Sunil Handunneththi – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk Sri Lanka's largest News aggregator Fri, 28 Aug 2026 06:23:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.8 https://www.newswire.lk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/favicon.png Sunil Handunneththi – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk 32 32 Lanka Phosphate Company expands capacity with Rs. 110M investment https://www.newswire.lk/2026/08/28/lanka-phosphate-company-expands-capacity-with-rs-110m-investment/ Fri, 28 Aug 2026 06:23:11 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=252178

The Eppawala Lanka Phosphate Company has boosted its production capacity with the addition of new operational vehicles and machinery worthContinue Reading

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The Eppawala Lanka Phosphate Company has boosted its production capacity with the addition of new operational vehicles and machinery worth Rs. 110 million. 

The inauguration of these new assets was held under the patronage of Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi.

The investment included a wheel loader machine costing Rs. 79 million, a tipper vehicle costing Rs. 18 million, and a John Lift machine costing Rs. 13 million. 

According to the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, at the event, appointment letters were also handed over to newly recruited drivers, strengthening the company’s workforce.

The ministry said in a statement that over the past 20 months, the company has achieved significant internal progress, spending Rs. 76 million to construct a new finished goods warehouse, install a modern trainer machine, and upgrade its official website with a Sales Hotline facility.

Looking ahead, the company has unveiled a new strategic plan for 2026–2030 aimed at ensuring maximum retail price stability of its products. 

Measures include launching an ERP sample system, providing affordable fertilizer to farmers, and registering a dealer network to strengthen distribution. 

The ministry states that the plan will help stabilize fertilizer prices and expand the company’s reach across the island. (Newswire)

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Handunneththi vows to transform Sri Lanka into “Australia‑like Nation” https://www.newswire.lk/2026/08/17/handunneththi-vows-to-transform-sri-lanka-into-australia%e2%80%91like-nation/ Mon, 17 Aug 2026 04:33:46 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=250443

Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi pledged that Sri Lanka will be transformed into a nation with freedom,Continue Reading

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Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi pledged that Sri Lanka will be transformed into a nation with freedom, equality before the law, and opportunities similar to Australia, addressing overseas Sri Lankans at the Sri Lankan Entrepreneurs’ Night 2026 in Melbourne.

“A majority of those here are Sri Lankans. Despite the language we speak, we are from the same country, living at a 10‑hour distance. You might have left for Australia for education, business, or for a life with freedom and independence. I promise today, alongside you and the 18 million people who voted for us, that within a short period we will transform Sri Lanka into a country like Australia, where future generations can study and live with freedom, with equal laws, and where you would want to reside,” Handunneththi declared.

The Minister further emphasized the role of overseas entrepreneurs and investors in building a strong production‑based economy capable of overcoming Sri Lanka’s current challenges. 

He noted that a new economic environment, free of corruption, investment‑friendly, and transparent, has already been established, and urged Sri Lankan entrepreneurs to spearhead industrial and technological advancement.

The forum, organized by the Australia Sri Lanka Business Forum (ASLBF), was held at The Grandeur in Melbourne. It drew a distinguished audience including Sri Lanka’s Consul General in Melbourne Pradeepa Saram, Australian Federal Parliamentarian Cassandra, Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman of the Export Development Board (EDB), and Dr. Sulakshana Jayawardena, Director General of the Board of Investment (BOI), along with diplomats and business leaders. (Newswire)

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Australian investors back new projects to boost Sri Lanka’s production economy https://www.newswire.lk/2026/08/15/australian-investors-back-new-projects-to-boost-sri-lankas-production-economy/ Sat, 15 Aug 2026 05:24:59 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=250288

Australian investors have given their full agreement to a series of new investments aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s production economy,Continue Reading

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Australian investors have given their full agreement to a series of new investments aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s production economy, according to Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi.

Minister Sunil Handunneththi stated that a special investment discussion round with leading Australian investors and entrepreneurs was successfully concluded, focusing on uplifting the country’s industrial, agricultural and sustainable energy sectors.

The meeting was held with the participation of the Deputy Director General of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI), the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), and other state representatives. 

According to the minister, discussions covered key areas, such as sustainable energy solutions, environment‑friendly textile technology, commercial dairy farms and livestock development, recycling‑based plastic industries in industrial zones, aquaculture projects, and eco‑friendly tourism projects. 

Minister Handunneththi further stated that Sri Lanka has established a transparent, reliable and investment‑friendly environment, and assured that the government is prepared to provide the necessary support and facilities to implement these projects rapidly. (Newswire)

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Govt pledges support for ink, chemical and printing sector growth https://www.newswire.lk/2026/08/12/govt-pledges-support-for-ink-chemical-and-printing-sector-growth/ Wed, 12 Aug 2026 04:38:08 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=249675

The Ministry of Industries convened a special advisory committee meeting on Tuesday (11) to address practical challenges faced by manufacturersContinue Reading

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The Ministry of Industries convened a special advisory committee meeting on Tuesday (11) to address practical challenges faced by manufacturers in the ink, chemical and printing materials sector and to outline future development plans.

Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi said that infrastructure and regulatory support will be strengthened to accelerate growth in the sector, which currently contributes 1.5% to national exports. 

He further said that the aim is to double this share to 3% by 2030.

Key decisions during the meeting included:

  • Waste management center – Land from the Millewa Industrial Zone will be allocated for a jointly constructed waste disposal facility.
  • Land for new investments – Expansion opportunities will be supported through land allocations in Millewa and Paranthan Industrial Zones.
  • Export target 2030 – Legal and administrative barriers will be removed to help the sector achieve its 2030 export goal.

The meeting was attended by Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara, senior officials, and industry representatives. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka, India eye major textile industry partnership https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/15/sri-lanka-india-eye-major-textile-industry-partnership/ Wed, 15 Jul 2026 09:59:34 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=245344

Sri Lanka’s textile industry is set to receive a major boost with India pledging full support for its development, accordingContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka’s textile industry is set to receive a major boost with India pledging full support for its development, according to Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi.

Speaking after his participation at the Barath Tex international exhibition in New Delhi, held on the invitation of Indian Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh, Minister Handunneththi said discussions had focused on securing technical and investment support to modernize Sri Lanka’s textile sector and enhance its competitiveness in global markets.

He noted that special emphasis was placed on providing degree‑level training opportunities for Sri Lankan youth through India’s National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), alongside initiating joint projects that integrate traditional handloom production with modern textile technologies.

The Minister also revealed that talks extended to obtaining Indian investment support for mineral resources, aimed at driving Sri Lanka’s industrialization to new heights.

The bilateral meeting was attended by India’s Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita, Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to India Mahishini Colonne, and senior officials.

Minister Handunneththi expressed confidence that the discussions marked a significant step forward in advancing Sri Lanka’s industrial sector, saying India’s commitment would help position the country’s industries for greater success in international markets. (Newswire)

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UK Trade Envoy meets Handunneththi : Discusses boosting Sri Lanka exports via zero‑tariff scheme https://www.newswire.lk/2026/06/18/uk-trade-envoy-meets-handunneththi-discusses-boosting-sri-lanka-exports-via-zero%e2%80%91tariff-scheme/ Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:41:53 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=241229

UK Trade Envoy Lord Hannett of Everton and British High Commissioner Andrew Patrick met with Sri Lanka’s Minister of IndustryContinue Reading

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UK Trade Envoy Lord Hannett of Everton and British High Commissioner Andrew Patrick met with Sri Lanka’s Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi, to explore practical measures aimed at strengthening bilateral trade ties.

According to the British High Commission in Colombo, discussions focused on making stronger use of opportunities provided by zero‑tariff access for Sri Lankan exports under the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).

The talks also emphasized the importance of creating a transparent and predictable business environment to boost investor confidence and foster long‑term economic partnerships. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka opens first boat launching ramp in Beruwala to boost boat export industry https://www.newswire.lk/2026/06/12/sri-lanka-opens-first-boat-launching-ramp-in-beruwala-to-boost-boat-export-industry/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:19:04 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=240341

Sri Lanka’s first Boat Launching Ramp was officially opened yesterday (11) at the Beruwala Fisheries Harbour, marking a significant stepContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka’s first Boat Launching Ramp was officially opened yesterday (11) at the Beruwala Fisheries Harbour, marking a significant step in uplifting the country’s boat export industry.

Constructed by the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development at a cost of Rs. 76 million, the ramp is designed to support the growth of the boat manufacturing sector, which has been identified as a major emerging export industry in Sri Lanka’s future economic development.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi, Deputy Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Fisheries Resources Rathna Gamagamage, Kalutara District MP Chandima Hettiarachchi, and Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara.

Minister Handunneththi said in a statement that equipped with modern technology and facilities, the new ramp will allow entrepreneurs to launch locally manufactured boats more safely and efficiently, reducing production costs and paving the way for Sri Lanka’s boat industry to compete successfully in international markets. (Newswire)

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Minister Handunneththi discusses trade, investment and industrial cooperation in Vienna talks https://www.newswire.lk/2026/04/23/minister-handunneththi-discusses-trade-investment-and-industrial-cooperation-in-vienna-talks/ Thu, 23 Apr 2026 05:39:03 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=233015

Sri Lanka’s Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi, held talks with Michael Otter, Director General of the AustrianContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka’s Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi, held talks with Michael Otter, Director General of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WKO), in April in Vienna, with discussions centring on strengthening bilateral trade, industrial partnerships, and technical cooperation.

The meeting, held during the Minister’s participation in the International Vienna Energy and Climate Forum (IVECF) 2026, aimed at positioning Sri Lanka as a premier destination for sustainable industrial investment and transparent economic governance.

According to the Embassy and the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka in Vienna, during the discussions, the Minister highlighted Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and reform while stressing Sri Lanka–Austria trade, the current export

strengths to Austria, priority sectors for expanding markets, and strengthening business-to-business linkages. 

In addition to that, Minister Handunneththi briefed on the investment opportunities in Sri Lanka, indicating the nine specialized industrial zones designed to attract high‐tech investment. Both sides also discussed a strategic shift toward high‐value addition and the optimization of EU GSP+ benefits.

Director General Michael Otter welcomed these developments, highlighting a high‐level Austrian Trade Mission to Sri Lanka scheduled for mid‐September 2026 as a significant opportunity for deepened cooperation. 

In turn, Minister Handunneththi extended a formal invitation for Austrian participation in Sri Lanka Expo 2026, scheduled to take place in Colombo. The event is expected to feature over 750 exhibitors and host more than 1,500 international buyers.

The visit reflects the commitment of both nations to deepening engagement in trade and industry. Sri Lanka remains dedicated to advancing this partnership with Austria to ensure sustainable economic growth and technological advancement for both countries.

Regional Director for Asia and Oceania of the WKO, Markus Haas, and Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Austria, Mahesh Gunawardana, also participated in the meeting. (Newswire)

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Ministry of Industries denies false reports targeting Minister Sunil Handunneththi’s staff https://www.newswire.lk/2026/04/03/ministry-of-industries-denies-false-reports-targeting-minister-sunil-handunneththis-staff/ Fri, 03 Apr 2026 07:11:00 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=230176

The Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development says the news being circulated through various media networks targeting the coordinating secretariesContinue Reading

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The Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development says the news being circulated through various media networks targeting the coordinating secretaries of Minister Sunil Handunneththi is completely false and baseless.

In a statement, the ministry said that the video clips being spread under the headline “How Handunneththi’s coordinating secretary was expelled” (“හඳුන්නෙත්තිගේ සම්බන්ධීකරණ ලේකම් පන්නා දැමූ හැටි – සමූහයට ආ සභාපතිටත් හූ සංග්‍රහයක්”) have caused serious insult to the image of the Minister as well as his staff.

The Ministry points out that none of the individuals shown in the video clips or subjected to public protest are the Minister’s official coordinating secretaries, namely M.R.M.W. Dias or Rasindu Yasodh Maragala. 

The ministry further clarified that circulating such false news without proper fact‑checking is irresponsible and misleads the public.”

The Ministry also informs that immediate steps are being taken to remove the false news and video clips from the relevant websites and social media platforms.

Additionally, it has informed that the institutions responsible for this erroneous reporting must correct the mistakes and promptly present the true information to the public. (Newswire)

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Govt opens up over 200 acres for industrial investment https://www.newswire.lk/2026/03/31/govt-opens-up-over-200-acres-for-industrial-investment/ Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:25:36 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=229635

The Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development has announced a new opportunity for both local and foreign investors, with 203Continue Reading

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The Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development has announced a new opportunity for both local and foreign investors, with 203 acres, 2 roods, and 25.5 perches of land currently vacant across several industrial zones in Sri Lanka.

According to the Industrial Development Division, these lands are spread across multiple provinces, offering diverse locations for industrial growth:

  • Northern Province: Mannar (11 acres, 29.56 perches), Weli Oya (28 acres)
  • North Central Province: Rambewa–Sandamalagama (16 acres), Nochchiyagama (50 acres)
  • North Western Province: Puttalam (2 acres, 82 roods), Ridi Bendi Ella (17 acres, 32.2 perches), Bangadeniya (7.5 acres)
  • Sabaragamuwa Province: Nalanda Ellawala Phase 2 (3 acres, 35.5 perches)
  • Eastern Province: Trincomalee (7 acres), Ampara (3 acres, 3 roods), Batticaloa (2 acres)
  • Central Province: Ulpane (35 perches), Matale Nalanda (1 rood)
  • Uva Province: Uva Paranagama (1 acre, 2 roods, 36.3 perches), Buttala (4 acres, 4 roods, 71.4 perches)
  • Southern Province: Karandeniya (5 acres, 3 roods, 38 perches), Udukawa (3 acres, 3 roods, 18 perches), Bata Atha (3 acres, 27.6 perches), Thihagoda (6.5 acres), Sooriyawewa (13 acres, 1 rood)

The Ministry highlighted that this initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen industrial development and attract new investment into the country.

For further inquiries, investors are invited to contact the Industrial Development Division at 011-2441490 or 011-2343937. (Newswire)

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Laksala opens 14th showroom in Negombo https://www.newswire.lk/2026/02/12/laksala-opens-14th-showroom-in-negombo/ Thu, 12 Feb 2026 03:55:05 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=222803

The 14th showroom of the Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board (Laksala) was inaugurated in the tourist hub of Negombo on WednesdayContinue Reading

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The 14th showroom of the Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board (Laksala) was inaugurated in the tourist hub of Negombo on Wednesday (11 Feb), by Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunneththi. 

In a statement, Minister Handunneththi said that the latest Laksala showroom was opened, intending to provide true value to the skill and creativity of Sri Lankan traditional artisans. 

“Establishing a showroom in a major tourist destination like Negombo is a strategic step toward eliminating middlemen and connecting our rural artisans directly with the international market. Our policy is not just to sell products, but to strengthen Laksala as a “Brand Ambassador” that showcases our unique Sri Lankan cultural identity to the world,” he explained. 

Minister Handunneththi further said that by securing the livelihoods of thousands of artisans involved in Batik, wood carving, pottery, brassware, as well as local gems and jewellery, the authorities have now made high-quality products that blend traditional knowledge with modern design and technology available at the new Negombo branch.

The event was attended by Gampaha District MP Champika Hettiarachchi, Additional Secretary of the Ministry Subhadra Walpola, Chairperson of the Handicrafts Board Sujeewa Senanayake, Chairman of the Lanka Design Centre Sisira Amarabandu, and several other officials. (Newswire)

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Pilot project to provide locally manufactured school shoes for students https://www.newswire.lk/2025/11/06/pilot-project-to-provide-locally-manufactured-school-shoes-for-students/ Thu, 06 Nov 2025 11:08:26 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=209534

A pilot project has been launched to provide locally manufactured, high-quality school shoes instead of vouchers currently issued to studentsContinue Reading

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A pilot project has been launched to provide locally manufactured, high-quality school shoes instead of vouchers currently issued to students in schools with fewer than 250 students.

The initiative was discussed today at the Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development under the aegis of the subject minister, Sunil Handunneththi. 

Under the pilot phase, 145,723 students from 1,266 schools in the Western and Southern Provinces will receive locally made shoes.

Local manufacturers have agreed to supply pairs of standard-quality shoes with a one-year warranty at a cost of Rs. 2,100 per pair, enabling the government to save nearly Rs. 140 million. The savings will be used to provide shoes to an additional 62,481 students in the two provinces.

Only registered local footwear manufacturers will be selected as suppliers. They have also agreed to visit schools directly to provide shoes in the correct sizes for students.

The meeting was attended by Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara, senior officials of the Industries and Education Ministries, the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Domestic Product Manufacturing, and representatives of local footwear companies. (Newswire)

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Foundation stone laid for cosmetic product testing lab https://www.newswire.lk/2025/10/30/foundation-stone-laid-for-cosmetic-product-testing-lab/ Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:47:12 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=208645

The foundation stone laying ceremony for a Human Repeat Insult Patch Test (HRIPT) laboratory dedicated to cosmetic product testing wasContinue Reading

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The foundation stone laying ceremony for a Human Repeat Insult Patch Test (HRIPT) laboratory dedicated to cosmetic product testing was held under the patronage of the Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development, Sunil Handunneththi, today.

The laboratory is being constructed jointly by the Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development, in collaboration with the Industrial Development Board (IDB) and the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IBMBB) of the University of Colombo.

The laboratory is scheduled to be completed before the end of 2027, with Rs. 24.383 million funded by the Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development and Rs. 3 million contributed by IBMBB.

Currently, Sri Lanka does not have a dedicated HRIPT testing facility. As a result, local manufacturers and exporters must rely on overseas laboratories to obtain certification for cosmetic products, incurring high costs and logistical challenges. This initiative aims to eliminate those burdens and support the industry.

Once established, the Ministry of Industries also plans to further enhance the laboratory with advanced technical equipment and facilities.

The event was attended by Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilaka, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, Professor B.P. Galhena, Director of IBMBB, along with university staff and officials from the Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development. (Newswire)

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New Investigations & Raids Unit at Geological Survey and Mines Bureau https://www.newswire.lk/2025/10/28/new-investigations-raids-unit-at-geological-survey-and-mines-bureau/ Tue, 28 Oct 2025 11:19:09 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=208340

Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development Sunil Handunnetti says a new Investigations and Raids Unit will be established within theContinue Reading

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Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development Sunil Handunnetti says a new Investigations and Raids Unit will be established within the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of Sri Lanka’s mineral resources.

The announcement was made during a special discussion held today (28) at the GSMB headquarters in Nawala, attended by officials of the Bureau and the Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development.

The GSMB, which was previously under the Ministry of Environment, was brought under the purview of the Industries Ministry on October 18.

Established in 1903 as the Ceylon Mineral Survey, the GSMB is responsible for mineral exploration, licensing, geological data management, and laboratory services.

Minister Handunnetti noted that despite Sri Lanka’s rich mineral potential, its contribution to the economy remains minimal. He said a National Policy on Mineral Resources is being finalized to introduce clear guidelines and promote value addition within the sector.

During the visit, Minister Handunnetti also inspected the Bureau premises and was briefed on issues related to staff, licensing, legal procedures, and logistics. He said immediate steps would be taken to form the new Investigations and Raids Unit to address these challenges and prevent irregularities.

The meeting was also attended by Ministry Secretary Tilaka Jayasundara, GSMB Chairman Saman Jayasinha, Director General Geologist Deepani Weerakoon, Additional Secretaries of the Ministry, and senior GSMB officials. (Newswire)

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Batticaloa to boost security with more Police, joint operations https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/14/batticaloa-to-boost-security-with-more-police-joint-operations/ Thu, 14 Aug 2025 07:28:08 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=198963

A series of key decisions aimed at strengthening public security in the Batticaloa District were taken at a meeting ofContinue Reading

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A series of key decisions aimed at strengthening public security in the Batticaloa District were taken at a meeting of the District Coordinating Committee held on August 13.

The meeting, chaired by the Committee’s head Sunil Handunneththi, was attended by Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananda Wijepala, Members of Parliament representing the district, local council chairpersons, and senior government officials.

Discussions focused on pressing issues, including the fight against narcotics, challenges faced by police officers in the area, environmental concerns, and measures to protect vulnerable children.

To address the shortage of police personnel, the committee decided to deploy 50 additional officers to the district within a week until new recruits are appointed. 

Measures to curb illegal sand mining and transportation were also agreed upon, with instructions issued to strictly enforce the law and ensure local councils and police are informed when legal mining permits are issued.

The committee also resolved to implement a scientific programme to ensure the safety, health, sanitation, and education of vulnerable children, with police already engaged in identifying and protecting such cases.

In addition, a special joint operation involving the Sri Lanka Police, the Police Special Task Force, and the armed forces will be launched to tackle the distribution of illicit liquor and drugs across the district. (Newswire)

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Ilmenite mining near Wilpattu halted https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/13/ilmenite-mining-near-wilpattu-halted/ Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:48:58 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=198801

Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi, says the absence of a national policy on mineral sands had ledContinue Reading

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Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi, says the absence of a national policy on mineral sands had led to operations at an ilmenite mining site near the Wilpattu Sanctuary.

During an observation visit to the site, the minister revealed that the Environmental Pollution Control Unit of Walana had intervened to halt operations at the ilmenite mining site.

Minister Handunneththi said, currently, a national policy on minerals is being formulated in collaboration with the Ministry of Industries, the Board of Investment, the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, the Ministry of Environment, and other relevant institutions.

He further said that the Sri Lankan government believes that the policy decisions to be implemented in the near future will strengthen the country’s mineral economy.

Parliamentarians from the Puttalam District, officials from the Ministry of Environment, the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, and other state officials participated in the observation tour. (Newswire)

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Matara Festival for the Arts to be held in December https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/21/matara-festival-for-the-arts-to-be-held-in-december/ Mon, 21 Jul 2025 04:11:19 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=195681

The Matara Festival for the Arts (MFA) will be held this year, with the government announcing that the event willContinue Reading

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The Matara Festival for the Arts (MFA) will be held this year, with the government announcing that the event will be held from 12 – 15 December 2025.

In a post on social media, Matara District MP and Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi, announced the return of the festival. 

The contemporary art and music festival, inaugurated in February 2024, is part of the ongoing economic, tourism, and cultural revival of Matara Fort & City, and the larger district.

The 2024 festival featured 100+ established and rising Sri Lankan, diaspora & international artists, musicians and entrepreneurs, and employed local creatives in both its media and festival production. Of this, about 50 were Matarians. And over 4000 visitors (foreign and local tourists, and Matara community members) visited in 2024.

‘MFA 2025’ will seek to continue the Festival’s guiding ethos of ‘Culture, Community and Collaboration’ through facilitating new work collaborations between mentor-mentee pairings and peer-to-peer artist groupings. Some members of last year’s community artist trainings will be elevated to peer roles, and newer Matara community members will be engaged. Music, from Jazz to Dance, will feature in evening events, and workshops and talks will run throughout the programme.

The festival will be helmed once again by festival art curator and eminent contemporary artist and archaeologist Prof. Jagath Weerasinghe, in tandem with his festival co-founder and director Chanchala Samaraweera Gunewardena & fellow co-founder Jayanthi Samaraweera Gunewardena, who led the late Mangala Samaraweera’s Freedom Hub.

The festival announcement is in follow-up to the June 2025 passing of a Cabinet Decision to appoint a committee to draft a Matara Heritage and Development Act that will lay out the framework for Matara Fort’s revitalisation. MFA’s 2024 ‘Invest in Matara’ conversation series renewed investment interest in the city, and the upcoming framework will further strengthen opportunities to be a part of the city’s forward development. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka, Nepal discuss trade, FTA & Business Council https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/10/sri-lanka-nepal-discuss-trade-fta-business-council/ Thu, 10 Jul 2025 08:37:49 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=194572

Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi, engaged in a special discussion with the Ambassador of Nepal to SriContinue Reading

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Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi, engaged in a special discussion with the Ambassador of Nepal to Sri Lanka, Dr. Purna Bahadur, on Wednesday, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. 

Providing details of the meeting held at the Ministry of Industry, Minister Handunneththi said views were exchanged on the current political, economic, and social developments in both Sri Lanka and Nepal.

He noted that Ambassador Bahadur made particular emphasis on the importance of establishing a Sri Lanka–Nepal Business Council to further strengthen and expand bilateral trade relations between the two countries.

“During the meeting, I briefed Dr. Bahadur on Sri Lanka’s trade engagements not only within the region but also with countries beyond the region, such as China,” he said. 

Minister Handunneththi went on to say that Ambassador Bahadur also discussed at length the potential for entering into a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Sri Lanka and Nepal, covering goods such as gems and jewellery, mineral sands, phosphate, rice, sugar, and garments.

He added that an invitation was extended for Nepalese buyers to participate in the upcoming “Ratnapura International Gem Exhibition” scheduled to be held in August. (Newswire)

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Ministers Bimal & Handunneththi in Batti to resolve public transport issues https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/03/ministers-bimal-handunneththi-in-batti-to-resolve-public-transport-issues/ Thu, 03 Jul 2025 07:59:30 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=193637

A special District Development Committee meeting held on Wednesday at the Batticaloa District Secretariat has assessed and found solutions toContinue Reading

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A special District Development Committee meeting held on Wednesday at the Batticaloa District Secretariat has assessed and found solutions to the existing issues related to public transportation and highways within the District.

The discussion was attended by Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Bimal Rathnayake, and the Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development and Chairman of the Batticaloa District Coordinating Committee, Sunil Handunneththi.

Providing details of the meeting, Minister Sunil Handunneththi said that it brought together officials from all relevant sectors, including transport, highways, water supply, and civil aviation, with the aim of providing direct interventions and decisions to resolve many long-standing issues affecting the general public within the district.

In line with the government’s strategy to establish a regulated and high-quality public transport service, plans were formulated to implement necessary measures methodically based on proper evaluation and public demand, while addressing the challenges currently faced within the Batticaloa District, he said.

The minister further said that recognizing Batticaloa as a district with significant tourism potential, proposals were also developed to enhance accessibility and attract more visitors. “These measures included expanding transportation services and better utilizing the international airport located in the district.”

Following the discussion, Minister Handunneththi and Minister Bimal Rathnayake undertook an inspection visit to the Batticaloa Bus Depot.

Minister Handunneththi said that during the visit, they witnessed the reintroduction of several previously decommissioned buses into active service after refurbishment by depot staff. “We believe this step will greatly benefit the public by strengthening local transport services.”

“As Sri Lankans, it is our collective responsibility to work towards building a unified and developed nation, irrespective of ethnic or religious differences. We remain committed to contributing to this cause in every possible way,” the minister added. (Newswire)

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“Those who ridiculed my English have now become the laughingstock” – Sajith https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/02/those-who-ridiculed-my-english-have-now-become-the-laughingstock-sajith/ Wed, 02 Jul 2025 09:05:28 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=193513

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has responded to the recent controversy surrounding Minister Sunil Handunneththi’s speech at the World Economic Forum,Continue Reading

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has responded to the recent controversy surrounding Minister Sunil Handunneththi’s speech at the World Economic Forum, where his use of English drew widespread mockery on social media.

Speaking during a religious event at the Sri Sumangalarama Viharaya in Gonagala, Ampara, MP Premadasa said that those who once ridiculed him for promoting English education are now facing ridicule themselves.

“When I spoke about the importance of English education, I was mocked. But today, the same people have become the laughingstock. I have never ridiculed anyone for their English. The real problem is an outdated education system that failed to prepare us for the modern world,” he said.

MP Premadasa said that even while in opposition, he took steps to uplift schools through the Sakwala program by donating computers, smart boards, and printers, and consistently emphasised the value of English and IT education.

He stressed that English-medium education should not be a privilege reserved for wealthy families, but a fundamental right accessible to all. 

“It’s time to bring about a real change in our education system to ensure justice for the current and future generations,” he said, pledging the opposition’s support to provide the required resources.

The opposition leader also said Dhamma education and IT literacy should be promoted through temples, turning religious institutions into community hubs for modern learning.

“We must ensure that rural children, too, get access to global knowledge. English and IT education must not remain a luxury for Colombo elites. This should be a right for every child, from the village to the city,” he said. (Newswire)

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