Category: Daily Financial Times

England came from behind to win their first overseas ODI series since early 2023 when they won the third and final match against Sri Lanka by 53 runs at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium yesterday to take the three-match series 2-1.

It was Sri Lanka’s first home series defeat in a bilateral contest since losing to India by the same margin in July 2021.

Compared to the wickets prepared for the first two matches yesterday’s game produced a belter with 661 runs being scored and both teams topping the 300-run mark.

Joe Root and Harry Brook led England’s charge with centuries that saw them rack up their highest ODI total against Sri Lanka – 357-3 surpassing their previous highest of 333-9 in the 1983 World Cup match at Taunton. Sri Lanka were bowled out for 304 after they were given a flying start by their openers Pathum Nissanka (50 off 25 balls, 5 fours, 3 sixes) Kamil Mishara (22) who put on 48 off 31 balls. Although Sri Lanka kept up with the run rate they lost too many wickets with only Pavan Rathnayake carrying on the fight playing a lone hand for 121 off 115 balls (12 fours, 1 six) – his maiden ODI century.

Since his selection into the white ball squad the talking point has been that Rathnayake’s talent as a batsman is being wasted by not batting him up the order instead of seven. Sri Lanka took a chance to promote him to no. 4 yesterday and he delivered.

England won the toss for the first time in the series and batting first only managed to score 40 off the first powerplay. Then Jacob Bethell and Joe Root laid the platform. They added 126 off 124 balls for the third wicket but the real entertainment came when Brook joined Root.

The England captain produced one of the best knocks seen at the RPICS in this format. His inside-out hits over extra-cover were a delight and even good length deliveries were pulled for six. Sri Lanka simply wilted under his onslaught. Shoulders dropped and the heat and the humidity only made it worse.

Brook was on a different planet altogether. Coming into bat in the 32nd over, he outshone Root to make a destructive hundred – 136* off 66 balls comprising 11 fours and 9 sixes. Root as he always does, was a class apart. He nudged around, played his sweeps, reverse-sweep and put the bad ball away to get his 20th ODI ton – 111* off 108 balls with 9 fours and a six. Brook’s attack left Sri Lanka with a mountain to climb. The dominance of Brook was plain to see. Of the last 69 runs of the England innings, Root contributed just one run! And of the 124 scored off the last 8 overs, Brook’s contribution was 98 off 32 balls (inclusive of 9 fours and 7 sixes).

England enjoyed the diet of spin offered by Sri Lanka; they had six in their line-up. Wanindu Hasaranga and Jeffrey Vandersay struggled with what seemed like cramps both ending with identical bowling figures – 1/76.

Brook took the Player of the Match award and Root the Player of the Series.

The two teams will commence a three-match T20I series at Pallekele on Friday.

The Sri Lanka Association for Software and Services Companies (SLASSCOM) is accelerating Sri Lanka’s startup ecosystem by giving 25 high-potential local startups unprecedented global exposure through a fully funded, six-week international residential entrepreneurship programme at IIT Madras Pravartak, India. Supported by the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka and delivered in partnership with one of India’s leading innovation hubs, the program – ‘Mastering the Startup Journey: Training for an Entrepreneurship Career Path’ – runs from 2 February to 14 March 2026, offering immersive, world-class entrepreneurial training.

Designed to create globally competitive entrepreneurs, the program equips participants with hands-on exposure to international best practices, mentorship from leading industry and academic experts, access to India’s vibrant startup and investor ecosystem, and structured learning in strategy, product-market fit, scalability, and internationalisation.

Selected from over 100 applicants, the 25 startups showcase the breadth and dynamism of Sri Lanka’s innovation landscape, spanning technology, health, energy, AI, automation, and advanced manufacturing. They include: MediMan Life (Sugeevan Vettivelautham), Nexity (Chandika Jayasanka), Bio Trend (Harindu Perera), DART (Parimalan Eswaran), Volfpack Energy (Vithursha Lingaretnam), MineraNova Pvt Ltd (Avantha Prasad), SpectrifyAI (Thanujan Tharmapalan), JE Autobots (Mohamed Manas), JE Scientific (Hemakanth Natkunaraja), Auralflix (Chanuka Devin), SkyT (Sarani Jayasooriya), Talport (Gobinthiran Kulendran), MooMap (Kavith Udapola), MOMPRO (Asanka Rajakaruna), SEEDS Ltd. (Rajkumar Mohana Prasath), Ophtha Innovations Ltd. (Dhanushi Hettiarachchi), ITSELF Automation Ltd. (Himal Gunawardhana), Electriquote (Dilini Ekanayaka), CEX Consultants Ltd. (Sandra De Zoysa), Imigap Ltd. (Lasith Chandupa), Generation ALPHA Ltd. (Miuli Kalubowila), Creed Solution (Thilina Dharmasena), Global Frontiers (Dinuksha Devasurendra), Futuora (Janitha Dissanayake), and Padel Chief (Nisal Sudila).

SLASSCOM Chairperson Shehani Seneviratne said: ‘This collaboration with IIT Madras Pravartak marks a transformative step in our mission to build globally competitive entrepreneurs. By providing startups direct access to one of the world’s leading innovation ecosystems, we empower them with the skills, confidence, and networks to scale internationally.’

SLASSCOM Vice Chair Haridhu Abeygoonaratne said, ‘This initiative reflects SLASSCOM’s long-term vision of strengthening Sri Lanka’s startup ecosystem through global collaboration. By investing in entrepreneurial capability and international exposure, we are laying the foundation for sustainable innovation, export-led growth, and national competitiveness.’

Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha said, ‘India and Sri Lanka share a strong economic partnership that is advancing rapidly, especially in technology, education, and entrepreneurship. Following the State visit of Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, 700 training slots have been created to build capacity for Sri Lankans across sectors. This program reflects our shared vision to nurture innovation-driven growth and strengthen people-to-people collaboration between our countries.’

This landmark initiative underscores SLASSCOM’s vision of establishing Sri Lanka as a global innovation hub, producing startups ready to scale and succeed internationally, while showcasing its pivotal role in empowering entrepreneurs, driving cross-border collaboration, and shaping an innovation-led future for the nation.

The much looked forward Super Round of Sri Lanka’s Inter Club Rugby League will kick off this weekend, raising the intensity as the competition Now divided into the Cup and Plate segments. Importantly all points collected during the initial round will be carried forward.

The Cup segment in Super Round will feature the top four teams while the bottom four will contest the Plate trophy. With no clear favoured teams next three weeks will see some top class encounters been worked off.

Red Shirts, head into the Super Round at the summit of the Cup standings. They have been the most consistent outfit so far, suffering just one defeat a narrow loss to CH and FC. Their structured approach, depth across positions and strong set-piece execution make them early favourites to challenge for silverware. The coaching staff should be applauded for their blooding of youngsters into the playing XV. Dushanth Lewke heads the unit.

Just one point behind CR are the defending champions Kandy SC, who have recorded one defeat and one draw in a competitive first round. Kandy’s campaign has drawn admiration, particularly for their commitment to local talent, as they remain the only club not to field a foreign player this season, player development and rugby culture. But the Up-country club the most successful in the recent past having accumulated the league for more than 25 times in the last three decades. Kandy has included many youngsters in to the starting XV with Fazil Marija heading the unit.

CH and FC occupy third place in the Cup standings after a mixed opening round that saw them lose to Havelock SC and draw with Kandy. Despite the inconsistency, CH possess the attacking flair and tactical maturity to upset any side on their day, making them a dangerous contender as the Super Round unfolds. Rohitha Rajapakse is their Head Coach.

Havelock SC complete the Cup lineup in fourth position. The Park Club have already shown their ability to challenge top opposition, having defeated CH, but losses to Kandy and CR have left them with ground to make up. Their trademark physicality and pace out wide will be key weapons moving forward. Saliya Kumara looks after the Park Club boys.

The opening weekend of the Super Round promises blockbuster encounters, beginning with the traditional CR and FC vs Havelock clash at Havelock Park. Meanwhile, Kandy SC will face CH and FC at the Racecourse Grounds in what could be a defining early fixture for the Cup title race.

In the Plate segment, Air Force SC will start as clear favourites after narrowly missing out on a Cup berth. They lead the Plate standings, followed by Police SC and Army SC, with Navy SC also in the mix. Air Force’s discipline and game management give them a strong edge in this segment. Sadly, last year’s debutants Sri Lions, as they were placed ninth, were put on the receiving end due to some inconsistent officiating at the centre. Sri Lanka Rugby will bring two overseas referees for the Super Round Cup encounters.

Plate fixtures will see Air Force take on Navy at Welisara, while Army host Police at Panagoda. With pride, ranking points and momentum at stake, the Plate competition is expected to be fiercely contested despite being outside the main title race.

While both trophies remain up for grabs, CR and Kandy SC appear best placed to challenge for the Cup, though Kandy face the added challenge of playing all three Super Round fixtures in the Colombo heat. Air Force, meanwhile, look the team to beat in the Plate, setting the stage for a compelling and unpredictable second round of club rugby action.

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka’s extraordinary statement warning of a ‘wave of social media attacks’ against the Attorney General raises troubling questions, not about public behaviour, but about elite discomfort with accountability. By calling on the Government to curtail criticism on social media, the Bar Association has taken a position that is fundamentally at odds with democratic principles and the constitutional right to freedom of expression.

Social media today is the modern public square. It is where citizens debate governance, justice, corruption, violence, and institutional failure. Attempts to delegitimise this space as reckless or dangerous simply because criticism is uncomfortable reflect a deeper problem and an entrenched belief that the judiciary and the criminal justice system are beyond public scrutiny. They are not and should never be.

The Bar Association’s call is a remarkably poor one. Rather than defending democratic discourse, it appears to be an attempt to stifle growing and legitimate criticism of a criminal justice system that has failed the people of Sri Lanka for decades. The judiciary and the Attorney General’s Department are not sacred institutions insulated from public opinion. In fact they are public bodies exercising power in the name of the people. That power must invite scrutiny.

There is widespread frustration across the country over the lack of action in emblematic cases of violence, corruption, abuse of power, and political impunity. Cases that should be investigated, prosecuted, and concluded within months drag on for years. Some never even see the inside of a courtroom. Delays, selective prosecutions, inexplicable withdrawals, and prolonged inaction have eroded public trust. This is not a perception problem created by social media but a reality experienced by victims and citizens alike.

The legal profession may wish to preserve the status quo, where the criminal justice system remains untouchable and criticism is treated as contempt. But that desire cannot override the rights of citizens. The law is not the private domain of an elite class to interpret, apply, and shield from public discussion. Our citizens are not legally illiterate subjects who must accept silence in the face of injustice. They are citizens with a stake in how justice is administered.

In a democracy, institutions must be robust enough to withstand criticism, even criticism that is harsh, unfair, or uncomfortable. Public officials, including the Attorney General and judges, are not entitled to immunity from opinion simply because of the offices they hold. On the contrary, the higher the power, the greater the obligation to tolerate scrutiny.

Sri Lanka’s legal framework itself underscores this imbalance. To this day, there is no clear law defining contempt of court, leaving vast discretionary power in the hands of judges. This has enabled abuse, including the jailing of democratically elected lawmakers for speech-related offences. Such unchecked authority does not protect the dignity of the courts but undermines it. Respect cannot be demanded through fear. It must be earned through integrity, efficiency, and fairness.

The mafia-style protection of the so-called ‘sanctity’ of the judiciary serves no one. It does not strengthen institutions but weakens them by detaching them from public legitimacy. Institutions survive not through silence and coercion, but through trust. And trust is built through transparency, accountability, and results.

If the judiciary and the criminal justice system are to regain public confidence, they must accept criticism as a democratic necessity, not a threat. Attempts to suppress opinion will only deepen suspicion and alienation. In a functioning democracy, no institution, least of all one entrusted with justice, is beyond critique.

As transparency becomes a defining requirement among European buyers, Mabroc Teas Ltd., a member of the Hayleys Group and one of Sri Lanka’s leading tea exporters, has launched TeaTrace, a data-driven traceability platform designed to meet evolving global standards in ethical and sustainable sourcing.

Developed in collaboration with ITechro, the platform ensures buyers and consumers gain end-to-end visibility from tea estate to retail shelf, embedding sustainability directly into the product and transforming it into a competitive advantage.

Sri Lanka’s tea industry has long relied on heritage: century-old estates, climate and a legacy of quality. In Europe, however, reputation alone no longer secures premium pricing or shelf space. Buyers, regulators, and investors now demand evidence of ethical labour practices, environmental stewardship and supply-chain transparency that can be independently verified, making traceability a critical requirement for market access.

Mabroc Teas Managing Director Rajeev Samarasinghe said: ‘Wellness-driven markets want proof that the product stands for something. Digital traceability is moving quickly from a value-add to an expectation. Sri Lankan exporters must demonstrate real, verifiable sustainability to remain competitive in high-value markets.’

The initiative is aligned with two of the Hayleys Group’s digital transformation priorities – ‘enhancing customer experience and driving sustainability across the value chain.

Mabroc’s TeaTrace consumer interface, providing batch-level traceability, origin mapping and certification visibility to support transparency and informed consumer choice

Unlike traditional marketing propositions, TeaTrace prioritises verifiable, technical information, addressing the demands of European procurement teams navigating ESG reporting, deforestation risks and ethical sourcing compliance. Each retail pack carries a QR code linking consumers, buyers and auditors to batch-specific information: estate profiles, production dates, processing steps and relevant certifications.

TeaTrace also includes relevant quality, food safety, and sustainability certifications, offering buyers and consumers assurance that responsible practices are embedded directly at source. Additional ingredients, such as herbs or flavourings, are accompanied by relevant country-of-origin details, ensuring full visibility across the supply chain.

Tea drinkers can scan the QR code to explore the exact batch they are holding, trace its journey from the tea garden to the cup, including harvesting, manufacturing, blending and packing stages, and gain insight into the sustainable practices and values at the source.

By digitising origin and production data at the product level, Mabroc provides retailers and distributors with auditable information, reducing reliance on supplier assurances while supporting compliance and ESG reporting obligations.

TeaTrace was officially launched at the Anuga Food Exhibition 2025 in Germany – a leading platform for sustainability-driven innovation in global retail. Building on this foundation, Mabroc plans to extend TeaTrace to other markets, reinforcing a long-term commitment to digital traceability, ESG integration, and consumer trust across international markets.

By integrating traceability and ESG into its operations, Mabroc aims not only to meet global compliance standards but also to redefine Sri Lankan tea’s place in high-value, wellness-driven and ethics-conscious markets worldwide.

Sri Lanka’s export sector continued its positive growth momentum in 2025, recording a notable year-on-year (YoY) growth of 5.6%. Based on Sri Lanka Customs statistics and estimated export figures for Gems and Jewellery, Petroleum Products, and services, total export earnings reached $ 17,252.15 million in 2025, reflecting sustained growth and improving external trade conditions.

In December 2025, total exports, comprising both merchandise and services, amounted to $ 1,490.49 million, representing a 3.95% YoY increase. This performance underscores the resilience of Sri Lanka’s export sector and the effectiveness of policy measures and strategic interventions aimed at expanding market access and strengthening global competitiveness.

Export Development Board (EDB) Chairman/CEO Mangala Wijesinghe said that Sri Lanka’s export earnings in 2025 reached $ 17,252.15 million, achieving over 94.79% of the export target. He noted that this performance highlights the resilience and competitiveness of Sri Lanka’s export sector, supported by the recovery of key export markets, sustained production capacity, and the effective implementation of export development strategies.

Addressing a media conference yesterday, Wijesinghe said the 2025 export target of $ 18.2 billion was missed due to external factors out of Sri Lanka’s control, but added the Government is targeting export earnings of $ 20 billion in 2026, citing a sharper focus on merchandise and services exports and a renewed push to support exporters.

He said merchandise exports are forecast at around $ 15.5-16 billion, driven by sectors such as apparel, electronics, and gems and jewellery, while services exports, including technology, logistics, and construction, are also expected to contribute to growth. He said the 2026 projection is based on achieving an average monthly growth of around 10%.

He said the EDB has received its largest-ever allocation to support this effort, with increased funding for small and medium-sized (SME) exporters, international trade fairs, and the national export strategy.

Sri Lanka will also host a major export exhibition this year, the first in 14 years, expected to attract around 1,500 international buyers and investors and involving approximately 650 local exporters and 100 foreign-owned export companies.

Cumulative total exports, including both merchandise and services, were estimated at $ 17,252.15 million for the year 2025, making a notable 5.6% growth compared to the year 2024.

Merchandise exports during the year 2025 are estimated to increase by 6.32%, reaching $ 13,579.38 million, based on data from Sri Lanka Customs along with the estimated figures for Gems and Jewellery and Petroleum Products.

Meanwhile, the estimated value of services exports is expected to increase by 2.79% to $ 3,672.77 million compared to the corresponding period in 2024. This performance underscores the growing significance of Sri Lanka’s knowledge-based economy and its increasing contribution to national export earnings. The services export sector, encompassing ICT/BPM,

Construction, Financial Services, and Transport and Logistics, continues to play a vital role in diversifying Sri Lanka’s export base while generating high-value employment opportunities across the country.

Sri Lanka’s export sector demonstrated resilient growth throughout 2025, with major categories showing significant YoY increases. Leading the expansion, earnings from Apparel, Tea, Coconut products, Electrical and Electronic Components, and Food and Beverages grew by 4.93%, 4.97%, 42.66%, 3.91%, and 24.23%, respectively. This broad-based success was underpinned by strong demand in traditional Western markets and a remarkable surge in value-added agricultural products.

The Apparel and Textile sector remained the primary revenue driver, increasing by 5.34% to reach $ 4,909.05 million. Notably, exports to the EU surged by 12.2% ($ 1,592.89 million), while the US and the UK contributed $ 1,964.14 million and $ 688.54 million, respectively. Meanwhile, the Tea export industry recorded earnings of $ 1,507.19 million, a 4.97% increase supported primarily by the strong performance of Tea Packets, which increased by 10.18%.

The Coconut and Coconut-based products sector emerged as a remarkable performer, with earnings increased by 42.66% to $ 1,233.01 million. This was driven by explosive growth across all sub-categories, including Coconut Cream (93.16%), Coconut Oil (78.68%), and Coconut Milk Powder (61.47%).

Meanwhile, export of Food and Beverage sector increased by 24.23% to $ 583.89 million, largely due to a 40.4% increase in processed food exports.

In addition, export earnings from Seafood increased by 3.09 % to $ 240.19 million during the year 2025 compared to year 2024 due to the positive performance in Frozen Fish (16.64%).

Meanwhile earnings from export of Electrical and Electronic Components (EEC) increased by 3.91 % to $ 438.49 million in 2025 compared to 2024. This increase was due to the positive performance in exports of Insulated Wires (7.38%) and Electrical Transformers (12.95%).

Furthermore, the estimated value of ICT/BPM exports is expected to increase by 8.81% to $ 1,644.83 million during 2025 when compared to the corresponding period of 2024.

Additionally, Logistics and Transport services continued their upward trend, with an expected increase of 3.22%, bringing the total estimated value to $ 1,851.58 million for the 2025 period.

Export earnings from Rubber and Rubber finished products decreased by 5.56% to $ 945.73 million in 2025 compared to 2024, primarily due to lower exports of Pneumatic and Retreated Rubber Tyres and Tubes, which decreased by 12.76%.

Export earnings from Spices and Essential Oils also decreased YoY by 2.59%, totalling $ 449.9 million in 2025, largely driven by a significant drop in Pepper exports, which fell by 39.68%.

In addition, export earnings from Ornamental fish decreased by 7.6% to $ 22.6 million in 2025 compared the previous year.

Table 1 shows the comparison of Merchandise export performance during the month of December 2025 and the period of January to December 2025 compared to 2024.

Sri Lanka’s top export destinations showed resilient growth in 2025. Among the top 10 markets, the US, UK, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and China all recorded positive YoY growth for both the month of December and the full cumulative year.

The US, Sri Lanka’s largest single export destination, accounting for 23% of the country’s merchandise exports, recorded a 5.96% increase to $ 264.91 million in December 2025 compared to December 2024. On a cumulative basis, the market maintained steady momentum throughout the year, growing 3.06% to reach a total of $ 2,999.15 million.

India continued as Sri Lanka’s second-largest export destination, surpassing the UK. Exports to India increased by 17.21% in 2025, reaching $ 1,035.72 million, while exports in December 2025 declined by 7.35% to $ 80.39 million compared to the same month in 2024.

Exports to the UK increased by 6.57% in December 2025, reaching $ 74.01 million compared to December 2024. Over the period from January to December 2025, exports to the UK grew by 2.8%, totalling $ 929.03 million.

In December 2025, exports to India and Pakistan accounted for 7.8% of Sri Lanka’s total merchandise exports, decreasing 7.88% YoY to $ 85.87 million.

Exports to India decreased by 7.35%, mainly due to lower shipments of Pepper, while exports to Pakistan decreased by 14.91%, driven by reduced exports of Other Textile Articles.

For the January to December 2025 period, exports to India and Pakistan accounted for 8.2% of Sri Lanka’s total merchandise exports, recording a substantial increase of 15.68 % to reach $ 1,110.48 million compared to the same period in the previous year.

Exports to India increased significantly by 17.21%, driven mainly by higher shipments of Petroleum Oil, Animal feed and Animal or Vegetable Fats and Oils and their Products. In contrast, exports to Pakistan decreased by 2.03%, reflecting lower shipments of Desiccated Coconut, woven Fabrics and Base Metal Products shipments.

Exports to the EU, which account for 24% of Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports, increased during both December 2025 and the cumulative period of January to December 2025, respectively, by 6.68% and 13.41%.

Exports to the top five EU markets were recorded as; Germany $ 706.49 million (increased by 12.45%), Italy $ 679.77million (increased by 14.16%), Netherlands $ 474.8 million (increased by 20.63%), France $ 277.18 million (increased by 5.09 %), and Belgium $ 254.44 million (increased by 6.42%) during the cumulative period of January to December 2025 in comparison to the corresponding period in 2024.

In December 2025, merchandise exports recorded a 5.88% YoY increase, reaching $ 1,166.60 million, according to provisional data of Sri Lanka Customs, including estimated figures for Gems and Jewellery and Petroleum Products.

During December 2025, services export earnings are estimated to have declined by 2.47%, reaching $ 323.89 million.

Export earnings from Apparel and Textiles increased by 5.26% YoY, reaching $ 470.35 million in December 2025, compared to the same month in 2024.

A monthly analysis reveals that export earnings from Coconut-Based Products recorded a significant 27.24% YoY increase in December 2025. Within the sector, earnings from Coconut Kernel products increased by 31.83%, Coconut Fibre products by 9.60%, and Coconut Shell products by 36.45%, reflecting strong global demand and enhanced value addition across the sector.

Among Coconut Kernel products, export earnings from Coconut Oil, Coconut Cream, and Liquid Coconut Milk increased by 54.26%, 97.61%, and 31.23%, respectively, in December 2025 compared to December 2024.

Earnings from Activated Carbon, categorised under Coconut Shell products, increased by 34.53%, reaching $ 19.52 million in December 2025.

Export earnings from Food and Beverages increased by 17.28% YoY to $ 48.67 million in December 2025, with the positive performance in exports of Processed Food (12.04%).

The estimated export value of Diamonds, Gems and Jewellery is expected to increase by 46.15%, reaching $ 23.91 million in December 2025 compared to December 2024.

Export earnings from Seafood increased by 16.09% YoY to $ 23.38 million, mainly driven by improved performance in exports of Frozen Fish (4.95%) and Fresh Fish (30.96%).

Meanwhile, ICT/BPM export earnings are expected to increase by 5.19%, reaching $ 169.83 million during the same period.

Several export sectors recorded YoY declines in December 2025. Tea exports, which accounted for 12.8% of total merchandise exports, declined by 19.59% to $ 105.82 million, mainly due to lower earnings from Bulk Tea (-23.57%) and Tea Packets (-17.58%).

Export earnings from Electrical and Electronics Components decreased by 11.09% YoY to $ 35.20 million in December 2025.

Spices and Essential Oils exports also declined by 6.23% to $ 44.22 million during the same period, largely driven by a sharp 61.4% drop in pepper exports to India.

Export earnings from Ornamental Fish decreased by 9.05% YoY to $ 1.81 million in December 2025 compared to December 2024.

Data was obtained from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) and Sri Lanka Customs. Export figures of Services, Gems and Jewellery, and Petroleum Products for December 2025 were estimated by the EDB.

The Prajashakthi National Movement, launched by the new government to combat poverty and promote economic justice through social empowerment, is being successfully implemented across all districts, officials said.

International Distillers Ltd., (IDL) and Thomas Assessments India have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly implement a structured youth development and responsible citizenship initiative across Sri Lanka.

The collaboration was conceptualised following discussions held during the Northern Development Summit in Jaffna on 21 and 22 January, where representatives of both organisations were in attendance and explored opportunities to contribute meaningfully to youth empowerment and national development.

The MoU was formally signed recently marking the commencement of a two-year partnership focused on empowering youth aged 20-30 through a series of targeted development workshops.

Under the agreement, the two organisations will conduct four youth development workshops in Jaffna, Galle, Colombo and Kandy, reaching approximately 400 young participants. The program will focus on self-discipline, productivity, ethical conduct, responsible citizenship, leadership development and career guidance.

IDL will support the initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment by providing resources, logistics, facilitation and a lead resource person for each workshop. Thomas Assessments India will contribute its globally recognised DISC personality profiling tools, offering participants personalised insights to enhance self-awareness, employability and informed career decision-making, free of charge.

IDL Chief Executive Officer Janek Jayasekara said that the partnership reflects the company’s belief that sustainable national progress depends on investing in young people.

‘At IDL, we believe responsible corporate citizenship extends beyond business performance. This collaboration is about developing disciplined, productive and socially responsible young Sri Lankans who are prepared to take on leadership roles in the future. By combining our CSR commitment with scientifically validated assessment tools, we aim to create a program that delivers meaningful and lasting impact,’ Jayasekara stated.

Thomas Assessments India Founder and Director Sundara Rajan, said that the partnership aligns with the organisation’s mission of enabling individuals to gain deeper self-awareness and make informed career choices.

The initiative will be implemented progressively over the next two years, with workshops scheduled approximately every six months. Both parties emphasised that all participant data and assessment outcomes will be managed with strict confidentiality, in line with applicable data protection regulations.

The collaboration reflects a growing emphasis on public-private and cross-border partnerships that combine corporate responsibility with global expertise to strengthen youth capability, leadership readiness and responsible citizenship in Sri Lanka.

RIL Property PLC has appointed Vickum Nawagamuwage to its Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director.

He is a Sri Lankan born entrepreneur and founder of the world-renowned, purpose-built wellness resort, Santani. He was educated at Harvard and the University of Maryland, and worked in strategy consulting both at Deloitte Consulting and KPMG in the US.

The devastating Ditwah has not only done colossal material damage. It created mental anguish among many who lost all what they had, including their beloved near and dear. In another front, debates on educational reforms have sparked off mixed reactions among many, some for political gains and others for progressive change. It is an opportune time to mull over moods together with associated words and deeds, keeping Sri Lankan professionals in mind.

Overview

‘To create well I have to be in a good mood, happy and cool,’ so said Marc Newson, an Australian designer. Moods are common in our lives. They are different to emotions but together comprise the ‘affective domain’ in our behaviour. Emotions as ‘enabling motions’ are high intense and short-duration responses with associated feelings and thoughts. Say, one may erupt with anger and might calm down in a few minutes and perhaps might feel sad and ashamed of his /her such behaviour.

Moods in contrast are low intense and last a longer duration. One may be in a sad mood for hours or even days, say after the demise of a loved one. According to American Psychological Association (APA), moods differ from emotions in lacking an object; for example, the emotion of anger can be aroused by an insult, but an angry mood may arise when one does not know what one is angry about or what elicited the anger.

Moods matter

Bam Adebayo, an American Baseball player shares interesting insights. ‘I just bring energy, try to put myself in a good mood, because you are not going to get through practice if you are drowsy, do not feel like doing nothing. Then it is going to be a long practice, and coach is going to be all over you.’ Not only in sports but in many other fields, the right mood matters in achieving the right results.

I have come across many instances in the corporate world, where the CEO’s mood matters for approvals and signatures. Some managers first meet the CEO’s secretary and ask the simple question, ‘how is boss’s mood today’? Based on the response, the appropriate timing is determined.

Harward Medical School (HMS) offers us a wealth of advice, relating to moods. As they say, ‘your mood and your mental health affect every aspect of your life, from how you feel about yourself to your relationships with others and your physical health.’ As it further observes, there is a strong link between good mental health and good physical health, and vice versa. In the other direction, depression and other mental health issues can contribute to digestive disorders, trouble sleeping, lack of energy, heart disease, and other health issues.

According to HMS, there are many ways to keep your mind and mood in optimal shape. Exercise, healthy eating, and stress reduction techniques like meditation or mindfulness can keep your brain – and your body – in tip-top shape. When mood and mental health slip, doing something about it as early as possible can keep the change from getting worse or becoming permanent. Treating conditions like depression and anxiety improve quality of life. Learning to manage stress makes for more satisfying and productive days.

How moods occur

Daniel Nettle and Melissa Bateson writing to Current Biology, observe that the word ‘mood’ is most often used in biology with the word ‘disorders’ immediately following it. This is not surprising, as conditions in which mood is a primary component are a huge source of suffering in humans.

The brain’s limbic system, including the amygdala (emotional processing) and hippocampus (memory), plays a central role in generating moods. However, modern neuroscience suggests moods are constructed by networks spanning the entire brain, not just one ‘center’. The brain constantly manages the body’s resources (energy, water, temperature) to keep it running smoothly, a process called allostasis. Moods are regulated by a ‘chemical soup’ of neurotransmitters and hormones that signal the brain to calm down or activate.

Hormones play a pivotal role in this context. Serotonin is known for promoting happiness and well-being, low levels are linked to sadness and depression. Dopamine is associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. Norepinephrine regulates alertness and arousal; low levels are associated with low energy. Cortisol is known as the ‘stress hormone,’ elevated levels (due to chronic stress) can lead to anxiety and negative mood. Oxytocin, popular as the ‘love’ or ‘bonding hormone,’ promotes trust and reduces stress.

The Old Man and the Sea

‘That terrible mood of depression of whether it’s any good or not is what is known as the artist’s reward’ so said Ernest Hemingway. I still remember standing in front of his native house in Key West, the southernmost city in the USA. His much-acclaimed novel, titled ‘old man and the sea,’ in my view is well connected to moods, words, and deeds.

As his last major work, it was published in 1952 and awarded the 1953 Pulitzer Prize for fiction. The central character is an old Cuban fisherman named Santiago, who has not caught a fish for 84 days. The family of his apprentice, Manolin, has forced the boy to leave the old fisherman, though Manolin continues to support him with food and bait.

As the Brittanica illustrates, Santiago is a mentor to the boy, who cherishes the old man and the life lessons he imparts. Convinced that his luck must change, Santiago takes his skiff far out into the deep waters of the Gulf Stream, where he soon hooks a giant marlin. With all his great experience and strength, he struggles with the fish for three days, admiring its strength, dignity, and faithfulness to its identity; its destiny is as true as Santiago’s as a fisherman. He finally reels the marlin in and lashes it into his boat.

However, Santiago’s exhausting effort goes for naught. Sharks are drawn to the tethered marlin, and, although Santiago manages to kill a few, the sharks eat the fish, leaving behind only its skeleton. After returning to the harbour, the discouraged Santiago goes to his home to sleep. In the meantime, others see the skeleton tied to his boat and are amazed. A concerned Manolin is relieved to find Santiago alive, and the two agree to go fishing together.

The struggle and survival of Santiago is a continuing challenge against a suppressive and a depressive mood. It shows the human courage and desire that can overcome the negatives associated with a bad mood.

Deeds to overcome bad moods

Dr. Chris Mosunic, in his blog, Calm.com, offers us refreshing insights. As he observes, bad moods can be triggered by a variety of things, including stress from work, not getting enough sleep, and even eating foods that do not support a positive mood, like too much sugar. It is normal to experience these emotional dips when you are triggered, as they are your body’s way of sending you a signal that something is off balance. He offers eight tips to overcome bad moods.

1. Take a warm, relaxing bath to reset your mood

The warmth of the water may relax your muscles and ease tension while also providing comfort. Epsom salts or aromatic essential oils can help enhance the experience and soothe both your body and mind. Add music to your bath routine, like a soothing oriental instrumental, to help lift your spirits.

2. Watch something funny and laugh your troubles away

Laughter is a powerful, natural mood booster as it encourages your brain to release feel-good chemicals. Watching a comedy show, funny videos, or even trying ‘laughing yoga’ can provide a quick and effective way to brighten your mood.

3. Declutter a small space to reduce anxiety

A cluttered environment can contribute to a cluttered mind, leading to feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. By cleaning up and organising a space in your home, you not only improve your surroundings but also create a sense of control and accomplishment.

4. Enhance your mood through aromatherapy

Scents are thought to have a direct pathway to the brain’s emotional center. Using essential oils or scented candles with fragrances like lavender, citrus, or peppermint can positively affect your mood, making you feel more relaxed or energised.

5. Listen to music to get upbeat

Music has a profound impact on our emotions. Playing music that you love or that has an upbeat or soothing tone can shift your focus away from negative thoughts and soften your mood.

6. Change your environment to change your mindset

Whether it is stepping outside for a walk, driving to a new place for the day, or just moving to a different room in your home, a new setting can provide a fresh perspective and distract you from the causes of your bad mood.

7. Perform random acts of kindness to enhance your sense of wellbeing

Doing something nice for someone else not only benefits them but can also boost your own mood. Acts of kindness are linked to increased feelings of wellbeing. Even small gestures, like a compliment or a helpful act, can make you feel more connected and positive.

8. Practice mindfulness or meditation to find peace and clarity

Engaging in mindfulness or meditation can help you stay present and reduce the impact of negative thoughts or feelings. These practices focus on breathing and awareness, helping to calm the mind and body.

It will be useful to appropriately adapt the above 8 tips with clarity and commitment, in order to have better mood monitoring and managing.

Way forward

‘The primary cause of unhappiness is never the situation but your thoughts about it,’ opines Eckhart Tolle, the famous author who advocated the ‘power of now.’ Sri Lankan managers, administrators, and leaders alike can be more mindful of their moods, in managing them towards being more positive, proactive and productive.