on thatThomian spirit and both the Canto Perpetua choirand the Thomian Western Music Band lookforward to portray that, in what truly appears to bea promising concert.Tickets are priced at Rs. 3000, 2500, 2000, 1500,1000 and 750 (Balcony). They will be available atthe Bishop’s College Auditorium.

By Purnima Pilapitiya(sundaytimes.lk) A performance celebrating twodecades of musical brotherhood will highlightthe group’s beginnings and their forward journeytogetherIt’s a balmy Sunday evening as a few mentrickle down the corridors and walkways of St.Joseph’s College. When they assemble outsidea few deserted classrooms, the rich hum of theirvoices warming up for the vigorous choirpractices that occupy most of the past fewweeks echoes through the quiet of the college.“People don’t just come back for the singing it’smore than that, it’s coming back to college,”says Russel Valentine. In two weeks, the groupwill take the stage of the Lionel Wendt,celebrating two decades of a musicalbrotherhood as the Old Joes Choir celebratestheir 20th anniversary with “Evolution: TheJourney”.

The title of the show on September 23 and 24 isnot unfamiliar to those who have watched thechoral ensemble before. They have performed aseries of shows with the same title; “Evolution:The World Stage” for instance, washeld to raise funds to make the journeyto the World Choir Games (2014). ForRehan Almeida, it only makes sensethat their latest concert goes back totheir roots in performing, sharing withtheir audiences the journey andevolution of the choir.What began as a group of old boysbeing featured at the school carolservice has grown into a choir of over30 active members. Earlier this year,the choir began their celebration with athanksgiving service titled “This is MyStory”.While the evening of sacredmusic sung in their signature choral

style is a comfort zone for theensemble, which has roots insinging sacred music from theirschool days, it is only one stitch inthe tapestry that is their potential.“Evolution: The Journey” hopes toshow people the choir’s musicalflexibility.This time around, music lovers canlook forward to pop, funk, jazz androck music from the 90’s and today-music which has followed the choirof mixed age groups all the wayfrom their own teenage years. Whilehelping choose the song list, Rehanis excited about performing some ofthe numbers that moved him thefirst time he watched the OJCperform. Staple choir favouritessuch as Queen’s “BohemianRhapsody” is one such piece whichwill make a re-appearance at theshow, with an all new vocalarrangement.In addition to their powerful spiritualnumbers and Barbershop style ofsinging, the choir has always had apenchant for changing the musicthey sing and experimenting witharrangements, making most of theirperformances both familiar and still fresh. It

was their own desire to experiment that foundthe group performing in the Barbershopcategory at the World Choir Games, a decisionthey admit questioning till the last minute. It paid

off ultimately, adding yet another dimension tothe group. This time too, they are experimentingwith new music, so look out for choral

arrangements of hip hop and covers of localartists, including an original song.For Russel, the chairperson of the project, theevening will be a mix of the “best of the OJC”

and newer pieces they haven’ttried before. The show willencompass the hits of theScorpions, to Michael Buble,Justin Timberlake to Justin Beiber,making it difficult to pin the choirdown to one style. This year’schoir leader, Nigel Lord agrees,most of their performances arewell known songs given a newtake. Their style of performing- analmost dramatic storytelling feedstheir connection with theiraudience, to the extent where thesinging on stage is joined by thesinging in the audience. “Youreally can feel the connection,” headds, recalling how he felt the firsttime he watched the OJC performwhile still in school.For their dedicated innerschoolboy spirits, the chance tokeep coming back to school is theelement that keeps them together,explains Rehan. The show evenfinds most of the original membersfrom 20 years ago still makingtheir way to the practice sessionsalong with several other old boyswho will take the reins on the othercreative aspects of the show. Theircelebration they hope, will sharetheir journey with those who cometo watch. “We want the crowd tosee that we have evolved intosomething more,” says Nigel,echoing the others’ sentiments. Achance to look back at thebeginning, and offer a glimpse intothe future.“Evolution: The Journey” will beheld on September 23 and 24 atthe Lionel Wendt Theatre. Ticketspriced at Rs. 2500, 2000, 1500

and 800 (balcony) will be available at the LionelWendt. For more information contact Kaveen on0779195284 .

Triumphant: The Old Joes Choir at the World Choir Games in Latvia, 2014

Old Joes in full swing: On a journey together with a song in their hearts

‘Musical Perpetua’ bringing past and present pupils together

Something old, something new from Old Joes

ISSUE 1345 NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017 PAGE 21

Each year, UK Charity Helplanka , that helpschildren through education in Sri Lanka, conductsa successful Volunteer Programme ,organised andled by Chief Executive Sam Goonetillake to thecountry. This year's team of 18 including teachersand pupils from Barry Comprehensive SchoolWales raised over £20,000 and were hosted to areception at The British HighCommission in Colombo where TomBurns, Deputy High Commissioner,presented the Helplanka Volunteerscertificates of recognition and praisedthe charity for their longstanding effortsto help children in Sri Lanka for over 12years.The group, who raised fundsthroughout the year, taught English,Geography and Maths and participatedin games at St Xavier's College Marawila NWP,Diyagala Boy's Town Kandana WP , Siviraja Deafand Blind School Mahawewa, Samata SaranaMutwal and Kindigoda and Mabodala VidyalayaWP. Helplanka also raised funds to assist a schoolaffected by the floods in Mapalagama, Elpitiya

District and distributed school uniforms and booksthemselves and visited the school to assess theimpact of the floods. Helplanka donated a numberof English and Sinhala language books,equipment , sports goods and arts and craftsmaterials to the children at all of the projects . Aspart of the trip to Sri Lanka Helplanka organised

a tour of the island to include visits toSigiriya, Negombo , Habarana,Colombo Dambulla Galle & Kandy.Sam Goonetillake commented “ I wouldlike to thank Barry ComprehensiveSchool Staff and pupils and parents fortheir continued support of the work ofthe charity and The British HighCommission for recognising their hardwork, dedication and commitment tohelping children in Sri Lanka . We rely

heavily on donations to continue our work both inthe UK and also in Sri Lanka and hope that theirwork will inspire others to come forward to supportus. “HELP US HELP THEM HELP LANKAwww.helpanka.org.uk

PRESS RELEASE

British High Commission Colombo applauds Helplanka !

On 16th and 17th September at the LondonBuddhist Vihara we shall be celebrating the153rd birth anniversary of our founder,Anagarika Dharmapala.

Head of The London Buddhist Vihara

Anagarika Dharmapala was born in Ceylon, asit was then called, in1864 to the Mudliar DonKarolis Hewavitharanaand his beloved wifeMallika Hewavitharana.He was the eldest childin this wealthy family.This was at the height ofBritish rule whereChristianity and Englisheducation received prideof place. The boy wasgiven a Christian name,David. Having schooledat St. Benedict'sCatholic school and atSt. Thomas' Protestantschool, David acquireda fluent command of theEnglish language.Although the Christianfaith and its values weretaught to young David,the fact that the familymaintained a close association with the reveredand venerated monk Hikkaduwe Sri SumangalaThero enabled David to remain resolutely loyalto his Buddhist values and principles.In 1880 he had a fortuitous meeting with Col.Olcot and Madam Blavatski, the founders of theTheosophical Society. They were looking for an

individual who was fluent in Sinhala andEnglish to accompany them on their visits toparts of Ceylon. David fitted the bill perfectlyand thus began this great association betweenthese people. He changed his name to

Angarika Dharmapala.He accompanied Col.Olcot and MadamBlavatski on a visit toBuddhagaya in India,the place of theBuddha'sEnlightenment. Hewas shocked andhorrified to see such aplace of venerationhad gone to rack andruin and that it wasbeing governed bynon-Buddhists. Thisincensed the Angarikawho prostrated in frontof the Buddha's statueand vouched that hewould restore this holysite to its rightful gloryand at the same timebring this place underthe jurisdiction of the

Buddhists. To help in fighting the many battlesthat lay ahead, he established the Maha BodhiSociety in 1891. Despite his tireless efforts, itwas not until after his death that control ofBuddhagaya was finally given to the Buddhists.The world's parliament of religions, held inChicago in 1893, could not have come at a

better time for Dharmapala whorepresented Ceylon and TheravadaBuddhism at this momentous occasion.The theme of his talk was, “The world'sdebt to Buddha.” Following hisremarkable speech which had theaudience spellbound and in awe, theAnagarika came to be recognised as aleading Buddhist figure in the wholeworld.Mention must be made of a trulyremarkable meeting the Anagarika hadon his return trip from USA via Japan.He met Mary Foster in Hawaii. She wasso impressed with the Anagarika'suntiring efforts and visionary conceptsfor the future of Buddhism, that shegave millions of rupees for thepropagation of Buddhist schools,temples, hospitals, etc. to be establishedin Ceylon, India and the UK.In 1926 his dream became realised with thefounding of the London Buddhist Vihara. As amark of gratitude to this great benefactress, theAnagarika named this building at 86 MadeleyRoad in Ealing as Foster House. By his life andmission Anagarika Dharmapala showed himselfto be a true kalyana mitta. This term is used todescribe a special kind of friend. It means anoble friend who is concerned for the welfareand happiness of his fellow men. The Buddhasaid he was a kalyana mitta to all mankind.Following in this tradition, AnagarikaDharmapala dedicated his entire life to theadvancement of Buddhism throughout theworld. He achieved a great deal during this life.

First, he was a powerful force behind the revivalof Buddhism in Sri Lanka, which had wiltedunder the pressure of colonial governments.Secondly, by founding the Maha Bodhi Societyand pressing for the return of Buddhagaya toBuddhist control, he helped to revive Buddhismin India. Buddhagaya has now become acentral focus for Buddhist pilgrims visiting India.Thirdly, due to his vision and foresight heplanted a seed in the UK which has grown intoa mighty tree which is now flourishing in manyWestern countries. Whether they are aware of itor not, many Western Buddhists owe a hugedebt of gratitude to Anagarika Dharmapala forhis having brought the dhamma to the West.

Ven. Bogoda Seelawimala

Celebration of 153rd Birth Anniversary of Great Anagarika Dharmapala

ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 22

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By Sinali Ranwala(sundaytimes.lk) Deputy Chief Commissioner ofthe Sri Lanka Scout Association, JanaprithFernando has been elected to the World ScoutCommittee (WSC), the first Sri Lankan to sit on thisprestigious body in the 105- year history ofScouting in Sri Lanka. This achievement for SriLanka came at the 41stWorld Scout Conferencewhich was held inAzarbaijan from August14- 17.The Scouts movement inSri Lanka which proudlycelebrated its 105thanniversary this yearwas started in 1912 byBritish engineer F.G.Stevans at Christ ChurchCollege, Matale. Thiswas just five years afterthe Scouting movementwas launched by RobertBaden- Powell in 1907after the publication ofhis book ‘Scouting forBoys’ .The Scouting movement aims to help youngpeople in their physical, spiritual and mentaldevelopment. It helps to build up children andyoung adults to live socially constructive lives, withemphasis on outdoor and survival skills. Whatstarted with just 20 boys has now grown to a

voluntary global movement.“Scouting is the only organisation to give an allround training to youth. Corporates spendhundreds of thousands of rupees on careertraining for employees. Whereas Scout trainingwould give youngsters better life skills at a youngerage, with no cost,” says Mr. Fernando.

The WorldOrganization of theScouting Movement(WOSM) wasinaugurated in 1920and comprises threebodies; The WorldScout Committee,World ScoutConference and theWorld Scout Bureau.The World ScoutCommittee is thebody that makes theadministrativedecisions within theWOSM. There are sixregions representedwithin the WOSM ;Asia- Pacific, Europe,

Africa, Euroasia, Latin America and Arab regions.12 WOSM members are elected from the sixregions and hold office for three years.“Representatives from Latin America and Europedid not even know where Sri Lanka is. So, this putsSri Lanka on the map. I felt really happy when I

was elected,” said Mr. Fernando.Speaking of significant developments in theScouting arena in Sri Lanka, Mr. Fernandomentions Scouting for the differently- abled; thereis a Scouting Guild for the Ratmalana andMulleriyawa blind schools, also the introduction ofSea and Air Scouting so that Scouts can gainhands-on experience in aircraft and boat handling.With around 55,000 Scouts here, Scouting plays abig role in many schools across the island andmembership is open for everyone from the ages of11 to 25, free of charge.Mr. Fernando emphasising the fact that no Scouthas ever been involved in violence, not evenduring the 1971 insurgency; “Scouts have a senseof responsibility for the country. Diversity is one ofthe main Scouting principles. We work together.”Recently, the Scouting movement has beencampaigning against polythene use. The Sri LankaScout Association made it their mission to adoptZero Waste policies last May. Via school Scoutingorganisations they have been spreading the ZeroWaste message. And during the catastrophicfloods last May, the Sri Lanka Scouts were one ofthe first organisations to respond.For Mr. Fernando, his appointment to the WorldScout Committee is one more step in a career fullof laurels. Born in Ratmalana, in 1967, JanaprithFernando first started scouting in 1979, at the ageof 11, while at St. Thomas Preparatory School, andwould later continue Scouting at S. Thomas’College, Mount Lavinia. He cites his parentssupport as paramount to him reaching the pinnacle

in his Scouting days. Hailing from a family of twobrothers and three sisters, he fondly recollects thathis family surrounded him and cried on the day heleft for his first camp in Nuwara Eliya, when he was11.In 1984, he was decorated with the “President’s’Award “, the highest award a Scout can receive inSri Lanka.He has a long record of service with themovement. During the 2009 – 2012 period he waschairman of the management sub – committee forthe Asian Pacific region.In Sri Lanka, after completion of his tenure of fiveyears as the District Commissioner of Colombo, hewas appointed a Special Commissioner by theNational Scout Headquarters, and later becamethe International Commissioner before beingappointed as the Deputy Chief Commissioner forSri Lanka in 2016.He has also received many international honoursincluding a medal for distinguished services 2011and Scout Service Medal from the Prime Ministerof Malaysia in 2013. In 2014, he was awarded theGreen Jade Lion medal from the President of theRepublic of Taiwan and the same year received theBronze Tamaraw Award from the Vice President ofthe Republic of Philippines among otheraccolades.An Attorney – at-Law by profession he is the VicePresident of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka. Hisfamily, wife Avanthi, his son and daughter are alsoinvolved actively in the Scouts and Girl Guidesmovements.

Janaprith Fernando does the country proud

By Latheef Farook

(Contd: on P24)

(sundaytimes.lk) Former Muslim Affairs Minister AlHaj A.H.M. Azwer, one of the most colourful thoughlately controversial Muslim politicians, passedaway on Tuesday August 29, 2017. His janazatook place the following day after Asr prayers atthe Dehiwala Muslim burial grounds.The Dehiwala mosque where the Janaza prayertook place was packed to its capacity withmourners. Among them was former PresidentMahinda Rajapaksa, who was seen seated in themosque compound. He visited Azwer in hospitalmore than once and was seen at the hospital onthe night Azwer passed away. It was not surprisingof Mahinda Rajapaksa to mourn a man, who stoodby him even at a time his government was beingaccused of harassing the Muslims. After all Azwerwas one of those among those few Muslims, whopublicly stood with the former Presidentnotwithstanding the hostility and isolation theyencountered in Muslim circles. Azwer faced thiswith humility. The packed mourners who crowded

Azwer’s funeral was typically demonstrative of thecommunity’s standing that notwithstanding hisrelations with the former SLFP heavyweight, Azwerhad earned, over a period of more than a halfcentury, the encomiums of theMuslims.From his early days as astenographer at Malibans andBOAC while working as free-lance journalist for Thinakaran inthe evening, later as coordinatingsecretary to the then LabourMinister M.H. Mohamed beforejoining Air Ceylon and laterbecoming private secretary tothe Speaker of National State Assembly MohamedAbdul Bakeer Markar, Azwer Haji has come a longway. His hard work paid and helped him to reachthe pinnacle of his career when he became theMinister of Muslim Religious Affairs. His life storyremains a source of inspiration for the youngergeneration keen on rising through the dint of sheer

hard work.As a journalist covering mainly Muslim affairs, hecame into close contact with Muslim leaders suchas Dr M.C.M Kaleel, who was the Chairman of

United National Party, the late Ministerand Speaker M.H. Mohamed andSpeaker M.A. Bakeer Markar. However,he did not lose his touch with hisgrassroots friends till his death. This wonhim the hearts of even those whodisagree with him on political matters.As Minister of Muslim Affairs, hecollected the parliamentary speeches ofprominent Muslim parliamentarians suchas T.B. Jayah, Speaker M.H. Ismail, Dr

M.C.M Kaleel, A.C.S Hameed and Sir RazikFareed and published them in book form. He alsoorganised a special function to honour livingMuslim artistes, writers and others besides takingnumerous measures to help Hajj pilgrims. He, asMuslim Affairs Minister, was the first to organisestate patronage for Haj pilgrimage which was an

individual affair in the past.No one can challenge his unstinted commitment tothe Muslim community’s causes and servicethroughout his life.However, he created controversy when hesupported President Mahinda Rajapaksa’sgovernment after spending almost his entire lifewith the United National Party. I asked him thereason and this is what he told me: “As a politicianI did not make money. My politics was cleanpolitics. I am not sure whether the UNP will evercome to power and even if it did, I am not sure thatRanil Wickremesinghe will make me aparliamentarian. I will be able to serve thecommunity more effectively if I am aparliamentarian. Therefore, with no betteralternative I joined the Rajapaksa camp which wason the rise after defeating the LTTE.” This wasAzwer Haji, a man of humble beginnings, ofimpeccable moral character with an abidinginterest to serve the community.

For the first time, a Sri Lankan elected to World Scout Committee

Azwer Haji will be remembered for his contribution to Muslim community

Tribute to Retired District JudgeSivagamasundary Aruchuna(sundaytimes.lk) You wonder sometimes why onlysome are always ahead of others in honesty,forthrightness and a strong sense of right andwrong. I have pondered upon this question aboutmy aunt, my father’s cousin, SivagamasundaryAruchuna, daughter of Vallinayaki and Sathasivamof Thambachetty, Puloly West, Point Pedro andmarried to my uncle, the late ChelvathambyAruchuna.The first Tamil lady judge of Sri Lanka started hereducation in Badulla where her father was

employed as a foreman at the Ceylon CommercialCompany. At the turn of events in 1958, shemoved back to Point Pedro and continued herstudies at Methodist Girls’ High School stillexcelling in her class. Hailing from the small villageof Thambachetty, her desire was to become amedical doctor, but instead,she was given inmarriage at a young age, as was the norm in thosedays. However, determined to do higher studiesshe completed her London arts degree and withstrong encouragement from her father and some ofher male cousins, turned to law.When she entered Sri Lanka Law College in 1969,

she was a mother ofsix young children.Balancing her parentalresponsibility with thehelp of her mother, shepassed out as anattorney in 1972 andreturned to PointPedro courts. Herfocus was on civil lawand she was mentoredby her uncles at thePoint Pedro bar,namely, Mr.Sivapathasuderam,Mr. N. A. Rajaratnam,Mr. Esurupatham andMr.A.Nadarajasunderamwho encouraged andguided her to becomethe lawyer sheeventually became,

efficient and honest. In 1982, she was appointedJustice of Peace and Unofficial Magistrate (JPUM)and started her role as acting Judge.Mrs. Sivagamasundary Aruchuna became the firstTamil lady judge of Sri Lanka in 1987 and receivedher initial posting as a District Judge to theMallakam courts. She served in Mannar from 1988to 1990 and was moved to Hulftsdorp due to thepolitical unrest in the region. Hulftsdorp saw herserving as Chief Magistrate and Additional DistrictJudge until her final posting to Trincomalee in1991. Mrs. Aruchuna served asDistrict Judge of Trincomalee untilher retirement in August 1996.It was during her tenure atHulftsdorp in 1991 that I wassetting foot into the legalprofession and was an apprenticefocused on civil law. She stronglyencouraged me to expose myselfto a variety of law includingcriminal law. To this end, she putme in touch with Hulftsdorp’s bestof best in criminal law, Ananda Wijesekera,President’s Counsel, who graciously accepted meas his apprentice. She advised me to attend courtand watch the court proceedings on a regularbasis. She explained to me that there was nobetter way to learn the ropes of the profession. Iremember feeling quite proud to sit in her courtand observe the manner in which she conductedcourt’s affairs in maintaining its decorum. I amthankful for the guidance she has given me inmany ways.Mrs. Aruchuna, a calm and low-profile lady, butaggressive and proactive in professional duties,of

course, came as bad news for lawyers who livedoff “dates”. She had a reputation of disposingcases in a timely fashion without compromising onthe quality of work or the ultimate goal of metingout justice. The story goes that she heard casesthe first day she ascended the bench in anydistrict, no excuse, and for lawyers there was notime to get to know this judge to work out theirstrategy. While I can imagine how that standwould’ve gone down with lawyers, the very lawyerswho have appeared before her, will bear witness to

her efficiency and no-nonsensicalapproach to litigating cases. And forlitigants who sought justice before her,they found a judge they could trust to dothe right thing.After her retirement and immigration toNew Zealand, she returned to Point Pedroin 2003 to spend part of her retirementhelping young lawyers get on their feet.She guided them with procedural aspectsof court and trained them in law,particularly in Thesawalamai law. After her

permanent move to Wellington, New Zealand, shemaintained an active lifestyle, spending her well-deserved retirement with her daughter and familyand being actively involved with the seniorcommunity.As one of her children put it after her passing awayin June this year, “the pillar of our life is gone butthe simplicity of life, honesty and the moral beliefsand values she taught us will guide us for the restof our life and beyond”. Well this is the aunt I knewtoo. Goodbye to a wonderful mother, grandmother,and a well-accomplished lady!

- Asha Ramachandran

Nothing deterred this lady who entered Law College as a mother of six

ISSUE 1345 NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017 PAGE 23

Job VacancyApplications are called from candidates to fill a vacancy for a

on a locally recruited basis at the High Commission. Recruitment willinitially be for a period of one year subject to terms and conditions of the said post.

Confidential Secretary /Clerk Assistant

Qualifications:• General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advance Level (NL) and I or equivalent.• Qualifications I experience in Secretarial work.• Proficiency in English and Sinhala or Tamil languages.• Computer literacy.• Typing of at least 40 words per minute.

Should be a British Citizen or should hold a valid visa for employmentin the UK.

Should not be less than 18 years and not more than 50 years of age on theclosing date for the application.

Minimum of 06 months experience.Those interested can forward self-prepared application along with a brief personal resume,copies of passport / valid visa, evidence of education / work experience to the

to be received on or before 15 September 2017. Only short listed applicantswill be called for an interview.Canvassing in any form will be a disqualification.

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High Commissioner, Sri Lanka High Commission, 13 Hyde park Gardens,London, W2 2LU

High CommissionerSri Lanka High Commission - London.

High Commission of the Democratic SocialistRepublic of Sri Lanka

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KATHIRATHAMBI NITTIANANDANKODIPPILY - THERESE (RITA) - SUWARISLEELAWATHIE PEIRIS SURIYAPPERUMA(AMARASEKARA) -. 295/L, Viharakandawatta,Asgiriya, Gampaha.MAHADEVI KANTHASWAMI.MARCUS PERERA - No. 577, Galle Road,Maggona.MEEWEWA - KIRTHI -MOLDRICH - BURTON CHALLICE - 263, MonaVale Road, St IvesMUTHUKRISHNA - CANDAPPA - No. 5/1,Charlemont Road, Colombo 6PASTOR LAWRENCE MARIYANAYAGAMPERERA - J. ANNESLY NIMAL - 520/2,Nungumagoda, KelaniyaPERERA - NELLIE - “Sriyani”, Pamunugama.PERERA SEBASTIAN AUGUSTUS - No. 17,Mahahunupitiya, Negombo.RAGUPATHY - OLGAPPA

RAJAKARUNA- MARJORIE.RATNADAS - SOLOMON JESUDIAN.REV. FR. JOHN LOURDU DANIEL, S.J., -Fatima Retreat House, Lewella, Kandy.SAMUEL “SABA” SABARATNAM BARTLETT -Unit 2, 561 Grimshaw Street, Bundoora, VIC3083.SHARIFFDEEN - RAMINA (nee MUTALIPH) -38/2, Rukmani Devi Mawatha, NegomboSILVA CANDAPPA - JOACHIM ANTONY -31/17, Balagala Road, Hendala, WattalaSOMAPALA - G.A.UDUWELA - PEARL (nee SENANAYAKE) - No.10, Kotelawela Avenue, Colombo 04.WEERAKKODY, JULIAN CALISTUS - No. 98,Averiwatte Road, WattalaZOEB ANVERALLY

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Azwerfrom P22However, he was caught in a dilemma when racistelements protected by the Rajapaksa governmentbegan attacking Muslims, burning mosques,madrasas, shops, business establishments andeven grabbing Muslim owned prime property inColombo. These racist attacks climaxed wheninnocent Muslims in Aluthgama, Dharga Town andBeruwala were attacked and their property burnt.It was a difficult time for Azwer Haji and he told methat “When it comes to racism and hostility towardsMuslims, my experience is, there is no differencebetween the UNP and the SLFP or MahindaRajapaksa and Ranil Wickremesinghe”. Judgingfrom the failure to prosecute the culprits and theprotection enjoyed by the Bodu Bala racists under

the so-called Yahapalana government, hisobservation seems to be right.Azwer was an ardent supporter of the Palestinians’struggle for justice. He was against Israel’soppression of the Palestinian people and itsoccupation of Palestinian land. He regularlyattended the meetings of the Sri Lanka Committeefor Solidarity with Palestinian People. In fact, aweek before he passed away, he came from theDelmon Hospital to attend a meeting on Monday22 August 2017 to organise an oratorical contest tomark the 100 years of the treacherous BalfourDeclaration which planted Israel in Palestine andturned Middle East into a killing field. After themeeting ended, Azwer went back to hospital, andlater he was transferred to another private hospitalwhere his admirable innings were concluded by theAlmighty.

At the funeral, the community had spoken loudlyenough in praise of his life time services to thecommunity. May the Almighty Allah grant himJennatul Firdouse!

Gemini(the Twins) 21st May - 20th June

Cancer(the Crab) 21st June - 20th July

Leo(the Lion) 21st July - 19th / 22nd Aug

Virgo(the Virgin) 20th / 23rd Aug - 22nd Sept

Libra(the Scale) 23rd Sept - 22nd Oct

Scorpio(the Scorpion) 23rd Oct - 21st Nov

Sagittarius(the Archer) 22nd Nov - 20th Dec

Capricorn(the Goat) 21st Dec - 20th Jan

Aquarius(the Water Carrier) 21st Jan -19th Feb

Pisces(the Fishes) 20th Feb - 20th March

Aries(the Ram) 21st March-20th April

Taurus(the Bull) 21st April - 20th May

Secret affairs will only lead to deception. Authority figures maybe less than accommodating if you have done somethingdeceitful. You must strive to get the most important projectscompleted properly, rather than doling everything in a halfbaked way. Your lucky day Wednesday.

It might be best to spend time fixing up your premises andmaking changes that will be appreciated. You need to bearound friends and family. Your tendency to overreact couldget you into trouble. You may be fortunate while travelling.Your lucky day Friday.

You'd be wise to control your spending so your debts don'tget out of hand. You will have a greater involvement ingroups; however, they may not be to your advantage.Someone you least expect may not have your bestinterests at heart. Your lucky day Wednesday.

You should avoid getting involved in the personal problemsof colleagues. Make plans that will take you to exoticdestinations. Problems with financial investments couldmake you nervous. Make plans to attend group discussionswith friends who like to talk. Your lucky day Tuesday.

Strengthen your position among your peers. A residentialmove may be necessary to get a better job. Think aboutyour budget before booking a trip. Go with the flow and don'tbe concerned about your own job.Your lucky Saturday.

You might find it difficult to control your emotions. Problemswith your partner could be reaching a high level of concern.You must refrain from overspending on entertainment.Do not get involved with individuals who are alreadycommitted to others. Your lucky day Monday.

Call siblings or old friends to catch up on recent news. Itwill be all around you. Try making some changes to yourappearance and your attitude that will reinforce just that.Be cautious while traveling to foreign countries.Your lucky day Sunday.

Your communication skills may win you points. You mightbe overly emotional when dealing with your partner.Deception regarding joint finances or investments willcause upsets between family members. Get the wholefamily involved in a cultural event. Your lucky day Friday.

You can enjoy short trips. Groups you belong to will not onlyenjoy your company, but they will also share your interests.Avoid lending money or belongings to friends. Changes toyour self image will be to your benefit as long as you don'tover pay. Your lucky day Thursday.

The knowledge you have will enhance your reputation.You may not be that popular at home but you should beable to shine at social gatherings. Hard work will payoff ifyou refrain from expressing your opinion to superiors.Your lucky day Saturday.

Try to be considerate in your personal obligations. Don'tlet opposition from those envious of your talents dauntyour progress. Deception regarding joint finances orinvestments will cause upsets between family members.Your lucky day Tuesday.

Put your efforts into moneymaking ventures. You canenjoy the company of others and come in contact with anideal mate, if you get out and mingle. Get help setting upa reasonable budget. Look into ways of making extracash. Your lucky day Friday.

ESPNCricinfo: Sri Lanka will play their firstday-night Test in Dubai as a part of thetwo-Test series against Pakistan in theUAE. The Test series will begin onSeptember 28 in Abu Dhabi before thesecond Test in Dubai, which also hosted aday-night Test against West Indies lastyear.The two Tests will be followed by five ODIs,before two T20Is in Abu Dhabi and the last one inLahore on 29 October, “subject to securityclearance”, according to a PCB release.International cricket will return to Pakistan after along gap later this month when the hosts take onWorld XI for three T20Is, followed by the return ofSri Lanka, who had suffered a terror attack on theirteam bus in March 2009.Out of the five day-night ODIs between Pakistanand Sri Lanka, the first will be played in Dubai on13 October, the second and third in Abu Dhabi,and the last two in Sharjah. The Test series wasoriginally scheduled to comprise three matches but

was reduced to two to accommodate the seriesagainst the World XI. The coming period will marka historic time for fans in Pakistan who have onlyseen Zimbabwe visit the country for top-levelinternational cricket since the 2009 attacks.Zimbabwe visited Lahore amid heavy security inMay 2015 for two T20Is and three ODIs. SriLanka’s return to Lahore is the first visit by a high-profile international team after eight-and-a-halfyears.SLC showed interest inplaying a T20 in Lahore,so long as “the logisticaland operational plansfall in place. I am keento take my team toPakistan,” SLCPresident ThilangaSumathipala had said atthe Asian CricketCouncil AGM inColombo last month.“We have had oursecurity experts visitand make anassessment, and thingslook positive with thingsimproving all over thecountry and especiallyLahore being cleared.”

Sri Lanka to make day-night Test debut in Dubai

ISSUE 1345 NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017 PAGE 25

Text and pics by PRIYAN DE SILVA(dailynews.lk) Ambalantota branchand Hakmana branch emerged themen’s and women’s six-a-side cricketchampions respectively at theNational Savings Banks SouthernProvince Sports Festival held at theUyanwatta stadium recently. Acombined team from Ambalangodand Elpitiya branches were runner-ups in the men’s category whileThangalla branch was the runner-upin the women’s catgory.The champion men’s team fromNSB’s Ambalantota branchcomprised W A D Janaka, S U TKodithuwakku, Y V A S UWeerasinghe, S N Vidanagama, J WC P Kumara, M W D R Kumara, I M I

Sandaruwan and L V T Sanjeewa,while the champion women’s teamfrom Hakmana branch consisted of ER S H Kanchana, T T Nishamani, U PS Dissanayaike, K D L Chathurika, VG Dilhani, Himali Priyangani, G G Sthushangani and S D WMalewipathirana.Combined Southern Province team Adefeated combined southernprovince team B to emerge netballchampions.The winning team included A MRathnayake, O P T Ariyarathna, K CSenarath, T G L Madhuwanthi, A IMuthukumarana, U P SDissanayaike, A C Manawadu, B CDilhani, C M S Abeysekera and N A DWijesinghe.

(dailymirror.lk) To lead the life of a rational humanbeing, the imperative is not the brain, thehardware, but the software of the conscious mindworking in good orderThis stunning piece of work is the one you shouldread, to change your life, by freeing yourself fromall stresses and strains. It is truly a classic, a reallife changer, replete with penetrating insights intothe nature of the human mind, our only life-longcompanion, the proper understanding of which,the author says, is the direct way to change ourlives, in the here and now.The recent book, We Are Our Brains, bythe internationally renownedneuroscientist Professor Dick Swaab,based on his years of experiencetreating patients with brain damage anddiseases of the brain, seems to haveprovided the stimulus for Hemananda towrite We Are Our Minds Not Our Brains,using Buddhist doctrine of karma, toestablish the incontrovertible truth thatthe brain is subordinate to the superiormind, both of which predate birth.Like a highly charged, enthusiasticreligious preacher, who has found auniversal panacea for all our ills,Hemananda, makes a single-mindedeffort to accomplish this enviable task,utilizing the ‘emptiness’, realm offundamental particles; Buddhist doctrineof karma and quantum field theory. Forall living beings and us the quantumreality is simply inescapable, becauseeach one of us began life as afundamental particle in a human femalewomb.We are our minds; not our brain-TheBuddha Discovered, Pp 372, hard cover.Available for sale at the BuddhistCultural Centre, Nedimale, Dehiwala,Rs. 950.While, wholeheartedly, agreeing withProfessor Daniel Dennett, the worldrenowned researcher on consciousness,that the brain is an incomparable organiccomputer, where the network of neuronsis the hardware and the mind thesoftware, the author says, what reallyhappens when listening to a lecture isthat the neurons in the brains of those inthe audience, download the lecture from the‘emptiness’, just like a computer downloadinginformation from the World Wide Web.If not for the mind software, running in the brainhardware, the human being will only be a livingand breathing lump of flesh.Two exceptionally original concepts areintroduced to assist the discussions. First, theexistence of an observable pyramid of life, theapex of which is occupied by humans, the onlysupremely evolved species on earth, and thesecond, that life is impossible if the ‘collapse ofthe quantum wave function’, is not continuouslybeing performed by our conscious minds.Also, in a complete departure from receivedwisdom and prevailing scientific view, the authordraws an unprecedented distinction betweenconsciousness and mind, demonstrating that theyare mutually exclusive, using simple, butconvincing logic. Losing consciousness, with nochance of a speedy resuscitation, death is thedefinite outcome. A mind not working in goodorder, however, a human does not die, but ceasesto function as an independent unit of a rational

human being. These truths are incontrovertible.Therefore, to lead the life of a rational humanbeing, the imperative is not the brain, thehardware, but the software of the conscious mindworking in good order. If, our survival dependsentirely on rational conscious minds, then mindmust obviously be infinitely superior toconsciousness, from all possibleperspectives.Neuroscientistshold

theview thatconsciousnessand mind are emergentproperties of the whole brainactivity. While politely refuting this view,the author, argues that the network of neurons ina perishable brain is designed purely to processinformation relating to both consciousness andmind, and certainly not to manufacture them. Thisview is supported by the radical idea thatconsciousness is omnipresent and universal,being an intrinsic property of fundamentalparticles, common to all living beings, whereas themind with the ability to think, an evolved faculty, bynatural selection, is personal, private and uniqueto an individual human being.The idea that the mind is an evolved faculty isfurther confirmed by the truth that, of all livingbeings, only the human mind has the uniqueability to think, endowed, in the author’s view,exclusively to establish the supremacy of thehumans, as the most evolved species on earth.

The unique ability to think makes us invincible. Allliving beings have minds, but only the humanmind has the ability to think. It is this unique abilitythat separates us from all other living beings. Themind, though intangible, is our only bona-fide, life-long companion, capable of delivering solutions toour problems, right now and even beyond, proven

by what the Buddha achieved, theconclusive end to the unsatisfactory humanexistence. This he accomplished, only byelevating his mind, to its pristine purity andradiance, by totally extinguishing greed,hatred and delusion and liberating it frombeing reborn, ever again, in a time-limitedphysical body.Intentions, driven by the mind are convertedinto actions using the body, voice andlimbs. However, when intentions are taintedby pollutants their corresponding actions,by definition, are unwholesome, the primarycause of our unsatisfactory existence. Themoment an action is executed, it becomeshistory, indelibly recorded as a karmadeposit, and once recorded, it no longerbelongs to the doer, but to the ‘emptiness’and as a result, it can never be erased, butcan only be recalled at any time in thefuture.A human being is only an embodiment ofactions. Actions create energy. Energy, nomatter how insignificant, does not dissipatewithout a trace, but recorded as a karmadeposit, unique to that individual, in a wavefrequency, of the electromagnetic field. It isthis frequency that modulates from onebirth to the next, to energize the mind of afuture embryo, thereby perpetuating aparticular mode of thinking. This is theunderlying reason why, ‘no two humans areidentical.’ This obvious truth is underpinnedby the fact that our individual actions couldbe identical, but the intentions driving themcould be vastly different, thereby creatinginfinite variety of modes of thinking mindsand humans.Using the law of ‘cause and effect’, onwhich the philosophy of the Buddha ispredicated, the author says that, ‘quantumcoherently’, vibrating neurons in livingbrains, provide the unique conditions, the‘cause’, for the energy of the omnipresentconsciousness, to manifest, the ‘effect’ andalso the conditions necessary to download,upload, process, coordinate and interpretthe energy of karma deposits, recorded in awave frequency. A wave frequency wherekarma deposits are recorded does not forman integral part of a human body, but

remains detached, as the overarching forcecontrolling its entire interface, with the externalworld. The human body possesses the solemonopoly on execution of actions and as the bodycannot live in the past or future, actions arealways executed in the present moment. Althoughthe mind continuously generates intentions, onlythe body is able to turn them into reality, byconverting intentions into actions. This solediscretion of the body was one of the powerfultools, the Buddha used to convert those intentionsthat had the potential only to create neutral karma,bringing the rebirth to an end. Neutral karmadeposits are created by neutral actions, which arethe mandatory functional actions, wholly devotedto the maintenance of the body, only in areasonable state of health. When a wave

frequency has only the energy of neutral karma, itis incapable of energizing future embryos,consequently, rebirth is brought to an end and thatfrequency re-absorbed into the emptiness.Cyclical activity is the primary mode of operationknown to ‘emptiness’, because it is perpetuallyrecycling the same volume of energy, created bythe big bang, as energy can neither be creatednor destroyed.No scientist has so far explained what was therebefore the big bang, but the author says that therewas only emptiness, because even after the bigbang there is only emptiness, based on the factthat an atom, the building blocks of everything is99.9 percent empty.Only cyclical activity guarantees perpetuity. Light,fresh water and electricity are all cyclicaloperations, so is the ‘karma cycle’, keeping usenmeshed in the unsatisfactory cycle of birth,death and rebirth. It is the energy of un-expiatedkarma that unilaterally determines our gender,where and when to be born, with what type ofbody, endowed with what particular brand ofindividual characteristics. Karma and rebirth arenotoriously difficult concepts, to comprehend atthe best of times. However, the author says, that itis incumbent on us, in this digital age, to make aneffort, at least, to understand why each humanbeing is different, although manifested by thesame human DNA.The incredible diversity of human births is the onlyclue, he says, that we have, to gain anunderstanding of the operation of karma, leadingto the birth of a human being, who in reality is onlya series of processes, which the Buddha outlinedin his ‘dependent origination.’ In reality, there isonly giving and receiving; no one giving orreceiving.Although the life-giving energy of consciousnessmanifests a living human body, that body is of littleor no use, if it is incapable of operating as anindependent unit of a rational human being.Therefore, what matters is what a human does,using his or her body driven by the intentionsgenerated in the mind, energized by karma.A human being is defined by the quality of his/herinterface with the fellow beings and the externalworld. The only way to achieve inner peace andcontentment is to purify the mind, using directknowledge gained through the practice of insightmeditation. It is only a mind completely devoid ofpollutants that has the potential to access thefundamental nature of reality, to experience thebliss of Nirvana.An extremely important reference is made, thoughbriefly, to dispel the popular misconception thatmeditation leads to the achievement of ‘alteredstates of consciousness.’ It is impossible to alterthe unchangeable state of consciousness,because it can have only one state.A human being is either conscious and alive, orunconscious and dead. There cannot be anythingin between. It is the mind that is flexible e.g. amind free of greed is serene, free of greed andhatred is serene and tranquil and hence free of allpollutants, greed, hatred and delusion a mind istotally blissful. They are altered mental states, ofthe many, that could be achieved only throughmeditation. This book is yet another rarecombination of Buddhism and science, withgroundbreaking ideas, suitable to be read byeverybody, and in particular, the moderninquisitive reader, conversant with the mobilephone, created using the quantum theory.Illustrations provided are concise and relevant.

WE ARE OUR MINDS NOT OUR BRAINS -THE BUDDHA DISCOVERED

Amabalantota and Hakmana branches six-a-side cricket champs

NSB Combines Southern Province team A receiving the netballchampion trophy from the chief guest.

NSB Ambalantota Branch cricket captainreceiving the six-a-side cricket champion

trophy from the chief guest.

11 perches

18 Perches

18.78 perches

A medical doctor

Academically

Academically

Attractive,

B/G 65 years

B/G parents

British Citizens

Buddhist Govi

Job opportunity.

Kotte Bungalawa

Live in Nanny

Looking to hire

Muslim Moor

Myself and

Parents live in UK

Seeking one/two

Sinhala Buddhist

Sinhala Govi

Sinhala RC

Tamil Parents

Visiting tutor

We seed

Respected quiet neighbourhood3minuits drive to Piliyandala 5 to University ofMoratuwa, Katubadda junction 10 to highwayentrance Kahaduwa Kottawa genuine investmentworth well over £28,300 to the right person inBatakaththara on Madapatha Road. No offers orbrokers please Tell 07896185860.

4 bedroom large desirable house nearSLITT paddy fields one side in Malabe forimmediate sale. Air conditioned, have parkingfacilities for 3 cars, good size garden. Viewing canbe arranged (No brokers). Easy reach of newhighway, Neville Fernando Hospital. Contact Jayemail. Address “lizmj45@gmail.com”

land for sale with the house.Windsor Ave, Vanderwert place, Dehiwala. Theproperty benefits access through two lanes. Halfway to the main road and beach. Easy access tothe train station and public transport. Will benefitfrom the Marine Drive. Contact - Brintha07958331755

aged 29 to 34 sought for apretty, fair Sinhalese Buddhist doctor (UK resident)presently working in Colombo. Professionalparents, father a medical specialist. Daughterowns luxury house in Colombo 7 and substantialassets. Please email with horoscope and familydetails. Religion immaterial. col3@mail.com

and professionally qualified kind-hearted groom working in UK is sought by B/Kprofessional retired parents resident in UK for theirdaughter qualified as a doctor and working in NHShospital. Born in 1984 is family orientated andinherits assets. Reply with details of family,education and employment. tps4953@gmail.com

professionally qualified prettydaughter with Sinhala Buddhist values is sought bySinhala Buddhist Govi well established businessparents in UK for their son 27 years 5' 6" BritishCitizens educated qualified employed as anexecutive in a well known company. Please replywith family details horoscope and recentphotographs to: hallstatt1990@gmail.com

well-educated, kind-hearted, 5'8" tall,42yr old (very young looking) Sinhala Buddhistprofessional female from respectable family, livingand working in London seeks Sinhala Buddhistpartner similar age, tall, handsome, educated andgood-natured. Please emailaraliya1974@yahoo.com if interested, please sendphoto in confidence.

old female, (professional chef workfor reputed hotels, "5" tall, good looking, wellmannered, affectionate and caring), looking for aloving and caring, British Citizen who lives in UKfor marriage. Ethnicity and cast are immaterial.Please contact with a photograph.attapathu.M52@gmail.com

living in UK seek well mannered,education professional Son for their only Daughter.She is age 22, pretty, fair, 5 5' tall grown up with SriLankan values British citizen second year inuniversity Sussex. Please reply with recentphotograph and horoscope. Contact 07837299881E-mail: pugamage@yahoo.com

Mother G/B, father Hindu Vellalaseek a professionally qualified partner with soberhabits for their lawyer daughter age 28, height 5'3", working in a leading Law firm. Please applywith horoscope and photograph. Email:Edmonton1944@yahoo.com

professional parents in the UKseek a professional son for their Medical Doctordaughter 27 years 5' 7'' working in the NHS, UK. Plwrite with horoscope. Email: lanka206@gmail.com

Domestic cook (specialising inSri Lankan/southern Indian cuisine)/housekeeperfor private family. Based central London,occasional travel in Europe (short periods). YourCV to contact@de-legibus.co.uk or call Peter 0793917 3923.

Junction 19 Perch land with twohouses. 100ft from the main road.Telephone:+44750194682/0775486673

/aupair - needed in south eastLondon to look after 18mths old baby plus cooking.Salary negotiable. Contact 07983592184

a housekeeper nanny. 5.5 dayweek up to lunch time Saturday. Housekeeper rolereally with minimal childcare as girls are 10 and 12and mother works part time. Basic cooking for thefamily. Small dog walking too. Based in Chelsea.Contact Valentina on 07810445144

seeking a suitable bride who ispretty, caring, religious and outgoing person.Groom is very handsome, residing in UK and is inlate twenties. Working as a Manager in one of theleading coffee chains in UK. Interested parties,please contact: nikkahlanka1@gmail.com

my 2 daughters 10 and 12 are lookingfor a female Housekeeper live in who can cook tostart asap. Our house in Wimbledon. We have 2kittens. Good salary. Own room bathroom foodincluded. 2 days off, either Monday, Thursday andor every other Sunday. 00447772880088.elen@elenrivas.com

seek a son for our fair andpretty daughter with Sinhala Buddhist values, aqualified pharmacist, just 31 yrs old, 4' 11". Pleasereply with family details, a copy of horoscope and arecent photograph to partner27@outlook.com

or more mature, responsiblemale/female Adults, to join two friendly, SeniorAdults, for a 2 week, October 2017, a once in alifetime road trip, in comfortable vehicle. Startingfrom Los Angeles, traveling east through thenorthern states, return via the southern States.Please respond quickly Jaysons4@aol.com

parents seeks partner for theirdaughter qualified BSC (Colombo university),CIMA, Msc (USA). She is medium complexion DoB1983 5'6 1/2" holding top post at a leading financialinstitution in Colombo 6 worth over 70 million.Please reply with horoscopeLilamani15@yahoo.com

Buddhist mother seeks a suitablepartner for her 27 year old pretty slim daughterworking for a telecom company please emailchinthanipaulas@gmail.com

- Parents seek academically qualified(RC/Christian). Unmarried daughter below 40years for unmarried doctor son in late 40 who is amedical director of a Pharmaceutical company.Contact E-mail: trioport38@hotmail.com or Text;07957-625984 with details.

from Jaffna presently Australiancitizen, Born Again Christian seeks prospectivegroom for daughter age 29 years employedHuman Resources in Melbourne, born in Australia.Groom should be professionally qualified, age 30 /34, parents expected to be in UK in 10 days time.Send full details e-mail:angthurai@optusnet.com.au

Formerly at Royal College, BritishSchool and Colombo International School; Head ofBiology at a Private School London; Teach Biologyand Chemistry for GCSE and Biology for A-levels;Contact 07412 093 850

a well-educated employed professionalson for our daughter, who is working as anassistant manager for a reputable bank in London.She has a law degree from a leading university inLondon. Our daughter is also kind hearted, slimand pretty. Please reply with family details to:hsas213@hotmail.com

A professional young couple is looking for homehelp to be with elderly mother. Duties involve lightcooking (Sri Lankan meals), cleaning andaccompanying her on her outings. Please call07809722478

Buddhist parents Female carer

For immediate

G/B parents

GB UK Cousin

House for sale

House in School

House/Land

seek an educated UK borndaughter, for their professionally qualified UK bornson, 32 years, 5'10”, fair and handsome, SeniorManager in leading ICT Services Company in theprivate sector. Owns property. Please reply withfamily details to:shan596@hotmail.com

wanted to cook, clean and ironing.Light work good pay in Surbiton area. Pleasecontact 07794 359 444

rent, large furnished doublebedroom, Harrow Weald. Suit professionals,students, visitors to London. Inclusive rent, sharefacilitators, wifi. Close to buses, Bakerloo line,Overground rail, with main fast rail to Euston, in 15minutes. Please contact considerate, flexible,understanding owner on 07740483203

seek a Doctor or an equallyprofessionally qualified son living and working in UK,for their MBCHB Doctor daughter in UK. Born in1987/12, 5'1" tall. Brought up with Sri Lankanvalues. Please reply with family details and a recentphoto to: lakproposal@yahoo.com

- Living in UK seeking a suitablepartner for his cousin brother, Kandyan, Govi,Buddhist, 29 yrs, 5'5, fair, handsome, non-smoker,who works in Dubai in a five star hotel as a chef. Helikes to marry and settle down in UK. Please replyto: kandyboy197210@yahoo.co.uk

-Nugegoda. 4 bedrooms. 4bathrooms, 3 sitting rooms,TV room, mahoganyfitted kitchen, dining room, balcony, fully tiled,imported wall light fittings, interior designed, solarhot water, parking for 2 cars, servants room withattached bathroom, storeroom, garden. MUST beseen to be appreciated. Furnished/ unfurnished.07564229058 / 0094771795984

Lane Nawala for sale. Two storeyhouse with 8 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, double spacegarage, big garden and full parapet wall. Rooms andkitchens are spacious. All on 25 perches of land.Price 80 million. Rallye1977@gmail.com

for sale. Near Maris Stella College, 15Minutes To Airport. Three Bedrooms, One AC, TwoReceptions & Main Bathroom. Security Walls. FullyTiled, Servants Toilet & Kitchen, suitable ForForeigners Professionals. Please Contact me If youare Interested In sale or let. Contact details:0208 826 0866

Business for sale.Long established well knownSrilankan restaurant in prime

location in central London availablefor immediate sale with brand new

renewable long lease.Please contact on 07767249662.

Carer required

Colombo 5:

Colombo 8

Colombo 8,

Domestic helper

Domestic helper

Double and single

For an elderly lady with dementialiving in the Harrow area. Full time, either live in ordaily support. Help with daily needs and patient care.Must be patient and caring. References required.Please contact to discuss details. 07749880848

13.30P of readily buildable land locatedat Averihena Road, in a Cul De Sac. 20' widecarpeted road. The Title accepted by SMIB. Rs.6.5 Mper perch. Will sell to the highest Bidder. Ownerliving in London. +447540346430

- 57 perch rectangular plot in excellentlocation off Castle Street. Two upstairs modernhomes built of 23 perch. Highest offer considered.Contact 01707 331 664

Apartment for Sale, well maintained,extra-large bedroom with a/c, and dressing room,partly furnished, close to three international schoolsand many well known hospitals, 24/7 security, largeswimming pool and other leisure facilities.Restaurant, food and groceries outlet reservedparking for owner-resident. More details: call 07821996040. E-mail: mikefeli@waitrose.com

- needed. Professional couple inKing's Lynn, Norfolk looking for a live - innanny/home help. Duties involve taking care of ourson (14 months), light cooking, and taking care ofour two little dogs. Salary / hours negotiable. Pleasecontact kaveendradf@gmail.com or call07440040691

needed in North London Mondayto Saturday (Live-in) only 5 to 6 hours of work daily.Food & Accommodation provided. Please call07738516477 and good rate of pay.

room to let Ilford betweenbarking and Ilford stations. Recently refurbishedrooms. Clean quite house. Bills + Internet included.Large room £120 pw. single room £80 pw. Call,07738823804 Leonard.

Experienced Office Administrator wantedfor office in Enfield, EN2. Duties to include,

HR, Recruitment, payroll general admin,answering calls and maintaining diary.Experience with bookkeeping would be

beneficial. Salary dependent onqualifications/experience.Call 07961201635 or emailmillengrangcare@aol.com

Moratuwa for Sale. 3 bed house, 14 percheswith all facilities, close to Galle Road

Rawatawatte junction with 7 perches spaceon side to build another house, close to

leading schools, sought after residential area.Selling for less than land value £60,000 - 8Laks/perch ONO. Tel 020 8863 2900 Details,

photos in LANKAPROPERTYWEB.COM

TRAVEL AGENCY FOR SALE -Looking for quick sale due to retirement.Close to London. Member of ABTA, IATA,ADVANTAGE and holding ATOL licence.

Business /Freehold premises.Two flats above freehold office included in sale.

All offers considered. Open to all options.Tel: 07795 310 206 travel6@gmx.co.uk

Elderly Care Home in Enfield EN1

Experienced RegisteredManager Needed

looking for Care Staff. Immediate StartAvailable - £7.50 - £9.50 p/h depending on

experience/qualifications. Full or PartTime, Right to Work in UK necessary.

Call 07961201635 or emailmillengrangcare@aol.com

for Elderly Dementia Care Home inEnfield, EN1. Salary £35,000 per year +

benefits for the right candidate. Call07961201635 or email

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ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 28

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Malaysfrom P16The book also includes many otheraspects of Language, literature andliterary activities discussed in detail in thechapter dedicated to Language andLiterature. The author has also discussedthe Baba and Nyonya, a sub ethnicMalay group in Sri Lanka, a communityclosely related to the Cina Peranakan(Hybrid Chinese) of Malaysia. The SriLankan Malays have also maintainedage old performing arts and incorporatedthem as part of their leisure activities andit is evident that the Malays hold strongimprints in the music and film industry ofSri Lanka (p.468).Tuan M. Zameer Careem offers asuitably scholarly and informativeaccount on Sri Lankan Malays whichhelps to explain their importance in termsof history, social, cultural, economy and

politics. The range of references andinterviews on which his narratives andanalysis have been drawn are veryimpressive. One of the hallmarks of TuanM. Zameer Careem’s writing is that hecarefully combines his empiricaldiscussions with empirical data andsources. This is the reason the book isvaluable not only to Malay sociologistsbut also to Sri Lankan historians,sociologists and students who want toknow more about the Malay ethnicminority in Sri Lanka.(The reviewer is Dean, Faculty of Artsand Social Sciences, University ofMalaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)Persaudaraan- Malay Life in Sri Lankaby Tuan M. Zameer CareemPrice: Rs. 3750Publishers: S. Godage and Brothers(PVT) Ltd.Reviewed by Prof. Dr. HanafiHussin

by RexClementine

(island.lk) Indiacompleted theirmost successfultour of Sri Lankaever with a win inthe one off T-20Interiaotnla at R.PremadasaStadium last night.The touristschased down the171 run target withseven wickets andfour deliveries tospare in front of an

half empty stadium.Virat Kohli was the hero in the win smashing anunbeaten 82 off 54 balls with seven fours and asix. His team was unbeaten in the seven weeklongtour whitewashing Sri Lanka 3-0 in Tests beforeblanking them 5-0 in the ODIs that followed.Torrential rain in Colombo had threatened thegame, but the ground staff did well to get thevenue ready for a delayed start without any overslost.Sri Lanka’s total of 170 came on the back of amaiden T-20 half-century by Dilshan Munaweera,who smashed 53 off 29 deliveries with five foursand four sixes. Ashan Priyanjan, who was draftedinto the squad in the last minute as cover forMilinda Siriwardene, who was nursing back andhamstring strains, eventually ended up playing thegame and held Sri Lanka’s innings together withan unbeaten 40 off 40 deliveries with one four andtwo sixes.Sri Lanka were guilty of consuming too many dotballs, a whooping 49 in their innings compared toIndia’s 19.Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was the pick of thebowlers for India finishing with three wickets.Kohli was involved in a 119 run stand for the thirdwicket with Manish Pandey enabling India tocomplete the run chase and to maintain theirunbeaten record.Kohli was dismissed with India ten runs short ofvictory. Former captain M.S. Dhoni joined Pandeyand the pair finished off the chase when Pandeyhit Thisara Perera over extra cover for four to

complete a maiden T-20 half-century. Pandey wasunbeaten on 51 off 36 deliveries with four foursand a six.Dhoni was unbeaten on one and went through allsix games of the tour without being dismissedeven once.Sri Lanka’s fielding showed some signs ofimprovement with Dasun Shanaka pulling off ablinder at short cover to dismiss Lokesh Rahul.However, a target of 171 was never going to testthe strong Indian outfit despite them resting someof their regular T-20 players like Hardik Pandyaand Shikhar Dhawan.

ISSUE 1345 NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017 PAGE 29

(dailynews.lk) Sri Lanka Cricket today finds itself ina messy state of affairs today because of theevents that took place on March 8, 2016 when thecurrent administration wielded its powers to throwout the selection committee headed by former SriLanka fast bowler Kapila Wijegunawardene andreplace it with an adhoc committee to meet its ownends. The manner in which it was carried out wasto say the least bordered on dictatorial lines and ittook place on the eve of an important event as theICC World Twenty20 tournament where Sri Lankawas to defend their title.The changes done to the selection committee thatwas performing a wonderful taskin rebuilding the side following apoor 2015 Cricket World Cup exitin Australia and New Zealand hadlong term and disastrous effectson the country’s cricket. It has ledto two unprecedented defeats atthe hands of two nations rankedlower than Sri Lanka –Bangladesh (in Tests) andZimbabwe (in ODIs) that hurt thecricket loving nation’s pride, and torub salt on the festering wound - aright royal drubbing from India where Sri Lankawas further humiliated by a 5-0 whitewash in anODI series at home for the first timenotwithstanding the crushing 3-0 defeat suffered inthe Tests.Today Sri Lanka Cricket finds itself struggling toput together a team of competent people to form aselection committee after the existing one headedby former captain Sanath Jayasuriya had resignedat the end of the Indian series on September 7.The first signs of alleged meddling with teamselections and direct influence over cricket mattersthe present SLC administration headed byThilanga Sumathipala stands accused of todaybegan with the dismissal of the Wijegunawardeneselection committee that also comprised former SriLanka cricketers Amal Silva, Brendon Kuruppuand Hemantha Wickremaratne. They had alreadyselected the squads for the T20 Asia Cup and the

World T20 to meet with the ICC deadline.What transpired thereafter is a clear breach ofmeddling with team selections. Following the AsiaCup the SLC hierarchy surprisingly obtained anextension from the ICC to extend the deadline todeclare the final World T20 squad and havingdone so tried to bring pressure on theWijegunawardene selection committee to re-selectthe squad with Angelo Mathews as captain. In theoriginal squad Lasith Malinga was named thecaptain but he surprisingly tended his resignationafter the Asia Cup when he suspected sinistermoves were being made behind the scenes

without his knowledge. The selectioncommittee stood firm with theirdecision and informed the Minister ofSports with copies to the SecretaryMinistry of Sports and all top officialsof SLC notifying him that “there aremoves afoot to interfere” with the T20World Cup team officially ratified bythe Minister. The selection committeefurther stated that they would only“even consider” such an undertakingif written instructions are receivedfrom the Sports Minister.

The selection committee however met again andmade changes to the World T20 squad to replacethe injured players, but the changes made areignored by the SLC hierarchy. On the same day(March 8) the national selection committee isinformed by the Director-General that they aresacked by the Sports Minister and a new selectioncommittee comprising Aravinda de Silva, KumarSangakkara, Romesh Kaluwitharana and LalithKaluperuma is appointed for a period of onemonth. Last minute changes are made and twoyoungsters picked on “merit” are unceremoniouslyand unfairly hauled out of the squad and replacedwith two other players one of whom wasn’t evendeclared in the provisional squad of 25 players.These two talented youngsters turn up all dressedup to travel to India but told they are not boardingthe aircraft.

(Contd: on P30)

MOST PROMISINGPLAYER’S AWARD

(sundayobserver.lk) Senura Silva of AnandaCollege, Colombo won the Under 12 and under 15championship and the Most Promising Player’saward at the recently concluded Thibar All IslandRanking table tennis tournament held at theS.Thomas’ College Indoor Stadium recently. He isranked number one in the U.12 category andnumber two in the U.15 age group. He has beencoached by former national player N.H.Perera andparents Indika Prasad and Deepika Rodrigo whoare also national TT players.

Dilwin Mendis(dailynews.lk) Fifteen-year-old Pathum PoornaVancuylenberg of Prince of Wales’ College,Moratuwa has been selected to represent SriLanka in the 9th Asian Wushu Championship -2017 from September 14 to 21 in South Korea. Hewill compete in Under 15 age category.Following his father’s foot steps he commencedhis wushu carrier in 2010under Elvis Vancuylenbergand in the same year hebecame the Sri LankaSchools All-RoundChampion in Under 13 agecategory by clinching twogold medals and in 2011 inthe same age group hecarried away the samechampionship and receivedtwo golds. In 2011 too he won the samechampionship to complete three years insuccession. In 2011 he represented Sri LankaJunior Team for the World Champions Games inAnkara, Turkey and in 2012 he represented SriLanka in under 13 category at the 5th World

Traditional Wushu Championship held inHuazgshan in China where he won a silver medal.He won three gold medals in National JuniorWushu Championship held in Ambepussa and gotselected to represent Sri Lanka Junior Team forthe Asian Junior Wushu Championship 2013 inChina.In 2015 in the under 15 category after winning

three golds in the Wushu AllIsland Championship held inSugathadasa Stadium hewas adjudge the MostOutstanding Player of theUnder 15 age category.In 2016 He was selected torepresent Sri Lanka JuniorWushu Team at the sixthWorld Junior WushuChampionship held in

Burgess, Bulgaria.His father Elvis Nishantha Vancuylenberg toorepresented Sri Lanka and at present he is thecoach at Prince of Wales’ College and thePrincipal Kusala J. Fernando is extending hisfullest support to Pathum to continue Wushu atschool.

The rot: from where it all began

SLCCONT FROM P1... De Silva, for example, would return to his roleas cricket advisor, some board officials hope.They would also like Mahanama, Kuruppu andLabrooy to become selectors, to replace theSanath Jayasuriya-led committee that resignedearlier in the month. Ideally Jayawardene mightalso come in as a consultant. And the only reasonofficials have not set their sights on KumarSangakkara is because he is still playing cricketoverseas.Of these ex-players, Labrooy and Kuruppu haveconfirmed that SLC has approached them, whileMahanama has said he has not been approachedso far. Labrooy is currently an ICC match referee.There is some irony in the board gunning for theaid of these former players at this juncture,because some of them are the same men it hasspent the last 18 months alienating. Kuruppu waspart of the selection committee that was sackedby Thilanga Sumathipala and the board just 48hours from the team's scheduled departure fromthe 2016 World T20, for example.Jayawardene's plan to take cricket into theprovinces was scrapped and criticised, and hewas ousted from his position in the SLC cricketcommittee. De Silva had held the cricket advisorpost for about 12 months, but then quit earlier thisyear, due to strong differences with SLC.

Two developments have precipitated this drasticchange of approach. In the wake of the 0-9drubbing by India, and indeed the unprecedentedlosses to Bangladesh and Zimbabwe earlier thisyear, members of SLC's executive committeehave become convinced that the board's existingtrajectory was untenable. Those defeats have alsosubstantially weakened Thilanga Sumathipala'spolitical grip within the organisation, with pressurenow having been placed on him from higherpolitical offices in the country.Sports minister Dayasiri Jayasekara hasrepeatedly said that he would not dissolve anelected board to appoint an interim committee, sothe Sumathipala presidency is safe for now - atleast until the board elections early next year (theycould be brought forward to December).However, other board officials have now takenstrong issue with the manner in whichSumathipala has conducted business at SLC,particularly his alleged meddling with teamselection and direct influence over cricket matters.These agitating officials claim that should any ofthe former players they are trying to woo take uppositions at the board, those new appointmentsshould "have a free hand", in contrast to what hadpreviously been the case. It is perhaps relevantthat Graham Ford resigned in June exactlybecause he felt his role was repeatedlyencroached upon.The sports minister is also hoping to get many ofthese former players together for a brainstormingsession on how SLC might turn cricket around,over the next week or so.Essentially, amid a significant decline in influencefor Sumathipala, there is now substantial willwithin SLC to change tack. Early indications fromthe former players they are chasing, however, isthat they would rather await fundamental changein SLC - either the election or the appointment ofa fresh board - before they become involved.

India Vs Sri Lanka T20Is it Kohli calls it wrongyet wins the toss?(island.lk) The toss of thecoin has been much talkedabout during the bilateralseries between Sri Lankaand India. Virat Kohli wonthe toss in all three Testsand the first two ODIs. SriLanka finally had some luckwith the toss in the third ODIat Pallekele and that toowent in vain as stand-incaptain ChamaraKapugedera went againstthe team’s decisions, when he chose to bat firstafter winning the toss. It was later described as‘brain fade’.But on Wednesday, during the one-off T-20International at RPS, another strange occurrencetook place.India won the contest by seven wickets aftercaptain Kohli won the toss and elected to field first.However, a closer look at the visuals will tell youthat the toss in fact was won by Sri Lanka.

On Wednesday, as is the practice, TV presenterMurali Kartik introduced the two captains and theMatch Referee Andy Pycroft to the viewers beforethe toss. Sri Lanka captain Upul Tharanga thentossed the coin and Kohli made the call - heads.The coin rolled away and Pycroft uttered ‘tails’.Then Kartik replied ‘heads, it is’ and proceeds tohave a chat with Kohli, asking his decision. As thecamera pans towards Kohli and Kartik, the MatchReferee looked confused but he did nothing tocorrect the mistake.

India complete outstanding tour with T-20 win

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Pathum Poorna, aims high in wushu

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Upananda Jayasundera(sundayobserver.lk) Palinks CricketClub,Colombo registered 2 winsagainst Mahamaya GirlsCollege,Kandy and Kandy Cricket &Athletic academy, played at AruppolaMC Grounds,Kandy recently.The victorious Palinks Cricket Clubbeat Mahamaya Girls by 59 runs andKandy Cricket & Athletic Club by 49runs. Navodya Kodituwakku of Palinkshad a grand double to score 46 runswith 4 sixes and claimed six wickets for15 runs including a hat trick. MalshaRanasinghe of Palinks, was the matchwinner when she scored an unbeaten46 against Kandy Cricket & AthleticAcademy.

Manager of the Palinks Cricket team, Palitha Gunasekeraawarding the Runners-up trophy to Udara Bandara Captain

of Mahamaya Girls College.

NAVODYA AND MALSHA EXCEL FOR PALINKS

Text and picL.D. Chandrasiri

(sundaytimes.lk) Under-17Milo All-Island NetballChampionshipsThe lasses fromBandarapola MahaVidyalaya Matale made theirschool proud as theyemerged Division ‘B’(schools having less than1000 students) Under-17Netball champions at the26th Milo All-Island SchoolsNetball Championship 2017held in Badulla.

Bandarapola MV Netball pool

With less than 1000 students in schoolthey win a major title

By Ayshwarya Yapa(adaderana.lk) Retired Sri Lankan cricketerMuttiah Muralitharan’s father, Sinnasamy Muttiahstated that the Pallekele InternationalCricket Stadium was named after hisson, but that it was now no longernamed after him.He accordingly requested MahanayakeThero of the Malwathu Chapter, Ven.Thibbatuwawe Sri SiddharthaSumangala Thero meet with the SportsMinister and intervene to solve theissue.Addressing the media, he explained that although

the Stadium had been named after Muralitharanduring the former President’s regime, it was nolonger named after him.

He further explained that the formerPresident, Mahinda Rajapaksa hadeven aired a radio announcement thathe would be naming the stadium afterhis son on the occasion thatMuralitharan scored 800 wickets.He accordingly requested that theStadium be named after his son onceagain, and also said that Mahanayake

Thero had promised to intervene and solve theissue.

Murali’s father wants Pallekele renamed

The rotfrom P29The sacked selection committee is told that theofficial letters of removal shall be sent across thefollowing day. These letters allegedly neverarrived. The appointment and removal of NationalSelection Committees are expedited through a“Gazette notification” conforming to the SportsLaw. In that aspect some pertinent questions thatbeg answers for are; was the National SelectionCommittee officially removed through a Gazettenotification as warranted under the laws of theland? Was the new National Selection Committee

officially appointed through a Gazette notification?If affirmative, were these functions carried out on aPoya day (March 9, 2016)? If they were not, thenthese changes were in breach of the law? Perhapsthe newly enacted “Right to Information Act” (RIA)can provide answers to these important questions.The consequences of such an act carried out bythe SLC hierarchy is what we witness today andthe question that needs to be asked is aren’t thefour ex-cricketers who volunteered to carry out thedirty deeds of the present administration need totake complete responsibility for the depths towhich cricket in this country has sadly plummeted?

Under-15 Cricket Tournament

by Reemus Fernando(island.lk) More than half a dozen teams who havereached the quarter-final and semi-final stages ofthe Inter School Under-15 Division I CricketTournament are waiting for Sri Lanka SchoolsCricket Association and S. Thomas’ College,Mount Lavinia to come to a settlement torecommence the stalled tournament.The junior tournament which was scheduled toend before August 20th came to a standstill afterDharmasoka College, Ambalangoda sought courtintervention following their controversialelimination from Group ‘P’.Dharmasoka were the runners-up to Trinity inGroup ‘P’ and S. Thomas’ were the last placedteam in that Group behind St. Peter’s,Bambalapitiya and St. Joseph’s, Enderamulla. TheThomians, after their first-innings defeat to St.Joseph’s, protested against the latter’s fielding ofnewly recruited players from other schools andrequested the SLSCA to deduct points earnedagainst them as the Joes from Enderamulla hadviolated tournament rules.Following the deduction of points the points tableturned upside down with S. Thomas’ emerging as

the table leaders and Trinity ending up as therunners-up. Dharmasoka were eliminated from thetournament.Dharmasoka withdrew their case after the SLSCAagreed to come to a settlement on August 29.The SLSCA after discussions with Group ‘P’ teamshas made arrangements to replay matches in thatGroup to decide who would advance to theknockout stage.However, S. Thomas’ are yet to respond toSLSCA’s plans and that has prevented thetournament being recommenced.When contacted in this regard, a team official fromS. Thomas’ said that the College authorities arewaiting for their cricket advisory committee’sopinion to take action.The other matches in the knockout stage wereconcluded by August 12. While St. Sebastian’s,Moratuwa have reached the semi-finals, RoyalCollege, Colombo, St. Joseph’s College, DarleyRoad, Mahinda College, Galle and Prince ofWales’ College, Moratuwa are in the quarter-finalstage.St. Anthony’s, Kandy and Mahanama College,Colombo will meet the champion and the runner-up from Group ‘P’ in their pre-quarterfinals.

Teams waiting for SLSCA and S. Thomas’to come to settlement

(dailynews.lk) 19-year Brayan Pereradominated the weekend in the FormulaMcLaren’s 1300 EFI category at Pannala.Brayan Perera started the weekend bypulling out a stunner of a lap and qualified onpole position.He was 1.122 seconds clear of the next bestdriver Chandima Gooneratne of HellibeesRacing. It was an exciting first race as theheavens opened on the PannalaInternational Circuit just seconds before thestart.The track was damp and the drivers wereoblivious to the condition of the track.However Brayan Perera was on top of his gamesince the start of the race, as he was able to pullaway from the rest of the pack, showcasing

incredible pace and took the chequered flagcomfortably in 1st place.The 2nd race brought a different challenge for thedrivers as half of the track was dry and half was

wet. But this didn’tseem to bother hismomentum as againBrayan was able topull away from thepack and finished theweekend in style bybagging his secondvictory.Brayan Perera iscurrently driving in theFormula 4 LGB andthe Formula BMWseries in the JkTyreNational RacingChampionship.He is competingagainst the finestIndian drivers and isalso learning fromreputed drivers suchas Akbar Ebrahim andArmaan Ebrahim.

Clean Sweep for Brayan Pereraat ‘AMG Speed at Night’

ISSUE 1345 NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017 PAGE 31

Dilwin Mendis Moratuwa(dailynews.lk) Royal College Colombo clinched theAll Island Under 15 Division Two Inter SchoolsCricket Championship for the year 2017conducted by Sri Lanka Schools CricketAssociation for the Singer Trophy by beating St.Peter's College, Negombo in the finals.The Royalists played fourteen matches in thetournament and they were unbeaten with thirteenwins and one no decision in favour of them. Theywere captained by Kaveen Ananda while theirMaster-in-Charge was Bala Murali and former

Cambrian Rashan Peiris was the Head Coach andJunior Coaches were Nisansala Mendis, PrageethFernando and Lahiru Fernando. Visandu Sandeewwas the highest run getter of the side with 525runs followed by Resandu Tilakarathne 400 andNethum Panapitiya 368. In bowling UthumDisanayake was the leading wicket taker with 41scalps while Kesara Kappagoda and SadeeshaRajapakse claimed 31 and 30 scalps AltogetherRoyal cricketers notched up four centuries in thetournament.

Royal College under 15 division two cricket team is seen here with their officials after emergingAll Island Champions for the year 2017 (Picture by Dilwin Menids)

Vernon Gunasekara(dailynews.lk) Walala A Rathnayake CentralCollege emerged overall girls (112 points) andmixed school champions (172 points) while St.Benedict’s College, Colombo (83 points) wonthe overall boys’ titles as the All Island SchoolsRelay Championship 2017 sponsored by NestleLanka’s ‘Milo’ brand concluded at theDoreiappa Ground, Jaffna yesterday.Rathnayake Central also won under-18 andunder-20 girls titles. Maris Stella College,

Negombo became boys runner-up obtaining 71points while Sir John Kothalawala MV,Kurunegala emerged overal girls’ and mixedschools runner-ups collecting 66 points and 79points respectively.Dharmapala College, Pannipitiya, Sir JohnKothalawala MV and President’s College,Nawala were the other schools perform well atthe three-day event as Paliyans won boys’overall second place. 25 schools from Jaffnaparticipated at the event. This championship

will be a preparationfor the All IslandSchools AthleticsChampionship to beheld in Diyagama onOctober 12 to 16.Champion schools -U-20 boys’ - MarisStella College -Negombo, U-20 girls’- Walala A.Rathnayake CC, U-18 boys’ - St.Benedict’s College -Colombo, U-18 girls’ -Walala A.Rathnayake CC, U-16 boys’ -Dharmapala College- Pannipitiya, U-16girls’ - Sir JohnKothalawala MV,Kurunegala, U-14boys’ - St. Peter’sCollege - Colombo,U-14 girls’ -President’s college -Nawala, U-12 boys’ -Trinity College -Kandy, U-12 girls’ -Ave Mariya Convent -Negombo

Zone ‘B’ overall champs at 29th Mahaweli Kreeda(dailynews.lk) The 29th Mahaweli Kreedaconcluded on a grand note at the PolonnaruwaNational Stadium yesterday with Mahaweli ‘B’Zone winning the overall championship obtaining82 points. Mahaweli ‘H’ Zone (63 points) andVictoria Zone (53 points) won the second and thirdplaces respectively. Champion ‘B’ Zone won 13gold, 9 silver and 7 bronze medals to have thehighest medal tally.U.R. B. Rajapaksha of Huruluwewa Zone whowent on to create a new meet record of 7.40metres in men’s long jump event was adjudged themen’s Best Athlete while Nadeesh Ramanayaka of

Walawa Zone who set up a new meet record of56.0secs in women’s 400 metres event wasawarded as the women’s Best Athlete. The men’strack and field overall championship was won byMahaweli ‘B’ Zone while the Walawa Zoneclinched the women’s overall track and field title.Over 4500 athletes from 10 Mahaweli Zonescompeted in this year’s championship. Five meetrecords were established in 2017 edition. The2018 version of the annual Mahaweli Kreeda willbe worked off in Walawa Zone. PresidentMithripala Sirisena was the chief guest at theclosing ceremony.

By Susil PremalalAFC Under-16 qualification matches(sundaytimes.lk) The Asian Football Confederation(AFC) Under-16, 2018 qualification round will beheld from September 16 to 29 in 10 countries. Thefinal round will be held in Malaysia in 2018.There are 45 countriescompeting in 10 groups.Sri Lanka is in Group Awith Brunei, Jordan,Uzbekistan and SaudiArabia.Group ‘A’ matches will beplayed in Riyadh, SaudiArabia.Sri Lanka’s first match willbe on September 16against Brunei, the secondgame is on September 18vs Jordan. The third matchis on September 20against Uzbekistan. Thefourth game against hostsSaudi Arabia is scheduledfor September 22.Sri Lanka has selected 19players and six officials forthe competition. The team will take wing for thecontest on September 14.The Football Federation of Sri Lanka had earlierdecided to pull out from the tournament, after theysuffered two defeats at the SAFF Under 15tournament held in Nepal.Sri Lanka requested from the AFC to skip the

tournament due to these defeats, but the AFC hadstated that the draw has already been made andrequested Sri Lanka to somehow or the other totake part in the contest.Sri Lanka lost to Bangladesh 0-4 and suffered a 0-6 defeat to Bhutan druing the SAFF

Championships. Indiaemerged championsdefeating Nepal 2-1 in thefinal.The Sri Lanka team:A.R. Thanujan, E.Diniayas, RasanthaDilruksha Perera,Mohammed NazeerkhanMohammed Rikaz, M.R.M.Rukshan, Ashaktha MihiruWijesooriya, N.M. Nuskan,Z.A. Mohammed Aashiq,Ajith Prasanth, MohammedNabeel, F.M. Sifan, GihanSandeepa, WeerapulliRehan Bryan, VishalkaSulakshana, RomeshMendis, Shehan HarshanaPerera, Abdul Haliq,Gayan Rajapakse and

Chamith Hasarindu Kodituwakku.Officials:D.M.N.S.B. Dissanayake (Manager), SuzukiChikashi (Head Coach), Ushioda Yoshinori(Interpreter), A.K.M. Ajward (Assistant Coach),A.S.B. Bandara (Goalkeeping Coach) and M.A.Barsith (Physio).

Last time when the Lankan juniors werein action - File pic

Royal win under 15 division two cricket title

Hareen, Ravindu steer St. Aloysius to win(dailynews.lk) St. Aloysius’ College, Galle trouncedPresident’s College, Kotte by 10 wickets in theopening game of the Singer Schools U19 DivisionI, 2017/18 group B encounter which worked offyesterday at the Galle International CricketStadium.Electing to bat first the visitingPresident’s College crumbledunder pressure as the lads fromGalle came out with animpressive bowling performanceled by Sri Lanka youth left-armspinner Hareen Buddila whoclaimed 5 wickets to restrict thevisitors to a disappointing 111 allout.The hosts had over 50 overs remaining in theopening day came out in a positive frame of mind.Sri Lanka youth cap Ravindu Sanjana cracked anoutstanding 124 off 178 balls, while HareenBuddila chipped in with a handy half-ton as St.Aloysius’ College declared at 254/8 in 63.3 overs.Having been failed in the 1st innings, President’s

College needed a solid batting performance tosave the game. However, left-arm spinner HareenBuddila had other ideas as he continued takingwickets at ease. The visitors were bowled out onceagain to a below par 148 inside 50 overs.

Hareen Buddila was unplayableas he grabbed 8/59 in thesecond innings and finishedwith a match bag of 13/86 toguide his team tocomprehensive 10 wicket win.YKPresident’s College: 111 in 41.1overs (Thashika Nirmal 52,Hareen Buddila 5/27) and 148in 49.3 overs (Galindu Devmina

56, Iranga Hashan 27, Iruna Sigera 21 n.o.,Hareen Buddila 8/58, Ravindu Sanjana 2/36)St. Aloysius: 254/8 in 58.4 overs (Ravindu Sanjana124, Hareen Buddila 58, Ashen Bandara 39,Iranga Hashan 3/42, Vimukthi Lanka 2/24, DinethDamindu 2/68) and 6/0 in 2 overs.

Hareen Buddila and Ravindu Sanjana

Sri Lanka Juniors leave for Saudi Arabia

Walala A Rathnayake CC bags overall girlsand mixed school titles

Men’s Best Athlete, U.R. B. Rajapaksha of Huruluwewa Zone receivingthe award from the chief guest

Women's Best Athlete Nadeesh Ramayaka of Walawa Zone receiving theaward from the chief guest President Mithripala Sirisena.

Pictures by Sudath Malaweera

ISSUE 1345NEWSLANKA 14 SEPTEMBER - 2017PAGE 32