Travel restrictions in force until 21 June
June 11, 2021 by Aazam Ameen No CommentsThe ongoing travel restrictions which were scheduled to be lifted at 4.00am on 14 June will be extended. Accordingly, Army Commander and Head of the National Operations Centre for Prevention of Covid Outbreak (NOCPCO) General Shavendra Silva stated that the restrictions will continue to be in force until 4.00am on 21 June.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 12:56 UTC
Chinese app stores remove virtual keyboard apps
China has been working on setting limits what kind of user data mobile apps can collect and several apps have already been hit. According to Reuters, Sogou and Iflytek got their virtual keyboards removed from stores such as Huawei AppGallery and the App Store by Apple. As of today, the “input method apps”, as they are called, cannot be downloaded. Iflytek Input allowed you to dictate text anywhere on your phone, but its data privacy agreement allowed the owners to collect personal information for “national security and national defense security” without the consent of users. Users that have already downloaded the apps can continue to use them but they won’t receive any updates until their fixed versions come online.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 12:45 UTC
CID s first female Deputy Director appointed
For the first time in the history of Sri Lanka Police, a female officer has been designated as the Deputy Director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Thereby, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Imesha Muthumala was appointed to the position, on the approval of the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security. Imesha Muthumala, who joined Sri Lanka police as an Apprentice Assistant Superintendent in 2007, has been in the service for 14 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Ruhuna and an LLB degree from the Open University. SSP Muthumala has also served at the Nugegoda Police Division, Criminal Investigation Department and the Police Clearance Unit.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 12:33 UTC
Nations Trust WNPS Public Lecture features Dr. Jane Goodall
Colombo, June 2021 – Nations Trust Bank continues to build on its partnership with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) jointly presenting the “Nations Trust WNPS Public Lecture” featuring Dr. Jane Goodall, the legendary scientist, conservationist and humanitarian, on the 17th of June at 7 p.m. Sri Lankan time, via Zoom and FB live. Dr. Goodall was named a UN Messenger of Peace in 2002, honouring her for a remarkable career that demonstrated her dedication to what is best in mankind. Through detailed observations of chimpanzee behavior in Gombe National Park in Tanzania in the ‘60s, Dr. Goodall revolutionized what it means to be human and challenged conventional theories of the time. Commenting on the Bank’s passion for nature Theja Silva, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Nations Trust Bank said, “Nations Trust Bank is happy to support the work done by the WNPS to create awareness on conservation. Dr. Goodall is a legend in the field and it is great to be associated with her to bring the message of environmental consciousness to the public.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 12:05 UTC
BASL apprehensive over police deciding on what is ‘fake news’
While stating that the BASL has no objection to the enforcement of laws relating to hate speech and incitement to violence, it expressed the importance of ensuring that authorities do not use such laws to stifle genuine expressions of dissent and criticism. This statement comes after the recent media release from Sri Lanka Police titled “circulation of fake news, photographs, videos causing disunity, hate and obstructing the Covid-19 programme”. The BASL notes that the said circular contains a warning that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Computer Crimes Division of the Sri Lanka Police will be conducting investigations by monitoring the internet for violators, in order to enforce the law. The circular further warns the public to refrain from spreading fake news and aiding or abetting the same. “The BASL is deeply concerned that the provisions of the laws mentioned in the circular, could be misused by police officers in order to stifle the freedom of speech and expression which is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 12:00 UTC
Sri Lanka s coronavirus recoveries surpass 184,000
June 11, 2021 04:07 pmThe Ministry of Health says that another 1,852 patients who were being treated for coronavirus have been discharged within the past 24 hours after completing their recovery. This brings the total number of Covid-19 recoveries in the country to 184,090. Sri Lanka’s tally of confirmed cases of coronavirus thus far is 216,134 while 31,911 positive patients are currently under medical care. The death toll due to the virus has moved to 2,011.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 11:02 UTC
Vivo debuts new “To Beautiful Moments” campaign for UEFA EURO 2020™
As the official smartphone of the tournament, the brand is reinforcing its drive for global expansion and consumer connection through the world’s most beloved sport. JUNE 11, 2021 (COLOMBO, Sri Lanka) – As the official smartphone of UEFA EURO 2020™, vivo wants football fans everywhere to enjoy every beautiful moment during the tournament. In its “To Beautiful Moments” campaign debuting today, vivo encourages people to be in the moment, whether that means connecting virtually with friends, family and fellow fans or giving their full attention to the beautiful game, even if it means putting the phone down. “As we rapidly expand our global business, it is extremely important for us to connect with people through the beautiful moments in life that are special to them and cared about most,” said Spark Ni. “To learn more about the “To Beautiful Moments” campaign and vivo’s activations around UEFA EURO 2020™, visit https://www.vivo.com/lk/activity/euro2020.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 11:02 UTC
Orient Finance records threefold increase in net operating income
Colombo, Sri Lanka – June 10th, 2021 –Orient Finance PLC reported a profit before tax of LKR 193 Mn for the 2020-21 financial year, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 144 per cent. The company’s net operating income also increased 148 per cent from LKR 0.47 Bn to LKR 1.17 Bn during the year under review. In today’s challenging economic times, focusing on customers and understanding their needs has become the cornerstone of success for Orient Finance. We hope to sustain our strategic efforts and provide the best returns for our customers, employees and most importantly our shareholders,” said Anil Tittawella, Chairman of Orient Finance PLC. Jabir, Director and Chief Executive Officer of Orient Finance PLC.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 10:41 UTC
The role of HR leaders in fighting cyberattacks
Technology alone isn’t enough, organisations must develop a culture of cybersecurity awareness, education, and training, which is impossible to achieve without the help of senior HR leaders. Driven by the COVID-19-accelerated move to remote working, HR leaders are increasingly collaborating with IT leaders to devise policies, frameworks and training to better support and educate employees on how to be cybersecurity-aware. This is where it is critical for senior HR and IT leaders to closely collaborate to determine specific skills requirements. The mindset of an organisation’s HR team can set the culture for the entire organisation. Therefore, the onus is on HR leaders to take their organisation’s security seriously and work with the necessary business and technology teams to set the right attitudes, culture and processes to keep it secure.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 10:41 UTC
Over 1,800 Covid patients discharged
June 11, 2021 by Mihi Perera No CommentsThe Ministry of Health says that another 1,852 patients who were being treated for Covid-19 have been discharged within the past 24 hours after completing their recovery. This brings the total number of Covid-19 recoveries in the country to 184,090. Sri Lanka’s tally of confirmed cases of Covid-19 thus far is 216,134 while 31,911 positive patients are currently under medical care. The death toll due to the virus has moved to 2,011.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 09:33 UTC
Samsung honoured as Sri Lanka’s ‘Most Loved Electronics Brand’ for the third consecutive year.
11 June 2021 Colombo: Samsung Sri Lanka was honoured as the ‘Most Loved Electronics Brand’ for the third consecutive year in Brand Finance Lanka’s review of the most valuable brands in Sri Lanka featured in LMDs Brands Annual 2021. Retaining the coveted position as the No.1 Smartphone & Consumer Electronics brand further cements Samsung’s popularity and Samsung would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the people of Sri Lanka for choosing them as their most loved Electronics Brand. Samsung’s diverse portfolio of products ranging from Consumer Electronics to Smartphones, Tabs, Hearable and Wearable are designed to appeal to all age groups. Samsung Sri Lanka aims to maintain close interactions with their audience via the Samsung Members App, My Galaxy and the Samsung Student Ambassador Programme. They are also the pioneers in Sri Lanka’s E-sports arena in partnership with Gamer.lkLMD’s Most Loved Brands ranking is determined by a survey that defines a brands strength based on quality, reliability, distinctiveness, reputation and trustworthiness.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 09:22 UTC
EU parliament adopts resolution on Sri Lanka, propose GSP withdrawal
In the resolution adopted on Thursday, the EU Parliament called on the EU Commission to consider “temporary withdrawal” of Sri Lanka’s preferential access to European markets, which cuts trade tariffs significantly for Sri Lankan exports, including apparel, ceramic and rubber. Anyone who is detained under this terrorism act should be judged fairly. Noting the militarisation of civilian governmental, the EU parliament highlighted the reversal of important constitutional safeguards, political obstruction of accountability, exclusionary rhetoric, intimidation of civil society, and the use of anti-terrorism laws. Earlier in March, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet called on member states to consider targeted sanctions against Sri Lankan Government officials. (ANI)-AgenciesEuropean Parliament resolution of 10 June 2021 - TEXTS ADOPTED by Adaderana Online on Scribd
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 09:00 UTC
Italian police hunt Pakistani family over suspected honour killing
Police in Italy are hunting the relatives of a Pakistani girl who they think was strangled to death and buried in a shallow grave in a so-called honour killing. The whereabouts of Hasnain - who prosecutors say masterminded the killing - and Nomanulhaq are unknown. Saman fled the family home after an argument and since October had been living in a refuge run by social services, fearing for her safety. That is the date on which uncle Hasnain is alleged to have bought plane tickets for her parents to fly back to Pakistan, prosecutors say. The family then left home - Shabbas and Nazia for Pakistan, ostensibly to visit a sick relative, while Ijaz headed into Europe.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 09:00 UTC
Round Island delivers on commitment to freshness and quality with renewed safety measures in place
In spite of this current geographical advantage, Round Island has employed 24-hour on-duty staff at its farms to continue to monitor both the water and the condition of its fish for even the slightest anomalies; having to date observed none. Residual testing of fish stocks are being conducted each week, and additional testing of waters around its farms to monitor quality parameters have been put in place as a long-term safeguard. Round Island is also working closely with marine agencies such as the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) for knowledge-sharing initiatives as well as to gain insight on any changes to the marine environment on the east coast of Sri Lanka. Round Island remains confident of the aquatic conditions on the east coast of Sri Lanka, and are committed to providing transparency and accountability to all of its partners, stakeholders, and consumers when it comes to delivering on fresh and wholesome seafood. All Round Island products continue to be available at select supermarket chains, through its delivery partners UberEats and PickMe, and for direct order through its website (www.roundisland.lk).
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 08:48 UTC
US University Applications and Receiving Financial Aid in a Pandemic
2021 Jun 11Because fewer people started university in 2020, applications to the most selective US universities increased by upwards of 30% this year, meaning acceptance rates dropped significantly, particularly for international students seeking aid. There are 5 need-blind universities in the US for international students. This means that asking for aid will not make it harder to get in, as it would with need-aware colleges. That being said, each of these, Amherst, Harvard, MIT, Princeton and Yale have incredibly low acceptance rates. I am sure our past students at top colleges would be happy to help anyone who reached out to them.
Source:The Nation
June 11, 2021 06:56 UTC