Category: Daily Financial Times

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to present amended seatbelt regulations for expressway users to Parliament.

The Insurance Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (IRCSL), with the support of the Insurance Association of Sri Lanka (IASL), the Sri Lanka Insurance Brokers Association (SLIBA), and the Sri Lanka Insurance Institute (SLII), successfully concluded its insurance awareness programs in the Northern Province under the theme ‘Insurance for All: For a Secure Future’ with events held in Jaffna on 22 October 2025 and Kilinochchi on 23 October 2025.

These programs are part of IRCSL’s ongoing nationwide initiatives to promote financial literacy, enhance insurance protection, and build public trust in the insurance sector.

The Jaffna district program commenced with an insurance awareness roadshow with the active participation of all licensed life and general insurance companies’ staff. The roadshow aimed to raise awareness about the benefits of insurance for life, health, vehicles, and property while also identifying potential customers for future coverage.

Following the roadshow, awareness workshops were held at the Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre Auditorium. The morning session targeted Government officers, bankers, SMEs, and the general public, covering life, motor, and non-motor insurance, Government schemes such as Agrahara, Suraksha for school children, and the Optional Compensation Scheme (OCS) for third-party motor accident victims. The afternoon session focused on school and university students, providing career guidance and insights into opportunities within the insurance sector. Each participating insurance company had a career guidance desk to interact with students, provide information, and receive CVs.

Approximately 1,200 participants attended the Jaffna program, benefiting from presentations, interactive sessions, and the opportunity to engage directly with industry representatives.

The Kilinochchi District Program began with an insurance awareness roadshow near the Police Station, where representatives from all participating insurance companies engaged directly with the public through interactive displays, promotional materials, and awareness activities. This was followed by an awareness workshop at RS Green Barathi Resort Hall for Government officers, bankers, SMEs, and the general public. Approximately 500 participants attended the Kilinochchi program and followed a similar model to the Jaffna program, combining roadshows, workshops, and career guidance opportunities.

IRCSL Chairman emphasised that insurance is a key financial tool for managing risk and ensuring protection and stability. He highlighted the benefits of life insurance in securing loved ones, income replacement, and retirement planning, and the importance of general insurance in safeguarding against accidents, natural disasters, vehicle damage, and promoting quality healthcare. The Chairman also stressed that premiums can be tailored to suit different financial capacities, making coverage accessible and affordable for all.

Through these programs, IRCSL continues to focus on increasing public trust and confidence in insurance by promoting education, transparency, and innovation. The Commission also reiterated its commitment to upcoming initiatives, including:

Digitalisation of motor insurance through introduction of e-cards

Development of an Insurance Repository in collaboration with the Credit Information Bureau (CRIB)

Introduction of affordable, high-benefit, simplified standard insurance products

Reduction of premium payment warranty period to 30 days from 1 January 2026

IRCSL extends its gratitude to District Secretaries of Jaffna and Kilinochchi, all Government officers, Education Ministry officials, the Vice Chancellor and staff of the University of Jaffna, all participants and insurance companies, industry associations, SLII for their active support and participation, which contributed to the successful completion of these programs. These initiatives mark an important step in IRCSL’s mission to create a financially informed, insured, and secure society across Sri Lanka.

The IRCSL’s countrywide awareness campaign will continue to other provinces in the next year, ensuring that every Sri Lankan has access to knowledge and tools needed to make informed insurance decisions.

The Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court yesterday postponed the hearing of the case filed under the Public Property Act against ex-President Ranil Wickremesinghe to 28 January 2026.

The Court directed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to expedite its probe into the matter and to present any suspects identified during the investigation at the next hearing.

The Magistrate also instructed the CID to inquire into whether the incidents that occurred near the court premises on a previous date amounted to contempt of court, to identify those involved, and to report back on the action taken.

The case, taken up at the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court around 1:30 p.m., concerns allegations that Wickremesinghe misused public funds in 2023 to travel to the United Kingdom to attend an event held to honour his wife, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe, while serving as Head of State.

Wickremesinghe was arrested on 22 August 2025, after appearing before the CID to provide a statement regarding the allegations. He was subsequently produced before the Magistrate’s Court and remanded until 26 August.

Following the submission of medical reports by his counsel, Fort Magistrate Nilupuli Lankapura ordered Wickremesinghe’s release on three surety bails of Rs. 5 million each on 26 August and scheduled the case to be recalled today.

Due to unavoidable circumstances, the Annual General Meeting of the Alumni Association of the University of Colombo scheduled to be held today, 30 October 2025 has been postponed. The new date will be notified soon.

In May 2009, as the guns fell silent over Nandikadal, Sri Lanka claimed victory not only on the battlefield but also in Geneva. When the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) adopted Resolution S-11/1, Colombo hailed it as a diplomatic triumph – an endorsement of sovereignty, a recognition of humanitarian relief efforts, and a rejection of external interference. Yet 16 years later, the same Council continues to debate Sri Lanka’s human-rights record, fund an evidence-preservation mechanism, and call for accountability that remains unresolved. The evolution of these resolutions reveals a deeper truth: Sri Lanka’s ‘victory’ in 2009 was conditional, and unfulfilled promises transformed praise into prolonged scrutiny.

The 2009 Resolution: Praise, assistance, and silence on accountability

The UNHRC’s 11th Special Session on 26-27 May 2009 produced Resolution S-11/1, ‘Assistance to Sri Lanka in the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights.’ Adopted with 29 votes in favour, 12 against, and six abstentions, the text – largely shaped by Sri Lanka’s skilful diplomacy – welcomed the end of hostilities, commended the Government’s relief efforts, condemned the LTTE, and reaffirmed sovereignty and territorial integrity. Crucially, it contained no call for investigation or accountability.

At a time when Western governments were criticising Sri Lanka’s final offensive, this resolution offered political cover and symbolised vindication – a rare moment when the Global South rallied to defend a state’s right to manage post-conflict affairs without foreign intrusion.

A conditional victory: The promises behind the praise

Yet this victory was not absolute. Embedded in the resolution – and more clearly in the Joint Statement of 23 May 2009 issued during UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s visit to Colombo – were two key undertakings:

1. To address alleged violations of humanitarian and human-rights law through domestic mechanisms; and

2. To pursue a political solution based on devolution under the 13th Amendment.

When the Council ‘welcomed the Government’s commitment’ to these goals, it transformed them into international expectations. The 2009 resolution thus became a conditional reprieve: the Council withheld criticism on the assumption that Sri Lanka would act on its own pledges.

The subsequent decade tested that assumption. The Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC), established in 2010, recommended reform, demilitarisation, and investigations into civilian deaths, but implementation was selective and slow. Key accountability cases stalled, and devolution remained incomplete.

When domestic progress faltered, these same commitments resurfaced in later resolutions. Resolution 19/2 (2012) sought an action plan to implement LLRC recommendations; Resolution 25/1 (2014) authorised an international investigation (OISL); and Resolution 30/1 (2015) designed a transitional-justice framework with truth-seeking, reparations, and a judicial mechanism involving foreign participation. Each was essentially a reminder of Sri Lanka’s unfulfilled 2009 promises.

In retrospect, Resolution S-11/1 opened space for reconciliation but also created enduring benchmarks of progress. As implementation advanced unevenly, the Council’s engagement evolved from a supportive approach to one more focused on accountability.

The post-2009 interlude: From LLRC to quiet pressure

Between 2010 and 2012, Colombo sought to demonstrate progress through domestic initiatives such as the LLRC, the resettlement of displaced persons, and the relaxation of emergency laws. While a number of steps were taken, several LLRC recommendations on investigations and institutional reform remained pending. Following the 2011 Darusman Panel Report, which cited ‘credible allegations’ of wartime violations by both parties, international attention on Sri Lanka increased. Consequently, in 2012 the Council adopted Resolution 19/2, introducing periodic reporting – marking a measured transition from reliance on domestic assurances to a framework of structured engagement.

From probing to mandating: The 2014-2015 shift

By 2014, concerns over the slow pace of domestic processes led to the adoption of Resolution 25/1, mandating an OHCHR investigation into alleged violations. The subsequent OISL Report (2015) presented detailed findings on alleged serious incidents during the final stages of the conflict, attributing responsibility to both the LTTE and Government forces.

The new Yahapalana administration responded by co-sponsoring Resolution 30/1 (2015), embracing a four-pillar transitional-justice framework covering truth-seeking, reparations, security-sector reform, and a hybrid judicial mechanism. Adopted by consensus, it marked a brief partnership between Sri Lanka and the Council.

Although important institutional steps were taken – including the establishment of the Office on Missing Persons and the Office for Reparations – implementation slowed thereafter. Both institutions required enhanced authority and support, while the proposed judicial mechanism and broader security-sector reforms remained works in progress.

Between rollover and reversal (2017-2020)

Resolutions 34/1 (2017) and 40/1 (2019) rolled over earlier commitments, urging measurable progress. Yet by 2020, a change of government prompted Sri Lanka to withdraw co-sponsorship, pledging a purely domestic path. This effectively dismantled the transitional-justice framework built since 2015.

Renewed scrutiny: The evidence-preservation mandate (2021-2024)

In March 2021, the Council adopted Resolution 46/1, authorising OHCHR to collect and preserve evidence of serious violations for potential judicial use – a turning point that institutionalised accountability within the UN system itself. The mandate was renewed by Resolution 51/1 (2022) and again in 2024, ensuring continued monitoring.

Colombo viewed these developments as encroachments on national sovereignty, yet by that stage the international focus had shifted toward assessing progress against earlier commitments.

The erosion of promises: From commitments to credibility gaps

After 2009, Sri Lanka pledged to match victory with reform – accountability, demilitarisation, and devolution. Yet limited implementation of the LLRC, retention of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, and lack of credible prosecutions widened the gap between rhetoric and reality.

The 13th Amendment remained only partly realised: land, police, and fiscal powers stayed centralised. The Resolution 30/1 commitments of 2015 – truth-seeking, reparations, judicial reform – gradually weakened. Symbolic compliance and political reversals eroded trust, leading the Council to shift from cooperation to documentation.

Where 2009 celebrated sovereignty, 2021 institutionalised scrutiny. The trajectory from S-11/1 to 46/1 thus measures both the evolution of Council policy and the cost of unfulfilled promises.

Reconciling expectations: The limits of external pressure

While Sri Lanka’s record of missed commitments drew international concern, the West failed to understand that reconciliation itself is not an event but a long, uneven process. Healing a society after three decades of war cannot be reduced to checklists in Geneva. Rebuilding trust, reviving war-torn economies, and reforming institutions require time and political stability – both often absent in Sri Lanka’s post-war years.

Many in the Global South contend that the UNHRC’s treatment of Sri Lanka reflected asymmetry and double standards. Western states leading successive resolutions – some facing their own unresolved accountability issues – appeared inconsistent. This perception hardened as Sri Lanka’s gestures of cooperation were met with more reporting and monitoring requirements.

Even critics of the Government admit that Sri Lanka was seldom afforded the policy space that post-conflict societies like Rwanda or South Africa enjoyed. International impatience and shifting geopolitics pushed the conversation from cooperation to confrontation, eroding trust on both sides: Colombo became defensive; Geneva, sceptical.

Ultimately, Sri Lanka’s experience highlights the limits of externally driven reconciliation. Sustainable peace must emerge from domestic consensus, not resolutions alternating between praise and censure. A balanced view recognises two truths: Sri Lanka fell short of its promises, and the international system often failed to provide the supportive environment needed for reform.

Recent developments: The 2025 UNHRC session

At the 60th Session of the UNHRC (October 2025), the Council adopted – without a vote – a new Resolution HRC/60/L.1/Rev.1, extending the OHCHR evidence-gathering mandate. Sri Lanka rejected it, calling the mechanism ‘an unprecedented expansion of the Council’s mandate.’ Colombo highlighted domestic measures – a planned Truth and Reconciliation Commission, strengthened Offices on Missing Persons and Reparations, and a proposed Public Prosecutor’s Office – as evidence of its continued commitment to a home-grown process.

This exchange underscored the enduring dilemma: sixteen years after its ‘diplomatic victory,’ Sri Lanka remains caught between asserting sovereignty and meeting expectations of accountability.

Conclusion: From resolution to responsibility

Sri Lanka’s journey through the Human Rights Council encapsulates a paradox of modern diplomacy: a state may win the vote yet lose the narrative. The 2009 resolution offered space for reform, but unfulfilled promises turned goodwill into scepticism. Each subsequent resolution simply echoed those early undertakings, transforming voluntary pledges into binding expectations.

The arc from sovereignty to accountability reflects not coercion but inconsistency – diplomatic success unaccompanied by domestic substance. Genuine peace cannot be secured through procedural victories in Geneva but through moral credibility at home. Sixteen years on, the enduring lesson is clear: the strength of sovereignty lies not in resisting scrutiny, but in honouring one’s own commitments.

The Colombo Comedy Show 2025, presented by Carmart and organised by the Colombo Taprobane Round Table 3 (CTRT3), returns for its 10th Anniversary Edition-a celebration of world-class humour, global talent, and a shared mission to make a difference. The laughter begins at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, at Monarch Imperial, Kotte.

This milestone marks a decade of bringing some of the best international comedians to Sri Lankan audiences, and this year’s show promises to be the biggest one yet. The 2025 edition features a powerhouse international line-up of five acclaimed comedians from across the globe. Umar Rana from Pakistan, founder of Comedy Masala Singapore and a veteran performer with two decades of experience, brings sharp wit and unmatched timing to the stage. Kavin Jay from Malaysia, known for his Netflix special ‘Everybody Calm Down!’ captivates audiences with his relatable humour and observational storytelling.

Rizal van Geyzel, also from Malaysia, delivers high-energy performances infused with comedic takes on everyday chaos and cultural quirks. April Macie from the USA, a global headliner and finalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing, lights up the stage with bold humour and charisma. Completing the line-up is Azeem Banatwalla from India, whose razor-edged insights and commentary on modern life have made him one of India’s most celebrated stand-ups. Together, they promise an unforgettable evening that unites audiences through laughter, offering a dynamic mix of humour styles, personalities, and perspectives.

As with every year, the Colombo Comedy Show remains rooted in purpose. Proceeds from the event will go towards the Kids Off Streets (KOS) charity project, a long-running initiative by CTRT3 that empowers underprivileged children through education, rehabilitation, and community care. Over the past decade, this event has not only brought joy to audiences but also created meaningful social impact across Sri Lanka.

CTRT3 Chairman Rukshan Periyapperuma said, ‘Each year, the Colombo Comedy Show brings together laughter, unity, and purpose. Celebrating 10 years, we’re proud of how far we’ve come, from our very first sold-out night to becoming one of Sri Lanka’s most anticipated entertainment events. Beyond the humour, this show helps us create lasting change through Kids Off Streets and other community programs.’

Tickets now available via CTRT3.myshopbox.lk and PickMe Events.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this historic 10-year celebration, a night of laughter, community, and impact that continues to make the world a little brighter, one joke at a time.

Amari Colombo recently unveiled VALENTINA, an exclusive jewellery boutique where timeless elegance meets exquisite craftsmanship. Located in the hotel’s lower lobby, VALENTINA showcases a curated collection of stunning pieces, celebrating artistry and sophistication in every design. The launch event was attended by celebrities, politicians, and top corporate clientele, marking a glamorous occasion for the city.

Winil Holdings Ltd., under the visionary leadership of Winil Walgampala, internationally recognised for his expertise in gemstones, makes a distinguished foray into the hospitality sector. Drawing on a legacy of excellence as a gem connoisseur and tradesman, Walgampala brings unparalleled expertise and a meticulous eye for detail to this venture.

The boutique’s debut coincides with the hotel’s first anniversary celebrations, offering guests a unique experience that blends the opulence of Winil Gems’ heritage with the modern sophistication of Amari Colombo. VALENTINA is set to redefine elegance and style for discerning patrons in Sri Lanka.

WindForce PLC yesterday said that it has emerged as the lowest-cost bidder for Lot 1 of the 50MW Mullikulam Wind Power Project, marking a key milestone towards securing the contract for the large-scale renewable energy development.

The company said the formal award of the contract is still pending, but described the outcome as price-sensitive information, given its potential implications for future operations, material contracts, and long-term financial performance.

WindForce said further disclosures will be made following the official award, execution of agreements, or any other material updates connected to the tender.

The company added that the announcement includes forward-looking information based on current bidding results, which remain subject to final awarding procedures, regulatory clearances, and term negotiations, and should not be taken as confirmation of contract award.

As Sri Lanka grapples with an estimated $ 450 million to $ 1 billion in annual losses due to cybercrime, leading experts and diplomats have called for stronger awareness, vigilance and governance to counter the growing digital threat landscape.

The warning came during the ‘Mastering ISO 27001 Auditing’ workshop held at the Taj Samudra Colombo yesterday, organised by HLB Lanka Business Advisory. The program aimed to build capacity among Sri Lankan professionals to strengthen internal audit systems and align with global standards in information security management.

Conducted by ContinuityNZ Director /Principal Consultant Nalin Wijetilleke, the workshop offered hands-on training on effective ISO 27001:2022 implementation, risk-based auditing and integrating compliance with Sri Lanka’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA).

Wijetilleke – an ISACA Hall of Fame Inductee and multi-award-winning international governance, risk and cybersecurity professional – underscored that information security must now be viewed as a strategic business enabler, not merely a compliance requirement.

‘The cost of cyber incidents goes beyond financial loss – it damages trust, reputation and business continuity,’ he said.

‘By embedding a culture of vigilance, accountability and continuous improvement, organisations can transform compliance into confidence,’ He further added.

New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and the Maldives David Pine echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of education and shared responsibility in addressing cyber-risks.

‘Cybersecurity awareness is the first line of defence. Every organisation and individual must understand the value of the data they handle and the consequences of a breach. A well-informed society is a safer one, reaffirming proper commitment to strengthening regional digital resilience initiatives,’ Pine said.

The workshop was further distinguished by the presence of New Zealand High Commissioner to Sri Lanka David Pine who graced the opening ceremony as the chief guest, highlighting the significance of cross-border collaboration in advancing information security practices.

Pine echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of education and shared responsibility in addressing cyber risks.

‘Cybersecurity awareness is the first line of defence. Every organisation and individual must understand the value of the data they handle and the consequences of a breach. A well-informed society is a safer one, reaffirming proper commitment to strengthening regional digital resilience initiatives,’ he added.

According to Asian Development Bank (ADB) Digital Sector Office Director Antonio Zaballos, Sri Lanka’s annual cybercrime losses could reach $ 1 billion, signalling the urgent need for professional training, regulatory alignment and stronger governance frameworks.

The workshop also highlighted the global role of ISACA, the international professional association for IT governance and cybersecurity, which today boasts 231 chapters in 90 countries and a membership of over 170,000 professionals worldwide. ISACA’s global network continues to drive best practices in information systems auditing, cybersecurity and risk management across industries.

Also present at the event were Cargills Bank Chief Manager – Information Systems Audit Amitha Munasinghe, Eguardian VP Technology Evangelist Lakmal Embuldeniya, and HLB Lanka Business Advisory Partner – Technology Advisory and Chief Information Officer Lahiru Livera.

The workshop concluded with a call for Sri Lankan organisations to adopt international standards like ISO 27001 as part of a broader strategy to safeguard data, maintain trust and ensure business continuity and by bringing together professionals from the public and private sectors, the event reinforced that cybersecurity is no longer a technical issue but a strategic imperative essential for ensuring trust, resilience and long-term business sustainability in Sri Lanka’s digital economy.

The Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025, hosted by the Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association (SLRA), concluded successfully at the Shangri-La Colombo, bringing together over 500 retail leaders, innovators, and professionals to chart the future of Sri Lanka’s retail landscape.

With the theme ‘Retail Reimagined – Where AI Meets the Human Edge,’ the forum explored how artificial intelligence (AI) and human creativity can converge to revolutionize customer experiences, operational efficiency, and leadership in the retail sector.

Graced by Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy Dr. Hans Wijesuriya, the event set the stage for forward-looking discussions on digital transformation, policy frameworks, and public-private collaboration to accelerate the nation’s retail modernization journey. Delivering the keynote address, Satyendra Khare, Head of Strategic and Emerging Partnerships and Distribution Ecosystem (India and SAARC) at Google India, spoke on ‘Inf ‘AI’nite Possibilities,’ emphasizing how AI can unlock next-level personalization, streamline supply chains, and transform retail decision-making.

In his welcome address, SLRA President Infiyaz Ali said: ‘The insights gained today will serve as a blueprint for the next era of retail growth in Sri Lanka, proving that the synergy between AI and human talent is the key to unlocking infinite possibilities.’

The day’s speaker sessions featured a lineup of thought leaders and industry experts who shared valuable insights across diverse themes.

Advocata Institute Chairman Murtaza Jafferjee spoke on ‘From Stability to Sustainability: Driving Growth Through Structural Transformation,’ exploring how structural reforms can create a stable foundation for retail growth.

Surge Global Founder and CEO Bhanuka Harischandra discussed ‘Data and Retail,’ highlighting the importance of leveraging consumer insights for competitive advantage.

Beyond: Putting Data to Work CEO Paul Alexandar presented ‘Beyond the Hype: Building Retail’s Data Foundations for AI Success,’ focusing on the role of robust data ecosystems in achieving AI-driven transformation.

Breakthrough Business Intelligence Chief Research Officer Dilini Jayasuriya, delivered an engaging session titled ‘Winning the Human Mind in the Age of AI,’ while Dialog Group Chief Analytics and AI Officer Dr. Romesh Ranawana, presented ‘AI That Sells – Price. Personalize. Perform.’ offering actionable strategies for implementing AI in retail.

A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion titled ‘Where AI Meets the Human Edge: Future of Retail Leadership.’

Moderated by Pepper Cube Consultants Chief Insights Officer Crystal Nathan, the session featured Clootrack – Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Pakistan President Dr. Rohantha Athukorala; Hemas Consumer Cluster Managing Director Sabrina Esufally and Futureworks at Twinery – Innovations by MAS Director Ahmed Irfan. Together, they explored the evolving role of leadership in an era where AI, innovation, and human creativity redefine customer experiences and operational excellence.

The forum also featured two insightful TechTalk sessions. OMAK Technologies presented ‘AI Applications in Retail Technology,’ while NCINGA showcased ‘The Age of Agents: How Agentic AI is Revolutionising the Industry,’ both highlighting the practical applications of AI in modern retail environments.

The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by SLRA Vice President Kumar de Silva, followed by a Networking High Tea that provided an engaging platform for participants to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas.

The Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2025 was supported by a strong lineup of sponsors and partners: Platinum Sponsors John Keells CG Auto Ltd., and Jaykay Marketing Services Ltd; Silver Sponsors Abans PLC, Healthguard Pharmacy Ltd., Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC, Samsung Sri Lanka, and Unilever Sri Lanka Ltd.,; Associate Sponsors Vision Care, Perera and Sons Bakers Ltd., DSI, SPAR Supermarkets, Havelock City Mall, Cool Planet Ltd, and Nestlé Sri Lanka; Tech Talk Sponsors OMAK Technologies Ltd., and NCINGA; Exhibition Sponsors Itechro Ltd., Effectz AI Ltd., Essilor Lanka Ltd., and Celeste; Digital Sponsor Azbow Ltd; Logistics Sponsor Diesel and Motor Engineering PLC; Event Partner Ceylon Chamber of Commerce; PR Partner Impressions Public Relations; and Ticketing Partner Oneticket.lk.

The Sri Lanka Retailers’ Association invites retailers, entrepreneurs, and professionals to join its growing network and contribute to shaping the future of retail in Sri Lanka.